Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Saturday, May 24, 2025.

We start our day with the weather. Sunshine greets us this morning and we can expect clear skies with highs around eighty-two and a pleasant breeze up to twelve miles per hour. UV levels are high, so keep sunscreen handy if you are heading outdoors. Tonight, temperatures dip to the mid-sixties. Looking ahead, tomorrow brings a slight chance of clouds but generally warm and comfortable weather will continue, perfect for holiday weekend plans.

In breaking news, Kansas City continues to reflect on the tragedy that brought hundreds to the Jewish Community Center last night as we mourn Sarah Milgrim. Community leaders, including KU’s Chancellor Douglas Girod and Governor Laura Kelly, have spoken out, offering condolences and urging unity. We come together as a city in support during this difficult time.

From City Hall, privacy is in the spotlight. Kansas lawmakers are debating new limits on police surveillance after reports that officers can place cameras on utility poles without a warrant. Senator Kenny Titus has expressed concern over constant monitoring, and we’ll be watching whether new legislation will emerge when lawmakers return next year. This ongoing conversation is sure to impact how we balance safety and individual rights in our neighborhoods.

On the jobs front, Kansas City’s market remains steady. Seasonal hiring for summer events and hospitality continues, with restaurants and event venues adding dozens of new positions. The real estate market sees moderate activity, with home sales slightly up as families look to settle before the next school year begins.

In business news, several local shops along 39th Street are celebrating grand openings this weekend, bringing new flavor and energy to the neighborhood. Meanwhile, a beloved bakery near Westport closed its doors after fifteen years, drawing heartfelt farewells from regulars.

Turning to sports, the city’s spirit is high after another strong performance from Kansas City’s own Cam Morrison, who’s now tied for second in the ECHL with six power-play points as hockey playoffs continue. On the soccer front, CPKC Stadium just wrapped up hosting the Women’s Pacific Four Series, where the US Eagles fell to the New Zealand Black Ferns, but the crowd showed incredible support and turnout was impressive.

Our local schools are also making headlines. Several high school track teams just brought home state medals, adding to the city’s pride as graduation season kicks off.

On the public safety front, Kansas City police are investigating a fatal shooting after an argument led to a collision late yesterday afternoon. Officers responded quickly and have made an arrest. No further threat remains, but police urge anyone with information to come forward.

And as we look for some good news, a group of Brookside neighbors raised funds to renovate a playground, unveiling new equipment this week and hosting a picnic for local families. It’s a small reminder of how tight-knit and caring our Kansas City community truly is.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Friday, May 23, 2025. We wake up to a mild morning across Kansas City with temperatures starting at 54 degrees. The forecast calls for a high of 66 today with light rain expected, so keep those umbrellas handy if you're heading to any outdoor events.

Breaking news from the metro - Prairie Village is mourning the loss of a community member described as "a wonderful girl," according to reports from KSHB 41. Meanwhile, Kansas City firefighters are responding to an apartment fire that has hospitalized one person due to smoke inhalation.

At City Hall, Kansas City has been awarded $6 million in EPA Brownfields Grants to boost neighborhood revitalization, with projects expected to begin next month. The city is also reminding residents about upcoming tax deadlines.

Sports fans took a hit yesterday as the KC Current announced defender Alana Cook has been placed on the season-ending injury list. But there's excitement building for tonight's soccer action as Sporting KC II hosts LAFC 2 at Children's Mercy Victory Field. Kickoff is at 6 p.m., with tickets available for just $10.

Baseball fans are wondering if the Royals should move Maikel Garcia back to the top of their batting order, while concerns are growing about Salvador Perez's recent performance at the plate.

The Kansas City theater community is reeling after the sudden loss of beloved director Brad Rackers, who passed away unexpectedly on Saturday. He was known for his work with Lee's Summit theaters and his dedication to teaching young performers.

In community news, Blue Springs residents can now keep backyard hens and ducks after the City Council voted 5-2 to amend city code. Meanwhile, residents in the Argentine neighborhood of Kansas City, Kansas, are dealing with flooding issues after Monday's storms left downed tree limbs and flash flooding.

Public safety officials report several recent arrests, including a man charged in connection with a May murder in Independence and another individual suspected in dog fighting and drug rings now facing federal firearms charges.

A bright spot in community action - Kansas City residents are rallying to save Whittier Elementary School, a 134-year-old local institution facing closure in 2026.

