Lee's Summit Town Hall

Ep. 889: Downtown Days 2026 — A new stage, Grammy-nominated headliner & what's new this weekend

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:42:48 -0500

Downtown Days is back, and this year the festival looks different in the best way possible. Events manager Julie Cook and assistant director Jenny Gale from Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street join Nick to preview the move to the new Green Street covered lawn, a Grammy-nominated Saturday headliner in Making Movies, and everything you need to know before heading downtown this Friday through Sunday. All the music is free — you just have to show up.

Ep. 888: TPT has spent 10 years on the student side. Its new nonprofit starts when the school day ends

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:22:37 -0500

A Lee's Summit tutoring organization that has spent a decade closing academic skill gaps for K–12 students is now targeting the other side of the equation — the homes those students return to every night.

Host Nick Parker sits down with Tomorrow's Promise Today founder Mike Graham and new Executive Director Marion Marshall to introduce their newly launched nonprofit, Today Promises Tomorrow, and the simple but powerful belief driving it: invest in the parent, change the child's future.

Ep. 887: Wings 4 Water turns 10 — it's an LS institution!

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:07:33 -0500

Wings 4 Water is turning 10 — and host Nick Parker is marking the milestone with the man who started it all.

Founder Chris Turney joins the Lee's Summit Town Hall Podcast to look back on a decade of clean water fundraising, community building and an absolutely unreasonable number of chicken wings. From a 150-person gathering at a neighborhood community center to an estimated 5,000–6,000 attendees and three tons of wings at Paragon Star, the event's growth has surprised even Turney himself. He and Nick cover the origin story, what makes the sponsorship experience so addictive, how celebrity guest judges from the local sports world fit into the day, and why Wings 4 Water has raised more than $200,000 for clean water nonprofits over its first nine years.

If you're a local business owner thinking about sponsoring, early bird pricing runs through April 15. The 10th annual Wings 4 Water takes place September 10 at Paragon Star. Learn more and sign up at wings4water.org.

Ep. 886: LSR7 school board candidates, Prop C preview

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:05:57 -0500

It's election week in Lee's Summit, and host Nick Parker and co-host Jason Norbury are back to finish their April 7 municipal election preview — this time focused on the six candidates vying for seats on the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education.

Nick and Jason break down what the candidate questionnaire responses reveal, why the relative absence of divisive issues in this race might actually be good news for the community, and where voters can still find meaningful differences between candidates. They also discuss Proposition C — the teacher salary ballot measure — and zoom out to the bigger picture: what a potential state income tax repeal in Jefferson City could mean for LSR7, and why the advocacy skills of whoever wins a board seat may matter more than anything else on their platform.

Missed part one on the mayoral and city council races? Find it at Link2LeesSummit.com or on the Lee's Summit Town Hall Podcast feed. Read all candidate Q&As at Link2LeesSummit.com.

Ep. 885: Justin Bliefnik on bringing back the Do Drop Inn — and why downtown needed it

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:02:36 -0500

Justin Bliefnik, owner of Stuey McBrew's, joins Nick Parker to talk about the Do Drop Inn — his tribute to the legendary and beloved downtown bar that served Lee's Summit for 58 years before closing. Justin shares how the project evolved from a Stuey's overflow space into something he'd wanted for a long time: a low-key, vintage-feeling neighborhood bar with cold beer and no pretense. He talks about getting former Do Drop Inn owner Sue Pfeiffer's blessing, his approach to the build-out, the intentionally mismatched bathrooms, and the early response from customers. They also dig into the philosophy behind Stuey's longevity, the accidental genius of the soup style nachos, and what 16 years of running a downtown bar teaches you about opening the next one. The Do Drop Inn is open Fridays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. to close, right next door to Stuey McBrew's in downtown Lee's Summit.

Ep. 884: A few final questions for the candidates for Mayor & Council

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:19:09 -0500

Jason Norbury joins Nick Parker for a bonus episode previewing the April 7 Lee's Summit municipal election. They break down all five contested city council races (Districts 2, 3, and 4) and the mayor's race, walking through the topics that have surfaced across nearly every candidate's questionnaire — infrastructure, public safety, housing, growth, and economic development. The bigger conversation is about what questions voters should be pushing candidates on beyond the campaign talking points, and what kind of council Lee's Summit actually needs as it heads into another decade of significant growth. Candidate Q&As for every race are available at link2leessummit.com. Election Day is Tuesday, April 7.

Ep. 883: Should Lee's Summit vote yes on Prop C? The superintendent makes his case

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:58:02 -0500

Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Chad Hertzog visit the studio to explain Proposition C ahead of the April 7 municipal election. They walk through what the Prop C rollback waiver means for LSR7's budget, how a $300,000 home would be affected, and why teacher salaries have slipped in the metro rankings. They also detail the district's grow-your-own teacher pipeline and make the case for why the waiver matters for long-term staff retention.

Ep. 882: Pro Deo Youth Center bets on fun with Twisted Trivia fundraiser

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:57:45 -0600

Pro Deo Youth Center Executive Director Elaine Metcalf and board member Kent Ruehter join host Nick Parker to talk about Twisted Trivia, Pro Deo's annual fundraising night, coming Saturday, March 21, to the Green Street Market in downtown Lee's Summit. The trio covers what makes this year's event different — a new venue, a Saturday time slot, and a jukebox auction — while digging into what Pro Deo actually does for local teens: providing safe spaces, caring adults, and experiences many young people have never had. Plus: why the team with the most right answers doesn't always win.

Ep. 881: The Mayoral Forum — Lopez & Rader face questions on housing, trash, jobs & the World Cup

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:57:53 -0600

In this special bonus episode, we hosted a live mayoral candidate forum at BridgeSpace with more than 100 Lee's Summit residents in attendance. Councilmembers Beto Lopez and Cynda Rader answered tough questions on the issues that matter most to your neighborhood. In this episode:

The apartment vs. attainable housing debate: are we building the right things?
The single-hauler trash question heading to voters in November
What Lee's Summit should do with its World Cup moment
Commercial development, job creation, and the city's long-term growth plan
Leadership styles, city communication, and holding the city manager accountable

Whether you've followed this race closely or you're just tuning in, this forum gives you everything you need to make an informed vote.

Ep. 880: Bob Kendrick — Baseball, Civil Rights & the Fight to Be Remembered

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:08:04 -0600

In the final days of Black History Month, host Nick Parker had an opportunity to sit down in The Vault with Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum for a wide-ranging conversation about why the story of the Negro Leagues isn't just a baseball story, but the story of America. The conversation covers the economic legacy of segregation, why Jackie Robinson's Signing my have sparked the Civil Rights Movement, the museum's ambitions plans for a new 30,000+ SF home at historic 18th & Vine, and how MLB The Show video game is bringing these legends back to life for a new generation. A must-listen for baseball fans, history buffs and anyone who loves stories of the human spirit and the American dream.

Ep. 879: Black History, Beer Culture, and Building Community Through Storytelling

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 13:19:59 -0600

Host Nick Parker sits down with Nigel Woodberry to explore the origins and mission of their podcast Beers with Nigel. In this Black History Month conversation, they discuss how beer became a gateway to telling untold stories of Black-owned breweries, diversity in the beer industry, and building unexpected communities. From discovering Fresh Fest (now Barrel & Flow) to highlighting breweries like Vine Street and FunkyTown, Nigel shares how less than 1% of the brewing industry is Black-owned and why representation matters. They reflect on six years of podcast storytelling, the power of intentional conversation, and how sharing people's histories creates real relationships. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or simply love a good story, this episode celebrates the intersection of craft beer culture, diversity, and authentic human connection.

Ep. 878: Take Time to Be Kind Week in Lee's Summit

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:41:12 -0600

Vanessa Hickman, Chair of Lee's Summit's Human Relations Commission, returns to discuss Take Time to Be Kind Week (February 9-14). Discover how this annual initiative brings the community together through intentional acts of kindness—from pop-up gratitude stations to kindness bingo. Learn about simple ways to participate, share your stories using #LSKindness, and help build stronger relationships throughout Lee's Summit. Free materials available at City Hall all week. Visit LSKindness.net for details.

Building a Brand with a Twist: Team Cocktail's Journey

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:16:36 -0600

What does it take to transform a creative vision into a thriving retail destination that an entire community rallies behind? In this episode, host Nick Parker sits down with Lindsey Fliehs, the creative force behind Team Cocktail, one of downtown Lee's Summit's most beloved shops. Lindsey pulls back the curtain on her unique entrepreneurial journey, revealing the real challenges and unexpected wins of building a business that's become more than just a store — it's a community hub.

Santa's heartwarming visit: Spreading joy & cheer

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:51:00 -0600

Join us for a festive episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast as Santa Claus himself shares heartwarming stories and holiday cheer. From reading letters from children to discussing the true spirit of Christmas, this episode is filled with joy, laughter, and a touch of magic. Don't miss Santa's special message on the importance of giving and community spirit.

Food 4 Food Drive: Fighting food Insecurity with team-ups and tacos

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:01:25 -0600

Bridge Space Community Manager Colin Brich and KC Communications' John Beaudoin join host Nick Parker to discuss the upcoming "Food 4 Food" drive supporting Lee's Summit Social Services. Learn how you can help your neighbors this holiday season while enjoying free tacos from El Plato on December 9th. In this episode, we explore the growing need at the local food pantry, hear stories of community resilience, and discover why Lee's Summit residents consistently show up when their neighbors need help. Plus, find out how Bridge Space continues its mission of supporting local nonprofits through community events and affordable meeting spaces.

Pretty Funny's Holiday Comedy Show! Megan Mercer & Pearl McDonald Preview 'The Prettiest Funniest Time of the Year'

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:03:26 -0600

Megan Mercer and Pearl McDonald from Pretty Funny preview their annual holiday comedy show "It's the Prettiest Funniest Time of the Year" (Dec 13 at Unity Village). The duo shares stories from 17 years performing with their all-women troupe, discusses their unique blend of improv and scripted sketches, and reveals how real holiday moments become comedy gold. Featuring talk of reindeer drama, spoofed Christmas carols, and why their show has become a Lee's Summit tradition.

Veterans Day Special: Chamber President Matt Baird on Service & Community

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:20:13 -0600

Host Nick Parker sits down with Matt Baird, President of the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce and military veteran, for a meaningful Veterans Day conversation about service, sacrifice, and community connection.

Matt opens up about his military journey — from being a history-loving kid who dreamed of service to his time in ROTC and active duty. He candidly discusses both the rewards and challenges of military service, including the leadership issues that ultimately led to his decision to leave active duty.

The conversation explores how America's treatment of veterans has evolved across generations, from the Greatest Generation's reluctance to share their stories to Vietnam veterans' difficult homecomings to today's more supportive environment.

Matt shares the impactful work of the Chamber's Military Affairs Committee, including:

The downtown veterans banner program that sells out every year
Welcome packets for new Whiteman Air Force Base airmen filled with Lee's Summit goodies
Annual Veterans Day luncheon honoring local veterans
Wreaths Across America and support for the Veterans Day Parade
Partnership with local JROTC programs and Civil Air Patrol

You'll be surprised to learn just how many Whiteman Air Force Base personnel — including one-third of B-2 pilots — choose to make Lee's Summit home, largely because of our excellent school district.

A thoughtful episode about honoring service while building authentic community connections.

Feed Lee's Summit 2025: Fighting Food Insecurity in Our Community

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:19:29 -0500

The need has never been greater. In this episode, host Nick Parker talks with David Fritz and Ben Martin from the Lee's Summit Rotary Clubs and Monica Humbard about the growing food crisis in our community and an annual event designed to support local nonprofit efforts to ease the burden of those in need. Learn about nearly 4,500 students on free or reduced lunch in Lee's Summit, about local food pantries serving record numbers and how you can help at the November 14th Feed Lee's Summit event at Unity Village's Goppert Center.

The fundraiser supports five vital organizations with a goal of raising $250,000. Tickets are going fast at feedls.org.

Local entrepreneur with an audience of 20M selling gas & snacks? Meet Babir Sultan

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 11:29:05 -0500

In this episode, Nick Parker sits down with Babir Sultan, owner of FavTrip convenience stores, to explore an unconventional approach to running a gas station business. Babir shares his journey from being a doorman in Brooklyn to becoming a tech-savvy entrepreneur who's revolutionizing the convenience store industry through social media, AI, and community engagement.

Discover how FavTrip reaches nearly 20 million people monthly through organic social media content, why they deliberately chose not to sell liquor or lottery tickets, and how they're using AI to combat shoplifting. Babir discusses empowering employees through live streaming, the importance of knowing your strengths, and why staying local is more valuable than nationwide expansion.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a Lee's Summit resident, or someone interested in innovative business strategies, this conversation offers insights on blending technology with traditional retail, building authentic community connections, and pursuing your passion projects alongside business growth.

Libraries Aren't Just Books Anymore! Gaming, Coffee & Community Centers in Lee's Summit

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 13:17:28 -0500

Join host Nick Parker as he sits down with Seth Moses, branch manager at Mid-Continent Public Library's Colburn Road branch, to explore how modern libraries have transformed into vibrant community hubs that go far beyond books. Discover the surprising services available like passport acceptance and notary services, learn about Book Speed Dating events for finding your next great read, and hear how libraries now host gaming nights, D&D sessions, and even serve as co-working spaces with coffee shops. Seth shares insights on everything from the growth of digital collections through the Libby app to the Square One Small Business Center helping local entrepreneurs, plus why half of local households already have library cards and what you're missing if you don't. Perfect timing for National Read a New Book Month and National Sign Up for Your Library Card Month — you'll be amazed at what these modern community centers offer beyond the traditional quiet study spaces of the past.

Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Crisis Response & Prevention

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:00:24 -0500

For National Suicide Prevention Month, host Nick Parker talks with Kirstie Millar and Heather Mason from ReDiscover Mental Health about how Lee's Summit is pioneering mental health crisis response through their co-responder program that embeds trained professionals with police officers. The conversation covers the 988 Crisis Lifeline, why talking about suicide creates safety rather than danger, and practical advice for parents on having difficult mental health conversations with their children. Learn about ReDiscover's "No Wrong Door" approach to accessible mental health care and upcoming community events including 988 Awareness Day (September 8th) and their annual Suicide Prevention Walk (September 27th).

This episode provides crucial information about local resources while addressing the reality that mental health support requires both professional intervention and community-wide cultural change.

Resources mentioned:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)
ReDiscover Mental Health: RediscoverMH.org | 816-966-0900
Mobile crisis response available 24/7 in Lee's Summit area

17 Years of Laughs: All-female improv group prepares for largest show yet at Unity Village

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 21:30:28 -0500

Host Nick Parker welcomes Megan Mercer and Pearl Rovaris MacDonald from the all-female improv comedy troupe, Pretty.Funny., for a hilarious conversation about their 17+ year journey in Kansas City comedy.

Pearl shares how a double-dog dare in the late 80s launched her comedy career, while Megan discusses joining the troupe fresh out of college in 1999. Together, they reveal the secrets behind their popular "real women" comedy shows that celebrate everyday life through clean, observational humor.

Highlights include stories of performing while pregnant, creating song parodies so convincing that kids think they're the originals, and their signature mime routines. The duo explains how they transformed from Comedy Sports players into Pretty.Funny., finding new venues across Kansas City and building a loyal following who travel across the country to see their shows.

Learn about their creative process, comedy heroes like Carol Burnett and Lily Tomlin, and get details about their upcoming Vacation Show on August 23rd at Unity Village's Goppert Center. This episode showcases the vibrant local arts scene and proves that improv comedy is alive and well in the Kansas City area.

Celebrating 50+ years of delivering meals and relationships

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:22:05 -0500

In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall, hosts Nick Parker and Vanessa Hickman sit down with Meals on Wheels of Lee's Summit representatives Jenni Edwards (Operations Director), Terry Kincheloe (Board Member), and Susan Newsome (Board Member) to explore the 50-year journey of this vital community organization. From its humble beginnings in 1974 serving 15 clients to today's operation delivering meals to 140+ residents across Lee's Summit, Lake Lotawana, and Greenwood, the conversation reveals how this locally-funded nonprofit has become much more than a meal delivery service. Listeners will discover the life-saving wellness checks, the unique 50-year partnership with Lee's Summit Medical Center that allows for customized dietary accommodations, and the incredible volunteer network that keeps the organization running. The discussion also covers how the organization has adapted during challenging weather, supports families caring for aging parents, and continues to seek community awareness and involvement as Lee's Summit grows toward 110,000 residents.

It's all day Jazz! Collin Brich on this month's Lee's Summit Jazz Festival

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 15:39:50 -0500

In this episode, Nick Parker and Collin Brich discuss the upcoming Lee Summit Jazz Fest, highlighting the festival's details, food offerings, musical lineup, and community impact. They emphasize the importance of local businesses, volunteer opportunities, and the overall excitement surrounding the event.

Father's Day without a dad: Local teen opens up prior to holiday some families don't get

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 13:37:57 -0500

In this heartfelt episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes special guest Nikeese Hannibal for an honest and reflective conversation centered around Father's Day. This episode delves into the unique experiences of growing up without a dad. Nick and Nikeese share personal stories, exploring the emotional complexities of loss, absence, and the different forms of mentorship that have shaped their lives.

Listeners will hear about Nick's journey after losing his father to cancer at a young age and Nikeese's experience growing up without knowing his father due to legal circumstances. The episode touches on how relationships with uncles, grandfathers, and mentors can influence ones growth, and the nuanced feelings surrounding Fathers Day. The duo candidly discuss the challenges of defining fatherhood, the impact of stereotypes, and how these experiences shape their identities.

Tune in for an episode filled with genuine stories, introspective dialogue, and valuable insights on appreciating the figures who step in to guide us, even when they aren't our biological fathers.

Workshopping a new song? Julie Cook and Jenny Gale drop by the vault to sing a song about next week's festival

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:19:53 -0500

Summer is officially getting ready to start. Downtown Lee's Summit's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale drop by the vault to sing us a song about next week's Downtown Days festival - my, and yours, kickoff to summer. In addition to some improv singing, we're filling you in on all the details of this popular annual festival drawing more than 80,000 people into our historic shopping and entertainment district.

Market Opens Soon, Mayor's Race Begins & Honoring Lost Leaders

Fri, 23 May 2025 10:37:49 -0500

Host Nick Parker and Jason Norbury discuss the exciting progress on Lee's Summit's new downtown farmers market and performance space on Green Street, set to open in August after years of planning. The duo also covers the early announcement of two mayoral candidates — business owner and City Council member Cynda Rader and current Mayor Pro Tem Beto Lopez — who are already positioning themselves for next year's election. The episode takes a somber turn as they honor four recently deceased community members who made significant contributions to Lee's Summit: Andy Lock (Third Street Social owner), Jody Fristo (arts advocate), Peggy Doughty (Blue Heron owner), and Brad Rackers (theater director and teacher). The show closes with audio from a previous interview with Rackers about his "F Word" speech on failure and learning.

Phil & Lori Volen discuss the literal building blocks of their business — Phillori Phigures

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:44:41 -0500

Ever wondered what happens when passion meets plastic bricks? In Episode 862 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Phil and Lori Volen, the creative minds behind Phillori Phigures (see what they did there?).

These downtown Lee's Summit entrepreneurs transformed their pandemic hobby into a thriving business crafting custom, Lego-compatible figures that are captivating collectors everywhere.

But this isn't just another business origin story. Nick dives into the truly important questions that divide the brick-building community: Are you Team Builder, meticulously crafting masterpieces that remain pristinely displayed? Or Team Player, dumping out containers and letting imagination run wild? The Volens share their own brick-building philosophies and how these different approaches influence their unique creations.

Whether you're a dedicated collector or someone who steps on plastic bricks in the middle of the night, this episode explores how a simple toy became a creative business venture creating community, one custom mini-figure at a time.

Final Countdown: A last look at the school bond question and four candidates for LSR7 BOE

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:19:46 -0500

In this election-focused episode, host Nick Parker and guest Jason Norbury provide a breakdown of the four candidates competing for just two available seats on the Lee's Summit Board of Education. They explore the priorities and perspectives of Michelle Dawson, Jennifer Foley (current board president and lone incumbent), Nikki Nickens, and Leon Weatherby.

The discussion delves into critical issues facing the district, including board-superintendent relations, teacher compensation, public communication strategies, and fiscal management. Each candidate's unique approach to these challenges offers listeners valuable insights into how they might shape the board's future direction.

Whether you're a decided voter or still weighing your options, this episode delivers the information you need to make an informed choice at the polls. Plus, Nick and Jason share how you can access candidate questionnaires at Link2LeesSummit.com and connect directly with candidates to have your specific questions answered.

Don't miss this vital conversation about the future of education in Lee's Summit!

Breaking down the $225M bond question: What it means for LSR7 Schools

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 11:46:57 -0500

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Lee's Summit R-7 School District Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Associate Superintendent Dr. Steve Shelton to discuss the upcoming $225 million no-tax-increase bond issue on the ballot. They delve into the specifics of the bond, which aims to address capital needs such as building renovations, safety improvements, and infrastructure upgrades within the district. The guests also highlight the importance of community involvement and planning for future growth. Tune in to learn about the critical projects included in the bond and how they will benefit the district.

Episode 859: Prioritizing Mental Health with ReDiscover’s Demetrios Walker

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:01:00 -0500

In this episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Demetrios Walker, Community and Engagement Business Partner at ReDiscover, a nonprofit mental health center dedicated to supporting individuals affected by mental illness and substance use disorders.

Demetrios shares insights into ReDiscover’s commitment to providing accessible and culturally competent mental health services for both youth and adults. He highlights the importance of social and emotional wellness, the role of open dialogue in bridging generational gaps, and the need for action-oriented strategies to turn community conversations into meaningful change.

Nick and Demetrios also discuss ReDiscover’s partnerships with organizations like Prodeo, their mission to ensure community engagement, and the availability of essential mental health resources across the metropolitan area—including their main location at 1555 Northeast Rice Road in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.

