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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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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Kris Kobach, the Republican attorney general, says that several Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents have been trained to make arrests in collaboration with federal immigration authorities. He talked about the state's recent law enforcement initiatives, plus his clashes over legal authority with Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, in an interview with KCUR's Up To Date.
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Visitors looking to see the Arabia Steamboat Museum’s collection of pre-Civil War artifacts have until next November. After more than 30 years at the City Market, the museum is closing when its lease ends in 2026. But the owners say they’re exploring options to relocate and even add to the historic collection.
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Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe’s desire to eliminate the state income tax is an ambitious goal given the projected $1 billion shortfall in general revenue next fiscal year. He joined KCUR’s Up To Date to discuss how the plan could take shape.