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Up To Date

U.S. Postal Service | Travel Industry Disruption | Wedding Industry Freeze | Fans Without Sports

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Emily and Joshua Anderson planned an April mountainside wedding in Tennessee but the spread of the coronavirus forced the couple to alter their big day.

Segment 1, beginning at 3:20: One author shares the importance of the U.S. Postal Service to rural America.

Growing up in a low income, rural household, Sarah Smarsh has not forgotten the vital service provided by the post office. She addressed the implications of not bailing out the federal agency.

Segment 2, beginning at 17:19: The damage to the travel industry and how to recoup your lost travel investment.

The coronavirus has put the brakes on most people's travel plans. A travel advisors gave tips on how to navigate cancellations due to COVID-19.

Segment 3, beginning at 36:20: Cancellations and postponements are putting a strain on vendors involved with nuptials.

Months and years of wedding planning are being altered as large gatherings are banned to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Emily Anderson shared why her dream destination-wedding turned into an impromptu ceremony in Kansas City.

Segment 4, beginning at 51:05: Fans feel the void without the sporting events that unite them.

In the absence of sports, a play-by-play of a dog's breakfast is the most action some sportscasters can provide. Victor Wishna looks ahead to the day when sports fans can be safely reunited to rejoice in the love of the game.

  • Victor Wishna, contributing author and commentator for Up to Date
When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.
Melody Rowell is the lead producer for KCUR’s Central Standard. You can find her on Twitter at @MelodyRowell, or by email at melody@kcur.org.
As senior podcast producer for KCUR Studios and a host of A People’s History of Kansas City, I interview everyday people and dig through old newspaper articles to unearth stories of the visionaries and renegades who created this region. I focus on bringing the past to life, so we can all better understand the city we live in today. Email me at mackenzie@kcur.org.
When you listen to Up To Date, I want you to understand decisions being made in the city, feel inspired by community members, and empathize with people who've had different experiences. As an Up To Date producer, I connect you to the news through conversations with community members and elected officials. Contact me at elizabeth@kcur.org or on Twitter at @er_bentley_ruiz.