Tune in for an important conversation about breaking down barriers, fostering safe spaces, and taking action to support mental health in our community.

Get Ready to 'Shamrock the Block!'

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 10:45:32 -0500

In this episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale to chat about the second annual Shamrock the Block event! Happening afrom 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, this St. Patrick’s celebration is bigger and better than ever, packed with inflatables, food trucks, live entertainment, and even a bubble party!

Julie and Jenny share their excitement about the event’s growth and all the fun in store for families. Whether you're there for the festivities, the food, or just a little luck of the Irish, this is one event you won’t want to miss! Tune in and get the inside scoop on all things Shamrock the Block!

Breaking down the BOE election and the role of leadership

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:52:58 -0600

After a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, Jason Norbury is back on the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast! Host Nick Parker welcomes his longtime co-host to dive into the latest in local elections — the four candidates vying for two school board seats, and the critical role of the board in shaping district policies.

But that’s not all — there's big news at Link 2 Lee’s Summit! Nick and Jason announce the addition of high school sports coverage to the platform, which is celebrating its 9th anniversary, with veteran sports journalist Fred Liggett joining the team.

Join us as we reconnect with the heart of the podcast—local issues, community stories, and everything that makes Lee’s Summit home.

Empowering Youth & Strengthening Community with Chris Madden

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 19:31:20 -0600

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker sits down with Chris Madden, executive director of Lee’s Summit CARES. From his early aspirations in the arts to his leadership in education and community service, Chris shares his journey and the passion driving his work. They explore the vital resources available to help teens make informed decisions about their futures, as well as ongoing community efforts around substance misuse prevention and mental health awareness.

Join the conversation and discover how Lee’s Summit CARES is making a difference—and how you can get involved.

The Three C's: Creativity, Community & Custom Apparel

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:39:20 -0600

In this episode of Lee’s Summit Town Hall Podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Brian Pilachowski — graphic artist, entrepreneur, and the new owner of The Local Foundery. As the creative force behind Press Monkey Studio, Brian shares his journey of taking over the beloved local shop, the art of nostalgia-driven design, and the challenges of running a small business.

From expanding his product line — including plans for an exciting new kids' section — to his unique approach to custom apparel, Brian gives us an inside look at his creative process and the future of The Local Foundery. Plus, with the Super Bowl just around the corner, the duo dives into the energy surrounding local events in downtown Lee’s Summit.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about art, entrepreneurship, and the power of community-driven retail! 🎨🛍️🎙️

A Toast! Raising a glass, to good music, nights out with friends... & pickles?

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 12:41:50 -0600

Join host Nick Parker on this week’s Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast as he sits down with Seth Allen, the mastermind behind Libations & Co. and The 1909 Club. From cozy cocktails to lively jazz nights, Seth shares the incredible journey of transforming his businesses into a cornerstone of downtown Lee's Summit nightlife.

Discover the secrets behind the dual vibes of Libations — a chic lounge downstairs and a jazz-filled haven upstairs — and hear how creative drinks (yes, the Old Fashioned still reigns supreme!) and community support have fueled their success. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur, a jazz enthusiast, or just love a good story, this episode is sure to hit the right note!

A holiday treat: Santa's back and we're talking Christmas magic!

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 12:24:23 -0600

Get ready for an extra special episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall Podcast as Nick Parker is joined by the jolliest guest of all — Santa Claus! And we don't stop there. Former co-host Jason Norbury makes a surprise visit to The Vault to join the annual conversation with the man from the North Pole. Recorded on December 19th, this festive conversation is packed with holiday cheer, laughter, and heartwarming moments. So, what’s in Santa’s Sack for This Episode? 🎅 Santa shares how he spreads joy year-round, from the North Pole to Lee’s Summit. ✨ A peek into the magic (and tech!) behind the sleigh that keeps the holiday spirit soaring. 🎄 Why kindness and giving are the ultimate gifts we can share. Stick around for Santa’s special shoutout about his final stop of the season at the downtown history museum! Don’t miss this merry and magical episode — it’s the perfect companion for your holiday week! 🎧🎄

Holiday Happenings: Story Time with Santa & Festive Jazz in Downtown Lee’s Summit!

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:59:39 -0600

In this jolly episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker teams up with Collin Brich, Community Manager at Bridge Space, to unwrap some of the holiday fun happening downtown!

First on the list: Story Time with Santa! It’s the perfect family outing filled with heartwarming tales, photo ops with the big guy in red, and a chance to give back to local nonprofits. (Ho ho ho!)

Next, they hit the high notes with the details on the Lee’s Summit Jazz Orchestra’s Christmas Jazz Concert. Mark your calendars for Monday, December 16th, at 5 p.m., because you won’t want to miss the smooth sounds of live jazz in the cozy, magical setting of Bridge Space. 🎷✨

From festive tunes to family traditions, this episode will leave you humming with holiday spirit and inspired to celebrate the season while supporting your local community. So grab your cocoa, hit play, and let the holiday cheer begin! 🎁

'I got to up my love game:' A conversation at the intersection of community service and ministry

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 15:23:15 -0600

In episode 850 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back Pastor Hans Koschmann and community relations expert Vanessa Hickman. The episode focuses on the importance of nonprofit work in the community, highlighting the collaboration between local businesses and nonprofits. Hans discusses the 'ministry of the month' initiative at his church, which aims to spotlight various nonprofits and their contributions. The conversation also touches on mental health awareness within the church and the need for open discussions about mental health support. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their community and support local initiatives.

Community Connections: Local involvement fuels business growth while enhancing the community

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 19:02:22 -0600

In episode 849 of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes back John Beaudoin, a business owner and communications expert, to discuss the importance of community involvement and volunteerism in Lee's Summit. In addition to exploring the vital role nonprofits play in the community, they talk about the benefits local businesses see when they get involved with the work of the local charities. Parker also introduces a new monthly series aimed at connecting local businesses with nonprofits. Tune in to learn how giving your time and talents can make a significant impact in the community!

Community Connections: Growing the business and our community are synonymous

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:20:38 -0600

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker welcomes Courtney Laufketter, co-owner of Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. They discuss the significance of community service and local business involvement, exploring how giving back not only enriches the community but also strengthens business relationships. Courtney shares her family's commitment to supporting local organizations, the impact of their volunteer work, and how small businesses can thrive through community engagement. Tune in to learn about the symbiotic relationship between local businesses and non-profits, and discover ways to get involved in your own community. If you, and your business, are interested in telling your story of community involvement and would like to help others find local nonprofits to support, contact Nick Parker at nick@link2leessummit.com.

Feed Lee's Summit: A night of fun, food, and philanthropy supporting local nonprofits

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 11:06:37 -0500

The event "Feed Lee's Summit" is scheduled for Friday, November 15th, at the John Knox Pavilion. Doors will open at 5:30 PM for VIPs and at 6:00 PM for general admission. The event will feature live and silent auctions, entertainment from Fountain City Ivory's dueling piano group, and food from 16 local restaurants. The proceeds will support several local nonprofits, including One Good Meal, Meals on Wheels, Cold Water, Lee's Summit Social Services, and Boost for Success, which collectively serve over 600 residents in need each week.

Empowering Voices: Teens take the mic on mental health and bullying

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:42:17 -0500

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, host Nick Parker hands over the reins to a group of students from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. They discuss their upcoming season of the "I Can Relate" podcast where teens share their perspectives on important issues like mental health and bullying. The students emphasize the need for genuine conversations and the importance of being heard and challenging the stigma that podcasts are only for older generations. Tune in to hear their insights and the significance of creating a platform for youth voices. The new season of "I Can Relate" will drop to podcast apps in November.

Celebrating anniversaries, storytelling & nostalgia

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 11:48:57 -0500

Local business owner and filmmaker Chad Godfrey drops by The Vault to talk about his downtown business' upcoming anniversary and his love storytelling and preserving memories for customers big and small. Godfrey's works spans from transferring memories to meet new technologies to creative production from personal to corporations and nonprofit organizations. Summit Video Services will celebrate 20 years of business in November. And, hey, check out his promotional video series on social median and you may just catch a few recognizable local faces.

Building safe spaces and giving a little extra to local teens

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:28:16 -0500

Elaine Metcalf, executive director at Pro Deo Youth Center, and Steve Arbo drop by The Vault with an update on fundraising efforts for a new building near downtown and the work they're doing to offer support to local teens from all corners of the Lee's Summit community.

Make your plans now — Oktoberfest returns Sept. 27

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 09:24:45 -0500

The Queens of Oktoberfest return to The Vault to preview the annual festival, which takes over downtown Lee's Summit the weekend of Sept. 27. Rachel Dyer and Krissie Hutchins have chaired the Lee's Summit Chamber's Oktoberfest committee for the past several years and have all the tips and tricks for you to get the most out of this annual festival.

Beetlejuice? In a restaurant? And a pork belly burrito? I have so many questions!

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:18:03 -0500

Josh and Lanni Edwards, owners of Downtown Lee's Summit's Calaveras and Smoke Brewing Co. restaurants drop by The Vault for this episode of the podcast. The Edwards and host Nick Parker talk about the new pop-up event happening at Calaveras — Netherworld — and dig deep into Lanni's fear of pork belly. You can check out Netherworld from now through Nov. 2.

Warming up the spotlight & renewing a vow to serve

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:59:09 -0500

Vanessa Hickman returns to The Vault to talk about Link 2 Lee's Summit's renewed focus on community service and shining a spotlight on our local nonprofit organizations. She and host Nick Parker talk about the coming redesigned web site and tools designed to help tell the nonprofits' stories and make connections with residents and local businesses easier. Oh, and there's a special birthday message to one of our area nonprofit heroes, too!

Tis the season for football, wings and a community of giving

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 08:09:02 -0500

Local wings legend Chris Turney is back in The Vault this week to promote the popular Wings 4 Water charity event coming on September 12 at Paragon Star. Chris, who once again disappointed host Nick Parker by not bringing wings to the recording session, talks about the event's growth and his undying love for Nick's signature wing sauce. Tickets for the event can be found at wings4water.org.

7 days and counting! Yep, it's time to start talking about school

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 09:28:27 -0500

LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck, along with local business owner Jon Ellis, drops by The Vault to talk about the growth at Great Beginnings at Paradise Park and where the district stands as we get set to start the 2024-25 academic year. Did you know Lee's Summit was home to the state's first FFA chapter? We didn't! Tune in for this, and other fun nuggets from Ellis and Dr. Buck.

LSSS opening its annual back to school store and you can help

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 12:54:29 -0500

Megan Salerno and Tonee Schwartz drop by The Vault to talk about Lee's Summit Social Services' annual back-to-school store, which opens today. The store will serve more than 700 students this year, providing them with needed clothing and supplies as they head into the 2024-25 academic year. Part of the conversation includes donation needs for the store, as well as opportunities to volunteer.

The experience is as important as the product

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:31:58 -0500

Maybe the experience is the product? Seth Allen, owner of Libations & Co. and its sister "joint", the 1909 Club, returns to The Vault this week. He popped in for a return of what used to be an annual Independence Day preview episode, but this week's conversation turned to a look at his two downtown Lee's Summit businesses built on crafting a particular customer experience. Oh, and he may have finally admitted to some day giving in to Nick's dream of having his own drink on the menu at Libations. The tape don't lie!

How's your wings game?

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:41:37 -0500

Do your wings rule? When you whip a batch of delicious chicken wings, do the family and friends coming running? If not, are there tears of jealousy because they weren't invited. If your answer to any or all of these questions is yes, then you should think about taking part in September's annual Wings 4 Water charity event. The local nonprofit's Ryan Bryant joins host Nick Parker to talk about the event and offer a challenge to all of those area wing cooks to join the fun and help support the cause.

There's gonna be music notes everywhere

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 13:10:17 -0500

Downtown Days finished up this weekend and now it's time to get ready for another big event in Lee's Summit. The inaugural Lee's Summit Jazz Festival is slated to take the stage June 22 at Bridge Space in the historic downtown district. Festival founders Ben Rao and Shawn Harrel stop by the vault to talk about Lee's Summit's growing jazz scene and the eight acts gearing up for this all-day festival never before seen in Lee's Summit.

Nick made a friend! Welcome aboard, Vanessa

Wed, 29 May 2024 13:36:57 -0500

It's been eight years since Nick Parker launched Link 2 Lee's Summit and the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast. In the never-ending quest to do local news a little bit differently, a new friend is joining the team to help make sure a spotlight shines on our local nonprofit organizations. Enter Vanessa Hickman. Vanessa has made multiple appearances on the podcast and is a well-known community volunteer and activist. She's joining the team to help tell the stories of local charities and help link them with the community.

Burning questions and rocking the countdown to Downtown Days!

Wed, 22 May 2024 11:45:30 -0500

It's May 22, the kids are in their final days of the school year and we're all counting down the official local summer kick-off event — Downtown Days. Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale return to The Vault to prep us for the big weekend coming June 7-9. And Julie turns the tables! She's got questions for the hosts, and for you!

Can't we all just give 'a little extra'

Wed, 15 May 2024 11:11:09 -0500

Whether it's time, skills or money, sometimes youth in our community just need a little extra. Enter, Pro Deo Youth Center. Executive Director Elaine Metcalf and head volunteer fundraiser/Pickleball Bringer of Fun Shannon Pennington enter The Vault to talk about the upcoming Rally for Teens pickleball tournament raising funds for Pro Deo's fall 2024 programming. The tournament will run on Saturday, June 8 at Epic Sports. You can head on over to prodeoyouthcenter.org to enter the tournament or help sponsor the event.

Matching our passions with service and what's happening this week

Wed, 01 May 2024 15:38:08 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays take a few minutes to discuss upcoming local events and since Wednesday is National 501c Day, the duo takes a few minutes to talk about some of the many local nonprofits serving the Lee's Summit community and how easy it is for residents to offer service be it donations of time, talent or treasure.

Shared vulnerabilities & appeals for empathy highlight community event on youth mental health

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:53:25 -0500

A now years-long effort to give teens a voice and help bring the community together in conversation about youth mental health continued this week with a community forum presented by Pro Deo Youth Center and ReDiscover at the Missouri Innovation Campus. The event was moderated by ReDiscover's Demetrios Walker and Lee's Summit West senior Ellie Johnson and included a panel of 12 local high school students and just under 150 residents. Walker and Johnson came to The Vault for a conversation with Nick Parker and Liesl Hays about their reactions to the event and where they think the conversation is headed next.

Some flights of fancy, some shopping, and some conversation about local politics

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 12:01:38 -0500

Everyone relax. Liesl is back home. After what seemed like a way-too-long hiatus, Liesl Hays rejoins Nick Parker for the latest episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast just in time to preview some weekend activities and discuss a recent guest column in Link 2 Lee's Summit discussing the role Political Action Committees are playing in our local elections and governance. Both Nick and Liesl are curious how others in the community feel about partisan political groups inserting themselves into local politics.

From bureaucrat to community volunteer — Steve Arbo talks life after City Hall

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 00:01:00 -0500

If you're feeling down, or a little overwhelmed, Steve Arbo has a suggestion — Find a local organization and volunteer. Service to others, he says, offers a reward of happiness you may not be expecting. Arbo, who has now been retired from his role as Lee's Summit City Manager for a year, entered The Vault this week for a conversation with host Nick Parker on his new life outside the bureaucracy and his dive into a role as community volunteer. Since leaving the northeast corner of City Hall, Arbo has enjoyed extra time traveling with his wife (who is also recently retired) and finding some local nonprofit organizations where he can share his passions and support Lee's Summit in new and profound ways.

Teens step forward to lead community convos on mental health

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 19:32:50 -0500

In a little bit of a twist, host Nick Parker hands the reins to local Lee’s Summit West Senior Ellie Johnson, who talks with ReDiscover’s Jennifer Craig and LSPD Officer Amanda Geno about the upcoming community forum on mental health scheduled for 6 p.m. April 22 at the Missouri Innovation Campus. This episode was edited by Lee’s Summit Junior Charlie Parker. Both Johnson and Parker are part of the I Can Relate podcast project.

A business with an unexpected, yet rewarding focus on care for special needs kids

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 17:05:53 -0500

Their chiropractic business isn't exactly what they thought it would be. She didn't plan on developing a passion helping young patients and he had no idea the directions his study and budding network would take him. Today, Doctors Alex and Lauren Nelson operate HML Functional Care in Lee's Summit and have a budding practice focusing on providing a holistic and collaborative approach to caring for kids with special needs. The duo drop by The Vault for an open conversation with host Nick Parker on their business and approach to healthcare.

Passion for music and the arts leads new director to Lee's Summit and its symphony orchestra

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:34:25 -0500

Listen in on his resume, and you may start to wonder how Gary Good wound up in our midwest hamlet as the new executive director of the Lee's Summit Symphony. First off, we'll apologize, he's not all that new anymore. He's actually been here almost year, Nick and Liesl are just late getting him on the show. Good enters the vault to share his story of a career in music and the path to Lee's Summit. He also previews this weekend's performance at The Pavilion at John Knox Village and offers a bit of his vision for the future of the Symphony.

1, 2, 3 o’clock, 4 o’clock Shamrock!

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:43:26 -0600

We're gonna shamrock around the clock tonight… OK, it’s not tonight. But on the morning of Saturday, March 16, Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street invites local families to join them for a new St. Patrick’s day event — Shamrock the Block. Events Director Julie Cook returns to The Vault to talk about creating the new event and what entertainment will be available.

Making weekend plans and visiting with an old friend

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:49:26 -0600

Liesl's out this week, but Nick's back to highlight a few local events coming up this weekend before kicking back with one of his favorite interviews from the podcast, Theron Denson — aka The Black Diamond. Hint-hint, there's some rumors Theron has a couple of big announcements coming soon so stay tuned. But for now, if you missed it last year, hears a conversation with the Lee's Summit resident and experiences gathered through his life as Neil Diamond tribute artist.

The power of Information, voices and inclusion

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:22:48 -0600

"Get over it and tell the stories..." If there's been a theme for host Nick Parker the last week or so, it's been to stop making things about himself. The point was driven home in a conversation with Lee's Summit resident and community activist Vanessa Hickman and his fear appearing phony while featuring black residents during Black History Month. The appropriate reprimand leads to a open and frank conversation between the two in this week's episode kicking off Black History Month in Lee's Summit.

Finding the right spot at the right time

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 11:30:52 -0600

Everyone knows two of the main keys for business success lie in both timing and location. For Sarah Boehnlein and Lisa McConnell, this couldn't have been more true as they moved into a new downtown Lee's Summit home just in time for the holiday rush. Their two businesses, TruKC and Boss Babe Balloon Co. respectively, took over the former Ivy and Sparrow space on Third Street just before the holiday shopping season started and they haven't looked back — of course, the popularity of anything celebrating the Kansas City Chiefs or Taylor Swift hasn't hurt business either. The two visited the vault this week for a conversation with hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays on moving downtown and building their businesses.

Ashley Muffitt and Square One's mission to build a community of resources for area entrepreneurs

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:57:09 -0600

In this lively episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hayes bring their dynamic chemistry to the forefront as they explore the vibrant local business scene. Ashley Muffitt, from Mid-Continent Public Library and Square One, joins the discussion, shedding light on a mission to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The conversation delves into the resources offered by Square One, emphasizing the importance of planning and goal-setting for business success. With a perfect blend of entertainment and valuable insights, this episode is a must-listen for those seeking a dose of local flair and entrepreneurial wisdom.

You gotta look back before you move forward

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:27:54 -0600

In their first full week back since breaking for the holidays, winter travel, snow (errrrrr, AMI) days, etc., hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays take a few minutes to look back at what happened in 2023 and ahead to some of what they're planning for the podcast in 2024. And then, they offer up a replay from one of their favorite episodes of last year...

Fair warning, this episode includes what could be a tough conversation for some, including it seems hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays. But, we promise it's worth listening to and we hope, it provides a service for those who have, or are currently going through, the cancer journey. October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month and in this episode, we welcome Kara Gutierrez, owner of Spot On Beauty, and Karen Reinert, a local cancer survivor, into the vault. Much of Kara's work centers around using her skills as a tattoo artist to create 3D nipple tattoos for survivors, or covering up scars, or providing other artwork as survivors work there way through the trauma of discovering, treating and surviving breast cancer. Joining her on the show is Karen, a recent client and survivor.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 BOE ballot changes, MLK celebration& Christmas continues!

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:03:33 -0600

In the latest episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring listeners up to speed on the upcoming April election, revealing changes in the Board of Education ballot. As the election draws near, the hosts promise in-depth coverage of contested races for school board, city council, and municipal judge positions. The episode also highlights the City of Lee's Summit's annual MLK celebration, emphasizing the theme "Living the Dream" and spreading hope, courage, and unity. Despite some delays, the hosts extend the holiday spirit by continuing to give away favorite things, with Santa's approval to keep the Christmas joy alive throughout the year. To stay informed about local events, listeners are encouraged to sign up for the podcast's weekly NewsLink email and follow their Instagram and Facebook pages for chances to win exciting prizes in January.

Monday NewsLink: Local candidates filing for office and get ready for a live stream with Santa!

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 15:07:59 -0600

🎙️ Dive into local politics on the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast as host Nick Parker covers contested races and candidates for Lee's Summit City Council, municipal judge, and the Board of Education. Act fast – the filing period ends on December 26th! 🗳️ In a festive twist, join us on Facebook Live for a special Christmas episode at 7 p.m. this Thursday, for a live stream with Santa Claus from his North Pole office. 🎄 Get a chance to ask Santa your questions during the livestream. Don't miss out on winning Nick and Liesl's favorite things — follow us on Instagram and Facebook for details. 🎁 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify to stay connected with Lee's Summit. 🔗 For more updates, visit linktoleessummit.com.

Our first ’favorite things’ winner and your next opportunities to se Santa!

