Daily editionFriday, December 19th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of December.
Business
Boeing and the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace paused contract talks for over 1,500 white-collar workers at the former Spirit Aerosystems facility in Wichita; the union’s proposal adds enhanced leave + salary increases and talks will resume Jan. 5.
KSNRead more
Culture
Following the abrupt closure of a Wichita concert venue, customers have sought refunds for tickets & await details from management.
KWCHRead more
River City Brewing Co. is hosting its 'Miracle on Mosley Street' pop-up — featuring themed craft beers and seasonal treats — at its downtown location, and the event published yesterday will continue inviting visitors through the season.
KWCHRead more
On this night 140 years ago in 1885, Wichita residents watched the first electric light light up the downtown intersection of Douglas & Topeka avenues.
N.F. Niederlander turned on four lamps as crowds gathered for the trial demonstration.
KNSSRead more
Economy
Federal labor data shows Black unemployment rose to 8.3 percent in November from 6.0 percent in May, more than the 4.6 percent overall rate.
Economists warn that job cuts in key sectors (including government and retail) may signal tougher times ahead for Wichita workers.
The VoiceRead more
Airbus will move up to 400 Wichita aerospace jobs to France as part of a Spirit AeroSystems sale to Boeing that required transferring some operations.
Economists expect Boeing to eventually hire some of the displaced workers as its operations ramp up.
KWCHRead more
Education
Students at Truesdell Middle School in Wichita learned ethical AI use as they worked with Canva AI and studied copyright, fair use law and critical thinking — the district’s first AI session for middle schoolers.
KSNRead more
Environment
Crews from multiple counties battled a wildfire southwest of Bunker Hill in Russell County on Thursday, and firefighters began turning back shortly before 4 p.m. as the fire calmed with smoke visible on radar and no injuries reported.
KSNRead more
Kansas wildlife officials say a rise in dead birds ties to bird flu affecting young birds during migration.
They advise residents to handle dead birds safely by wearing gloves and double bagging them.
KWCHRead more
Health
Mental health groups such as HopeNET and COMCARE provide counseling, support groups, and connections to free services like Kidzcope and Good Grief of Kansas for Wichita residents dealing with grief during the holidays.
They offer sliding scale payments and crisis assistance to help people care for themselves.
KWCHRead more
Wichita Events
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.
Tahoe Knight Monsters vs Wichita Thunder
Friday, January 16th, 2026 · 7:05-9:05 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Cost info not specified — Catch an exciting hockey match as the Tahoe Knight Monsters face off against the Wichita Thunder.