WICHITA | KANSAS CITY

EDUCATION | PEOPLE | BLACK HISTORY

Good morning! As we head into the weekend, we bring you a roundup of some of the top stories from this week. From a basketball star’s pursuit of a master’s degree to a free summer camp for kids, there’s plenty of inspiring news to go around. Homeowners in Kansas City may also be eligible for financial assistance for home repairs, while residents can have a say in the design of a new pedestrian bridge honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Meanwhile, a collaboration between GraceMed Health Clinic and the Wichita Black Nurses Association aims to provide education and testing for those affected by a chemical spill. Read on for more details on these stories and more.

Shocker basketball star Xavier Bell to play additional year at WSU

Wichita basketball star Xavier Bell is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in his athletic and academic journey, making use of an additional year of college eligibility granted by the NCAA. As he prepares to pursue a master’s degree in sports management, Bell’s future plans include the possibility of playing professional basketball. His story reflects the resilience and determination of student-athletes navigating the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kansas City offers three home repair assistance programs to ease financial strain

Home repairs can be costly, but if you live in Kansas City, MO, you may be eligible for financial assistance through one of three home repair programs. These initiatives cover major repairs like plumbing, electrical systems, roofs, and HVAC replacement, and are available to eligible homeowners until June 3. To qualify, homeowners must meet certain income limits based on HUD guidelines and provide documentation like proof of homeownership, household income, and recent water bills. Learn more about these programs and how to apply on the city’s website.

Wichita Fire Department’s free summer camp introduces kids to firefighting

Get ready for an action-packed summer camp experience like no other! The Wichita Fire Department is offering a free camp for 8 to 13-year-olds, where kids can learn about the important roles and responsibilities of firefighters through hands-on activities. From education to demonstrations and even a chance to play at Aviate Extreme Air Sports, this camp promises a unique perspective on firefighting tasks. Find out how your kids can have fun in the sun while also learning about fire safety in this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out, as registration is limited to 50 participants each day.

Kansas City residents invited to vote on design for MLK pedestrian bridge

Kansas City residents are being invited to have a say in the design of a new pedestrian bridge that will honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and improve access to a popular park named after the civil rights icon. The bridge, which will span Brush Creek and connect pedestrians and bicyclists to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Square Park, has four proposed design concepts for the public to vote on. The designs incorporate different materials, lighting elements, and sculptural features, each aiming to capture King’s legacy. The project, funded by U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, aims to create a stronger sense of community ownership and is set to begin construction in 2025 pending approval.

Wichita community mobilizes to address chemical spill, offering free testing and education

GraceMed Health Clinic and the Wichita Black Nurses Association have teamed up to provide education and testing for families and individuals affected by a chemical spill that occurred at the Union Pacific railyard in Wichita. The primary contaminant, trichloroethylene (TCE), is a carcinogenic substance that may cause cancer in the kidneys, kidney pelvis, testicles, and liver. The collaboration aims to provide no-cost lab screening tests and educational information to those impacted by the spill. The tests include a simple blood draw and urine sample, and individuals will be notified of their results within 7-14 days. Read on to learn more about the initiative and its impact on the community.

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