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Chappell Roan Mural Exclusive + KC Stories Inside
Published 5 months ago • 8 min read
Hey Kansas City Enthusiasts,
From major leadership changes at the county level to businesses gearing up for the World Cup and even history-making football overseas, Kansas City has no shortage of big headlines this week. But one of the stories we’re most excited to share is closer to home—and on a wall you may have already passed by.
Muralist Jared Horman, in collaboration with Christine Riutzel, has painted Missouri-born pop icon Chappell Roan at 39th and Broadway. Our first column, Mollified in KC by Mollie Talbot, takes you behind the lift and into the story of art, courage, and queer joy in Kansas City.
In this edition, we’re also highlighting:
▪️ Kay Barnes stepping in as temporary Jackson County Executive ▪️ City action to reclaim the long-abandoned Paul Robeson Middle School ▪️ KC small businesses preparing for the 2026 World Cup boom ▪️ …and plenty more shaping Kansas City this week!
Scroll down for all the updates ⬇️
PS. Don’t miss the full feature on the Chappell Roan mural—it’s a KC exclusive you won’t find anywhere else.
👩⚖️ KAY BARNES APPOINTED TEMPORARY COUNTY EXEC Former KC Mayor Kay Barnes becomes temporary Jackson County Executive after Frank White Jr.'s recall. Serving up to 30 days while legislature decides on permanent replacement through end of 2026. Full-term election in November 2026.
🏫 CITY TAKES CONTROL OF ABANDONED ROBESON SCHOOL Mayor Lucas moving to seize former Paul Robeson Middle School after 20+ years of decay. Using vacant property receivership to address blight at East 82nd & Holmes Road. Neighbors hope for community center, sports fields, or youth facilities.
⚽ SMALL BUSINESSES GEAR UP FOR WORLD CUP KC Game Plan helps local businesses prep for 650,000 World Cupvisitors. From El Café Cubano to KC Style Haus, entrepreneurs preparing for once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in 2026. Focus on both immediate tourism and long-term brand impact.
🏈 THE DUB KC: FIRST WOMEN'S SPORTS BAR OPENS Downtown's first women's sports bar opening soon! The Dub KC features "locker room" design with professional lockers & memorabilia, aims to level the playing field for women's sports. All-inclusive space to showcase KC during 2026 World Cup.
🏟️ KANSAS FOOTBALL MAKES WEMBLEY HISTORY Kansas Jayhawks vs Arizona State at Wembley Stadium on Sept 19, 2026 - the first-ever college football game at the iconic London venue. Part of Union Jack Classic, marking third Big 12 game in Europe in two seasons (after Iowa State/K-State in Dublin, TCU/UNC also coming in 2026). General public tickets on sale Oct 9 - KU presale required for official fan sections.
🌮 FREE TACOS FOR NATIONAL TACO DAY Visit Kansas City Kansas celebrates National Taco Day (Oct 7) with 150 free tacos! First 75 visitors at Frutopia KCK (10 a.m.) and Tapatio Mexican Grill (11 a.m.) get free chicken or beef taco. Double points on KCK Taco Trailall day! Trail features 60+ taquerias across KCK.
What you might have missed last week
Wichita developer buys key downtown property in potential Royals stadium site! Crain Co. secured the former Blue Cross building near Crown Center.
St. Louis micro-creamery opens first KC location! Now serving artisanal ice cream at Shops of Prairie Village (6966 Mission Road)
18th & Vine streetcar extension back in discussion! Councilwoman Melissa Patterson Hazley & Mayor Lucas exploring historic jazz district connection.
🏢 DEVELOPMENT SCENE
Overland Park Celebrates Grand Opening of Bietigheim-Bissingen Park
Bietigheim-Bissingen Park, or “Bi-Bi Park,” officially opened on September 29, 2025, at 159th and Quivira in Overland Park. The new park celebrates the city’s sister-city relationship with Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany, which began in 1999, and was shaped through years of community input and cultural collaboration.
It features a playground, multi-use trails, picnic areas, a water feature, open lawn space, and a limestone sculpture created by German artist Dieter Kränzlein. The grand opening included live performances, refreshments, and a dedication ceremony, marking not just the completion of a new public space but also a lasting symbol of international friendship and cultural exchange.
