Happy Friday!
You made it to the end of the week, and we’ve got your quick catch-up covered. Here are the top 5 stories from The Voice that had people talking. Whether you’re winding down or just getting started, take a few minutes to see what mattered most around the community this week.
Let’s get into it 👇
In Today’s Newsletter:
- Kansas City icon Willie Young celebrates 99th birthday
- Shane Carter is leading the transformation of The Kansas African American Museum
- Trump posts controversial AI-generated video of Democratic leaders
- St. Paul AME shares its history with legendary gospel album
- ICE crackdowns are targeting Black immigrants too
💡 Black Trivia Question: In August 1973, which Motown icon was in a 4-day coma following a serious car accident in North Carolina?
A. Berry Gordy B. Diana Ross C. Smokey Robinson D. Stevie Wonder *See answer after “In Other News”*
🤩 Name In Lights: Many thanks to Elaine Garcia-Johnson, one of our donors! Financial support from our readers underwrites the work we do and allows us to keep our news free. Will you support us?
CELEBRATION
1. A Community Icon: Willie Young Celebrates 99 Years
He gave $0.25 haircuts, opened his yard for kids to play, and mentored generations. Now, Kansas City celebrates Willie Young at 99. Read more and see photos from the party.
A MESSAGE FROM THE KANSAS BLACK LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
Join the Kansas Black Leadership Council for a powerful gathering of minds on the final stop of the 2025 Brunch Series. With a keynote from Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, we’ll celebrate our roots and sharpen our vision. From changemakers to future leaders — this is where we build. Tickets are limited — reserve your seat today.
WICHITA NEWS
2. With Shane Carter, TKAAM Prepares for Its Next Transformation
As renovation of the new museum home begins, Shane Carter is bringing a bold vision for exhibits, outreach, and growth. Learn more about the new esecutive director and future of the The Kansas African American Museum.
A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY OF WICHITA DISTRICT 1
Join us for a community forum featuring candidates running for Wichita’s District 1 City Council seat and the Wichita Public Schools Board of Education. Come hear directly from the candidates about the issues that matter.
NATIONAL NEWS
3. Fake Video of Dem Leaders Posted by Trump Draws Fire Amid Shutdown Fight
A vulgar AI-generated video of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, posted Monday by President Donald Trump, is drawing sharp condemnation from Democratic leaders.
A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMUNITY VOICE
Save the date! Join The Voice for a special event celebrating life, learning, and wellness for adults 55 and better! Enjoy a balanced day of education, fun, and self-care — all in one welcoming space.
BLACK HISTORY
Voices of the Past: St. Paul AME Choir Members Reflect on Historic Recording
St. Paul AME Church is 150 years old and is the oldest Black church in Wichita. Among the congregation are fond memories of the gospel album, “Lord I’ll Be Willing.” Recorded in 1968 by the St. Paul Gospel Chorus, the album is a rare artifact from that era.
A MESSAGE FROM THE COMMUNITY VOICE
We have a brand new Facebook page designated for Kansas City metro content! Be the first to know about new stories coming out of KC and surrounding areas when you follow our new page. Check it out today.
NATIONAL NEWS
5. Trump Immigration Policies are Also Affecting Black Communities, Officials and Activists Say
Rep. Maxwell Frost (FL) is sending out warnings that Trump’s immigration crackdown is targeting Black immigrants as well, especially Haitian and Afro-Latino communities.
Trump picks a convenient time to change his tune about the Project 2025 agenda. Trump referenced Project 2025 Thursday despite distancing himself from it during his 2024 campaign. (MSNBC)
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentencing live updates. Hip-hop mogul faces up to 20 years in prison for conviction on prostitution charges (Yahoo)
The WNBA Finals begin on Friday. Here are some things to know. The Las Vegas Aces will face the Phoenix Mercury. (AP News)
💡Trivia Answer: D. Stevie Wonder. On August 6, 1973, Stevie Wonder was a passenger in a car that collided with a flatbed truck on Interstate 85 near Salisbury, NC. A log from the truck reportedly flew through the car’s windshield, striking Wonder in the head. After regaining consciousness, he was left with a permanent scar on his forehead and temporarily lost his sense of smell.
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