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:57:04 -0600

Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays in this festive episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast. Discover the excitement as they announce the first winner of the 'Favorite Things' giveaway. Listen in for holiday-themed discussions, updates on community events like Storytime with Santa, and a sneak peek into an upcoming live stream event featuring Santa himself. Get ready for a lively blend of holiday cheer, community engagement, and the joy of giving in this episode!

Monday NewsLink: Election filings, holiday events and more

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:06:42 -0600

Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays in the latest Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast episode for a roundup of community happenings and political updates. Highlights include the upcoming Storytime with Santa event at Budget Blinds, encouraging donations for the Pro Deo Youth Center, and the successful Grandparent's Day celebration at Summit Christian Academy. The episode previews an imminent City Council meeting focusing on a proposed citizen survey and provides updates on notable candidates filing for April's election. Teasing the podcast's "Favorite Things" series giveaway for dog lovers, participation details from local retailers are revealed. Tune in for a succinct overview of local news, events, and political insights relevant to Lee’s Summit.

Spreading some holiday cheer with some of our favorite local gifts

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:09:12 -0600

In the latest installment of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays spotlighted the vibrant local businesses by compiling some of their favorite locally sourced holiday gifts to share with you!. Remembering the late Gary Fruits, a beloved figure in the Lee's Summit community, the hosts paid homage to his legacy at the onset of the show. Transitioning into a festive spirit, Liesl introduced a segment resembling Oprah's "Favorite Things," prompting both hosts to share their top picks for local businesses and holiday gift ideas. Throughout the episode, they discuss various businesses, recommending a diverse array of gift options, from downtown Lee's Summit apparel to personalized autographed copies of Liesl's book. Nick and Liesl's dedication to promoting Lee's Summit's businesses and encouraging community support shone brightly, serving as a guide for listeners seeking locally sourced holiday gifts. And to make it even better, Check out Link 2 Lee's Summit on Facebook and Instagram over the next two weeks for your chance to win these curated gifts!

Monday NewsLink: holiday events and development updates

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:35:23 -0600

Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays in the latest episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast as they delve into the festive spirit and ongoing developments in Lee's Summit. This week's episode highlights upcoming holiday events, including the popular '12 ish Bars of Christmas Pub Crawl' benefiting Hope House and various captivating light displays in the area. Additionally, get updates on significant local development projects shaping the town's landscape. Tune in for a sneak peek of the upcoming holiday special, 'Liesl and Nick's Favorite Things,' showcasing local gift ideas while supporting the community's businesses. Stay connected with Lee's Summit news, events, and engaging conversations. Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more.

Cheers for a decade of festive charity: 12ish Bars of Christmas fundraiser set for Dec. 9

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:09:21 -0600

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays are joined by special guest Courtney Laufketter, founder of the annual 12ish Bars of Christmas event set for Dec. 9 in downtown Lee's Summit. While discussing the 10th anniversary of this popular fundraiser, Coutney shares how this event has raised more than $200,000 in its first nine years, supporting thousands of families aided by Hope House — which is a sign of the community's support for an important cause. The episode highlights the various ways to participate, including ticket purchases, donations, and games of chance at participating bars, aiming for a fundraising goal of $40,000 for Hope House's 40th anniversary.

Happy podversary to Liesl and Friday can’t get here fast enough!

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:22:57 -0600

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hayes reflect on Liesl's first year co-hosting the show, expressing gratitude and discussing their evolving interview styles while reminiscing about favorite episodes featuring inspiring stories within the Lee's Summit community and anticipation of episodes to come. The conversation turns to the upcoming tree lighting event in downtown Lee's Summit, highlighting the small-town charm and festive ambiance defining the annual celebration. Join Nick and Liesl as they share their enthusiasm for community engagement and appreciation for the unique moments making Lee's Summit special.

Monday NewsLink: It’s time to light the lights!

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:52:39 -0600

In this Monday NewsLink episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring the holiday spirit to the forefront as downtown Lee’s Summit transforms into a winter wonderland with the annual Mayor’s Tree Lighting event. Join the festivities at 6:30 p.m. on SE Main Street, explore captivating window art by LSR7 students, and revel in the extreme holiday ambiance at Calaveras restaurant, now resembling a living snow globe. Tune in for updates on the Lee’s Summit Magic Tree's 10th year, its collaboration with Operation Toy Soldier, and a heartwarming tradition by Summit Christian Academy's elementary students collecting food for families in need for the 15th consecutive year.

It’s Chillifest! 18th annual community event set for Saturday

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 12:25:28 -0600

It wouldn't be fall without the dulcet tones of Ben Rao and Collin Brich singing their song of Chillifest. The 18th annual local chili cook off is set to run from 11-2 this Saturday at Bridge Space in downtown Lee's Summit. Ben and Collin dropped into the vault to chat with host Nick Parker about the event and it's support for three local nonprofits: Lee's Summit VFW Auxiliary 5789, Lee's Summit Jazz Orchestra and the Alzheimer's Association of Kansas City.

Monday NewsLink: Veterans Day Parade, Chilifest fun, and building strong community networks & more

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:59:12 -0600

Tune in to "Lee's Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link" for a quick weekly update on the latest news, events, and happenings in Lee's Summit. Hosted by Nick Parker and Liesl Hays, this podcast keeps you informed about local developments and highlights exciting events, such as the VFW's Veterans Day Parade and the 18th Annual Chilifest competition. Don't miss out on insightful conversations like the one with Megan Mercer, the emcee of the Lee’s Summit Chamber’s annual Women in Business retreat, discussing the significance of building authentic networks and community relationships.

Combining humor & vulnerability to help area businesswomen connect and grow

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:43:35 -0500

Megan Mercer returns to The Vault to preview the Lee's Summit Chamber's annual Women in Business event set for next Wednesday. Mercer, an insurance executive and improv comic, will serve as host and emcee for the all day conference and spoke with Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays on the importance of creating a welcome and comforting environment encouraging connections and authentic opportunities to grow both in business and life.

Monday NewsLink: Parade and Chillifest events set for Veterans Day

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 17:27:57 -0500

Discover the latest local news and events in Lee's Summit with the Lee's Summit Town Hall Monday News Link podcast. In the latest episode, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays introduce plans for the annual Veterans Day parade, set to begin at Lee's Summit High School and wind through the downtown district, celebrating and honoring local veterans. Additionally, they highlight the remarkable achievements of St. Michael the Archangel's girls' golf and tennis teams, who have qualified for the Missouri State Championship tournaments for the first time in school history.

Welcoming a new neighbor & holy moly the holidays are coming!

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 12:21:15 -0500

Nick and Liesl took a little stroll around downtown this morning to welcome a new neighbor (and buy a few things) and to check out the work already beginning to get ready for the 2023 holiday season. This week, we look ahead to some of the things already on the local holiday calendar and a special episode coming soon.

Monday NewsLInk: Spooky Season, Market Plaza Groundbreaking & More

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 11:38:41 -0500

In the latest episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast's Monday NewsLink, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays keep you in the loop about the upcoming Halloween-themed events in Lee's Summit, including trunk-or-treat activities and a costume party at The Goat Brewing Company. They also share exciting news about the groundbreaking ceremony for the downtown Market Plaza development, featuring a performing arts space and a permanent home for the Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market. Plus, a reminder to check out their recent impactful conversation with two local women in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Using art to help survivors cope and reclaim a part of themselves

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 14:24:13 -0500

Fair warning, today's episode includes what could be a tough conversation for some, including it seems hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays. But, we promise it's worth listening to and we hope, it provides a service for those who have, or are currently going through, the cancer journey. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and today we welcome Kara Gutierrez, owner of Spot On Beauty, and Karen Reinert, a local cancer survivor, into the vault. Much of Kara's work centers around using her skills as a tattoo artist to create 3D nipple tattoos for survivors, or covering up scars, or providing other artwork as survivors work there way through the trauma of discovering, treating and surviving breast cancer. Joining her on the show is Karen, a recent client and survivor.

Monday NewsLink: Arts events, major groundbreaking and more...

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 11:43:04 -0500

In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall Monday NewsLink, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring you the latest updates on events and developments in Lee's Summit. Discover the student art exhibition at City Hall, an arts celebration by Lee's Summit Creates, the upcoming Haunted & Historic Spaces tours in downtown Lee's Summit, Paragon Star's Sports Spooktacular event, the groundbreaking for the downtown Market Plaza development, and much more. Stay informed about your community by tuning in to this informative and straightforward news podcast.

Haunted tours & costumed parades taking over downtown this month

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 14:45:02 -0500

She's baaaaaaaaaaaack! Julie Cook, events director, and Jenny Gale, assistant director, from Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street join Nick and Liesl in the vault to chat the annual Haunted and Historic Tours event in downtown. Tickets are available at downtownls.org. DLSMS Board President Courtney Laufketter chimes in with some information on the Boos, Barks & Badges parade coming at the end of the month.

That place where business, community & contentment collide

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 15:51:41 -0500

You ever just see those random people walking around downtown with their yoga mats neatly rolled and tucked under their arms? Yeah, we have as well. Turns out, many of them are part of Megan's Yoga Tribe. This week, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays, invited owner Megan Culbertson to join them in The Vault to tell her story of finding peace in the practice of yoga and then going to on to build a community of her own by teaching others.

Monday NewsLink: UCM-LS introduces a new degree program; City exploring a new EDC; cultural events & more!

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:43:29 -0500

In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall, we discuss the exciting introduction of a Bachelor of Science degree in Data Science, upcoming economic development explorations by the City Council, infrastructure project updates, cultural highlights, and a community event you won't want to miss!

Lee’s Summit story ready to take the stage

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:36:20 -0500

Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they chat with local playwright Ben Martin and actress Janet Shelman on the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast. They discuss 'A Candle Against the Dark,' a play by Ben Martin that tells the story of Lee's Summit resident Carl Chinnery's family battling polio. Originally an audio drama in 2020, it's now adapted for a live stage performance. All ticket sales proceeds go to Rotary International's polio eradication efforts, with matching grants amplifying the impact. Secure your tickets at the Englewood Arts District website and support this cause.

NewsLink: City Council to hear recommendations for EDC reorganization & more

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 12:29:37 -0500

In this Monday NewsLink episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays provide a sneak peek into the upcoming Lee's Summit City Council meeting. Tune in to hear about the critical decisions facing the council regarding the future of economic development and the long-anticipated Downtown Market Plaza project. Plus, get the latest updates on Missouri Governor Mike Parson's recent appointments and a special announcement from the Lee's Summit Symphony as they celebrate their 20th Anniversary Season with an American composers' showcase.

Prost! Previewing this weekend’s Oktoberfest in downtown LS

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:33:01 -0500

Get ready for a taste of Munich in Lee's Summit! Join us on "Lee's Summit Town Hall" as we explore the Lee's Summit Chamber's annual Oktoberfest event beginning Friday and running through Sunday in downtown Lee's Summit. Our guests, Rachel Dyer, Krissie Hutchins, and Mindy Hall, share all the highlights, from live music and German food to homebrew contests and craft vendors. This free, family-friendly festival is a local favorite, supporting the community and regional businesses. Don't miss this episode diving into the heart and soul of Lee's Summit's Oktoberfest celebration! Prost!

NewsLink: LSR7 reducing tax levy, Oktoberfest is here, the LS Symphony’s new concert & more

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 12:08:22 -0500

In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall's "Monday News Link," we bring you the latest updates from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District as it plans to reduce the tax levy in response to an increase in assessed valuation. Get ready to enjoy the autumn spirit with a glimpse into the Lee’s Summit Chamber's annual Oktoberfest, featuring a variety of treats, live music, and more. Plus, learn how the Lee's Summit Symphony is set to commemorate its 20th Anniversary Season with a special performance dedicated to American-born composers. Tune in for all this and more on this week's episode!

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 seeking public input through surveys plus this week’s local events

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 13:11:01 -0500

Welcome to your Monday NewsLink episode for the week of Sept. 11, 2023. This week, discover how the Lee's Summit R-7 School District actively seeks your input through surveys, shaping the future of education in our community. Plus, explore exciting local events and the Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market, all while staying connected with your community through this engaging twice-weekly podcast.

Eating wings, giving water & finding your charitable passions in Lee’s Summit

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 16:35:48 -0500

We had planned to feed some colleagues wings and have some fun previewing next week's Wings 4 Water charity event, but real jobs got in the way. This week, Nick and Liesl remind you to take part in next Thursday's event at Paragon Star while also talking about how easy it is to get involved in local charities and find your way to do a little good and create a little change right here in your own backyard.

NewsLink: Leadership change at LS Social Services; wrapping up construction at LSHS & more

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:53:40 -0500

In this episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring you the latest updates from Lee's Summit, Missouri. Discover the changing leadership landscape at Lee's Summit Social Services as executive director Matt Sanning steps down, and learn about the completion of extensive renovations at Lee's Summit High School, marking its 150th anniversary. Plus, hear about the record enrollment at Summit Christian Academy and a special interview with Candace Jennings, owner of Whistle Stop Coffee & Mercantile, as they celebrate their 30th anniversary. Stay connected with your community in this engaging episode.

She bought it on a whim, but now she’s a fixture in downtown

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:27:41 -0500

15 years ago (well in two months), Candace Jennings told her dad she'd like to take over the Whistle Stop Coffee & Mercantile business in downtown. Some members of the family were selling the business, and something told Candace she needed to take it on for herself. And now, the business is a thriving piece of the downtown Lee's Summit landscape, and this month celebrated its 30th anniversary. Candace popped into the vault to tell her Whistle Stop story and her passion for making coffee and creating relationships.

Monday NewsLink: Downtown fixture closing; construction project ending; a heartwarming story & more

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:44:37 -0500

Welcome to your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 28, 2023. In today's episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring you the latest local updates. Cameron’s Home Furnishings, a downtown retail fixture, is set to close its doors, marking the end of an era. Meanwhile, Lee’s Summit High School's construction projects near completion, and the podcast also delves into the heartwarming story behind Alyssa’s Wishes, a global nonprofit spreading kindness through painted rocks.

Spreading good words as therapy for her — and the world

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 15:04:50 -0500

She suffered the tragedy of a mother's worst fears. But her story doesn't end there. A chance encounter led to a new mission and the act of spreading encouragement and love through the power of words become the rock of her continued healing after the loss of her daughter. This is Karen Houck, of Alyssa's wishes.

Community buzz: School advisory groups forming, senior mission trips, Oktoberfest and more

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:55:25 -0500

Welcome to Lee’s Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link, brought to you by Budget Blinds of Lee’s Summit. Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they bring you the latest news, events, and updates from Lee's Summit each week. From the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District's call for community input to the heartwarming story of Summit Christian Academy's mission trip, stay informed about the local happenings. Plus, get ready to mark your calendars for the upcoming Lee's Summit Chamber's Oktoberfest and discover standout local spots like A Better Choice Preschool, all available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

From morning show pranks to supporting Americas veterans

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:26:20 -0500

Kansas City radio legend Randy Miller joins hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays in the Vault to talk about his career in radio and his current work hosting the Celebrity Salute podcast. In his podcast, Randy is joined by A-list celebrities from around the country who want take a little time not to focus on promoting their projects in Hollywood, but in promoting efforts to celebrate and support the men and women who serve, and have served, our country.

NewsLink: They symphony’s 20th season, LS Citizen of the Year & meet local entrepreneur

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 13:55:38 -0500

In this week's Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays bring you the latest news and events from the community. They announce Carl Chinnery as the 2023 Citizen of the Year, to be honored at the Truman Heartland Community Foundation's gala. Additionally, they highlight the upcoming 20th-anniversary concert by the Lee’s Summit Symphony and discuss an interview with local entrepreneur Jeremy Springer, who opened The Filmore Cafe.

On coffee, entrepreneurism and leadership

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:15:48 -0500

Nick and Liesl invited Jeremy Springer on the show to brag about his new coffee shop, The Fillmore Cafe, in Unity Village. And he did, but as sometimes happens in The Vault, the conversation had a life of its own as Jeremy opened up about entrepreneurism, the things that drive him and his passion for helping his employees and colleagues succeed as well as himself.

Monday NewsLink: Back-to-school store seeks donations, Chipman Road closure, and Arts Week preparations

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 12:33:49 -0500

Lee’s Summit Town Hall and Monday NewsLink, hosted by Nick Parker and Liesl Hays, provides the latest news and events in the Lee's Summit community. This week's highlights include Lee's Summit Social Services seeking donations for its Back-to-School Store, a temporary closure of a section of Northwest Chipman Road for improvement works, and preparations for the City's upcoming Arts Week celebration in October. Listeners can stay informed by following the podcast on various platforms or accessing the weekly events list on Link2LeesSummit.com.

Taking a moment to listen — and not fix

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 13:58:44 -0500

With a new school year fast approaching, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays thought it would be a good time to check in on our youth and see what things were on their minds as summer draws to a close. Their two sons, Charles Parker and Ethan Hays, joined them in the vault for a conversation on school, bullies and their expectations and needs when it comes to parents helping them navigate the life of a teen.

Monday NewsLink: School registration, symphony concert, and local events

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 13:29:49 -0500

Stay Informed with Lee's Summit Town Hall's Monday NewsLink — Sponsored by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Join Hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays for the Latest Updates in Lee's Summit, Including School Registration and a 20th-Anniversary Symphony Concert. Discover Local Events and Activities, Listen on Popular Podcast Platforms or at Link2LeesSummit.com.

Monday NewsLink: Celebrating 20 years of music, comedy conversations, USWNT watch parties and more

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:19:57 -0500

🎙️ Lee's Summit Town Hall Podcast Summary: In this week's episode, join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they bring you the latest news and updates from Lee's Summit. Discover the upcoming 20th anniversary gala concert by the Lee's Summit Symphony Orchestra at the renowned Helzberg Hall, delve into an insightful conversation with resident comic Megan Mercer about her journey into comedy, and explore a thought-provoking Q&A with former Board of Education member Kim Fritchie. Plus, don't miss the exciting watch party for the US Women's soccer team's first match in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Stay informed and engaged with the Lee's Summit community through the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast and Link 2 Lee's Summit. Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more. Visit Link2LeesSummit.com for additional details and to join the conversation on social media.

The addictive power of laughter

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 14:58:31 -0500

Lee's Summit resident Megan Mercer enters The Vault for a conversation with Nick and Liesl about her work as an improv comic — how she got into it, what keeps her going back and her big plans to make Lee's Summit a comedy hub.

Monday NewsLink: Registration for LSR7 Schools opens next week and other community updates

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:38:43 -0500

Discover the latest news, events, and discussions happening in the vibrant community of Lee's Summit with the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast. Hosted by Nick Parker and Liesl Hays, this engaging podcast brings you the Monday NewsLink episode, in collaboration with Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Stay informed about important updates such as registration for LSR7 Schools, insightful interviews with community figures like former Board Member Kim Fritchie, and thought-provoking student-led conversations through the "I Can Relate" podcast project. Explore topics that matter to the residents of Lee's Summit, including education, workforce training, and more. Tune in to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or visit Link2LeesSummit.com to be a part of the conversation and stay connected to your community.

Purple Bench Project creating space for stories & new friends

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:55:44 -0500

If you read his columns in Link 2 Lee's Summit you know John Beaudoin to be a passionate follower of local government and one who is never shy about sharing his opinions on the actions of local officials. But sometimes it's easy to overlook his passion for all things Lee's Summit and the people who make up his hometown community. In this week's episode, Beaudoin drops by The Vault to talk about a new project he and partner Hilary Graves recently launched in downtown. The Purple Bench Project offers a space for local senior citizens to sit and visit with other residents sharing stories and creating new relationships.

Monday NewsLink: Annual free fireworks celebration set for tonight & more news from around town

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 15:32:02 -0500

Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays on this week's episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall's Monday News Link, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Discover the exciting events and news happening around Lee's Summit. Learn about the annual free fireworks celebration at Legacy Park, hosted by Lee's Summit Parks & Recreation and the City of Lee's Summit. Find out how a Lee's Summit family paid tribute to a 9/11 victim through a special encounter with country singer Alan Jackson. Explore how the Truman Heartland Community Foundation has provided over $735,000 in scholarships to local students. Don't forget to sign up for the weekly newsletter and follow Link 2 Lee's Summit for community updates. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app, or visit Link2LeesSummit.com to stay connected and informed.

A few words from the youth of our community

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 11:13:53 -0500

This week, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays wanted to do something a little different and share the voices of another podcast with the Lee's Summit Community. I Can Relate is a podcast featuring local middle and high school students who choose topics they feel are important and in need of conversation. In this episode, which was part of the most recent season, members of the group talk about transitioning from middle to high school, lingering effects of COVID and offer advice to each other, and any youth listening, as they work their way through their high school years. I Can Relate is available on most podcast apps or at icanrelate.fredcasts.com.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 16:36:57 -0500

Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays on the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast as they dive into the exciting happenings in Lee's Summit. In this Monday NewsLink episode, get the latest news and updates from Lee's Summit with the Monday News Link by Lee's Summit Town Hall. Dive-In Movie Night, Wings 4 Water charity event, Toast To Our Towns gala, and more. Stay informed and engaged in your community.

We’re starting our countdown to a favorite local charity event

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 10:07:37 -0500

This week we're talking about one of our favorite local charity events, Wings 4 Water. Chris Turney and Carrie Williams drop by the vault to catch us up on plans for the 2023 event, which is set for Sept. 14 at Paragon Star. The annual cook-off raises funds to provide access to water in under-served portions of the world, as well as support for local food pantries. If you're interested in entering the competition or providing sponsorship, go to www.w4wkc.org.

Recognizing local achievements and looking ahead to this week’s events

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 12:29:21 -0500

Tune in to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, your source for the latest news and conversations from the vibrant community of Lee's Summit, Missouri. Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they highlight local events, share stories of achievements, and engage in insightful discussions. Stay up to date with the Fourth Fridays Art Walk, remarkable sports achievements like April Phillips' historic track & field victories, and new leadership appointments in the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. Discover the philanthropic spirit of the region and don't miss out on the pulse of Lee's Summit — listen on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app, or visit Link2LeesSummit.com.

