Cassandra Isobelle Flores

Algeria's draw with Austria was enough to put both teams through to the Round of 32, and extend the mutual affection between the African squad and Lawrence, Kansas, the college town they're calling home during the tournament.

The World Cup love affair between Lawrence, Kansas, and Team Algeria continues to be a source of international delight. But since Saturday's game will determine if "Les Fennecs" can progress to the knockout round, Lawrence is sending the team off in style.

Following the Thursday ruling by a Jackson County judge, Planned Parenthood in Kansas City began providing medication abortions to patients on Monday for the first time since 2018. But affiliates are still fighting limitations as critics again seek to restrict access via a ballot issue in November.

Kansas City has welcomed thousands of visitors as the metro enters its second week of the World Cup. But as international crowds come in, many local shop owners feel they're taking a backseat. Some small businesses say the economic boost is not evenly distributed.

Storms already delayed the opening of Kansas City's FIFA Fan Festival. With more thunderstorms and tornadoes possible this weekend, organizers say they have an evacuation plan and shelters, but those details have not been made widely available.

County officials say the 2026 Advance Voting Plan will provide equitable access to early in-person polling sites countywide. But with early voting locations cut from 18 to 12, some residents question whether the move will reduce access to the ballot box for those who want to cast an early ballot.

Beginning June 11, the ConnectKC26 shuttles will connect key World Cup destinations like the airport and stadium to a central bus mall at 27th Street and Grand Boulevard, near the Fan Festival.

KC PrideFest returns on June 5, but other local groups are planning their own events celebrating queer resilience and joy. Find a guide to more parades, street festivals, drag shows and more.