Daily editionThursday, December 18th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of December.
Community
Sunmart Beauty Supply, a local fixture for over 30 years, has transferred ownership to Dr. Kneeland C. Brown + his family at 21st and Oliver.
They plan to upgrade operations with a new point-of-sale system, website, and online ordering to better serve customers.
The VoiceRead more
Wichita children from low-income families shopped with police officers on Tuesday evening at Walmart on West Kellogg during the annual Shop With a Cop event.
The event provided 34 kids with gifts like NERF guns + a hoverboard and helped build positive interactions between officers and the community.
KWCHRead more
Operation Holiday distribution started Monday and saw its busiest turnout on Tuesday at 2611 W. MacArthur Road, where volunteers helped people pick up food, coats, clothes, toys, and other gifts.
Those who miss their scheduled time can pick up items Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
KSNRead more
Culture
Ballet Wichita presents The Nutcracker for its 51st run at Century II this weekend.
Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. with tickets available online.
KSNRead more
Education
Kevin Konda was named interim vice president for Student Affairs at Wichita State after Teri Hall retired.
He currently serves as director of the Rhatigan Student Center and will manage student services while the university starts its search for a permanent replacement.
The SunflowerRead more
Government
Attorney General Kris Kobach announced that Hyundai and Kia settlement offers Kansas owners free ignition cylinder protectors and up to $71,427.88.
Eligible customers can check their VIN and file a claim by March 31, 2027 (applies to select models).
KSNRead more
State lawmakers raised concerns on Dec. 17 that universities should review classroom content on diversity, equity and inclusion, though university leaders said their courses remain unchanged.
The Kansas Board of Regents said they would follow any new state rules + university officials have defended their current curriculum.
The SunflowerRead more
The Kansas Department of Transportation and Highway Patrol launched the Pull Off, Lights Out campaign to help drivers navigate blowing dust and high winds in western Kansas.
The public service announcement advises motorists to pull off the road early and use low beam headlights for safer travel.
KWCHRead more
Health
The FDA announced a recall of salad dressings, including Hidden Valley Ranch, after foreign objects were found in over 3,500+ cases shipped to retailers in Kansas and other states.
Consumers should check their products and avoid use if affected.
KSNRead more
Sports
The Shockers women’s basketball team rallied from an 11-point deficit to beat Oral Roberts by a final score of 79 to 65 Tuesday, Dec. 11, improving their record to 3-9.
They will play Middle Tennessee on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 2 p.m.
KSNRead more
Flory Bidunga had 18 points and 10 rebounds as Kansas secured a 73-49 win over Towson on Tuesday night, furthering a strong home record under coach Bill Self.
Towson trailed most of the game and briefly drew within nine points in the second half.
KSNRead more
Wichita Events
Chair Yoga at Park City Senior Center
Friday, December 19th, 2025 · 9:30-10:15 a.m. — Park City Senior Center — Free for members — Experience joy and community through adaptable chair yoga practices.
Winter Solstice Spirit Fair
Saturday, December 20th, 2025 · 10 a.m.-7 p.m. — The Cotillion — Kids 10 and under free with paid admission — Celebrate the return of the sun with holistic vendors offering unique gifts and spiritual insights.
Candlelight Christmas Special Featuring 'The Nutcracker'
Sunday, December 21st, 2025 · 8:45-9:45 p.m. — Kansas Aviation Museum — Ticketed event — Experience a magical evening of classical music inspired by the winter and holiday spirit under candlelight.
Grinchy Heart Holiday Party
Monday, December 22nd, 2025 · 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM — Newton Recreation Center — Cost Not Specified — Celebrate the holiday spirit with fun activities for kids aged 7-12.
Christmas Eve & Christmas Night Celebration at Dockum
Wednesday, December 24th, 2025 · December 24-25 — Dockum — Seasonal cocktails available — Celebrate Christmas in a cozy speakeasy with crafted spirits and holiday charm.
La Petite Pause at The French Tearoom
Thursday, December 25th, 2025 · 12:30-1:30 p.m. — The French Tearoom — Pricing varies — Enjoy warm scones and carefully poured tea in a tranquil midday escape.
Wichita Thunder vs. Allen Americans
Friday, December 26th, 2025 · 7:05-8:35 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Tickets starting at $26 — Cheer on the Wichita Thunder as they face off against the Allen Americans in an exciting hockey match.
Chair Yoga at Haysville Senior Center
Monday, December 29th, 2025 · 10:00 – 10:45 AM — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience gentle chair yoga to enhance strength and flexibility while building community.
Paramount 80's Rock Night
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 · 8:30-10:00 PM — The Cotillion — All Ages — Celebrate New Year's Eve with a night of 80's rock featuring special guest Monterey Jack.
Chair Yoga at Maize Recreation Commission
Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 · 1-2 p.m. — Maize Recreation Commission — $5 drop-in fee — Discover the calming benefits of Chair Yoga in a supportive community setting.