Chappell Roan Meets the Midwest Prince: Art, Activism, and KC Pride
When I moved back to KC from Denver, I felt like I’d stepped 70 years backwards. Then one afternoon, 30 feet in the air on a lift with muralist Jared Horman, my perspective began to shift.
As he painted pop icon Chappell Roan at 39th and Broadway, just steps from where she saw her first drag show, Jared shared the story of coming out to his fraternity in Springfield, Missouri. Their acceptance changed everything for him.
What followed was more than a mural. It became a story of art, courage, and queer joy in the heart of Kansas City.
Patrick Mahomes Becomes Fastest QB to Reach 250 Career Touchdowns
Patrick Mahomes added another milestone to his already historic career during the Kansas City Chiefs’ Week 4 win over the Baltimore Ravens, becoming the fastest quarterback in NFL history to reach 250 passing touchdowns. He hit the mark with an 8-yard pass to Isiah Pacheco, surpassing Aaron Rodgers’ previous record by achieving it in just 116 games. Adidas celebrated the accomplishment with a special short film, while Chiefs head coach Andy Reid praised Mahomes not only for his record-breaking career but also for his leadership on and off the field. This achievement adds to Mahomes’ long list of accolades, including multiple MVPs, Super Bowl victories, and other league records.
Kansas City has no shortage of opinions. In this video I share 10 hot takes on what it’s really like to live here, from rising bills and data centers to culture, history, and big changes shaping KC today.
Historic Elegance in Scarritt Point with Modern Comfort
Welcome to 3215 Windsor Ave — a 1910 American Foursquare masterpiece in Kansas City’s historic Scarritt Point neighborhood. Listed at $805,000, this 5-bedroom, 6-bathroom home spans 4,944 square feet on a tree-lined street, blending timeless architecture with modern updates. Inside, you’ll find rich hardwoods, custom millwork, French doors, and oversized windows that fill the home with light. The grand dining parlor, stately library, and expansive kitchen with granite countertops and a large island create elegant yet functional spaces, while a main-level guest suite adds convenience. Upstairs, the primary suite features a lavish bath and walk-in closet with laundry hookups, with additional bedrooms and a formal corridor connecting private quarters. The third level offers a recreation space with a full bath and panoramic views, perfect for flexible living.
Outside, this property shines with a fully fenced backyard, a huge front sitting porch, and a detached two-car garage. Recent updates include all new mechanicals and zoned HVAC for comfort and efficiency. Just steps from the Kansas City Museum and minutes from Downtown’s dining and entertainment, this Scarritt Point residence offers a rare opportunity to enjoy historic charm, modern livability, and a neighborhood known for its timeless character and strong community feel.
Listing Provided by: Deana Bellamaganya with Core Realty KC LLC
At Loans in KC, we understand that every financial situation is unique. That’s why we offer personalized loan solutions designed to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with fast and reliable service. Mortgage rates change constantly, much like the weather, and they vary depending on your unique circumstances. Just like finding the right tool for a job, getting the right mortgage rate is crucial. Let us help you discover the perfect match with a FREE customized quote today! You’re not just another number to us; you’re part of the family.
Experience Kansas City’s vibrant art scene with gallery openings, local vendors, food, and live entertainment throughout the Crossroads and West Bottoms. Happening this Friday from 5–9 PM.
Celebrate 46 years of hometown pride at Linden Square! Starting Friday at 5 PM, enjoy carnival rides, live music, food, vendors, and the Gladfest Parade.
Shop and explore the historic West Bottoms during this spooky-themed weekend, October 3–5, with vintage treasures, fall fun, and Halloween vibes.
We’re building the ultimate library of local guides to help you experience Kansas City like never before. From art walks to foodie finds, keep an eye out—new guides are dropping all year long. Download now, save for later, and share with a friend!
Got an idea for a guide you'd love to see? We’d love to hear it. Reach out anytime at media@thekcscene.com.
Your Guide to Living, Working & Thriving in Kansas City
KC Scene is your go-to, unbiased resource for everything Kansas City—where to live, what to do, and how to make this city feel like home. Whether you're moving in or moving up, we’ve got you covered with real estate, development, lifestyle, and local gems.
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