Monday NewsLink: Events, Education, and Achievements in Lee’s Summit

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 12:27:06 -0500

Welcome to Lee's Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link, brought to you by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they bring you the latest news, events, and achievements from the vibrant community of Lee's Summit. In this episode, we highlight upcoming local events, including Family Fun Night at Summit Waves, Grains & Taps' 10th anniversary "Decades Party," and the Lake Lotawana Children's Business Fair. The Success-Ready Students Network seeks approval for a three-year waiver to revamp student assessment and accountability in Missouri school districts. We also celebrate Jacob Klipfel, a Lee's Summit West High School junior who achieved a perfect score on the ACT. Lastly, don't miss out on the Lake Lotawana Children's Business Fair, where young entrepreneurs showcase their creations. Tune in to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app, or visit Link2LeesSummit.com for more community news and conversations.

A kick-start for young makers & entrepreneurs

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:17:50 -0500

Local business owner Brett Jackson enters the vault to chat about an exciting new event built to encourage and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. The Lake Lotawana Children's Business Fair is set for June 17 at the Foxberry Estates clubhouse in eastern Lee's Summit and will feature opportunities for young makers and aspiring entrepreneurs ages 7-14 to showcase their wares for the both the public and a panel of judges. You can find out more about the fair at https://www.childrensbusinessfair.org/lakelotawana-mo.

Music, food, vendors — It’s all happening in downtown this weekend!

Wed, 31 May 2023 09:58:24 -0500

Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Julie Cook and Jenny Gale drop by the vault to talk Downtown Days with hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays. The annual festival serves as both the unofficial kick-off to the summer season but also as the main fundraiser for the local nonprofit in its continuing efforts to serve the historic district and keep it as one of the nation's top downtown areas.

NewsLink: Downtown Days, school news & state championships

Tue, 30 May 2023 13:16:50 -0500

We're a day late because of the holiday, but here is your NewsLink episode for the week of May 30, 2023. In this episode, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays talk about the upcoming Downtown Days festival, as well as some news and notes from our local schools.

Monday NewsLink: News & Notes for the week of May 22, 2023

Mon, 22 May 2023 14:09:46 -0500

Welcome to Lee's Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they bring you the latest news, events, and happenings in Lee's Summit. In this episode, they highlight the upcoming 39th season of live children's theater by the University of Central Missouri Repertory Theatre, featuring the production "Robin Hood." They also celebrate the Summit Christian Academy varsity boys' golf team's victory at the state tournament, and discuss a local school board member's decision to move a child to a private school. Don't miss out on the weekly email newsletter for updates on local events and activities. Tune in to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast on your favorite podcast platforms or visit Link2LeesSummit.com for all the news, notes, and conversations from the community. Stay connected with them on social media or reach out via email with your events, tips, or questions.

Monday NewsLink: Schematic Designs for Market Plaza Revealed, Excitement Builds in Lee’s Summit

Mon, 15 May 2023 14:39:38 -0500

Welcome to Lee's Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link, sponsored by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Join hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays for the latest updates in Lee's Summit.

In this episode, get a sneak peek of the Market Plaza development project. The designs reveal plans for a permanent farmers market, outdoor performance space, and more. Visit our website for details.

Meet Ainsley Lewis, a UCM graduate and former Missouri Innovation Campus intern. Her civil engineering internship with Black & Veatch prepared her for success. Read her inspiring story on Link2LeesSummit.com.

Stay informed about local events by signing up for our weekly email newsletter. Follow Link 2 Lee's Summit and the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast for news and discussions. Listen on popular platforms or visit Link2LeesSummit.com.

Connect with us on social media or email nick@link2leessummit.com with your announcements and questions.

Tune in for the latest news in Lee's Summit!

KC’s second year of the Parade of Hearts hits Lee’s Summit

Wed, 10 May 2023 15:24:01 -0500

More than six years and 600 episodes, we've never had a current or former elected official from a neighboring city on the podcast. That all changes this week as former Independence Mayor Eileen Weir drops by the vault to talk about the Parade of Hearts, her love of art and even some of things she envied when looking south and into our fair city of Lee's Summit. Weir's visit came as part of her current role serving as chair of the public engagement committee for the Parade of Hearts.

Lee’s Summit Town Hall Monday News Link

Mon, 08 May 2023 12:50:31 -0500

In this episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall, join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they bring you the latest news and events from Lee's Summit. The Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education's monthly meeting featured discussions on board policy surrounding book appeals. Catch the full video on their website. With the arrival of warm weather, it's time to visit the Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market for fresh produce, flowers, and more. Don't miss Powell Gardens' Painted Garden Art Walk happening this Saturday. The Lee's Summit Parks and Recreation department is hosting the annual Kids Fishing Derby at Legacy Park, promising fun for the whole family. Plus, enjoy a virtual tour of Lee's Summit through Jane Bollin's "My Home" submissions, capturing the essence of spring. Tune in to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast for all these updates and more from your community.

MCC-Longview President Kathrine Swanson on building relationships, art, education and even AI

Wed, 03 May 2023 16:04:37 -0500

Kathrine Swanson enters the vault to catch us up on all things MCC-Longview. During her conversation with hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays, she talks about the influence of art on herself and the Longview campus, as well as the importance of building relationships and the evolution of education to meet the needs of today's — and tomorrow's — students.

Monday NewsLink: Cinco de Mayo celebrations, farmers market & more

Mon, 01 May 2023 11:29:22 -0500

Welcome to the Lee's Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link podcast, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Your hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays are here to give you the rundown on the latest happenings, news, and events around Lee's Summit. In this episode, they highlight upcoming events such as the Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and live music performances. They also share information on the Summit Christian Academy's Flag Football Camp and Jane Bollin's latest tour around Lee's Summit. You can catch all of this and more by listening to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast on your favorite podcast app or by visiting Link2LeesSummit.com. Don't forget to follow them on social media and reach out with any event, tip, or question you may have.

Singing songs of flowers and finding the business of her dreams

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 09:12:06 -0500

Barb Keller makes her way into the vault with hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays to talk about her business, All A' Bloom Flowers & Gifts. When she decided to seek out her entrepreneurial dreams, it wasn't a quest to become a florist. In fact, she originally had her eye on another business. But circumstance, advice, and friendships led her to All A' Bloom and an unexpected growth into a downtown Lee's Summit business serving the entire metropolitan area... Oh, and one more thing, if you check out our Instagram feed you'll get to hear Barb and Liesl's vocal talents. Look out, American Top 40 charts!

Monday NewsLink: School news, upcoming events and a former football player making a home in LS

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:27:35 -0500

In this week's Monday NewsLink, hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays catch you up with a few headlines from local schools, look at some upcoming happenings and introduce you to Forest Vance, a former pro football player now turned business owner who is making his home in Lee's Summit.

The power of kettlebells and learning LSMO ＞ California

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:38:43 -0500

Is Lee's Summit really better than California? Well, we're pretty sure that's what this week's guest was telling us in the subtext of this week's conversation. Lee's Summit newcomer Forest Vance enters the vault for a talk with Nick and Liesl on his path from California through the NFL to landing in Lee's Summit with his young family. Now retired from professional football, Vance owns and operates fitness centers in Lee's Summit, as well as the Sacramento area. The gyms focus on kettle bell training as a way to help adults achieve realistic fitness goals.

Monday NewsLink: Summer camps, national tournaments and celebrating legends

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:08:57 -0500

Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays for this week's episode of Lee's Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. In this episode, we share exciting news about a Summit Christian Academy freshman and the Eagles' junior high team qualifying for the national speech and debate competitions in Phoenix, AZ. Additionally, we discuss the Lee's Summit History Museum's inaugural 'Legends of Lee's Summit' awards and the University of Central Missouri's summer camps for middle and high school students interested in creative writing. Lastly, we remind listeners of an upcoming Earth Day event organized by Deep Roots, GaleHart Communities, and MCC-Longview. Tune in to learn more about these news, events, and happenings around Lee's Summit.

Johnson, Miller & Garrett capture LSR7 school board seats in tight race

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 11:14:51 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays go over the results from Tuesday's local election covering the City of Lee's Summit, Mo and the Lee's Summit R-7 School District.

Monday NewsLink: Tuesday’s election, weekend events & more

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 11:13:27 -0500

Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays in the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast as they keep you updated on the latest news, events, and happenings in Lee's Summit. In this episode, they remind local voters about the upcoming elections, provide a resource for checking polling location, and also give an update on previous discussions with guests from the LSR7 School Board, Mayor Bill Baird, and City Manager Mark Dunning. Plus, they share details about the upcoming Downtown Bunny Hop, an exciting Easter event for families in the community. Stay informed and engaged with the Lee's Summit community through this informative and engaging podcast.

Catching up on the ballot questions and the City is asking of voters

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 11:58:02 -0500

Mayor Bill Baird and City Manager Mark Dunning enter the vault to talk with Nick and Liesl about next week's election and the 4 municipal questions on the ballot. These questions cover approximately $168 million in bonds to fund capital improvement projects throughout the City and the fourth question asks for voters to approve a municipal sales tax on the sale of recreational marijuana.

Moving forward... What are our next community conversations?

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 16:14:49 -0500

Still reeling from last week's interrogation and abuse from Liesl, Nick thought it was a good idea to reset and take a moment to think about our community conversations — both the what and who we should be talking to in the coming months. That starts with some thoughts from our new co-host and moves to a question to the audience. What are the important topics in Lee's Summit? What are some local stories we can make sure are told?

Monday NewsLink: A look at upcoming events and current news from your community

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:48:51 -0500

Welcome to the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee’s Summit. Join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they bring you the latest news, happenings, and events in and around Lee’s Summit every week.

In this episode, Nick and Liesl discuss the upcoming Tom Logan Memorial Bike Ride, also known as Tour de Lakes, which is set to return this summer with four different routes to choose from. They also cover the growing number of organizations that are opposing the proposed landfill development near the southern border of Lee’s Summit.

The podcast also highlights the Native Plant Sale on April 22nd, 2023, celebrating Earth Day, and featuring a Callery Pear Buyback program, as well as assistance in choosing native plants for your property. Additionally, the podcast mentions the University of Central Missouri’s partnership with Black Rocket online learning company to offer STEAM summer camps for children aged 6 to 14.

The one where Liesl turns the tables

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 16:37:27 -0500

Hello everyone, it’s Liesl. Oh how the tables have turned. This week, I took over the podcast and interviewed Nick. Nick is one of the best story collectors I know and has been highlighting stories in Lee’s Summit for the past six years. Now… it’s his turn to tell the story.

Catching up on our schools and talking about the tax levy

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:43:00 -0500

LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Associate Superintendent of Operations Dr. Steve Shelton drop by the vault to talk about the tax levy issue on next month's ballot and why they feel it's an important move for the future of the district.

Monday NewsLink: New retail store celebrates through charitable giving and more

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:27:16 -0500

Welcome to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit. Every Monday, join Nick Parker and Liesl Hays as they discuss the latest news, events, and happenings around Lee's Summit, Missouri. In this episode, Nick and Liesl share some exciting updates, including the launch of a new retail feature at Macadoodles that benefits local charities, a new test-prep program from the University of Central Missouri-Lee's Summit, and the upcoming Lee's Summit Chamber candidate forum.

She’s out to share her passion for the arts and her hometown

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 15:56:13 -0600

Nick and Liesl welcome Jane Bollin to the studio. A long-time local realtor, Jane has built a wealth of knowledge about Lee's Summit and why people would choose it for their home and she loves giving that pitch to prospective home buyers. However, she's ready to share her passion for all things Lee's Summit — especially the arts — with everyone. She joins the show to talk about her new periodical segment in Link 2 Lee's Summit — My Home. Her first installment published this week and focused on an art display at Art School KC in downtown Lee's Summit.

Monday NewsLink: News, events and happenings for the week of March 6, 2023

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:51:13 -0600

The latest news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit were discussed during the weekly news link, presented by Budget Blinds of Lee’s Summit and Pro Deo Youth Center's Twisted Trivia event. The weekly podcast, hosted by Nick Parker and Liesl Hays, provides updates on the community.

Creating a space for youth to have a voice through peer advocacy, justice and reconciliation

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:23:23 -0600

Meredith Rose, enters the Vault, for a conversation with Nick and Liesl on Jackson County Youth Court and her own story about life and a path to community service and creating opportunities for area youth to succeed and excel.

Monday NewsLink: Gearing up for a parade and checking in on some school news

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 12:07:33 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 27, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Some twisted trivia and a call to support local teens

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 11:03:46 -0600

Elaine Metcalf drops by the studio to talk with Nick and Liesl about the upcoming Twisted Trivia event benefitting Pro Deo Youth Center. Elaine is celebrating her fifth year as executive director for Lee's Summit's only youth center and she has some big plans for the organization's future.

A mission to give everyone a voice, and seat, at the table

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 11:56:40 -0600

Voice. For Vanessa Hickman her work through Lee's Summit Cares is all about giving local youth an opportunity to use their voice and be heard when it comes to issues and conversations about them. On the day of her one-year anniversary with the organization, Hickman drops by the studio to chat with Nick and Liesl about LS Cares' programming for both youth and adults covering topics of mental health, substance use, bullying, parenting and more.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 cancels classes for Red Wednesday & more news from around LS

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:24:50 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 13, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. This week's headlines come from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, Lee's Summit Educational Foundation, Greater Lee's Summit Healthcare Foundation, UCM-Lee's Summit and more.

The evolution of a dream

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 14:37:20 -0600

Seth Allen had some very specific goals when he first opened Libations & Co. in downtown Lee's Summit. But, he knows both business and dreams can evolve. Just months after moving the business from 23 SW Third Street to 25 SW Third Street and doubling in size, he's now ready for another big step. The 1909 Club celebrates a soft opening this week and will be open to the public the following weekend. Named after the date of the building's original construction, Allen refers to the new venue as a music hall dedicated to high quality craft cocktails, music and a vibe you can't find anywhere else in town.

Monday NewsLink: Construction news at Paragon Star and more news from around the community

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 12:23:57 -0600

Keeping residents of the city informed about the latest events, news and happenings, here is your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 6, 2023.

In search of 100 (or more) people who care

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:31:56 -0600

LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Citizen Emeritus (yeah, that's a thing now) Carl Chinnery join Nick and Liesl to talk about a special charity event — 100 People Who Care — coming up on Feb. 8. Listen in as they describe this unique event and talk about the importance of community involvement and support of local nonprofits. For additional information on the event, go Link2LeesSummit.com.

Monday NewsLink: Local arts, schools and charitable news

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:01:51 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 30, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

He’s a coach. No, he’s a salesman. Wait, are they the same thing?

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 09:16:02 -0600

Jeff Driskill has spent his life in the world of sports. He played football in high school, then at the NCAA Division I level. He played semi-pro (where he won a Super Bowl ring!) and went on to be a collegiate head coach... And then he went into sales. But here's the thing about this local resident who now coaches high school football players, sales professionals and business executives alike, it turns out being good at sales means you have to be a good coach, too. And vice-versa.

Monday NewsLink: Student grants, local charity events & more

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 12:56:07 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 23, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Black Diamond’s songs of life

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 08:54:50 -0600

It's a proven fact, when a Neil Diamond song starts playing everybody — and I mean everybody — sings along. The world's love affair with the music of the legendary singer has led to wild and crazy career for this resident of Lee's Summit. At an early age, Theron Denson was told his singing voice sounded a lot like Diamond, and for the past 22 years he's toured the country entertaining the masses with his tributes as The Black Neil Diamond. Theron dropped by the vault this week to talk about his show's origins, share some stories and preview Saturday's special performance at The Pink Elephant in downtown Lee's Summit.

Monday NewsLink: Honoring MLK, Restaurant Week & more

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 11:57:49 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 16, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Monday NewsLink: Honoring MLK, Restaurant Week & more

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 11:57:22 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 16, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

To be good, you gotta be stubborn

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 10:53:29 -0600

Diana and Allen Rendell drop by the studio to talk about their love of art and how they're using their downtown Lee's Summit-based nonprofit business, Art School KC, as a means to help grow the arts in our community.

Monday NewsLink: Local MLK celebration, meet the candidates & planning for spring?

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 11:47:11 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 9, 2023. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. This week's headlines come from UCM-Lee's Summit, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, inc.

The one where the students take over

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 14:01:00 -0600

Yeah, you read that right. Student journalism students from Lee's Summit West recently spent a day at Lee's Summit Town Hall's Bridge Space studio learning about podcasting and interview techniques. In this final episode before Christmas we thought it was a good idea to bring you one of the student interviews with local business owner Dave Eames. In the coming weeks, we'll try and share some of the other student interviews. Here are Lee's Summit West's Hayden Peters and Emily Gerhart.

Monday NewsLink: Holiday events highlight the week ahead

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:56:41 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 19, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

12ish Bars of Christmas charity event closing in on $30K for Hope House

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:32:33 -0600

Once upon a time, Courtney Stoddard wanted to have a pub crawl in her hometown's downtown district. Nine years later, her little Christmas wish has grown into one of the metro's most popular events and has raised more than $100,000 for Hope House. This year, her goal was to add another $30,000 to that tally and she is oh-so-close. Listen in as she joins hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays to preview this Saturday's crawl and how you can help reach this goal supporting a vital local nonprofit.

Monday NewsLink: Upcoming events & a look at some local students

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 12:42:11 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 12, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Prepping for a holiday concert & setting up students for real world success

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 13:55:56 -0600

Musician, teacher and all-around good egg, Shawn Harrel joins the show (and brings along some students) talk about an upcoming jazz concert and the work his digital media students are doing in the community. In fact, Nick and Liesl didn't do anything for this show except talk. The episode was recorded at Summit Technology Academy by a team of Harrel's students. Harrel was joined on air by senior students Amya Morgan, Abby Oldham and Jacob Loesch. Student engineers for this episode were Hannah Jones and Alex King. Harrel and the Lee's Summit Jazz Orchestra will perform it's annual holiday concert at 5 p.m. Thursday, December 15 at Bridge Space in downtown Lee's Summit.

Monday NewsLink: Holiday events, city council agenda and congrats for some local prep athletes

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 11:14:38 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 5, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Santa Claus is coming to town

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:11:37 -0600

We missed our chance last year, but Santa returns to the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast today for a visit with hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays. During the show, he talks about his favorite snacks, negotiating with the elves' union and favorite Christmas memories. And don't forget to listen for some great upcoming photo opportunities with the big man!

Upcoming events for this Thanksgiving week

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 11:31:50 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 21, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

It’s time to play the music; it’s time to light the lights...

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 11:13:20 -0600

Ok, we're not meeting the Muppets on the Muppet Show tonight. But, we are talking about the official launch of the holiday season in Lee's Summit. Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Jenny Gale drops by the studio to preview this Friday's Mayor's Tree Lighting ceremony and next week's Small Business Saturday shopping event. Oh, and an important question is posed — Are boneless wings really wings?

Monday NewsLink: Upcoming events, downtown lighting, school news and more

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 12:07:05 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 14, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. This week's headlines come from Downtown Lee's Summit, UCM-Lee's Summit, Summit Christian Academy and more.

On practicing gratitude and noticing goodness

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:31:17 -0600

Amy Johnson, from the Noticed Network and I Am Noticed, returns to the show on Liesl Hays' first episode as the new permanent cohost for Lee's Summit Town Hall. As we enter the holiday season, we thought it was a good time to catch up with Amy and her business and have a conversation about getting real with positive thinking and keeping it an authentic part of our lives.

You can connect with Amy at:

Monday Newslink: Upcoming events, development news & a new restaurant opens its doors

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:02:31 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 7, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Jason says goodbye, and fittingly, we have some tech issues

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 00:01:00 -0500

Really, could there be a more fitting way for Jason Norbury to have his final episode the podcast? For his farewell show, we welcome back our inaugural interview guest, the man who helped start this entire endeavor, owner of Fossil Forge and Local Founder, Dave Eames. Also fittingly, we experienced weird but debilitating technical issues and lost half the interview Dave. But that's OK. We still had fun and Jason got to yell "Budget Blinds!" one final time. After more than 500 episodes together, thanks, Jason for helping Link 2 Lee's Summit tell local stories, promote local business and serve the community. New voices are coming, but you'll be hard to replace.

NewsLink: City reconfiguring civic commissions, Macadoodles opens its doors and LSFD breaks ground

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 12:29:53 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 31, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

This week we look at City Council's efforts to re-organize civic commissions, check out a new business opening and the Lee's Summit Fire Department's groundbreaking ceremonies for two new stations.

Jason makes an announcement and we check in on a friend

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:55:27 -0500

After six years of conversations about the community, Lee's Summit Town Hall Jason Norbury is moving on to a new opportunity in a neighboring city. So, in his penultimate episode, he asked to bring back a favorite guest, Lee's Summit Social Services Executive Director Matt Sanning, for one more interview about an organization working for the betterment of Lee's Summit.

A local superintendent of schools walks into a studio...

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 14:32:13 -0500

At long last, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury get an in-studio conversation with Lee's Summit R-7 School District Superintendent Dr. David Buck. Because of the pandemic previous episodes were recorded over video calls, but this week, Dr. Buck drops by to talk about new programs, construction updates and a look to the future.

A visit from our Overlord with an opportunity to help Feed Lee’s Summit

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 14:37:52 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury recap a couple of news items and preview some weekend events before welcoming in a very special guest. That's right, one of our Robot Shade Overlords, Courtney Stoddard Laufketter, joins the show to talk about next month's Feed Lee's Summit charity event sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Lee's Summit and benefitting, Lee's Summit Social Services, One Good Meal, Meals on Wheels and Coldwater of Lee's Summit.

Monday NewsLink: Road closures, fire prevention, ChiliFest & more!

