Month: February 2021
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Local grassroots groups unite to stage violence prevention events
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post A coalition of urban core groups is meeting Monday afternoon to discuss what more they can do to reduce gun violence in the city. Yet another shooting Monday morning near East 114th Street and Spring Valley Road has left a man fighting for his life in the hospital. Police say…
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After spending 23 years in prison for a wrongful conviction, Ricky Kidd becomes viral sensation on TikTok
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post It’s been around ten months since Ricky Kidd was exonerated. Since then, his life looks completely different. He describes it as a wild and fast roller coaster ride with a whirlwind of meaningful and surprising moments. Kidd was freed from prison in September after spending 23 years behind bars…
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UMKC program stepping up to help teen who lost dad in shooting after KC protest
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post It’s been a month since a Kansas City man was murdered after a protest near the Plaza. Now, the University of Missouri-Kansas City is showing support to his son and helping him reach for the stars. Jayden Francois dreams of becoming an astrophysicist. “I have always loved astrophysics. My dad…
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One woman’s Black Lives Matter sign idea becomes a mission for two metro teens
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Original Post Signs are popping up all around Overland Park neighborhoods. The style is simple, but the meaning is deeper. It started as one woman’s idea but has turned into two teen’s mission. Down the lane you can see manicured lawns, bright flowers, full ferns, waving flags and simple signs. Just…
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KC councilman proposes red light entertainment district at 18th and Vine — but it’s not what you think
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post A city councilman is proposing to make 18th & Vine a red light district, but it’s not what you think. Brandon Ellington said it has nothing to do with sex or drugs and everything to do with zoning and tax dollars. The 3rd District At-Large councilman would like to…
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Kansas City businesses and organizations adjust as masks become a requirement in public
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post Masks make all the difference. Starting Monday, you’ll be required to wear them in public around Kansas City, Missouri. Some organizations are having to adjust, while for others it will be business as usual. “Wearing is caring,” Kansas City Area Transit Authority spokesperson, Cindy Baker said. The wheels on…
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‘We’re still behind them’: Group rallies on steps of KCPD headquarters to show support
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post While there was big news on the City Hall steps involving the Kansas City Police Department, there was also support for the department just across the street. A group rallied around the department Thursday. Hymns and prayers were heard on the steps of Police Headquarters. “They protect us, and…
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Leaders working together in hopes of keeping violence out of 18th and Vine District
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post Leaders in the 18th and Vine District are getting creative. They want to keep patrons safe, and keep violence out. A key committee met Tuesday to discuss options. They talked about urgent changes they hope to make. Business owners especially came out to make their voices heard and said violent…
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‘Not again’: Kansas City leaders grapple with fallout from weekend gun violence
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post City leaders are speaking out about four shootings in Kansas City overnight Sunday. “Not again,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said. One person died and six others were hurt in the shootings. Both Lucas, and Kansas City 3rd District Councilwoman Melissa Robinson say more can be done to stop the shooting.…
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‘It’s just unbelievable’: Friends shocked after 23-year-old killed in hit-and-run in KC
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Original Post Friends are mourning the loss of a young woman hit and killed early Sunday morning. Police say witnesses told them cars were drag racing down Main Street near 43rd Street when they hit 23-year-old Zahara Kathawalla. The driver turned themselves in early Monday morning, and police are investigating. Madeline Straley…