Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Friday, November 22, 2024.

We're starting with breaking news from the past few days. A late Tuesday hit and run crash on 71 Highway in Kansas City left one person dead, and police are still investigating the incident[2]. Additionally, a man in a wheelchair was hit and killed Wednesday night trying to cross U.S. 49 Highway. Our thoughts are with the families affected by these tragedies.

In local business news, parts supplier Martinrea is laying off approximately 140 employees at its Riverside facility, which is a significant blow to the local job market[1]. On a more positive note, the Kansas City area is seeing some new developments, including a data center coming to the former KC Star plant in the Crossroads district. Business owners in the area are reacting positively to this news, citing potential economic benefits[1].

In real estate, Overland Park is making efforts to remove discriminatory language from property deeds, a move that could have significant impacts on the local housing market[1]. Meanwhile, the KCPS Board of Directors has approved a $424 million bond proposal to upgrade facilities, which could lead to new construction projects in the area[1].

From city hall, we have updates on decisions that affect daily life. The Jackson County legislators have overridden County Executive Frank White's veto on a new gun ordinance, which bans anyone 18-21 from owning handguns and semi-automatic rifles[5]. This move has sparked controversy, with the Missouri Attorney General planning to sue Jackson County over the ordinance.

Weather-wise, we're expecting a hard freeze tonight, with temperatures dropping into the mid-20s and wind chills making it feel even colder[4]. This could impact outdoor activities and events, so be sure to bundle up if you're planning on venturing out.

In new business activity, 19 Kansas City-area Minit Marts have been sold and will be rebranded to Phillips 66[2]. Additionally, the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Holiday Train will be making three stops in Missouri to support local food banks[3].

Looking ahead to community events, the CPKC Holiday Train will be stopping in Kansas City, and the Cirque du Soleil's "Twas the Night Before..." show is bringing holiday spirit to the city[2]. The Kansas City Zoo has also announced a new $30 million giraffe complex set to open in May 2026[2].

In local school achievements, the Park Hill School District is in the final phase of redistricting, which has some parents concerned about the impacts on their children's education[2]. On a more positive note, a Liberty teacher is receiving community support as she battles cancer[1].

In a feel-good community story, an Independence woman celebrated her 101st birthday with a proclamation from the mayor, and we're wishing her a happy belated birthday[1].

Finally, in today's crime report, we have a few significant incidents to report. A man was injured in a Tuesday night shooting in Independence, and police are still investigating the incident[1]. Additionally, a juvenile was struck and hospitalized Tuesday morning in Grain Valley[1].

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.