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Featured Story
‘Storm of Addiction’ Part 2: Sober and ready to fight
In the second installment of a story looking at the human impact of fentanyl overdose, Ashley Alexander wants to see more done to prevent and prosecute fentanyl-related deaths after her fiance dies.
The Wichita Beacon listens to diverse perspectives and investigates systemic issues — and potential solutions — through original, fact-based reporting. As a nonprofit newsroom, we rely on donations. You can help keep our journalism free for all readers by becoming a monthly member.
State Government
Featured Story
Is support for legal medical marijuana in Kansas coming in 2023?
Kansas is one of three states where medical marijuana is illegal. These bills could change that, but time is running out.
The Beacon Newsletter
Public service journalism delivered every Tuesday and Thursday, straight to your inbox.
Housing
Wichita’s new task force will address homelessness. Who’s involved and what are their goals?
In a drive to get to ‘functional zero’ on homelessness, a new task force plans to meet once a month for the next three years.
In freezing temperatures, volunteers help count Wichita’s homeless population
Every year, volunteers and workers with United Way of the Plains’ Continuum of Care survey unhoused people in a single day. This is how they do it.
Here’s how you can help ensure funding for Wichita housing programs
100 volunteers needed to visit the city’s homeless encampments for an official count that determines how much money local homeless programs receive.
Local Government
Did a cost-cutting move reduce voter turnout in 2022?
A decision to stop automatically mailing all voters an application to request advance ballots saved about $100,000. It also led to a steep dip in voting by mail. Was it worth it?
DIY Democracy: How to run for City Council or mayor in Wichita
The Wichita Beacon talked with previous and current local candidates to learn how to run for mayor or City Council.
Has your family experienced unexplained illness? A Black neighborhood group will survey its members on MLK Day
The survey hopes to find whether a chemical in Wichita’s groundwater has caused negative health effects in some of Wichita’s majority Black neighborhoods.
DIY Democracy
DIY Democracy: How to run for school board in Wichita
What should you consider before you run a school board campaign? Here are rules and tips on how to run for public office.
Kansas Legislature asked to focus on life-and-death issues
When the Kansas Legislature returns in January, some people want lawmakers to focus on preventing deaths from gun violence, overdose, DUIs and excessive force by police.
DIY Democracy: How to follow the Kansas Legislature
From committee hearings to floor debate, The Beacon shows you how to follow along from home.
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Wichita News
How are you spending 3-16? Wichitans asked to donate that day
United Way of the Plains and the city of Wichita are co-sponsoring a 316 Day of Caring as a bid to engage new people in volunteerism.
Uninsured? A free colon cancer screening is available
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in Kansas. Ascension Via Christi is offering help.
Kansas songwriter Toby Tyner tells story behind ‘Already Gone’
Sometimes a few lyrics contain the story of an entire life, and poetry and music can transform a painful past into something beautiful.
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