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 11:11:58 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 10, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. This week's headlines come from City Of Lee's Summit, downtown Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Fire Department, Bridge Space Lee's Summit, Coldwater of Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Jazz Orchestra and Developing Potential, Inc.

Chilifest ready to serve up good grub with a healthy side of charitable support

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 12:50:22 -0500

Chilifest 2022 is almost here! Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury welcome Ben Rao and Collin Brich into the studio to preview Chilifest 2022, which is set for Oct. 15 at Bridge Space in Downtown Lee's Summit. The annual event benefits three local charities — Coldwater of Lee's Summit, Developing Potential and Lee's Summit Jazz Orchestra.

Monday NewsLink: News, happenings & events for the week

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:11:12 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 3, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

The great empanada tease

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 11:27:53 -0500

Downtown Lee's Summit is about to get a new restaurant — Calavaras. Josh and Lanni Edwards, owners of Smoke Brewing Co. and Calavaras dropped by the studio to talk about the new concept and the food they plan to bring to the community. Oh, and they talked about these amazing empanadas, but didn't bring any to share. What gives?

Monday NewsLink: Professional awards, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events & more

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 10:49:35 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 26, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. This week's headlines come from UCM-Lee's Summit, the City of Lee's Summit, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street and ReDiscover.

Dialing 988 for help and conversations on mental health & suicide prevention

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 13:19:54 -0500

ReDiscover's Kirsti Millar and Shelby Finley drop by the studio to talk with hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury about the recent launch of the 988 hotline and continuing conversations about mental health and suicide prevention with family, friends, students and our community as a whole.

Monday NewsLink: Oktoberfest kicks off string of fall community events

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 11:26:29 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 19, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. Oktoberfest is this weekend in downtown Lee's Summit. The annual festival kicks off the community's fall events schedule which includes concerts, haunted tours and more. This week's episode also includes some news from the LSR7 School District.

The City is talking about diversity and the future of LSEDC... & Abyssinia, Steve

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 17:48:03 -0500

Ok, that last bit of the headline will hit only for a select few listeners of a certain age. But it seems fitting as the City said goodbye to long-time City Manager Steve Arbo. And if host Nick Parker had his way, he would have presented Arbo with a nice double-breasted suit on his final evening of service. On Tuesday, Arbo participated in his final City Council before retiring on Wednesday. So, what issues were the Council tackling in Arbo's final hours? Council took in a long-awaited presentation on a Diversity & Inclusion study and talked about what's next for the City's economic development plans now that it has terminated its public service agreement with the Lee's Summit Economic Development Corporation. Nick and co-host Jason Norbury note this is the first time members of Council have publicly offered any reasons for the termination since it was decided in closed session.

Monday NewsLink: Bring your own vinyl, boost your career & more from around town

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 11:31:38 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 12, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Big events this week and looking ahead to real movement on the downtown market & performance space project

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 14:05:05 -0500

Thursday is your opportunity to eat wings for charity and this weekend is a great time to shop during Downtown Lee's Summit's annual Fall Open House event. The big news this week are a couple of procedural moves by the City Council which should lead to some real movement on the long-awaited Market Plaza Development which will include a new home for the farmer's market and an outdoor performance space.

Upcoming events and looking to Council discussion of farmers market and former Ice House building

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 13:09:34 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a look at some upcoming events and next week's City Council discussions on the Market Plaza development and the former Ice House building located on the property. This week's episode ends with a bonus segment of Link 2 Lee's Summit's 'I Am Lee's Summit' series.

Monday NewsLink: Quick news and notes for the week of Aug. 29

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:12:15 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 29, 2022. Today's headlines come from Truman Heartland Community Foundation, the City of Lee's Summit, Summit Christian Academy, Kansas City Real Estate, Ask Cathy of Keller Williams, and more.

Ryan Elam and looking ahead to future housing development in LS

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 11:28:06 -0500

As promised, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury continue the conversation on a recent housing study and the City's efforts to plan for future development in Lee's Summit. Newly minted Assistant City Manager Ryan Elam joins the podcast.

Monday NewsLink: A new school year, business news & upcoming events

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:40:48 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 22, 2022. This Monday's podcast features news from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, a local business owner, UCM-Lee's Summit, Summit Christian Academy and Downtown Lee's Summit.

Chris Turney returns, but he didn’t bring the wings!

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 09:09:00 -0500

Wings 4 Water is a popular charity food event helping both local charities and supplying clean water to locations around the world. Lee's Summit resident and founder Chris Turney returns to the podcast to chat with hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury and preview this event, which will take place September 8 at Paragon Star.

Upcoming events and facing conversations & allegations of racism

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 14:08:15 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury update you on a few upcoming events before taking a look at a recent canceled event at Summit Waves, which sparked continued community conversation on race and equity.

Monday NewsLink: Cooking competitions, anniversaries and local stories

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 13:55:25 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 8, 2020. This week's news comes from Wings 4 Water, Lee's Summit Chilifest, Summit Theatre Group, Bridge Space and Pro Deo Youth Center.

Stick that pinky out and get ready to celebrate!

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 15:41:39 -0500

Summit Theatre Group (that's right, theater with an "re" at the end because we're classy, folks!) is celebrating its 10th anniversary this month and Board President Becca Stabno and Company Manager Laura Heath dropped by the studio to talk about a pair of special anniversary performances coming up as well as take a look back at how this local nonprofit arts organization has grown and evolved during the past 10 years.

Monday NewsLink: Primary elections and other community news & notes

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 12:55:29 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 1, 2022. This week's news and notes come from the Jackson County Election Board, UCM-Lee's Summit, A Better Choice Preschool and more.

Quick look at next week’s ballot and looking in on the housing discussion

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 18:10:32 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a quick look at items of note on next week's primary ballot before looking in on the Lee's Summit City Council's discussion of last week's housing study presentation.

Continuing the conversation about multifamily development and the future of Lee’s Summit

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 00:01:00 -0500

The Lee's Summit City Council will learn results of a new housing study at Tuesday's Council meeting. We know what the report will say, but what do our elected leaders think? And what are the questions we should be addressing as our community plans for future growth and demand for housing. Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a look at some of the questions and possible focuses of conversation.

Monday NewsLink: City Council preview; local charity seeks school donations & more

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:34:33 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 18, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Matt Sanning and gearing up for LSSS’ Back to School program

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 12:15:58 -0500

Lee's Summit Social Services Executive Director Matt Sanning returns to the podcast to talk about the agency's preparation for their annual back-to-school program. Sanning talks about the families they help and how you can help them serve the community during this important time of year.

Monday NewsLink: Public hearings, student achievements, local events & more

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 11:14:05 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 11, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit. This week's headlines come from the City of Lee's Summit, Summit Christian Academy, Downtown Lee's Summit, KC Velocity and more.

Books are making a teacher’s dream come true

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 10:02:05 -0500

Nick and Jason welcome Tina Perne to the podcast to talk about her new role — owner of KD's Books in downtown Lee's Summit. Perne, a retired elementary teacher, took over as owner of the downtown staple on June 10.

Monday NewsLink: Fireworks, Legacy Blast, public art & more

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 11:23:35 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 27, 2022. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

Local brewery adds second location

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 15:52:11 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury catch you up on some local news and then welcome Nigel Woodberry to talk about local brewery and home brew store, Grains & Taps opening its second location this week in the Pine Tree Plaza area.

Monday NewsLink: School security, historic preservation, business news & more

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 11:20:51 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 20, 2022. Each week, Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays take a few minutes to give you the news happenings and events from around Lee's Summit.

Local news wrap-up

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:41:29 -0500

Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a few minutes to catch you up on the local news from throughout the community.

Downtown Days is back — get all the details about this weekend’s popular downtown festival

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 10:05:28 -0500

Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street events director Julie Cook joins the show to talk about this weekend's return of the Downtown Days festival. As usual, our most popular and frequent guest delivers all of the details for this popular community event.

Graduations, recognitions and getting ready to kick off summer

Wed, 25 May 2022 17:31:17 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury pass along some public recognitions and "good on yas" while also looking forward to summer — which officials kicks off next week with the return of the Downtown Days festival.

Monday NewsLink: Road work, graduations & more

Mon, 23 May 2022 13:16:01 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 23, 2022.

Monday NewsLink: Looking ahead to this week’s School Board, City Council & summer festivals

Mon, 16 May 2022 11:41:58 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 16, 2022.

Upcoming events and a reminder of residents’ role in the City’s development

Wed, 11 May 2022 11:38:11 -0500

This week, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury look at some upcoming events, specifically the season's first concert at Legacy Park Amphitheater, and a successful public petition against a proposed residential development in north Lee's Summit.

Monday NewsLink: Legacy Blast set to return, school news & more

Mon, 09 May 2022 11:02:55 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 9, 2022.

Celebrating new beginnings

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 11:31:12 -0500

We're celebrating new beginnings this week! The Lee's Summit City Council swore in its new members, the council and public got a look at a replacement development for an aging fire station on the north end of town, and Seth Allen and Ryan Studer (owners of Libations & Co.) drop by the studio to talk about their impending move into the Historic Stanley building in downtown Lee's Summit.... Oh, and happy birthday, Jason.

Monday NewsLink: New fire station on the horizon, election certification & school news

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 09:57:50 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 25, 2022.

A look at upcoming events and checking on on the local BOE and City Council

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 10:42:07 -0500

Spring is here. Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a quick look at some upcoming events, the Lee's Summit Parks' summer concert schedule and some news and notes from the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education and the City Council.

Monday NewsLink: Warm-weather events approaching, LSR7 Teacher of the Year and more!

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 10:50:07 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 18, 2022.

Pop quiz, hot shot — local businesses team up for charity trivia event on Thursday

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 11:53:49 -0500

Ronnie Dyer, of Dyer Oil Graphics, joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about Thursday's pop up trivia night fundraiser benefitting Lee's Summit Social Services. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at The Goat Brewing.

Monday NewsLink: City’s D&I Commission seeks public input, Bunny Hop parade & more

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:20:31 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 11, 2022.

Election day has come and gone, what have we learned and what’s next?

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 11:34:37 -0500

The (unofficial) election results are out there. A couple of incumbents remain in office and several newcomers are ready to step onto the dais for the Lee's Summit City Council and Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education. Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury review the results and take a look at what we've learned from this latest election cycle and what the results could mean for the community going forward.

Meet your candidates for Mayor

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 09:34:04 -0500

It's been way too long since we've hosted an in person Town Hall episode. In front of a live audience at Bridge Space in downtown Lee's Summit, Mayoral candidates Bill Baird and Diane Forte joined hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury for a conversation on local issues and their visions for the future of the community... And as an added bonus, we raised a little money for two local nonprofits — Hope House and Lee's Summit Social Services.

One last look at BOE candidates and we’re going live on Thursday

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 10:51:11 -0500

Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a look at some City Council News and preview Thursday's mayoral candidate forum before taking a final look at the Lee's Summit R-7 School District Board of Education ballot.

Meet your candidates for Lee’s Summit City Council, District 4

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 20:05:57 -0500

Bob Johnson, fourth-district candidate for Lee's Summit City Council, joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about local issues and his vision for Lee's Summit. The second candidate, Faith Hodges, did not respond to multiple invitations to participate.

Monday NewsLink: Rescheduled parade set for Saturday; meet your candidates; planning for summer & more

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 11:12:04 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 14, 2022. This week's headlines come from Downtown Lee's Summit, the City of Lee's Summit, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, University of Central Missouri-Lee's Summit and more.

Meet your candidates for Lee’s Summit City Council, District 3

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 10:10:49 -0600

Jose "Beto" Lopez, third-district candidate for Lee's Summit City Council, joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about local issues and his vision for Lee's Summit. The second candidate, Ted Diehl, did not respond to multiple invitations to participate.

The City’s worst kept secret is out

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 10:56:14 -0600

It hasn't been much of a secret, but this week's City Council meeting confirmed current Assistant City Manager Mark Dunning will succeed Steve Arbo as the next City Manager in September. A first reading of the hiring agreement was unanimously approved by Council. Jason and Nick take a look and then look at a few upcoming local events.

Monday NewsLink: Weekend events, student awards and more

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 11:53:41 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 7, 2022. This week's headlines come from Downtown Lee's Summit, Pro Deo Youth Center, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and more.

Meet your candidates for Lee’s Summit City Council, District 2

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 10:40:07 -0600

Lorenzo Harrison and John Lovell, second-district candidates for Lee's Summit City Council, join hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about local issues and their visions for Lee's Summit. The third candidate, Storm Dillenschneider did not respond to multiple invitations to participate until after the process had completed.

Meet Kirk Sonnichsen, candidate for City Council, district 1

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:40:13 -0600

Kirk Sonnichsen, first-district candidate for Lee's Summit City Council, joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about local issues and his vision for Lee's Summit.

Meet Mia Prier, candidate for City Council, district 1

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:37:46 -0600

Mia Prier, first-district candidate for Lee's Summit City Council, joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about local issues and her vision for Lee's Summit.

Happy birthday to the Overlord and a look at some upcoming events

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 11:11:11 -0600

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury wish a special happy birthday to their benevolent sponsor and Robot Shade Overlord before taking a look at a handful of local events and looking ahead to City Council candidate conversations.

Monday NewsLink: Upcoming events, news & notes from your community

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 11:34:13 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 28, 2022. This week's headlines come from Downtown Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Social Services, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and more.

Homework for the City Council candidates and looking forward to some Twisted Trivia

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 13:18:18 -0600

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury review a few news and notes from the community before looking at some conversation starters for the upcoming City Council candidate conversations which begin this Friday. Pro Deo Youth Center's Elaine Metcalf and Karla Williams join the show to preview their big Twisted Trivia fundraiser event set for March 11.

Monday NewsLink: News & notes from local schools, LSFD, local charities and more

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 12:05:43 -0600

Monday NewsLink: News & notes from local schools, LSFD, local charities and more

Introducing the remaining candidates for LSR7 Board of Education

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 13:25:56 -0600

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury are joined by Larry Anderson, Heather Eslick, Jennifer Foley and Dr. Joseph Yacaginsky to discuss their candidacies for the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education. This is the second of two episodes featuring conversations with 7 o the 8 candidates for 2 seats on the ballot. Anne Geanes has not responded to media inquiries and invitations to join the conversation.

Opportunities to share your voice

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 14:36:21 -0600

Nick and Jason cover some opportunities for residents to participate in City processes and look ahead to a fun charitable fundraiser and the next round of candidate conversations.

Monday NewsLink: Some news, notes and upcoming events

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 10:59:17 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 14, 2022.

Meet your candidates for LSR7 Board of Education

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:35:24 -0600

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury are joined by 3 of the 8 candidates for two seats on the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education in the first of a series of candidate forums for the April municipal election. This week's guests are Mike Allen, Melissa Kelly Foxhoven and Bill Lindsey.

City Council approves DEI consultants& other news and notes

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 11:46:12 -0600

Before candidate conversations begin on Friday, Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a look at a few items from Tuesday's City Council meeting, as well as a few other notes from around the community.

Monday NewsLink: Election shakeups, masking in schools, time to be kind & more

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 11:33:37 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 7, 2022.

And I guess that’s why they call them the blues

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 13:01:00 -0600

It's cold. It's snowing. We're coming up on the two year mark of the pandemic and many of us, the young and the old, are still struggling with stress and anxieties we just haven't dealt with in the past. Local therapist Kerri Gray comes back to the show for a conversation on the winter blues and some advice for us as we continue to think about how best to help our kids during what continues to be times of high stress... Oh, she's got a good recommendation, too!

Monday NewsLink: Lifetime Achievement Award for Geneva High and more news from around Lee’s Summit

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 11:34:09 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 31, 2022.

It’s time to start meeting our candidates

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 12:07:41 -0600

The annual Lee's Summit Town Hall candidate interviews begin next week. Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a little time to preview those conversations with Lee's Summit Board of Education candidates and offer final opportunities for you to chime in with questions or topics you feel should be presented to the candidates.

Monday NewsLink: Student winners, school rankings and more

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 11:35:50 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 24, 2022. This week's news brief comes from Summit Christian Academy, local VFW Post 5789, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and more.

The return of the parade and shaping our conversations with candidates

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 11:19:25 -0600

Nick and Jason are incredibly excited to let you know both the Emerald Isle Parade and Downtown Days festival are both ready for their triumphant return to our community calendars! Also on today's episode, we look at a couple of items from last night's City Council meeting that will help shape future conversations with candidates for both Council and the Mayor's office.

Monday NewsLink: School updates, the Mayor’s Character Breakfast and other news & notes

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 11:16:48 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 10, 2022.

Development updates, good on ya, golf carts and silly season — Oh my!

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 10:33:25 -0600

After a short holiday hiatus, Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury return to kick off the new year with some updates from inside hall, including one on the Market Plaza project in downtown before offering up another good on ya for support of a local charity and taking a first look at the candidates who have filed for the spring general election.

Monday NewsLink: School news, Parks updates and seeking input

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 11:26:00 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 3, 2022. LSR7 updates its COVID-19 protocols, student musicians capture state and regional honors and we're looking for your input on local issues as we officially enter local elections season.

Story time with Mr. Kriss Kringle

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 09:53:48 -0600

No analysis from City Hall this week. We aren't talking about next year's local election. Instead, for this holiday week we thought we'd share a simple story and message from the big man himself — Mr. Kriss Kringle. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to each of you. We'll talk to you all, next year.

On meetings among the electeds & Christmas wishes for the community

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 12:16:10 -0600

Nick and Jason review a recent joint meeting between the City Council and the LSR7 Board of Education, look at the agenda for an upcoming BOE meeting and offer up some of their holiday wishes for the Lee's Summit community.

In support of local families, filing for office and updates from City Hall

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 13:45:21 -0600

We've got a full episode for you this week. We're offering up some "good on ya's" for efforts to support a local charity; we review the slate of candidates filing for local office and go over some updates on happenings at City Hall.

Monday NewsLink: Holiday events, supporting local nonprofits & some schools news

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 11:22:29 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 6, 2021.

Santa‘s coming, the mayor is running again and paying tribute to good deeds

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 11:40:45 -0600

Nick and Jason are back from their Thanksgiving break and ready to celebrate Santa's return on Friday night, before covering a bit of news from around the city and taking some time to honor Hillcrest Transitional Housing's Cotton Sivils, who has retired after leading the organization for 18 years.

Monday NewsLink: Santa‘s coming; a spotlight on two local residents and high school students gear up for a hackathon

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:30:26 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 29, 2021. Today's headlines come from downtown Lee's Summit, Hillcrest Transitional Housing, the Kansas City Chiefs, UCM-Lee's Summit and more.

Monday NewsLink: News, notes and events from around Lee‘s Summit

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 10:22:08 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 22, 2021. This week's headlines come from Summit Christian Academy, Lee's Summit R-7 School District, Lee's Summit CARES, and Downtown Lee's Summit.

Santa‘s coming on Friday and we have our first sign of election activity

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 11:24:32 -0600

The Mayor's Tree Lighting event is back this year and the switch gets flipped in downtown on Friday night. In other news, Nick and Jason await this week's LSR7 Board of Education's discussion about masking and take a quick look ahead to next spring's local election. Filing for the board of education, city council and the mayoral race is less than one month away.

City Council tells Jackson County it‘s ready to ditch the masks

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:46:31 -0600

This week, the Lee's Summit City Council unanimously passed a resolution telling the Jackson County Legislature it would like them to end the county-wide mask mandate. Why now? And what does this resolution actually mean? Jason and Nick have questions for the members seated at the dais.

Monday NewsLink: Championships, honors and recognition for local high school teams

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 11:16:59 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 8, 2021. This week focuses on recognition for local sports teams from Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit North, Lee's Summit West, Blue Springs South, St. Michael the Archangel and Summit Christian Academy high schools.

Monday NewsLink: Public conversations, downtown parades & saying goodbye

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 11:41:16 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 1, 2021. This week's headlines come from the City of Lee's Summit, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, the University of Central Missouri and guest columnist, John Beaudoin.

Monday NewsLink: Public input, school news & more

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 10:44:06 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 25, 2021. This week's headlines come from the City of Lee's Summit, Downtown Lee's Summit, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, UCM-Lee's Summit and more.

The theatre, the theatre, what happens in the theatre?

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 11:02:31 -0500

Summit Theatre Group's Ginger Birch joins Nick and Jason in the studio to talk about the local company's participation in this weekend's Downtown Haunted & Historic Spaces Tours, as well as the group's upcoming productions and newly opened studio space.

Monday NewsLink: Service projects, haunted tours, employment opportunities & more

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 11:00:16 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 11, 2021. This week's headlines come from Lee's Summit Parks & Recreation, Girl Scout Troop 3642, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, the University of Central Missouri-Lee's Summit and University Health.

Kickin‘ off the 2nd annual LS Arts Week

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:58:50 -0500

Glenda Masters, Cultural Arts Manager for the City of Lee's Summit, drops by the studio to talk with Nick and Jason about Lee's Summit Arts Week, which begins Friday.

Monday NewsLink: Fire prevention, downtown events & some schools news

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 11:33:15 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 4, 2021. This week's headlines come from the City of Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Fire Department, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, Summit Christian Academy and the University of Central Missouri-Lee's Summit.

You‘ve got things to do

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 11:09:52 -0500

As we move into the final quarter of 2021, one bright spot as been the return of regularly scheduled community events. Last week's Oktoberfest, put on by the Lee's Summit Chamber, marked a successful return of festivals. And now that fall is officially here, Nick and Jason talk about some of the other beloved community-wide events on the calendar.

Retirement; awards; haunted tours and more!

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 12:36:02 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 27, 2021. This week's headlines come from City Hall, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, Downtown Lee's Summit and the rest of your community.

The Oktoberfest doth return

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 10:49:17 -0500

If it feels like it's been more than a year since we've all gathered for a community festival in downtown, well, that's because it has been. But that's all about to change. Rachel Dyer, from the Lee's Summit Chamber's Oktoberfest committee, joins Nick and Jason to preview this weekend's festival. That's right, folks, Oktoberfest is this weekend in downtown Lee's Summit! Oh, and we've got a couple of news notes as well. But mostly, this is about Oktoberfest.