Looking ahead to the weekend, temperatures will reach the mid-60s with partly cloudy skies expected for Saturday's activities across the metro.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Thursday, May 22, 2025. We’re starting off with a look outside: it’s a clear and cool start to our day, with temperatures hovering around the mid-sixties right now. Expect a high near sixty-six by the afternoon, perfect weather for a stroll along the Country Club Plaza or grabbing lunch in the Crossroads. Looking ahead, we’ll keep things mostly dry and seasonal through the weekend, so outdoor plans are in great shape.

Now to the news making headlines in our city. We have breaking developments from City Hall, where Kansas City has just been awarded six million dollars in new EPA grants. These funds are earmarked to help revitalize neighborhoods, especially targeting old industrial sites and giving a boost to local communities. City officials hope this investment will draw new businesses and create jobs where they’re needed most. Speaking of jobs, the job market here remains steady, with openings continuing in hospitality, healthcare, and construction as we move into prime building season.

Our real estate market is also showing some subtle shifts. A few new listings have cropped up in Brookside and Waldo, and while prices remain firm, we’re seeing more first-time homebuyers moving in, encouraged by slightly lower mortgage rates. On the business front, we say farewell to Seasons 52, which just closed its popular location on the Plaza. But there’s new life too—a brand new ice cream shop in Lee’s Summit is opening with a mission, hiring several employees with disabilities and creating a welcoming community space.

Turning to safety, Kansas City police are investigating a shooting that took place just east of Ninth Street and Chestnut Avenue Saturday night. Tragically, one man died shortly after being transported to a local hospital. In another incident, a Kansas City man faces charges in connection with a recent murder in Independence. And on a brighter note for our first responders, the city now offers expanded shelter options for those in need, operating year-round to keep vulnerable residents safe.

Let’s celebrate some local achievements: Kansas City Current’s own Lo’eau LaBonta has earned her first call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. On the hockey front, Kansas City’s Cade Borchardt is making headlines, tying for second in goals in the ECHL playoffs. School pride is running high too, as several area high schools report strong finishes in the state spring sports tournaments.

A glance at the calendar shows a busy weekend ahead. The Brookside Art Annual kicks off Friday, bringing artists and food trucks to Meyer Boulevard. Union Station hosts a summer music series starting tomorrow evening, and neighborhood farmers markets are in full swing across the metro.

And on a feel-good note, we celebrate the return of the GOAT landscapers—actual goats—who are back along Berkley Riverfront, munching away to keep our parks green and beautiful.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Kansans on Medicaid are expressing serious concerns as federal funding cuts loom on the horizon. Healthcare providers warn these cuts would impact not just hospitals but also nursing homes, community pharmacies, and other medical services. Kansas Republican Senator Jerry Moran has highlighted the broad impact these reductions would have on the state's healthcare system, while Governor Laura Kelly has urged congressional members to stand against the changes to protect hundreds of thousands of Kansans who rely on Medicaid for quality, affordable care.

On Capitol Hill, there's division among Republicans regarding proposed cuts. While some support the measures, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley has called cutting Medicaid "morally wrong and politically suicidal" in a recent New York Times op-ed. This comes as House Republicans also unveiled a plan yesterday to cut SNAP benefits by more than $300 billion, raising concerns about food security for vulnerable residents.

In local public safety news, Kansas City Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on May 17. The victim succumbed to injuries yesterday, marking another tragic incident in our community.

Weather-wise, we're looking at partly cloudy skies today with a high of 66 degrees. There's a 40% chance of precipitation, so keep that umbrella handy if you're heading out. The severe weather threat that concerned residents yesterday has passed, but we're still seeing some lingering storms in the area. Looking ahead, expect cooler temperatures tomorrow with highs around 64 degrees.

The Argentine neighborhood in Kansas City, Kansas, continues to struggle with flooding issues, while over in Belton, neighbors have stepped up to help each other after recent storm damage to homes.

In sports, the Royals faced off against the San Francisco Giants last night at Oracle Park. Meanwhile, Sporting KC has been dealing with struggles on the pitch according to recent reports.

Community members remain divided on ATV and traffic enforcement in Kansas City's entertainment districts, while the Mission Gateway development site remains idle with limited cleanup occurring.

Education news brings mixed reactions as a new Missouri bill passed by the state legislature yesterday would require school districts to ban cell phone usage throughout the school day. On a positive note, Lee's Summit School District's "Grow Your Own" program is helping high school seniors become future teachers.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Saturday, May 17, 2025.

We're waking up to clear skies in Kansas City today with temperatures expected to reach around 77 degrees. It's perfect weather for all the outdoor activities happening across the metro this weekend.

