News & Issues
Stories from around the Kansas City Metro area on a variety of topics.
Rural Rebirth: The Art of Being Atchison
Atchison has enough historical attractions that put it — and keep it — on the map. But the people of this rustic river town want more for their community.
Wellness Center Planned for Former Wendell Phillips School Near 18th & Vine
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published March 13, 2023) By Kevin Collison The former Wendell Phillips school near the 18th & Vine District is slated to become a community wellness center serving the neighborhood and a new affordable housing project planned across the street. Urban Catalyst Inc. has acquired the school at 24th and…
Troubled Waters: KC’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial Restored
The Kansas City Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fountain has been repaired after a long delay. But local veterans seek more upgrades.
Crossroads Food Stop Offers World Cuisine–To Go
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published March 10, 2023) By Kevin Collison There’s an international food festival occurring in a quiet corner of the East Crossroads several blocks removed from the microbrewery scene and if it’s hard to find, don’t worry, it’s already well known to Door Dash and Uber Eats drivers. The Crossroads…
Come on Now! New App Fills Gaps in Health Care Access
Many folks are still struggling to access health care. Dr. Shelley Cooper has developed an app to overcome those obstacles. It’s called Come on Now!
When Corporations Buy Local Homes, We All Pay
Jackson County’s latest round of property tax assessments has sent homeowners into a frenzy. One factor driving prices of homes? Out-of-town investors.
Ziplines, Aerial Park Envisioned for Hy-Vee Arena ‘Space Frame’
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published Feb. 17, 2023) By Kevin Collison When Helmut Jahn designed the unique, external framework supporting the roof at the former Kemper Arena 50 years ago, it’s doubtful he imagined it hosting an aerial park someday. But that’s just what Brad McDonald has in mind for the renowned German…
Lavender Farm Supports Organization Battling Sex Trafficking
“Joe never gives up on a plant,” Jenny Steineger said as her husband parted a seemingly dead lavender bush to reveal new growth at its core. An unseasonably early winter cold snap resulted in a rather puny harvest for the Steinegers at Lavender Hill Farm in Kansas City, Kansas. “That’s farming,” she said with a…
Smithville Nonprofit Seeks to Become ‘Epicenter of the School-Choice Movement’
Before his death, Stanley Herzog’s largesse bankrolled a generation of GOP candidates. His fortune is now focused on expanding ‘Christ-centered K-12 education.’
Late Summer Start for Big Apartment Project at Trinity Lutheran Site
(Editor’s note: This article originally was published Feb. 13, 2023) Construction is expected to begin in late summer on a $130 million apartment project at 31st and Main that will add 385 apartments along the new streetcar extension. NorthPoint Development is building the project which will not only raze the derelict former Trinity Lutheran Hospital,…