Looking for the why and one woman‘s quest for financial freedom

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 14:39:27 -0500

The Lee's Summit City Council is talking about redistricting and the possibility of establishing the City's own health department. Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury say that's all fine and good, but could you give us the reason why we need our own department? And Lee's Summit resident and entrepreneur Samantha Salem stops by the studio to share some of her story.

Wings, chili & raising money for charities

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 09:50:34 -0500

Wings 4 Water is tomorrow night and next weekend Chilifest makes its triumphant return. Bridge Space owner and Chilifest "Head Honcho" Ben Rao. joins Nick and Jason to talk about the local event, the food you'll get to eat, the people the event helps and even a bit about how you can get involved.

September is full of great events; Jason wants to get nerdy

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 10:39:05 -0500

On this Wednesday episode, hosts Nick and Jason preview some upcoming events and festivals; take a look at COVID's effect on the LSR7 School District and some new public incentives for an ongoing development project.

Monday NewsLink: Some events, a record-breaking year and other local news & notes

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:11:42 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 30, 2021.

Finding the wind beneath our wings and cooking the books

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 11:47:05 -0500

Ain't nothin' gonna break his stride. Ain't nothin' gonna slow him down. Oh, no. He's got to keep on cooking those wings. Wings 4 Water founder Chris Turney drops by the studio to talk to Nick and Jason about next week's 5th annual Wings 4 Water charity event at Harris Park.

Monday NewsLink: Back to school and other local news, notes and events

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 11:50:51 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 23, 2021. School is back in session this week and we've got a few headlines from the Lee's Summit R-7 school District, as well as some other news and notes from around the Lee's Summit community.

Catching up with Dr. Buck as our kids get ready for a new school year

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:13:59 -0500

You heard it here first. LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck says this year, "School's going to look a lot more like school." With just 7 days left in the summer break, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury chat with Buck about the upcoming school year and get an idea of what students can expect.

Monday NewsLink: Prepping for a return to school; internships & accolades; & entrepreneurial inspiration

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 13:09:47 -0500

Monday NewsLink: Prepping for a return to school; internships & accolades; & entrepreneurial inspiration

Good on ya; happy birthday, Missouri; the kids will be wearing masks

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 12:40:55 -0500

A big congratulations for the Lee's Summit History Museum and its partners for this week's Missouri Bicentennial ice cream social and Nick and Jason take a look at the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education's meeting and vote to require masks in grades K-12.

Monday NewsLink: Mask mandates, charitable donations, business honors & more

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 11:07:09 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 9, 2021. This week's headlines come from Jackson County, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District; Door Systems inc., ABC Preschool, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, University of Central Missouri-Lee's Summit and more.

Celebrating birthdays and looking ahead to the next school year

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 09:32:08 -0500

This week, we're talking about a bi-centennial birthday party and starting to put together a picture for what this next school year may look like.

Monday NewsLink: Back to school shopping; on the move in downtown LS & more

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 11:11:16 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 2, 2021. Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit, this week's quick headlines come from Lee's Summit Social Services, downtown Lee's Summit and the Lee's Summit R-7 School District.

Monday NewsLink: The BOE decision and an artist's big break

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 13:03:17 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 19, 2021.

No word yet, but that's OK because we've got some nerdy talk for you

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 16:36:29 -0500

The biggest story in town doesn't yet have a conclusion, but that's OK, because the City Council was talking about TIFs this week, so we decided this was a good time to revisit development incentives and how they work.

Monday NewsLink: BOE decision coming; pair of events hitting downtown this week

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 12:42:49 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 12, 2021. The Lee's Summit Board of Education is set to make its decision concerning a terminated teacher; Velocity's Pitch Pub Crawl is set for Thursday; sidewalk sale this Saturday in downtown and more.

A good on ya and catching up on local news

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 11:09:39 -0500

Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury check in on City Hall and the Lee's Summit R-7 School District.

Awaiting the BOE's decision and what it may mean for the future of the LSR7 district

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 13:14:34 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury discuss last week's public LSR7 Board of Education hearing for terminated teacher Joe Oswald and how the upcoming decision from the Board may impact future policy decisions for the district.

Monday NewsLink: News, notes & happenings for the week

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 11:41:26 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 28, 2021. Hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays take a quick look at the top headlines and news from the Lee's Summit community as we head into a new week.

Wahoo, parks!

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 10:36:17 -0500

In this week's Wednesday episode, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury preview this evening's public hearing for a terminated teacher before welcoming back Lee's Summit Parks and Recreation administrator Joe Snook to talk about everything parks. Hint: there's a lot going on, including real live music events.

Monday NewsLink: Meet the Citizens of the Year and catch up for the week

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 10:55:37 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 21, 2021 brings you the news and headlines from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and the City of Lee's Summit.

LSR7 Schools take aim at Paradise (Park)

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 13:20:03 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take some time to look in on the Lee's Summit School District as it announces its intent to purchase the Paradise Park campus from Jon Ellis, announces schedule changes to adjust for a bus driver shortage and continues to struggle with community members over its equity training program.

Monday Newslink: Velocity & Downtown events highlight this week's preview

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 11:01:57 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 14, 2021. Looking ahead for this week, both Velocity Lee's Summit and Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street feature intriguing events.

A short catch up episode... and local arts bouncing back

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 08:20:05 -0500

As everything begins opening back up it feels like we're all rushing around trying to take it all in. On the flip side, it also feels like there's not a lot going on. After a brief vacation, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury catch us up on the return of local cultural arts happenings and a few other news and notes from around the community. Oh, and a happy birthday wish for the guys' favorite robot shade overlord.

Monday NewsLink: Art events return; new leaders and boundary changes for LSR7 middle schools

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 11:38:53 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 7, 2021. Arts events among the signs of a return to normalcy this summer, Public Works & Lee’s Summit CARES announce new directors and the public is invited to participate in middle school boundary discussions for the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District.

A fond farewell and an opportunity to help our local youth

Wed, 19 May 2021 07:37:56 -0500

Nick and Jason say a difficult, but heartfelt, goodbye to friend and community activist Ashley Nowell before welcoming back Karla Williams for a conversation about the Rally 4 Teens fundraiser benefiting Pro Deo Youth Center.

Monday NewsLink: Graduations, end of year awards, entrepreneurial support and community introductions

Mon, 17 May 2021 11:12:19 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 17, 2021. This week’s headlines come from the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, Summit Christian Academy, Velocity LS and Lee’s Summit West High School.

Some news, notes and a local teen has someone she’d like all of us to meet

Wed, 12 May 2021 11:31:51 -0500

In this mid-week episode of the Lee’s Summit Town Hall podcast, Nick Parker and Jason Norbury relish the announcement of a return of the Legacy Park Amphitheater’s summer concert series, make note of the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District’s appeal for public feedback and turn the show over to Lee’s Summit West senior Chidera Okafor for the latest installment of “I’d like you to meet…”

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 Schools looks for public feedback; local schools celebrate teachers; raising money for charity; and concerts return to the Amp

Mon, 10 May 2021 11:13:52 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 10, 2021. Headlines for the week come from the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, the Lee’s Summit Chamber, Summit Christian Academy, Door Systems of Lee’s Summit and the Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation Department.

The Farmers Market comes home and other events plan their return

Wed, 05 May 2021 09:45:50 -0500

Nick and Jason welcome Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street’s Julie Cook and Velocity Lee’s Summit’s Ashley Smithson to the show for some celebration and conversation. With the Downtown Lee’s Summit Farmers Market set to return to its downtown home this weekend, the group talks about planning the return of other popular events and what the things they’re considering as these and other groups start working their way back to some of the “normal” and in-person community events.

Monday NewsLink: City begins design phase for two new fire stations; LS Medical Center launches expansion project; and news & notes from LSR7 Schools

Mon, 03 May 2021 11:26:43 -0500

Your weekly NewsLink for the week of May 5, 2021. This week’s headlines come from the City of Lee’s Summit, Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council, Lee’s Summit Fire Department and the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District.

Your votes and your tax dollars at work... And one of our listeners has someone you should meet

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 14:47:30 -0500

Nick and Jason check in on the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education and the Lee's Summit City Council, before making way for Amy Johnson, who kicks off a new segment of the Town Hall podcast where listeners get an opportunity to introduce the community to someone they think we should all know. For more information on the "I'd LIke you to meet..." segment, head to meet.link2leessummit.com.

Monday NewsLink: Downtown development could be moving forward, plus news & notes from around the Lee’s Summit community

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:41:25 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 19, 2021. The proposed downtown Market Plaza development may be gaining some momentum as the City Council takes up a recommendation for development and management partners. The Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education tabs Ryan Murdock to remain as president and elects Megan Marshall to serve as Vice President; plus other notes from local businesses and the City of Lee’s Summit.

Some news, some election recap and a conversation about caring for our loved ones

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:43:24 -0500

The Market Plaza development, which includes the voter-approved downtown performance space is taking a big step forward and Nick & Jason take a quick read of the tea leaves after the recent LSR7 BOE election. Ben Rao joins Nick in the second segment to talk about his new book and work to help people care for loved ones as they age and need more care.

Monday NewsLink: Drive-thru vaccination event this week, feature your pets, school news and more

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 07:28:01 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 12, 2021. The City of Lee’s Summit and a host of partners are offering a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination event this week at Legacy Park; a local resident has created a unique fundraiser and opportunity to put your pet in some unique art; a reminder on some changes to the LSR7 AMI schedule and summer camp information.

The election results are in and a conversation with a true crime podcaster

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 12:37:10 -0500

Nick and Jason take just a few minutes to review Tuesday’s election results (read: plead with more people to show up and vote) before turning to a conversation with Lee’s Summit resident Sharon Newman Edwards. Edwards hosts a true crime podcast called Justice… delayed, documenting her dive into an unsolved murder from Abilene, Texas.

Monday NewsLink: Awards, Expansion, more awards… and bees — oh my!

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 08:55:23 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 5, 2021. This week’s news & notes come from the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council; City of Lee’s Summit; Pro Deo Youth Center, Lee’s Summit r-7 School District and more

Meet Michele Surber, candidate for LSR7 Board of Education

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 11:45:07 -0500

A special thank you to the local congregation at Martin Luther Lutheran Church and their charitable giving; a few news & notes and a recap of the tax levy ballot question before Michele Surber joins hosts Nick and Jason for the fourth and final candidate interview before Tuesday’s election.

Monday NewsLink: Structure fire, commercial real estate news and next week’s election

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 11:37:01 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 29, 2021. This week’s headlines stem from a weekend house fire, downtown Lee’s Summit, the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council, the Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education election and the City of Lee’s Summit.

Meet Christine Bushyhead, candidate for the LSR7 Board of Education

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 13:20:26 -0500

In a continuing series of interviews with the four candidates for two available seats on the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education, Christine Bushyhead joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury. The conversation covers her thoughts, on leadership, the district's budget and its equity mission. Previous interviews with candidates Rodrick Sparks and Ryan Murdock are available and Michele Surber will appear on the show next week.

Monday NewsLink: Honors and accolades for LSR7 students

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 12:36:38 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 22, 2021. This week, we’re taking some time to recognize some of our local students in the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District.

Meet Ryan Murdock, candidate for LSR7 Board of Education

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 10:53:10 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury are joined by incumbent Ryan Murdock to talk about his campaign for reelection to the Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education, his thoughts on the board’s pandemic response during the current academic year as well as other important issues facing the district.

Monday NewsLink: Meet your candidates for BOE, plus other local schools news

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 08:44:09 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 15, 2021. This week’s headlines come from the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District Board of Education, Summit Christian Academy, Lee’s Summit CARES and the Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit.

Meet Rodrick Sparks, candidate for LSR7 Board of Education

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 10:08:38 -0600

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury sit down with Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education candidate Rodrick Sparks. This is the first of the podcasts annual candidate interviews. Succeeding weeks will include interviews with Ryan Murdock, Christine Bushyhead and Michele Surber. Responses to Link 2 Lee’s Summit’s candidate Q&A from all four candidates can be found at Link2LeesSummit.com.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 community mourns loss of former leader, local business gives back; students nab national notice

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 09:13:54 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 8, 2021. This week’s headlines come from the Lee’s Summit School District, Downtown Lee’s Summit, Lee’s Summit High School, Lee’s Summit West High School and Summit Technology Academy.

Looking for some different perspectives as the BOE election approaches

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 11:38:13 -0600

There are many ways to evaluate the candidates in the upcoming election for two seats on the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District Board of Education. In past years, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury have talked about their own perspectives and the lens they use to evaluate candidates and the role of the Board in the district. In an effort to offer more perspectives, the duo called in a former teacher and administrator to get his thoughts on school boards and their relationships with the district. Dr. John Schuler is a retired teacher and principal currently working as a consultant for the State of Missouri through the University of Central Missouri…. Editor’s note: Nick sounds like a cartoon villain in this episode. We don’t know why and we apologize. But Dr. Schuler is good and that’s what matters.

Monday NewsLink: BOE candidate pool shrinks; a perfect ACT score; preps speech, debate and music honors; new hires at LSR7

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 08:23:42 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 1, 2021. One of five candidates for the Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education has halted his campaign; a Lee’s Summit North junior tallies a perfect ACT score, Summit Christian Academy speech and music students earn honors; and four people are added to the LSR7 administration team.

Monday NewsLink: Calls for scripts & more women on civic boards and commission; LSR7 students earn accolades and downtown gives back

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 09:19:55 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 22, 2021. This week’s headlines come from Summit Theatre Group; the City of Lee’s Summit; the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District; Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street and the Downtown Community Improvement District.

Recent temps increase plea for help & support

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 16:11:22 -0600

Lee’s Summit Social Services executive director Matt Sanning drops by the show to talk about the recent weather and its effects on some in our community. The weather, combined with the current economic crisis caused by the pandemic, has led the agency to ask the community for additional financial support. Donations can be made in person (108 SE 4th St, Lee's Summit, MO 64063) or through the agency’s web site, lssocialservices.com.

Monday NewsLink: COVID concerns force second cancellation of Downtown Days; changes at SCA & LS CARES and more

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 08:23:15 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 15, 2021. This week’s headlines from throughout the Lee’s Summit community including: Downtown Lee’s Summit; Summit Christian Academy; Lee’s Summit CARES; Lee’s Summit Medical Center and the City of Lee’s Summit.

Black History Month, perspective and honest conversations about where we are what we should be talking about

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 12:12:39 -0600

Podcast host and craft beer ambassador Nigel Woodberry and Reggie Gray, a Lee’s Summit resident and business owner join hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury for a conversation about Black History Month and how we, as a community, can better facilitate effective dialogue on race and diversity.

Monday NewsLink: Downtown LS & bars cancel Emerald Isle parade and pub crawl; professional training opportunities; school field trips and a push for kindness

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 08:20:04 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 8, 2021. Downtown Lee’s Summit and surrounding bars and restaurants announce cancellation of popular parade and pub crawl; UCM-Lee’s Summit offers more professional training; local elementary students see project come to life in special field trip and the City’s Human Relations Commission preps for a city-wide kindness campaign.

Buy your Love Local passports; make good food; Go Chiefs!

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:10:43 -0600

Let’s be honest here, folks. It’s February, we’re still in a pandemic and the news train is chugging a little slow. So, we’re keeping it short this week with a shoutout to our favorite Robot Shade Overlords, discussing our big game menus, thinking about our hometown team and spending our off air time gearing up to meet the Board of Education candidates.

Monday NewsLink: LSN science teacher nabs state-wide honors, LSR7 district settles discrimination suit; students gearing up for return to in-person learning; get ready for your vaccine

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 11:07:14 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 1, 2021. This week’s headlines come from Lee’s Summit North High School, the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District and the Jackson County Health Department.

Click here to fill out the County’s COVID-19 vaccine survey.

Settling lawsuits, the next BOE election & a conversation with Truman Heartland’s Phil Hanson

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 07:55:03 -0600

The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District has come to a settlement in a discrimination case stemming from 2018 and Jason and Nick are gearing up for candidate conversations as we look ahead to the April Board of Education election. And Phil Hanson, of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation joins the show to talk about the organizations work to support charitable causes in our community.

Monday NewsLink: Summit Art planning return to public displays; UCM-LS launches new course; LSN students nabs prestigious scholarship & more

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 07:39:03 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 25, 2021. This week’s headlines feature news from Summit Art, the University of Central Missouri-Lee’s Summit Pleasant Lea Middle School and Lee’s Summit North High School.

Chatting with Dr. Buck about the return to in-person learning, bond issue projects and some new educational programs coming to the district

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:33:27 -0600

Nick and Jason take some time to catch up with Lee's Summit R-7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck. In addition to a conversation about the recent decision on learning modes, they talk about some current construction and development projects and some new educational programming beginning next fall.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 preps for return to in-person learning; plus news from City Hall, LS EDC and UCM-Lee’s Summit

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 08:44:12 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 18, 2021. Each week, we take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings and events around Lee’s Summit. This week’s headlines come from the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, City of Lee’s Summit, Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council and the University of Central Missouri-Lee’s Summit.

An idea for next Christmas season and looking in on City Council and the LSR7 Board of Education

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 09:53:11 -0600

Man, the holiday break was just too long and Nick & Jason are ready to get back to conversations about our community and with people doing good work around town. In their first episode of the new year, Jason and Nick throw out an idea for the next holiday season before opening the window for looksy at City Council and the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education.

Monday NewsLink: BOE preps for decision on 7-12 learning mode; scholarship funds available; SCA department publishes webinar on international program; LSR7 resilience & more

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 08:25:50 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 11, 2021. Each week, we take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings and events around Lee’s Summit. This week’s headlines come from the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, Truman Heartland Community Foundation, Summit Christian Academy and the City of Lee’s Summit City Council.

Story time with Santa!

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 08:48:06 -0600

The big man himself joined hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury for a live stream conversation on Thursday, Dec. 17. During the event, Santa read some of his favorite holiday stories and took questions from those watching the stream.

In previous years, Link 2 Lee's Summit and the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast has partnered with Budget Blinds of Lee's Summit to host Story Time with Santa as an in-person event. As with most other events, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a transition to virtual. During the event, online donations were accepted in support of Lee's Summit Social Services.

Holiday display winners; a couple of notes and some retrospection

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 13:17:12 -0600

Nick and Jason get their judgement on with a local holiday lights contest, take a look at a couple of news items from both City Hall and the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and then take a look back at the news and conversations of 2020. Surprisingly, it wasn't all COVID all the time.

Monday NewsLink: 1M meals and counting for LSR7; a new playground; school awards and more

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 09:04:37 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 14, 2020. The Lee's Summit R-7 School District has delivered more than 1 million meals this year; a new playground opens at Lowenstein Park; the Summit Christian Academy debate team cracks the 100 list; LSR7 awards its Learning for Life award; and Santa is coming!

Friday Conversation: Making business personal and melding the halves into one life

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 09:30:08 -0600

Local insurance agent Chad Juarez joins host Nick Parker for a conversation about his approach to business and a mission to blur the line between his personal and professional lives. And he sends Wings for Water's Chris Turney a message from the people — his wings reign supreme.

Some quick news and a conversation with Chad Dumas on the new ReeceNichols office and their efforts to support others

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 11:22:03 -0600

With construction winding down just as the pandemic hit, Chad Dumas and his ReeceNichols team had little fanfare when it moved into its new office building in downtown Lee's Summit. Chad joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about the new office and their efforts to support others during the pandemic by opening tabs at local restaurants for teachers, first responders, medical professionals and more.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This episode was recorded prior to Tuesday night's City Council meeting. During the meeting, the first reading of an ordinance concerning the City's Public Service Agreements was tabled until further notice.

Monday NewsLink: local business nabs unique grant; COVID-19 testing; BOE filing & more

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 08:48:58 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 7, 2020. One local business owner receives a unique grant; LSR7 has COVID-19 antigen tests available for students & staff; filing period for LSR7 Board of Education opens December 22; UCM hosting adult education open houses; and Santa Claus plans special live stream for area families.

Friday Conversation: Christmas dinner is served

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 15:33:06 -0600

Allison Ryder joins Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about the First Baptist Church of Lee's Summit's annual Christmas dinner project. This is the 18th consecutive year the church will prepare and serve Christmas meals for local residents who find themselves alone, or in need of food on the holiday. Meals are available for delivery or pickup through a drive-through system in the west parking lot. Any interested in having meals delivered to themselves or someone in need, call the church office at 816.525.0700.

Brett Jackson and his mission to help others in the community

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 17:26:59 -0600

KC Laser Company's Brett Jackson joins Jason and Nick to talk about his growing local business and a new promotion raising money for one local charity — Lee's Summit Social Services. 100% of proceeds for the KC Arrowhead & Crown Christmas Ornament will be donated to Lee's Summit Social Services and its programs for the community. The ornaments can be found at KCLaserCo.com. Also joining the show is LSSS Executive Director, Matt Sanning.

Monday NewsLink: Love Local week continues; LSR7 expands meal deliveries; Story Time with Santa & more

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 11:13:29 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 30, 2020. Downtown Lee's Summit follows Small Business Saturday with Love Local Week; the Lee's Summit R-7 School District expands its meal delivery service as it shifts to an online learning model into January 2021; Santa Claus will connect to local residents via a live stream event on Dec. 17 and do you know a local resident with a good story to tell?

Some news, and a group therapy session with Kerri Gray

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 10:52:17 -0600

A little bit of news and analysis leads hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury into another conversation and (community-wide) therapy session with Kerri Gray. Why? Because everything is hard — still. And sometimes we just need to talk with a friend and remember how to set expectations and adjust our perspectives.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 shifts back to virtual learning; high school debate & journalism programs grab national honors and more

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 08:02:33 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 23, 2020. The Lee's Summit R-7 School District has pivoted back to online learning after surging community spread of COVID-19; the City of Lee's Summit hosts a community blood drive; local high school debate and journalism programs receive national accolades; and more to get you ready for Thanksgiving week.

