Wichita Beacon community journalist Trace Salzbrenner

A group of young adults pack up donated goods.

Civic Engagement

How are you spending 3-16? Wichitans asked to donate that day

by Trace Salzbrenner March 8, 2023March 8, 2023

A man points, directing another man.

Local Government

Did a cost-cutting move reduce voter turnout in 2022?

by Trace Salzbrenner March 1, 2023March 6, 2023

Wichita city council members in a meeting.

DIY Democracy: How to run for City Council or mayor in Wichita

by Trace Salzbrenner February 16, 2023June 1, 2023

People lined up to get food at The Lord's Diner.

Wichita’s new task force will address homelessness. Who’s involved and what are their goals?

by Trace Salzbrenner February 15, 2023February 16, 2023

The Wichita school board

DIY Democracy: How to run for school board in Wichita

by Trace Salzbrenner February 10, 2023February 13, 2023

Mike Harris sitting at a table.

Safety, teacher retention and ‘school choice’ are on the minds of Wichita teachers in 2023

by Trace Salzbrenner February 6, 2023February 6, 2023

Lynne and Matt sitting in the car

In freezing temperatures, volunteers help count Wichita’s homeless population

by Trace Salzbrenner January 31, 2023January 31, 2023

Ruby Ligon did not know of the toxic chemical in Wichita contaminating groundwater in her neighborhood. She is surrounded by photos of the family she raised in her home.

State Government

‘I’m just so angry’: Wichitans feel state neglected to warn them of danger

by Trace Salzbrenner and Celia Hack January 26, 2023January 25, 2023

People sitting at tables with lawyers helping them.

State Government

These Wichita lawyers are providing Kansans with a way off the drug registry list

by Trace Salzbrenner January 20, 2023January 20, 2023

Buttons and surveys used by United Way of the Plains in the annual homeless count.

Here’s how you can help ensure funding for Wichita housing programs

by Trace Salzbrenner January 12, 2023January 13, 2023