News & Issues
Stories from around the Kansas City Metro area on a variety of topics.
Grieving Parents Turning Tragedy of Suicide into Hope
Parents of children who have died by suicide have banded together to help dramatically reduce such tragedies in the Blue Valley School District.
Boutique Hotel Plan Returns for Historic Building on Grand
(Editor’s note: This article originally was posted May 15, 2023) By Kevin Collison A proposal to restore the historic Mason Building at 1110 Grand and reopen it as a 35-room boutique hotel has returned, led by a developer with a similar hotel venture in Lincoln, Neb. Nicholas Castaneda, a principal with the 49-room Kindler Hotel…
Kansas Officials Downplayed Involvement in Marion Raid. Here’s What They Knew.
The Marion police chief enlisted the support of local and state law enforcement officials before he led raids on the local newspaper and the publisher’s home.
Nick’s Picks | Local Elections, ‘Nichols’ Folly’ and Veterans Day
The week ahead in Kansas City includes local elections, a new documentary about the Country Club Plaza and Veterans Day.
Arizona Trading Co. Opening in East Crossroads
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published June 9, 2023) By Kevin Collison Arizona Trading Co. is opening its biggest store in the East Crossroads this summer and for co-owner Venus Nichols, it’s a return to familiar territory. “It’s such a wonderful place,” she said. “I used to perform with a band (Stretchmarks) at The…
UMKC Seeks 5,000-Seat Arena, Retail By Streetcar Stop
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published May 16, 2023) By Kevin Collison UMKC is pitching a development proposal that would anchor the south end of the new streetcar extension with a 4,000- 5,000 seat arena for sports and cultural events, according to a request for proposals issued Monday. UMKC is asking developers to submit…
Squirrel: It’s What’s for Dinner
Dozens recently gathered in Lawrence for a clinic about trapping, harvesting and cooking squirrel. The squirrel population has soared in recent decades.
Borrowers Weigh Options as Student Loan Payments Resume
Many student loan borrowers are making tough decisions as student loan payments resume. The shift in spending will send ripples throughout the economy.
Afghan Refugees Still Adjusting to Life in Kansas City — and Wondering if They Can Stay
After the Taliban seized Kabul, Kansas City welcomed hundreds of Afghan refugees in 2021. Many still seek stable housing and secure immigration status.
KC’s Support for Israel Built on Defining Antisemitism
Strong political support for Israel in Kansas City is the product of years of work in educating the public about antisemitism.