Friday Conversation: The holiday season starts now... and don't forget to shop local

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 09:39:15 -0600

She's baaaaaaaaaack! Downtown Lee's Summit events director Julie Cook returns to the show to talk about Friday night's Mayor's Tree Lighting ceremony, Small Business Saturday and the continuing Love Local campaign happening throughout the downtown district. Also, she has some words for Matt Sanning

Looking at the LSR7 Board of Education and its latest decisions

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 10:18:22 -0600

Nick and Jason discuss the Lee's Summit R-7 School District's decisions to move grades 4-12 to virtual for the rest of the semester and to keep grades PreK-3 in person for the time being.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 breaks ground on new middle school; the loss of a community champion and more local news

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 08:24:06 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 16, 2020. The Lee's Summit R-7 School District breaks ground for its fourth middle school; the loss if a business icon and community champion; the City of Lee's Summit is looking for your input on its comprehensive plan update; and one local student shows how perseverance really does pay off.

Dishing out some Latin food

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0600

Pro Deo Youth Center's Elaine Metcalf and Sabor Latino's Reggie Gray join host Nick Parker to talk about a special fundraiser this Sunday at Sabor Latino Restaurant in downtown Lee's Summit. Proceeds from Sunday's sales will go to help Lee's Summit's only youth center.

Your chance to Feed Lee's Summit

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 11:55:29 -0600

Carl Froeschle and Karla Williams, from the Sunrise Rotary Club, join the show to preview Thursday night's Feed Lee's Summit virtual fundraiser event benefitting Coldwater of Lee's Summit, Meals on Wheels of Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Social Services, and One Good Meal. Here's a hint: There are some really cool packages available for bid and raffle. Go to FeedLS.org to register.

Monday NewsLink: The end of snow days; a chance to help feed Lee's Summit; development news & more

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 07:20:43 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 9, 2020. The Lee's Summit R-7 School District opts to take advantage of a new rule allowing for virtual learning instead of snow days; the second annual Feed Lee's Summit charity event is set for Thursday night; meet Roberta McArthur of One Good Meal; LSR7 set to begin development of fourth middle school; and UCM-Lee's Summit gears up for more adult training/learning opportunities.

Friday Conversation: Roberta McArthur and One Good Meal

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 07:02:05 -0600

25 years and counting... One Good Meal's Roberta McArthur joins host, Nick Parker, to talk about the local food pantry, it's 25 years of local service and how this year there is ore need than ever before. This is the last of four conversations with local food pantries (One Good Meal, Lee's Summit Social Services, Coldwater of Lee's Summit and Meals On Wheels) leading up to next week's (Nov. 12) Feed Lee's Summit virtual event benefitting the local nonprofits. For more information on the event, visit feedls.org.

The local election results and the end of snow days (sort of)

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 11:09:50 -0600

It's Wednesday, Nov. 4 and hosts Nick and Jason take a quick look at some local election results and few tidbits from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. Why does 2020 hate snow days, too?

Monday NewsLink: Summit Ice set to open this week, your chance to Feed Lee's Summit, & more

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 06:39:13 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 2, 2020. Lee's Summit Parks and Recreation is set to open Summit Ice this week; registration is now open for the annual Feed Lee's Summit charity event; the City of Lee's Summit offers a virtual look at plans for the municipal airport's future & local prep athletes participate in the MSHSAA State Championships.

Friday conversation: Susie Newsam of Meals on Wheels

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:01:00 -0500

For Susie Newsam, service to the community through the Meals on Wheels program is a multi-generational family affair. With only two weeks left before the Feed Lee's Summit charity event, Susies sits down with Nick to talk about how she first became involved and what drives her to continue with the Meals on Wheels program.

Rolling into winter and celebrating literacy

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 14:09:18 -0500

A few news and notes as October draws to a close (and so does the national election cycle!) and we re-share an interview with Mid-Continent Public Library's Seth Moses as hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury join the City of Lee's Summit in it's celebration of National Family Literacy Day on Nov. 1.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 expands in-person learning, student accolades and other news from around Lee's Summit

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 26, 2020. The Lee's Summit R-7 School District expands in-person learning; honors for the 2019-2020 LSW Volleyball team & local JROTC units; Lee' Summit CARES helps families talk about suicide prevention & more.

Friday Conversation: Monica Humbard & Coldwater of Lee's Summit

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 08:20:33 -0500

As we move another week closer to the Feed Lee's Summit virtual gala, we turn to the second of four local assistance agencies benefited by the event — Coldwater of Lee's Summit. Executive Director Monica Humbard joins host Nick Parker for a conversation about the agency and the people it serves. SHOW LESS

Joining Forces — Chief Forbes talks about LSPD's partnership with mental health professionals

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 09:31:45 -0500

Chief Travis Forbes, of the Lee's Summit Police Department joins the show to discuss a new partnership with ReDiscover. The partnership, funded through the CARES Act, has allowed the department to team up with local mental health professionals as co-responders on calls pertaining to mental or behavioral health issues.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 breaks ground on bond projects; other local school notes and more

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 11:40:28 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 19, 2020 includes news and events from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, Summit Christian Academy, City of Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit CARES and more.

Friday conversation: Matt Sanning returns to lead off a series of conversations on local food pantries and charitable agencies

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 10:37:44 -0500

Sunrise Rotary Club's annual Feed Lee's Summit fundraiser is just a few weeks away and Nick Parker is taking the opportunity to sit down with each of the agencies benefitting from this event aimed at helping those in need. This week, Nick's guest is Matt Sanning, executive director of Lee's Summit Social Services.

Catching up on LSR7's equity mission & training

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 07:13:17 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury check in on the Lee's Summit R-7 School District's equity training in a conversation with Assistant Superintendent Christy Barger, Educational Equity Consultant's Phil Hunsberger and Lee's Summit West student Chidera Okafor.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 students receive accolades; Boos Barks & Badges goes online & more

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 09:49:48 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 12, 2020. PSAT scores and student journalism earns a string of awards for students in the LSR7 School district. Downtown Lee's Summit hosts a virtual costume contest; Arts& Culture Week continues and COVID-19 forces a temporary closure.

Some notes, a look at the November ballot and (hopefully) some clarity for those voting absentee or by mail

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 07:50:15 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury pass along some local news & notes before taking a look at what's on the ballot for November and then offering some final bits to help ease some confusion for those voting absentee or by mail in this election.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 moves to hybrid plan, Arts + Culture week begins Friday & more

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 07:46:13 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 5, 2020. The Lee's Summit R-7 School District moves to a hybrid plan, UCM offering adult job training courses, Lee's Summit CARES offers support for parents and families & the Lee's Summit Arts Council and Lee's Summit Tourism launch the inaugural LS Arts + Culture week celebration this Friday.

Friday conversation: A new cultural event ready for launch... even in the time of Corona

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 07:21:04 -0500

Glenda Masters drops by the studio to preview a new community event, Arts + Culture Week, set to run October 9-18. Yeah, we'll tease her a bit for having a week-long event run for 9 days. But Glenda's got a plan an is on a mission to celebrate all things arts in Lee's Summit.

Wednesday analysis: LSR7 moves to hybrid model & a big step forward in downtown development plan

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0500

Nick and Jason take a look at the Lee's Summit R-7 School district's move from virtual to a hybrid learning model and the City puts out an RFQ to begin its search for a development partner on the Green Street plan.

Monday NewsLink: The Market Plaza project moves forward, Race for the Future, grants for small businesses and more

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 12:41:19 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 28, 2020. This week's headlines include news and events from the City of Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit R-7 School District, Velocity Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Chamber, Economic Development Council, Downtown Main Street, and Lee's Summit High School.

Friday conversation: Hollie Stuhlman and her drive to beeunique

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 20:48:44 -0500

Lee's Summit's first Arts & Culture week is just a couple of weeks away, so Nick thought it would be a good idea to start spotlighting some of the people creating art in our community. Joining him for this week's conversation is Lee's Summit resident and creator behind beeuniquecreate, Hollie Stuhlman Couch.

Catching up on our reading lists... and the local library projects

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 10:32:58 -0500

Branch manager Seth Moses joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to talk about Lee's Summit's new East Branch of the Mid-Continent Public Library system, the ongoing construction at the Colbern Road branch and what may be in store for the Lee's Summit branch. Oh, and Seth apparently likes spooky books. He has some recommendations for you.

Monday NewsLink: Velocity & others helping award CARES ACT grants for small businesses and other news & notes from around LS

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 07:53:16 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 21, 2020 offers news and notes from Velocity Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Chamber, Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, Lee's Summit Economic Development Council, Lee's Summit R-7 Schools, Lee's Summit Fire Department, and Lee's Summit CARES.

Friday conversation: Don't be afraid to ask; we need to talk more about suicide and how to prevent it

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 07:27:01 -0500

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Local family therapist Kerri Gray and ReDiscover's Suicide Prevention Program Coordinator Kirsti Millar join hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury for in important conversation on risk factors, warning signs and how to talk with our family, friends and neighbors about these hard, but necessary topics.

If you, or a loved one need assistance, please use the numbers listed below:

Local Crisis line: 1-888-279-8188
Texting Hotline: 741741 (text any word: help, hope)
National hotline: 1-800-273-8255
ReDiscover local: 816-966-0900
Show Me Hope COVID line: 816-988-2739

CARES Act funds and an example of process success in City Hall

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 07:58:24 -0500

We've got 20 minutes of "good on ya" today. The biggest is reserved for the folk inside Lee's Summit City Hall. This week, as staff and City Council members work to provide some assistance to local nonprofits hurting from the current pandemic, we were given a perfect example of process and how staff and Council can work together to do good for the community.

Monday NewsLink: News & notes from LSR7, University of Central Missouri-LS, Lee's Summit Cares and more

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 12:19:59 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 14, 2020. Lee's Summit R-7 School District counselors and therapists send an open letter to students, UCM-Lee's Summit announces new programs, Lee's Summit CARES moves its parenting classes to a virtual format and more.

Friday Conversation: Eat chicken & do some good — Wings 4 Water's Chris Turney drops by the studio

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 08:39:38 -0500

As punishment for once again crashing host Nick Parker's Friday episode of the podcast, Jason Norbury is relegated to virtual participation and denied the opportunity to eat wings. Local resident Chris Turney dropped by the studio for a conversation on next Thursday's Wings 4 Water charitable event. You can order your box of wings here.

City Council check in — Are they ready for real talk on diversity?

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 14:21:41 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury check in on the Lee's Summit City Council as it hears a presentation on the recently-concluded strategic planning process and begin talking about talking about diversity and inclusion.

Monday NewsLInk: Middle & high school schedules; some help for parents; COVID relief funds and a feel good story

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 11:31:07 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 31, 2020. This week's headlines come from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, Lee's Summit CARES, City of Lee's Summit and the community at large.

LSR7 Board President Ryan Murdock and the reopening decision

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 10:36:55 -0500

Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education President Ryan Murdock joins hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury to discuss this week's vote on the plan to reopen schools. The conversation looks at the board's process, as well as some insight into its future decisions through the pandemic.

Monday NewsLink: Awaiting the decision; some new opportunities taking flight and other news and notes

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 11:45:31 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 24, 2020. Hosts Nick Parker and Liesl Hays offer up some news and notes from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District, the City of Lee's Summit and the Truman Heartland Foundation, among others.

Friday conversation: This is a hard time for all of us; Kerri Gray offers up some advice

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 07:21:23 -0500

Have you checked your engine light? No, not the one in your car. Local therapist Kerri Gray drops back by the show to talk with Nick and Jason about our current collective mental state. We're all under an exorbitant amount of emotional stress right now, she says. But, she also has tips for how we can cope.

Checking in on City Hall and some news and notes

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 00:01:00 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury sift through a few news and notes from inside City Hall as much of the community awaits the final reopening decision from the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. And then ponder what news developments they're looking forward to as we approach fall and the back stretch of 2020.

Monday NewsLink: LSFD opens new station; do you know a community champion & other news and notes from around town

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 12:16:34 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 17, 2020.

PSA renewals, transparency & the back-to-school wait continues

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 10:44:06 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury review some of the top news from the community, including the City's renewal of some Public Service Agreements and a little conversation as we all wait to see what back-to-school will look like for the Lee's Summit R-7 school District.

Monday NewsLink: LSR7 reopening options; downtown awards; meet the citizens of the year

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 11:24:32 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 10, 2020.

Friday conversation:Taking in the updated roadmap to reopening LSR7 Schools

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 08:38:30 -0500

Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury outline LSR7's updated roadmap to reopening the local schools and discuss its impact on the community.

Monday NewsLink: Schools reopening; election day; parenting help; meet the new superintendent

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 11:56:02 -0500

Your Monday Newslink for the week of August 3, 2020 takes a look at the latest reopening recommendations for the LSR7 School District, Tuesday's primary, some help for parents as they prep for the new school year and a chance to hear from LSR7's new superintendent.

Friday conversation: Introducing LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 06:48:14 -0500

This week, Jason and Nick are doing their first interview with Dr. David Buck second. Why? Because COVID. After first joining the show after the Lee's Summit R-7 School District announced its initial plans for reopening, the new superintendent comes back for what was originally planned as his introductory interview and a chance for residents to learn more about him and his vision for the district.

Wednesday Town Hall: LSR7 plans may change, the Mayor's call to action & go ahead and write that check

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 09:20:24 -0500

It's a short episode, but that doesn't mean there's nothing going on. As Nick & Jason sat down to record this week, the Lee's Summit R-7 School District announced it would be presenting some recommended changes to it's reopening plan, the City is asking for public input, the Mayor is launching a new commission to continue community focus on diversity and inclusion and even though the events are all canceled, you should go ahead continue support of your favorite local charities. They, and the people they serve, are still in need.

Monday NewsLink: Mayor presents new downtown plan; schools news and more

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 15:21:29 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 27, 2020. Mayor Bill Baird presents new development plan for downtown Lee's Summit, local education news and more.

Friday Conversation: This is Reggie Gray

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 07:11:57 -0500

He started his first business at age 12 — he was a magician. And he never looked back. Since then, he's been an entertainer, a motivational speaker, a real estate professional, digital publisher, app developer and now a restauranteur. His positive approach to life and business, combined with visions of perfection, drive his entrepreneurial ambitions. This is Reggie Gray. Oh, and at one point, his story includes a ventriloquist and a talking rabbit. That's the start of a joke, right?

Wednesday Town Hall: Decision time for LSR7 parents and (finally) a step forward for a downtown plan

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 09:52:10 -0500

It's decision week for families in the Lee's Summit R-7 School District as they face the decision of in-person or online schooling for their students in the coming semester. And the City Council finally took up discussion on the latest efforts to move forward with a downtown performing arts space and permanent farmers market.

Monday NewsLink: Blood drive to fill need, UCM offering professional training & LSR7 announces reopening plans

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 11:01:32 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 20, 2020. Hosts Nick and Liesl break down the latest news and headlines as we move into a new week.

Friday Conversation: Talking with LSR7 leadership about the plan to reopen schools in August

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:30:55 -0500

Host Nick Parker and Jason Norbury are joined by LSR7 Superintendent Dr. David Buck and Board of Education President Ryan Murdock for a dive into the district's recently announced plans to reopen the district in August. Included in that plan is a choice presented to families — in-person school or online education.

Celebrating 5 years of supporting entrepreneurship in Lee's Summit

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 09:02:40 -0500

Today on the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker & Jason Norbury are joined by Velocity Lee's Summit Board Chair Tim Denker and Operational Director Ashley Smithson to talk about Thursday's Velocity Pitch @ Home - Birthday Edition and the non-profit's 5th anniversary.

Monday NewsLink: Chamber cancels Oktoberfest & news from LSR7, Downtown LS and Summit Theatre Group

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 11:00:48 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 13, 2020. Nick & Liesl bring you all the news, notes and happenings for the week.

A local story with a global message and modern parallels

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Local playwright Ben Martin and Lee's Summit resident Carl Chinnery join Nick for a conversation about Summit Theatre Group's soon-to-be-released audio play, A Candle Against the Dark. The play tells the story of the Chinnery family's fight with polio in the 1940s. Fittingly, the drama is produced in the style of the 40s-era radio plays.

Some news & notes

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 06:51:41 -0500

Jason and Nick take a quick look around town for some news and notes from City Hall and the LSR7 School District.

Monday NewsLink: Mayor tests positive for COVID-19, the return of the Wednesday Farmers Market & news from area schools

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 11:59:51 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 6, 2020.

Two guys walk into a bar... Nigel Woodberry joins the show for a conversation with Libations & Co owner Seth Allen

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Jason was on vacation this week, so we flipped the script and decided to do one of our conversation episodes on Wednesday. Local craft beer ambassador Nigel Woodberry and Seth Allen join the show to talk about Allen's craft cocktail bar and retail store, Libations & Co. Along the way, we talk a little history and a little Independence Day as well.

Monday NewsLink: Public art; road closures & school news

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 11:34:49 -0500

NICK: Hello and welcome to Lee’s Summit Town Hall and your Monday News Link presented by Budget Blinds of Lee’s Summit and Shredd KC. I am Nick Parker and once again I am joined by The Historic Browning’s Liesl Hays.

LIESL: Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

NICK: Visitors are invited to explore the new Downtown Sculpture Walk. The new outdoor public art exhibit will be on display through March 2021 and features artists from across the country. The project, led by the Lee’s Summit Arts Council, City of Lee’s Summit Cultural Arts Department and Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street is planning for a rotation of sculptures each spring. The six sculptures currently on display were selected from a national call for artists and juried by members of the Arts Council and Downtown Main Street.

LIESL: A section of Southwest Murray Road south of Southwest Third Street is set to close tomorrow, June 30, and will remain closed for approximately 12 weeks for water line and road construction. The construction is part of the Third Street improvements project. Visit Link2LeesSummit.com for more details.

NICK: In a shift from last week’s announcement about virtual graduations, the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District announced Tuesday afternoon it had reached an agreement with Sporting Kansas City and Children’s Mercy Park in Wyandotte County, Kan. to hold live in-person commencement ceremonies on July 26. Visit Link2LeesSummit.com for more details.

LIESL: The University of Central Missouri - Lee’s Summit campus’ virtual summer camps are available online for students from age 8 to 18+. Programs include:

Architectural and Mechanical 3D CADD for young adults age 15 to 18+.
Black Rocket Computer Science Online Programs for ages 8 to 14 including video game design and animation, inventing, programming, coding and YouTube content creation.

Visit Link2LeesSummit.com for more details.

NICK: Another piece of public art was unveiled last week. Lee’s Summit metal artist Dave Eames has created ‘Infinite Harvest,’ a colorful, 11-foot-tall representation of a large bushel basket as a gateway piece to the Summit Orchards development located at Chipman and Ward roads near the Missouri Innovation Campus.

LIESL: Have an event, tip, or question, contact us on Facebook & Instagram at Link 2 Lee’s Summit, on Twitter @lstownhall or through email nick@link2leessummit.com.

Their voices matter

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 08:31:10 -0500

Today, I thought I would do something a little bit different and let you listen in on some of the young voices in our community. Last summer, a group of teens asked if they could take over the show for a few episodes to talk about some of the issues they were facing in our community. A year later, with the support of Lee’s Summit CARES, they have worked to launch their own podcast, I Can Relate. The topics are their own and so are the voices and the perspective.

In this, their first episode, the young hosts wanted to dig in on why it was important for their generation to find their voices and speak up on important issues. To help, they invited a peer from across the state line to tell his story of speaking up on mental health and suicide.

So for today’s episode, I want to give you an opportunity to discover this fantastic new member of my podcast family. I Can Relate is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most of your favorite podcast apps. Episode 5 of 6 dropped today. A link to the podcast can be found in today’s show notes.

Here they are: Chidera, Olivia, Devynn, Rylee and Hudson with — I can relate.

https://icanrelatepodcast.podbean.com

A casting change & the (likely) return of in-person commencement for LSR7 class of 2020

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 10:23:40 -0500

New City of Lee’s Summit City Council members take the oath of office and Nick & Jason sit down with Lee’s Summit R-7 School District Interim Superintendent Dr. Emily Miller to talk about the district’s new plan to hold in-person commencements at Sporting Kansas City’s Children’s Mercy Park in Wyandotte County, Kansas.

Monday NewsLink: Graduations & Special Olympics go virtual... and more news from the community

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 11:31:52 -0500

LIESL: Each week, we'll take a few minutes to give you the news, happenings, and events around Lee's Summit.

NICK: Following guidance from the Jackson County Health Department, the Lee’s Summit R7 School District announced last week its post-poned graduation ceremony for the class of 2020 will be held virtually on July 25. The video commencement will be held for Lee’s Summit, Lee’s Summit North, Lee’s Summit West and Summit Ridge Academy graduates. Ceremony times will be announced at a later date.

LIESL: As with so many other events, Special Olympics Missouri pivoted its Summer games to a virtual format this year. Eight students from the LSR7 School District earned honors at the games. Congratulations to: Rhys Burke, Joslyn Sabol, Julius Jones, John Scheuer, Nolan Skelsey, Quentin Ford, Thomas Clapp and Anna Schwager. For more information, visit Facebook & Instagram at Link 2 Lee’s Summit, on Twitter @lstownhall or through email nick@link2leessummit.com.

Friday Conversation: Maryam Khalil on #OurStruggleLSR7, tackling racism in her community & the need to speak up

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Stanford University freshman and Lee's Summit West alum Maryam Khalil drops by the studio for a conversation about her role in launching the #OurStruggleLSR7 Twitter thread, petitioning the LSR7 School District for change, and her need to take on the issues of diversity and inclusion in Lee's Summit.

Some kudos; the many layers of the LR7 equity conversation & let's all go to the market!

