Up To Date

On Dec. 9, Deep Fission broke ground on the pilot program to bury small modular reactors underground in Parsons, Kansas. This project is the first of its kind in the United States, and comes as part of the Trump Administration’s effort to advance the nation’s nuclear power. 

After Steven Allen discovered her singing in The Colony Steakhouse in Kansas City, Marilyn Maye would go on to appear on the “Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson 76 times and sell out Carnegie Hall. She will perform next at the “Holly Jolly Follyday” on December 21 at the Folly Theater.

Women played a vital role in the Vietnam War. Many served as nurses, treating and caring for American soldiers, enemies and civilians. “To The Women Who Served,” a new documentary from KMBC in Kansas City, captures firsthand accounts of what the women experienced and the role history sometimes overlooks.

Soccer fans can currently apply for the Random Selection Draw for the chance to buy FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets, including the six matches in Kansas City. During the group stage of the tournament, reigning champion Argentina and three-time finalist Netherlands will each play a match at Arrowhead Stadium – and local residents originally from the nations are thrilled.

The new owners of the Country Club Plaza plan to open the door to 200-foot apartment buildings as part of their redevelopment plans. That’s sparked concerns from residents about the area losing its architectural identity. Members of the Plaza Westport Neighbor Association Board warn that the high-rises could wall off the neighborhood.

An effort is underway by President Donald Trump and cities like Kansas City, Kansas, to clear unhoused people from living in public spaces. But one Overland Park mental health expert fears homelessness will be criminalized — not addressing the root issue and costing more than providing adequate access to care.

Nicolette Paige, Rick Cole and Xavier Fleming have held a steady presence in the Kansas City music scene for more than 15 years. As a trio, they blend reggae, neo-soul and a warm, organic sound into what Paige calls “soulful, feel-good music” wherever they play — even inside a moving streetcar.

The Trump administration plans to re-examine the cases of all refugees and humanitarian evacuees admitted during the Biden administration, after the shooting of two National Guard members. Advocates in Kansas City say they trust the past vetting, and criticized the “planned destruction” of the country’s refugee programs.

People Not Politicians, the citizen-led campaign seeking to overturn Missouri’s newly passed congressional map, must submit signatures to the Secretary of State this week. If accepted, the gerrymandered map will be blocked from taking effect before the 2026 election.

Kansas City jazz pianist Tim Whitmer is out with a new record for the second year in a row — and this time, he is hoping his music spreads holiday cheer. The album "Happy Holidays" features Whitmer's takes on timeless classics like "Jingle Bell Rock" and "Santa Claus is Coming to Town."

A jazz quartet from Kansas City recently held three performances and a masterclass in China, as part of a symposium organized by the Edgar Snow Memorial Foundation.

The Kansas City region’s economy is lagging behind the nation overall. Experts say that’s driven by flat employment numbers and slower-than-average growth from many of the region’s most prominent industries.

Kansas City Chiefs fans can expect a tough matchup on Sunday as the team takes on the best ranked defense — the Houston Texans. While this season the Chiefs can’t seem to get out of their own way, some believe they can still make it to the post-season.

The Stowers Institute in Kansas City, which focuses on disease and treatment methods, added its first artificial intelligence fellow as a part of its AI initiative. This group of researchers is training AI to analyze research data and find the patterns and regulations that make cells function.

Republican former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu will be in Kansas City next Monday for an American Public Square event. He joined Up To Date ahead of his visit to discuss his time in office, working across the aisle and the first year of the second Trump administration.

Kansas City’s mayor and chief of police are calling for a review of the juvenile justice system. But court officials in Jackson County say youth referrals are down so far this year, proving that the diversion programs are working.

As an 11-year-old, Sarah Rector became the richest Black child in America, but danger in Oklahoma led to her family moving to Kansas City. Rector’s story, long forgotten from the history books, is now the subject of the 2025 film “Sarah’s Oil.”

Many young adults experience social connection and disconnection simultaneously, according to new research led by University of Kansas professor Jeffrey Hall. He says higher instability in young adulthood is causing the ambivalence.

Looking for a powerful memoir, a cozy bedtime story, a creepy collection — or all of the above for a potential holiday gift? KCUR's Up To Date invited a librarian, professor and bookstore owner to offer the favorites titles they read in the last year. Readers want one of two things in 2025: to be cozy

One person's drive to make a difference can create a positive ripple effect throughout the community. This year, The Pinnacle Prize recognized the progress and dedication of two Kansas Citians with a passion for helping people find safety and healing.

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People flying out of Kansas City International Airport don’t need to worry about any lingering effects of the government shutdown. An airport spokesperson said flights are back on track and they’re expecting fewer travelers this year.

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