Feud at Plaza church, Kansas governor race & the Western Auto sign: Top KC stories
From a brewing conflict at a Country Club Plaza church to a competitive Democratic primary for Kansas governor, here’s a roundup of what’s making news in the Kansas City region. These are the top stories from The Kansas City Star.
Here are key takeaways:
Unity Temple on the Plaza
The Rev. Duke Tufty, who led Unity Temple on the Plaza for 35 years before retiring in December 2024, says he has been banned from officiating funerals at the church by his successor, the Rev. Anne Tabor. Tufty says families of longtime congregants specifically requested him, but the church board has set firm boundaries preventing him from performing services.
Kansas governor race
Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly is backing Sen. Ethan Corson of Fairway to succeed her, but the Democratic primary for Kansas governor remains highly competitive two months out from the August vote. Corson faces stiff competition from Sen. Cindy Holscher of Overland Park and Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog, who entered the race on the filing deadline over Kelly’s objection.
Deal to relight Western Auto sign
Kansas City has struck a deal to relight the historic Western Auto sign, which has been dark since July 2025. The city will provide $100,000 from its Illuminate KC initiative to repair lightbulbs and neon tubes, while the Western Auto Lofts homeowners’ association has committed to fund maintenance and keep the sign lit for 10 years.
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Morton Ampitheater in Riverside
The Morton Amphitheater in Riverside held its first-ever show Wednesday with pop singer Kesha performing. The venue impressed with strong staff organization, seamless security and good sightlines from every seating area in the bowl.
Lee’s Summit Costco opening
The new Lee’s Summit Costco store is expected to open in August near the Missouri 291-U.S. 50 interchange, becoming the Kansas City metro’s sixth Costco location. The retailer also plans to convert its midtown Kansas City location at 241 Linwood Blvd. into a business center, removing features like the pharmacy, food court, tire center, optical center and bakery.
The summary points above were compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists. The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.