The Kansas City Current will be in action tonight as they face the Orlando Pride at Inter&Co Stadium in Florida. Forward Mary Long and defender Katie Scott, who both signed with the Current in January, have been named to the United States Under-20 Championship roster. You can catch the match at 7 p.m. on Prime Video or listen on 90.9 The Bridge.

In other sports news, Sporting KC hopes to build on their midweek momentum after coming back from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with St. Louis City. They'll be facing expansion side San Diego FC tonight at Snapdragon Stadium in their first-ever meeting. The match kicks off at 9:30 p.m. and you can watch on MLS Season Pass or listen on Sports Radio 810 WHB.

At City Hall, the transition of Animal Control services back to the city is moving forward ahead of schedule, with officials confirming the process will be complete before 2026. The move is expected to improve service and compliance across the metro area.

Kansas City police are searching for a missing 27-year-old woman from the Northland. Details about her disappearance were released yesterday, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the missing persons hotline.

In business news, the city's support for women's workplace equality continues to strengthen with new legislation enhancing gender equity in City employment. The initiative is part of Mayor Lucas's commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace throughout Kansas City.

Community members are excited about the upcoming Brookside Art Festival next weekend, where local artists will showcase their work along 63rd Street. Organizers expect record attendance if the pleasant weather holds.

In real estate developments, funding for Parade Park has been approved, creating affordable housing while preserving this historic Black community. The project aims to address the housing shortage while maintaining the neighborhood's cultural significance.

We're also seeing continued progress on the South Loop Project, now officially named Roy Blunt Luminary Park, which will transform the downtown landscape and create new public spaces for residents and visitors alike.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Friday, May 16, 2025.

The top story today is the highly anticipated showdown between the two top teams in the NWSL as the Orlando Pride hosts our Kansas City Current tonight at 8:10 PM. The Current remain the only team in the NWSL without a loss or draw at home this year, but tonight they'll be tested on the road as they begin a three-match away swing.

In local news, a Kansas City man has pleaded guilty in a major case. Gary Bailey, 24, admitted to one count of conspiring to transport and possess stolen property as part of a multi-state business burglary conspiracy. This comes just days after an Overland Park pediatrician was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison.

We're looking at beautiful weather for your Friday with clear skies and temperatures reaching around 81 degrees today. It's perfect weather for outdoor activities, though expect slightly cooler temperatures tonight with a low of 68 degrees. The weekend looks equally pleasant with continued clear skies.

City Hall has been focused on affordable housing initiatives this week, with several new proposals aimed at expanding options for residents throughout the metro area. A new data center has also been proposed, which could bring additional tech jobs to our growing sector.

In business news, we're seeing continued resilience in our local economy despite ongoing drought conditions that have impacted area farmers. Several new establishments are preparing for summer openings along the Plaza and in the Crossroads district.

This weekend offers plenty of community events to enjoy. The Brookside Art Festival kicks off tomorrow, featuring dozens of local artists and live music throughout the neighborhood. Don't forget about the fundraiser at CPKC Stadium on Sunday supporting the family of our fallen firefighter, showing once again how our community comes together in times of need.

In transportation news, we're seeing the end of a popular ride share program, so plan accordingly if that's been part of your commute. Traffic has been particularly heavy along I-35 following yesterday's accidents, so allow extra time if heading north this morning.

Sports fans have plenty to celebrate as the Royals' offense has been breaking records this week. Meanwhile, Sporting KC continues to face challenges as they prepare for their weekend match.

We've received reports of multiple traffic incidents this morning, particularly around the downtown loop and along Ward Parkway. Police are asking residents to use caution in those areas.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Thursday, May 15th, 2025.

Our top story today is the ongoing impact of recreation area closures across the Kansas City District, as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers begins reducing services and temporarily closing facilities at our lakes starting today. If you had plans for a lakeside outing at any of the 18 district lakes, be sure to double-check the latest information before heading out. These changes come as the Corps manages staffing and resource limitations, aiming to keep everyone safe and protect our natural resources. Please follow all posted signs and closures while they work to restore full services.

Turning to the weather, we wake up to a mild, warm morning, and it looks like we’ll see less humidity throughout the day. It’s a great day to enjoy the outdoors, just remember that some recreation sites are affected by those closures. This evening should be pleasant, so it’s perfect for catching a ball game or strolling downtown.

On the roads, a heads up to drivers in Olathe: a large water main break has closed part of South Ridgeview Road. Expect detours and delays through that area, and plan your route accordingly to avoid getting stuck in traffic.

