Elizabeth Ruiz
Producer, Up To DateWhen 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.
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It’s hard to imagine what might go into planning the wedding of America's biggest super star and a Kansas City Chiefs player — but we have some ideas. A premier Kansas City event planner said a wedding of that magnitude would shut down the city, if it happens here. -
Missouri lawmakers may redraw Kansas City's congressional district to dilute Democratic voting power, in order for Republicans to win another seat in the 2026 midterms. Democrats intend to fight, but ultimately, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver said that President Trump's disregard for democracy will endanger the country. -
Residents who enroll in North Kansas City's Citizen Academy get a 10-week course on local government systems, and how the various departments function and affect their lives. The mayor said the program has increased participation in local boards and commissions. -
Trust in the criminal justice system in Wyandotte County has been tainted by the actions of disgraced former KCKPD detective Roger Golubski. In an interview with KCUR's Up To Date, District Attorney Mark Dupree defended his office's review of past cases, and sought to dispel rumors about Golubski's suicide. -
Kansas City's own Charlie "Bird" Parker revolutionized jazz music. Local jazz legend Lonnie McFadden is leading a celebration of Parker's music and legacy at the Folly Theater this month. -
Dr. Jennifer Collier oversees the education of more than 14,000 kids in Kansas City. She spoke with KCUR's Up To Date as part of our series "5 Questions," and shared what's important to her outside of the school setting. -
Missouri students won't be able to send texts or check social media during class after Gov. Mike Kehoe signed a law banning cellphones during school — although there are some important exceptions. School leaders tend to agree that phones are disruptive, but they worry about enforcement of the law. -
Volunteers will be instrumental in introducing the world to Kansas City during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. KC2026 needs 6,000 people to take on volunteer roles during the games, the fan festival and other events. -
Kansas Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids said that Kansans will begin to feel the effects of the spending cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program at the beginning of the year. She spoke with KCUR's Up To Date about the recent budget bill signed into law by President Trump. -
IRIS workers say they were misled about pay and aren't being treated fairly by their employer zTrip. Drivers demanded the right to unionize last year.
