Halle Jackson
Up To Date producerIn an era defined by the unprecedented, one thing remains certain: Kansas Citians’ passion for their hometown. As an Up To Date producer, I construct daily conversations to keep our city connected. My work analyzes big challenges and celebrates achievements to help you see your town in a new way.
I graduated from the University of Missouri in May 2023 with dual degrees in journalism and sociology. Before coming to KCUR as an Up To Date intern, I was a reporter and producer at KBIA, mid-Missouri’s NPR station. I’m an avid rock climber and native of St. Louis.
Email me at hallejackson@kcur.org.
-
Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins refused to certify a ballot initiative aimed at undoing the new congressional maps drawn by Republican legislators. Those maps carved up Kansas City in an effort to oust Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, and this rejection sets up another legal battle ahead of November’s high-stakes midterms. -
While voters in Missouri and Kansas overwhelmingly shot down ballot measures championed by Republicans, they also largely chose conservative, Trump-backed candidates to run against Democrats in November’s general election. -
Political scientists in Kansas and Missouri say Tuesday’s primary elections — particularly the constitutional amendments on the ballot — will gauge public opinion about whose voices should be heard in government and how much trust citizens have in their elected officials. -
The city passed legislation that limits speeds for electronic mobility devices and creates an age limit for some higher speed vehicles. Advocates helped create the ordinance, but worry about some changes the city council made to the rules. -
If approved by Missouri voters on Aug. 4, 2026, Amendment 5 would require the Missouri General Assembly to phase out the income tax based on revenue growth. The amendment also authorizes lawmakers to expand sales and use taxes to replace the lost income tax revenue. -
The Linda Hall: Science Library and Arboretum was established in 1946 on the estate of Herbert and Linda Hall, who bequeathed $6 million to establish a free public library for Kansas City. As the institution celebrates its 80th anniversary, it’s aiming to re-establish itself as a place for all Kansas Citians, researchers or not, to engage with science. -
Kansas City hosted six matches over the course of the tournament, which was largely considered a success. Pam Kramer, CEO of KC2026, says Kansas City grew its reputation during the tournament. -
With a soaring voice that evokes folk legends Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez and more, Kansas City singer-songwriter Kirstie Lynn has a new EP that reflects on “blazing up, blazing out (and) blazing through” as a DIY musician. “Blazing Prairie Star” is out July 24. -
If approved by Missouri voters on Aug. 4, 2026, Amendment 4 would raise the threshold to change the state constitution through the citizen-led initiative petition process. However, amendments sent to the ballot by the Missouri General Assembly would only require a simple majority to pass. -
Kansas City hosted six matches during the monthlong tournament, which cost nearly $200 million in public funds for this region’s part alone. Did local businesses actually benefit in the end? Or will the event’s impact only be felt years down the road?