From City Hall, we’re seeing the results of big decisions. The recently passed $474 million school bond means major investments are coming to local schools, with upgrades planned across the district. Voters also renewed Kansas City’s public safety sales tax, ensuring that critical police and fire services remain robust.

In local business news, Amazon is eyeing a second drone delivery site in the Kansas City market. The company aims to expand its rapid delivery services to more neighborhoods, which could bring new technology and a handful of jobs to the metro area. Meanwhile, the Kansas City store owners are keeping an eye on new tariff policies, which could shift how they plan for the upcoming holiday season.

Kansas City’s sports scene is buzzing. Tomorrow night, the Mavericks face off against the Toledo Walleye in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals at Cable Dahmer Arena. The Mavericks have built a strong early-game reputation, outscoring opponents nine to two in the first period during these playoffs, and goalie Jack LaFontaine has been a wall in the net. Meanwhile, Chiefs fans are already circling dates on the calendar, as the 2025-26 season schedule features several primetime matchups and a high-profile Thanksgiving game against the Dallas Cowboys.

For our schools, the Lee’s Summit School District’s Grow Your Own program is helping high school seniors sign on to become future teachers, a creative way to address local teacher shortages and cultivate homegrown talent.

Looking ahead to the weekend, don’t miss the Brookside Art Festival and several neighborhood clean-up events. It’s a great chance to support local artists and pitch in for a cleaner, greener city.

A quick crime update: Police made key arrests in a copper wire theft ring after two men were charged for pulling fifty thousand dollars’ worth of wire from underground locations. Over in the 1600 block of Topping, police are investigating a fatal shooting from Monday afternoon. If you have information related to these incidents, authorities urge you to come forward.

We end today on a positive note. Volunteers have been pouring in to help a local printing company support the family of a fallen firefighter, showcasing once again the strength and compassion of our Kansas City community.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

Western Kansas farmers are facing a critical decision as water resources continue to dwindle. The message is clear: "Adapt or die" as many consider alternative crops that require less irrigation. This shift could impact food prices and agricultural practices throughout our region in the coming years.

In sports news, Sporting Kansas City continues to struggle this season, currently sitting in 13th place in the Western Conference with a 3-8-1 record. They'll face Saint Louis City SC in conference action today. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Mavericks have reason to celebrate after winning their playoff series 4-0 against the Tahoe Knight Monsters. And Chiefs fans, mark your calendars – the team will be playing on Christmas night this year.

A troubling development for Chiefs superfan "ChiefsAholic" who has been sentenced to 32 years in an Oklahoma prison. The sentencing came down early this morning, though details of the charges haven't been fully disclosed.

At City Hall, Mayor Quinton Lucas made an announcement yesterday, though details are still emerging. We're following this story closely.

In public safety news, Kansas City Police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Monday afternoon in the 1600 block of Topping. Additionally, eleven people have been displaced after an apartment fire in KCMO, according to the Kansas City Fire Department. Thankfully, no injuries were reported after a vehicle crashed into a Burger King.

Community concerns are growing in Henry County where additional testing has revealed concerning levels of hexavalent chromium, a cancer-causing chemical. County commissioners ordered the testing after widespread community concerns.

Looking ahead to 2026, rural Kansas counties are preparing for the World Cup's economic impact. Yesterday, community and business leaders from Miami, Linn, Franklin, and Anderson counties heard a presentation about potential economic opportunities.

In Gardner, residents of Aspen Place Apartments are rushing to evacuate after the city condemned the complex due to serious health and safety hazards. The deadline is Thursday at 6 PM.

Weather-wise, we're heating up this week according to KSHB 41 Weather, so plan outdoor activities accordingly.

For those looking to attend Chiefs games this fall, single-game tickets are set to go on sale Thursday.

On a positive note, Douglas County residents have opened a 60-bed addiction recovery center in Lawrence, providing much-needed services for those struggling with substance abuse in our community.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Saturday, May 10, 2025. We wake up to beautiful spring weather today, with clear skies and a high near seventy-five. It is perfect for getting outside, whether for the Brookside Art Annual or just a stroll at Loose Park. A quick heads up, though—patchy light rain could move in later today, so you might want to keep an umbrella handy if you are out after sunset. Looking ahead, tomorrow will be just a bit warmer, with highs close to seventy-seven and partly cloudy skies.

At City Hall, the big story this week is the appointment of Mario Vasquez as our new city manager. After weeks of deliberation, the council voted last night to make his selection official. Vasquez brings two decades of urban planning and management experience to the role. One of his first tasks will be addressing concerns about rising housing costs and rental pressures across Kansas City. Local leaders are also watching the latest discussion about renaming Troost Avenue to Truth Avenue. The council committee heard passionate testimony on both sides Tuesday, but for now the measure remains stalled.

