KMUW Wichita

Wichita is experiencing extreme heat with temperatures reaching up to 107 degrees, prompting the city to designate cooling centers and offer free bus rides to them. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during this heat wave.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announced it will accept applications for its 2026 agency cost share program, which offers financial assistance for transportation projects. The funding for 2026 is estimated at nearly $12 million, reflecting an increase from previous years.

The Kansas Head Start Association expressed concerns over proposed federal changes that could threaten the state's Head Start programs by eliminating classroom ratios and group size requirements. The changes could potentially affect over 6,200 Kansas children and families.

The city of Wichita removed a voucher requirement for bus rides to cooling centers, aiming to make access easier during extreme heat. This decision follows controversy at the city council regarding the necessity of vouchers for bus usage.

WSU President Rick Muma delivered his annual fall address, emphasizing the university's commitment to affordability and academic programs. He highlighted ongoing projects, including a new biomedical campus, and projected an increase in enrollment despite a recent tuition hike.

Wichita City officials introduced a new program that will send text reminders to defendants about their court appearances, aiming to reduce the number of people jailed for failing to appear. A similar program in California showed a significant decrease in pre-trial incarceration.

The Winfield School District issued a statement following a tragic incident where a man killed his wife and three children before taking his own life. The district expressed sadness over the tragedy, which has deeply affected the community, and a vigil is planned to honor the family.

The Kansas Turnpike Authority announced a multi-year plan for $500,000 in improvements and an increase in tolls to fund these upgrades. The plan aims to preserve and modernize the Turnpike system, enhancing safety and capacity.

Wichita Public Schools held clap-ins at several schools to celebrate the first day of school, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students. Staff and volunteers at Spate Elementary greeted students with cheers, songs, and bubbles, aiming to ease the transition for both students and parents.

An annual billboard campaign by the Kansas City Indian Center is urging the Kansas City Chiefs to change their name and discontinue the tomahawk chop tradition. The campaign has expanded this year, coinciding with the team's move to a new stadium, as advocates argue that the name and associated practices perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

A tragic murder-suicide in Winfield has left six people dead, including four children. Ronald H. Williams Sr. allegedly shot a woman and her four children before taking his own life. The incident has shocked the community, prompting police to provide counseling for first responders.

Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter reported a rising jail population, prompting the transfer of inmates to other counties. Despite a decrease in overall crime, the jail is housing more violent offenders, including those awaiting trial for serious crimes.

The America Cubed Foundation, led by billionaire Bill Coke, is attempting to exit its lease at the Wichita Boathouse, which could result in costly repairs for the city. City leaders are surprised to learn that their only recourse may be to reclaim the building, as the lease requires the foundation to maintain it. The city council will discuss the lease terms in an upcoming meeting.

Sedgwick County health officials have reported over 100 cases of cyclospiriasis, a foodborne illness, with Johnson and Shawnee counties also seeing significant numbers. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has noted nearly 750 cases statewide this year, affecting all age groups.

Officials in Liberal are warning residents about a mountain lion sighting near Arcalon Park. The city has confirmed the sighting and is advising visitors to remain vigilant, especially with children and pets, as mountain lions are most active during dawn and dusk.

A new fitness court has opened at Osage Park in South Wichita, featuring seven exercise stations for all fitness levels. This initiative aims to increase access to free exercise resources and is part of a collaboration between the city and health organizations.

Wichita Public Schools announced a new policy to enforce a state law banning student cell phone use during school hours. Students caught using their phones will have them stored until dismissal, with potential disciplinary actions for repeat offenders. The district emphasizes that the goal is to foster a focused learning environment rather than punish students.

The Wichita Children's Home has broken ground on an expansion aimed at providing trauma-informed mental health services for children and families. The new facility will include a maternity group home and is designed to create a safe environment for healing.

The annual migration of Purple Martins has begun in Wichita, with thousands of birds gathering near the airport. Bird watchers are drawn to the spectacle, which showcases the birds' unique communication and organization as they prepare for their journey to Brazil.

The Wichita Board of Education has opened applications for an empty seat in District 3, following the resignation of former member Knock Vong. Applications will be accepted until August 26, with public interviews scheduled for September, and the new member expected to serve until December 2027.