News & Issues
Stories from around the Kansas City Metro area on a variety of topics.
Pandemic, Job Losses and Supreme Court Case Focus Attention on Affordable Care Act Deadline
The COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people who have lost their jobs and health insurance, and a pending Supreme Court decision have created the perfect storm for the Affordable Care Act.
Fountain City Winery Opening Soon in West Bottoms
By Kevin Collison The West Bottoms is about to welcome another winery to the eclectic blend of businesses that have found a home in the old industrial district of downtown. Jay and Melissa Pietkiewicz hope to open Fountain City Winery by Christmas at 1409 W. 11th St. The couple met while working in the wine industry…
Nick’s Picks | First COVID-19 Vaccines Expected in Kansas City This Week
The Kansas City area could begin seeing the first shipments of COVID-19 vaccine as soon as this week.
More Living in River Market, 76-Unit Building Planned
By Kevin Collison A $20 million apartment project is planned for Fourth and Broadway near the foot of the Buck O’Neil Bridge in the River Market, the latest addition in what’s become a popular area for downtown living. Developers George Birt and Taylor McKee intend to begin construction in late spring on the eight-story, 76-unit…
Missouri’s Struggling Live Venues Beseech Gov. Mike Parson: ‘We’re looking for a lifeline here’
This week, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson received a letter from the Missouri Entertainment Alliance asking for funds to save the state’s live-entertainment industry.
Shivered Timbers: Cold Season Brings Surging Demand for Firewood and Real Christmas Trees
Christmas tree and firewood demand is up, as the pandemic forces people to celebrate the season from their own homes.
Waddell & Reed Sold, Future of Downtown HQ Plans Uncertain
By Kevin Collison Waddell & Reed has been sold to an Australian global financial firm, casting a big shadow over its plans to relocate its headquarters to a $148 million downtown tower under construction that was approved for tax incentives only a year ago. The Overland Park-based firm announced late Wednesday it has entered into…
Waddell & Reed Sold, Future of $148 Million Downtown HQ Project Uncertain
Waddell & Reed has been sold to an Australian global financial firm, casting a shadow over its $148 million downtown headquarters project now being built.
Urban Hikes Explores History, Architecture and Art with Exercise to Boot
By Kevin Collison Lisa Peña traces her inspiration to launch Urban Hikes Kansas City to her childhood days exploring the woods near her home in the Rosedale neighborhood of KCK. “As I got older, I realized how much I like being outdoors,” she said. “I also loved Kansas City growing up and tried to visit…
New Strategy Hopes to Reanimate Disney Laugh-O-Gram Building
By Kevin Collison Backers of the effort to reanimate the historic Laugh-O-Gram building where Walt Disney got his start a century ago believe they finally have a winning strategy to complete the languishing project. The new plan calls for the building near 31st and Troost to be renovated for multiple uses: a small theater and…