On the housing front, residents of Aspen Place Apartments are scrambling to meet an eviction deadline, with several families seeking help from nonprofit organizations. In real estate, the median home price in Jackson County now sits just under three hundred thousand dollars. New listings across our metro are up slightly from April, and spring buyers outnumber available homes, keeping competition fierce.

Jobs-wise, Kansas City is seeing the effects of new tariffs on manufacturing, but several tech and healthcare companies are still hiring—about seven hundred openings were posted across the region in the past week. Meanwhile, rural counties south of the city are starting preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hoping to cash in on the economic boost.

In community news, Kansas City’s PrideFest is set to return to Theis Park next month for its fiftieth anniversary. Organizers are facing a shortfall with two hundred thousand dollars less in sponsorships this year, but volunteers insist the celebration will go on. If you are looking for events this weekend, do not miss the grand opening of a new local bakery on Westport Road or the Happy Bottoms diaper cake attempt—families are stacking diapers to build the world’s biggest cake and raise awareness for families in need.

Turning to sports, Ottawa University’s women’s flag football team is eyeing its fifth straight NAIA national title this week, with championship games held at the Kansas City Current training facility in Riverside. Local high schools wrapped up spring sports, with Rockhurst taking district baseball honors in an extra-inning thriller last night.

A quick crime and safety update—Kansas City Police continue to investigate a shooting outside a lounge on Independence Avenue that left a security guard injured Monday night. An Independence man faces charges in connection, and extra patrols are planned for the weekend. In a positive note, a missing ten-year-old boy was found safe and reunited with his family late Thursday.

We end today with a feel-good story. Roeland Park neighbors have come together to erase thousands in unpaid school lunch debt, proving once again that in KC, community runs deep.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Friday, May 9, 2025. We wake up to cloudy skies across Kansas City with a high near seventy-three degrees and a cool night ahead dropping into the forties. No rain is expected today, so it looks like a good one for outdoor plans, but keep an eye out for possible thunderstorms this weekend.

Our top story this morning, Kansas City staff celebrates the activation of new traffic signals across several downtown intersections. City Hall invites everyone to a press conference at noon today, highlighting efforts to improve traffic safety and congestion. It is a sign of ongoing investment in safer streets, with more upgrades planned for the summer.

Looking at major developments, there is talk throughout the metro about the new Panasonic battery plant in De Soto, continuing to reshape job opportunities and local business activity. The area is already seeing growth in supporting industries, with several new warehouse and tech jobs posted this week. If you are in the market for a new position, now is a promising time, especially in logistics and manufacturing.

On the real estate front, home listings are holding steady, with the average price in Kansas City hovering just under three hundred thousand dollars. In neighborhoods near the Plaza and Brookside, open houses are drawing crowds, especially as families look to settle before summer.

In community news, we celebrate Wyandotte High School Principal Mary Stewart, who announced her retirement after an incredible forty-three years of service. She has shaped countless lives and inspired generations, and the district will honor her at a gathering next Tuesday evening at the school gym.

In sports, the Royals return to Kauffman Stadium tonight for the first game of a four-game home stretch. After a tough series on the road, players and fans alike are hoping the home field gives them a much-needed lift. Over in high school sports, Lincoln College Prep’s boys soccer team clinched a spot in the city finals with a thrilling overtime win on Wednesday.

There are also plenty of events coming up this weekend. The Crossroads Art District hosts its monthly First Friday celebration tonight, promising local art, live music, and food trucks along Southwest Boulevard. Saturday brings the Strawberry Hill Farmers Market back to Kansas Avenue, a great spot for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

On the business front, a handful of new restaurants are opening downtown, including a much-anticipated vegan café on Main Street—good news for foodies looking to try something new. Meanwhile, several ride-share companies are adjusting operations near Union Station to ease congestion during peak event hours.

Turning to public safety, Kansas City police are investigating a shooting that left a security guard injured outside a lounge on Independence Avenue Monday night. In Raytown, a moped crash on East Gregory Boulevard sadly claimed a life earlier this week. Police are also seeking community help to locate a missing ten-year-old boy; anyone with information is urged to contact authorities.

As we wrap up, let’s share one feel-good story—students from Central High School planted over one hundred trees yesterday along Brush Creek Trail as part of a volunteer effort to brighten our parks and build a greener city for us all.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.