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 08:56:57 -0500

After a short, but needed, week off, Jason and Nick return to the podcast just in time to celebrate a group of involved citizens, see the City Council to take up the FY21 budget and to look at the LSR7 School District and community-wide conversation on equity and diversity. And in the second half of the show, Nick sits down with Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street's Ashley Nowell and local farmers Karin Velez and Katie Farrar for a conversation about the farmers market.

Monday NewsLink: Race & diversity conversations in Lee's Summit; election results highlight local news

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:37:49 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 8, 2020. Election results, protests, rallies & conversations on race and equality dominate the news in the past week.

After 2-month delay, voters hit the polls for local elections

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 07:54:07 -0500

Despite a two-month delay, fears of leaving the house, changes to many polling locations and attention shifts to the pandemic and a national conversation on race, 16% of registered hit the polls on Tuesday for the local election. Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury break down the results, which includes the election of the first African-American member of the Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education.

Monday NewsLink: Phase 2 Reopening begins and Tuesday is Election Day

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 12:19:07 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 1, 2020. Jackson County, Mo officially moves into Phase 2 of its reopening plan and a few notes about Tuesday's municipal election.

One final look at Tuesday's ballot

Fri, 29 May 2020 07:41:24 -0500

If this spring's municipal election season were a baseball game, we'd now finally be heading into the bottom half of the 27th inning. Lee's Summit Town Hall hosts Nick Parker & Jason Norbury take one final look at the ballot issues, as well as Board of Education and City Council candidates.

The changing polling locations and a look at the LSR7 bond issue

Wed, 27 May 2020 08:22:39 -0500

A two-month delay combined with changes to many polling locations has Jason and Nick worried (more than usual) about voter turnout next week. And a conversation about the LSR7 bond issue.

Monday NewsLink: Phase 2 is coming & so is the local election

Mon, 25 May 2020 11:19:19 -0500

Your weekly quick look into the news, events and happenings from around Lee’s Summit. On this Monday we’re looking at the next phase of reopening for Jackson County, the changing of polling locations for the upcoming election, some new courses through UCM and the City is asking for residents’ input.

Sculptures invade downtown; the school year is ending; & some of the candidates talk

Wed, 20 May 2020 09:22:03 -0500

Have you seen the new sculptures in downtown? Well, you should! And as we approach the June 2 municipal election, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury continue to revisit City Council candidate interviews. Today, we hear from District 3 candidate Rocco Florio and District 4 candidate Donnie Funk. In case you find yourself wondering why District 3 and 4 incumbents Phyllis Edson and Fred DeMoro aren't interviewed you're not alone. The two would not respond to multiple requests for an interview or to participate in Link 2 Lee's Summit's candidate questionnaire.

Monday NewsLink: The return of the Farmers market; a new trail and other news & notes for the week

Mon, 18 May 2020 11:29:16 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 18, 2020... Downtown Lee's Summit Farmers Market; Summit Christian Academy; Municipal election; Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education; Lee's Summit Parks & Recreation

Meet the candidates for City Council, District 2

Fri, 15 May 2020 09:59:00 -0500

On today's episode, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury revisit conversations with Timothy Shrout, Andrew Felker and Steve Lee, candidates for Lee's Summit City Council, District 2. Candidate Roberta Gough did not respond to multiple invitations to participate in interviews with Link 2 Lee's Summit or the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast.

The reopening begins and we revisit our District 1 City Council candidates

Wed, 13 May 2020 00:01:00 -0500

Everyone may be talking about the start of Jackson County's reopening plan, but Nick and Jason want to remind you we're only a few weeks away from Election Day. The duo revisits conversations with Hillary Shields, Steve Lambert and Robert Dye, candidates for Lee's Summit City Council — District 1.

Monday NewsLink: Awards given to local teachers & students; Covid AB Testing; new City water bill system & more

Mon, 11 May 2020 11:07:48 -0500

Lee's Summit and the rest of Jackson County begin Phase 1 of reopening this week. Today's episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast offers a few other tidbits of information from local schools, the business community and the City to get you started for the week. For more on the reopening procedures, check out the Friday, May 8 episode of the podcast.

A look at phase 1 of reopening

Fri, 08 May 2020 08:08:29 -0500

Nick Parker and Jason Norbury take a look at the phase 1 reopening guidelines for Jackson County, Mo and ask listeners for some feedback on what the procedures mean for them.

A creative turn for the greater good

Wed, 06 May 2020 08:40:48 -0500

Ronnie and Rachel Dyer, of Dyer Oil Graphics, met up with Nick Parker during the Together We Can craft brew even last week to talk about their company and a new side project, Quarantine Brewery & Taphouse, raising funds for hospitality workers and Lee’s Summit Social Services.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 04 May 2020 11:15:10 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of May 4, 2020.

In search of information... & leadership

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 08:16:02 -0500

Some quick news & notes and then Nick and Jason talk about their search for information from our elected leader amid confusion during the current COVID-19 crisis.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 12:28:15 -0500

It's National Tell a Story Day and we've got a good one for you this week. Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 27, 2020 includes news from: Lee's Summit R-7 School District, City of Lee's Summit, Lee's Summit Economic Development Council, University of Central Missouri-Lee's Summit, Bennett Packaging & more.

Noticing people. Noticing kindness.

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 08:57:37 -0500

This was supposed to be a conversation on their business, I am noticed, and the service they provide. But when Amy Johnson and Jaime Lyon dropped by the Zoom studio for a Friday conversation with Nick, the talk quickly shifted to broader topics of people and the relationships we make.

So, what's going on with you?

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 08:49:07 -0500

There's not a lot of news happening right now, but Nick and Jason take a few minutes to catch up on a few things, follow up on all of our self-care talk and take a peek at Friday's LS Town Hall conversation.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 10:37:58 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 20, 2020.

Try art — it's good for the soul

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 19:45:25 -0500

LSR7 elementary art chair Aimee Fresia and City of Lee's Summit cultural arts manager Glenda Masters join Nick for a chat about their love of art and its ability to help us cope with the current stresses. And to top it off, give a listen for a chance to share art from your home and win some sweet prizes.

Adjusting to the known and unknown

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:32:31 -0500

District 4 City Council member Bob Johnson joins Nick and Jason for a conversation on the City's budgeting process and how it is planning to adjust to COVID-affected economy.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 11:31:45 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 13, 2020.

Surviving the survival plan

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 11:01:34 -0500

Working from home... Trying to take on the role of teacher... stuck with the same people all day every day... this stay-at-home order is hard. One good thing is knowing we're all in the same boat. Join us for a conversation on how to cope with all of these various roles we're taking on while trying to keep the peace at home. Hosts Nick Parker & Jason Norbury are joined by local family therapist Kerri Gray and Lee's Summit R-7 School District's Dr. Rexanne Hill and Dr. Jennifer Kephart.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 15:32:18 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of April 5, 2020.

Some music is good for our soul

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 12:28:54 -0500

This week, we’re going to do something a little different. As we’ve settled into our current stay-at-home status, Link 2 Lee’s Summit has attempted to help everyone alleviate a bit of the stress by sharing some pieces of music submitted to us from homes throughout the community. With that in mind, we thought instead of a conversation today, we’d just give everyone a few minutes of rest and relaxation courtesy of our friends. If you, or someone in your family, would like to submit some LS Music Therapy of your own, message us on Facebook at Link 2 Lee’s Summit or email nick@link2leessummit.com. I’d like to offer a big thank you to the Amy Johnson family, Glenda Masters, John Hardesty, Georgia Graves, Hazel Graves and Heather Ann Norbury for sharing their talents. Happy Friday everyone, and enjoy the music.

Some interesting adjustments & preparing to help those in need

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:04:23 -0500

Jason and Nick take a look at an emergency ordinance passed at the most recent City Council meeting before Lee's Summit Social Services executive director Matt Sanning pops in to talk about how the current COVID19 crisis is affecting people in our community and how you can help local agencies now and in the months to come.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:30:28 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 30, 2020.

This is Donnie Funk, candidate for City Council — District 4

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 10:48:56 -0500

District 4 City Council Candidate Donnie Funk drops by the virtual studio for a chat with Nick & Jason. Lee's Summit Town Hall was unable to interview the Funk's opponent, incumbent Fred DeMoro. DeMoro has not responded to repeated attempts to contact him via phone, email and social media.

The stay-at-home orders & a conversation with Steve Lee, candidate for City Council, District 2

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 08:28:05 -0500

We’re in week one of the metro-area’s 30-day stay-at-home directive. Nick and Jason review a few things before shifting to a conversation with District 2 City Council candidate, Steve Lee.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 12:21:13 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 23, 2020.

The Board of Ed panel — Part 3

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 01:00:00 -0500

Meet Brian Austerman, Megan Marshall & Christine Bushyhead, candidates for the LSR7 Board of Education. This is the third of three panel conversations with candidates for the Board. To create an opportunity for better conversation, the nine candidates for the three open seats were divided into smaller groups. See episodes from Feb. 21 and March 6 for conversations with the other candidates.

Anxiety's high. How do we deal with it?

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 11:16:04 -0500

If, for whatever reason, you've ventured out of your house you can almost feel the tension in the air. We're all anxious and we're all nervous about the unknowns in this coronavirus world. So, Nick and Jason decided it was time for a little group therapy and called their friend, Kerri Gray, to talk about anxiety and how best for us all to cope.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 16:38:36 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 16, 2020.

This is Timothy Shrout, candidate for City Council — District 2

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 16:26:28 -0500

District 2 City Council Candidate Timothy Shrout drops by for a chat with Nick & Jason. Stick with Link 2 Lee’s Summit for interviews with District 2 candidates Andrew Felker and Steve Lee. Lee's Summit Town Hall was unable to interview the fourth candidate, Robert Gough. Gough did not respond to repeated attempts to reach her or her campaign.

This is Andrew Felker, candidate for City Council — District 2

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 16:21:14 -0500

District 2 City Council Candidate Andrew Felker drops by for a chat with Nick & Jason. Stick with Link 2 Lee’s Summit for interviews with District 2 candidates Timothy Shrout and Steve Lee. Lee's Summit Town Hall was unable to interview the fourth candidate, Robert Gough. Gough did not respond to repeated attempts to reach her or her campaign.

Raise your hand; get involved

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 16:14:00 -0500

Lee’s Summit Social Services executive director Matt Sanning dropped by the studio on Tuesday to say. We wound up talking about volunteerism and community involvement. So, naturally, we hit record so we could share the conversation.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 14:31:00 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 9, 2020.

The Board of Ed panel, Part II

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 14:29:00 -0600

Meet Kim Fritchie, Mark Leetch and Dr. Matt Niewald, candidates for the LSR7 Board of Education. This is the second of three panel conversations with candidates for the LS R-7 Board of Education. To create an opportunity for better conversation, the nine candidates for the three open seats were divided into smaller groups. The final BOE panel will post March 20.

Everybody loves a parade

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0600

Nick and Jason talk about City commissions and the volunteer opportunities they provide residents of LS before Downtown Main Street's Julie Cook comes into the studio to talk about the upcoming Emerald Isle Parade. For Julie, a self-proclaimed member of #teamtaco, this is her sixth guest appearance on the show which is a Town Hall record.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 17:59:01 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of March 2, 2020.

This is Rocco Florio, candidate for City Council - District 3

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 09:32:40 -0600

District 3 City Council Candidate Rocco Florio drops by for a chat with Nick & Jason. Lee's Summit Town Hall was unable to interview District 3 incumbent Phyllis Edson. Council member Edson did not respond to repeated attempts to reach her or her campaign.

Candidate/PAC squabble takes away from real conversation

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 08:08:20 -0600

Nick and Jason reluctantly take up the conversation on a recent public squabble between BOE candidate Megan Marshall and a local PAC, Foundations for our Future before moving on to a much more worthwhile conversation with Developing Potential's Amy Cox.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 09:54:43 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 24, 2020.

The Board of Ed panel, Part I

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 21:53:59 -0600

Meet Kathy Campbell, Dr. David Thompson & Larry Anderson, candidates for the LSR7 Board of Education. This is the first of three panel conversations with candidates for the LS R-7 Board of Education. To create an opportunity for better conversation, the nine candidates for the three open seats were divided into smaller groups. The next panel will post March 6, and the final BOE panel will post March 20.

Weighing local endorsements & getting excited about a new QT

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 07:45:14 -0600

Jason and Nick talk about PAC endorsements and a few other notes coming from this week's City Council meeting... And Friday, we meet the first three of our nine candidates for the LS R-7 Board of Education.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 10:11:03 -0600

Your NewsLink for the week of February 17, 2020.

This is Steve Lambert, candidate for City Council - District 1

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 12:19:56 -0600

District 1 City Council Candidate Steve Lambert drops by for a chat with Nick Parker.

*Please note we had some audio difficulties with the microphone used by Jason Norbury. Please excuse the bad audio and know the offending cable has been dismissed from service.

This is Robert Dye, candidate for City Council - District 1

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 12:17:00 -0600

District 1 City Council candidate Robert Dye drops in for a chat with Nick and Jason.

This is Hillary Shields, candidate for City Council - District 1

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 12:16:07 -0600

District 1 City Council candidate Hillary Shields drops in for a chat with Nick and Jason.

The will of the people means what?

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 07:29:07 -0600

A reminder from the City to take time to be kind... And Jason's got a little something stuck in his craw and it's name is the Missouri Legislature.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 13:57:24 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 10, 2020.

Sharing a bit of art from a friend

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 09:45:11 -0600

On this Friday, our friend Hubert Neth shares some of his poetry with the community.

The Use Tax ask and a legislative push to overturn the Clean Missouri Act

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 07:49:02 -0600

Nick and Jason take a few minutes to look into a statewide issue as the legislature tackles an push to overturn a voter-approved amendment to the Missouri Constitution before focusing back in on our own back yard and the Use Tax issue placed on the upcoming ballot.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 10:20:04 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of February 3, 2020.

No. 300 and we're still doing that thing we do

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 08:43:18 -0600

Episode 1 kicked off the 2017 election cycle, so it's only fitting episode 300 kicks off the 2020 cycle. Ryan Murdock, member of the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education, joins the show to help Nick and Jason break down the $224 million bond issue.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 14:43:32 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 27, 2020.

Art for the community

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 11:41:40 -0600

Glenda Masters, Cultural Arts manager for the City of Lee's Summit, drops by the studio for a chat about an exciting new public art project happening in downtown.

The candidates, they have filed

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 08:15:52 -0600

The local 2020 election season officially begins today. Candidate filing for Lee's Summit City Council and the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education closed on Tuesday. We know the candidates' names and now it's time to start getting to know who they are and what exactly are the top issues facing our community.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 13:46:19 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 20, 2020.

A little taste of Latin

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 01:01:00 -0600

The crew from Sabor Latino, a new downtown Lee's Summit restaurant joins Nick in studio for a conversation about a growing restaurant and building a new home in downtown. The restaurant is slated to open at the end of January. Oh, and be on the lookout for a new bingo game.

It's all about that Buck

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 07:59:40 -0600

The Lee's Summit R-7 School District names its next Superintendent of Schools, Dr. David Buck; MLK celebrations set for next week; and Nick gets excited about Friday's conversation with the people behind Sabor Latino.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:27:06 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 13, 2019.

Grab a stool and let's talk

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 09:38:37 -0600

It was a weird week. Interview 1 fell through. Interview 2 had to back out (we sort of forgive her, but made her promise to reschedule), so Nick called his buddy, Nigel Woodbury, to see if he'd stop by for a chat. It was supposed to coincide with Kansas City's Restaurant Week and be all about Lee's Summit-based food and drink. That worked, sort of. But there's also some good stuff about this local ambassador's path to Lee's Summit and a love of story telling that still drives him.

Interviews, law suits & taxes

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 07:58:02 -0600

On today's episode of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, we've got superintendent speed dating! OK, not really, but Nick Parker & Jason Norbury take a quick look at the finalists being interviewed this week for the Lee's Summit R-7 School District job, as well as a few other news and notes from around our community.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 12:42:32 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of January 6, 2020.

Into the looking glass, Part II

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 09:01:25 -0600

Nick, Jason and guest John Beaudoin continue their conversation on some of the big stories coming during 2020 — specifically those concerning the Lee's Summit R-7 School District.

Into the looking glass

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 11:16:32 -0600

In the first of a two-part conversation, Nick and Jason are joined by Link 2 Lee's Summit guest columnist John Beaudoin for a look at some of the stories and conversations facing the community in the coming year.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 10:11:15 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 30, 2019.

The year that was

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 14:40:06 -0600

Nick and Jason take a look back at some of the stories, issues and conversations from 2019.

A Christmas poem

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 20:20:08 -0600

On this Christmas Day, the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast offers no analysis or insight. Instead, we give you the poetry of Lee's Summit's own pastor emeritus, Hubert Neth. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 11:01:14 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 23, 2019.

You don't have to be jolly

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 22:41:03 -0600

The reverends Hubert Neth and Hans Koschmann requested a return to the studio for an extended conversation about faith and the Christmas season. This time, they wanted to make note of the fact the holidays can hard for some, and that's OK.

Let your light shine

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 18:48:44 -0600

This week, we announce the winners of the White Ridge Farm Neighborhood holiday lights contest (thanks for inviting us to be all judgy) and take a look at who filed to run in the next City of Lee's Summit municipal election. But really, it's all about the Christmas lights. We like shiny, happy things.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 11:37:44 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of Monday, Dec. 16, 2019.

A call to community service

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 14:01:27 -0600

Matt Sanning, drops by the studio for a short conversation with host Nick Parker about the Lee's Summit Rotary club and community service.

Movement, participation & the holiday spirit

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 07:21:15 -0600

The holiday season is officially here and Nick's trying to drag Jason along with him — Christmas caroling oughtta do the trick... Oh, and the duo checks in on the downtown apartments project and chance for you to get up to date on the LS R-7 School District's discussions on a possible bond issue in 2020.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 10:57:15 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 9, 2019.

Perspectives on Christmas and faith

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 13:06:13 -0600

Nick is joined in studio by local ministers Hans Kochmann and Hubert Neth for a candid conversation on faith and the Christmas season.

Upcoming events and a housing conundrum

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:56:02 -0600

Jason and Nick update you on a few upcoming events, remind you of a charitable opportunity in the community and take a look at a proposed housing project stemming from last year's Allera project which was heavily criticized both by the City Council and surrounding residents.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 11:42:30 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of December 2, 2019.

Tacos, painting for good & the City reaches out to citizens

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 12:14:26 -0600

On the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday, Nick and Jason offer some tips for the leftover turkey, look at some opportunities for young local artists to give back and talk about the next phase of the City's strategic planning process, LS Ignite.

Final words from a community champion

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 16:20:39 -0600

This week, instead of our usual conversation, the good folks at Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, inc. and Summit Video Services have given us footage from an April 2019 interview with Howard McCracken. McCracken, who died last week, was a founding member of the Main Street organization and served as its first Board president.

Budget doom? Budget gloom?

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 08:30:53 -0600

The community says goodbye to a champion and Jason and Nick take a quick look into a budget presentation to the City Council from Administrator Steve Arbo and how it may effect conversations during the upcoming local elections.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 15:07:41 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 18, 2019.

Your Monday NewsLink

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 06:57:02 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 11, 2019

Making a name for ourselves

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 22:01:00 -0600

Velocity Lee's Summit's Jon Cundiff drops by the studio to preview Global Entrepreneurship Week and the role Lee's Summit will play in this world-wide event beginning Nov. 18.

Game on

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 06:50:15 -0600

Pro Deo executive director Elaine Metcalf drops by the studio to talk about the local teen center and an upcoming fundraiser event. Fair warning, the conversation gets a little feisty and we've challenged local businesses to get involved offer some support to this important organization.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 10:07:00 -0600

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of November 4, 2019.

The power of giving back

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:53:51 -0500

Nick sits down with Shredd KC's Ryan Waters and Jody Rhew to talk about community and the power that comes from giving back.

The search for a super

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 07:02:26 -0500

Never miss an opportunity to have your voice heard. The LS R-7 Board of Education says it wants to announce the next Superintendent by the end of January. Members of the public will have opportunities to voice their thoughts and questions on the district and process through a series of public forums in November.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 17:00:16 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 28, 2019.

This is Hans Koschman

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Michigan, New Hampshire, California. Conservative Baptist university. Liberal Seminary in Berkley. His path to Lee's Summit has covered both the physical breadth of our nation and the spiritual spectrum of Christian theology. Today, he is the pastor and leader of Martin Luther Lutheran Church and an active member of this community. This is Hans Koschman.

A food fight... and fighting to feed a need

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 22:26:33 -0500

We're talking about food. A new restaurant opens; a new coffee shop opens; Jason's picking a fight over hamburgers and tacos; and a couple of Rotarians stop by to talk about Feed LS and an opportunity to support four local nonprofits working to make sure nobody in this community goes hungry.

This is Bill Keith

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 19:04:48 -0500

This was supposed to be about his business. It was supposed to be a show about switching gears and finding a second career as an entrepreneur. Instead, it was a conversation about self-realization, mental health, courage and a phone call that saved his life. This is Bill Keith.

What to expect when you're electing

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 09:32:43 -0500

A quick look into the school district, upcoming city elections and the State's continuing process for legalizing medical marijuana.

Your Monday NewsLiknk

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 10:23:35 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 14, 2019 is here.

Surviving cancer & looking to what's next

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 00:01:00 -0500

October is breast cancer awareness month. Nick looks back to a conversation with his wife, Stephanie, on the eve of her 5-year cancer free anniversary.

Something to keep your eye on

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 00:01:00 -0500

Rental properties and affordable housing will be a part of the City's conversations in the coming months.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 11:05:54 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of October 7, 2019 is here.

Friday conversation: the confluence of passion, education & art

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 00:01:00 -0500

Nick sits down with Jody Fristoe Tom Mallot and Wanda Tyner to preview next week's Summit Art Fest and their lifelong passion for the arts and the Lee's Summit community.

A quick look outside; but it's all connected

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 08:32:26 -0500

Nick and Jason take some time to look in on the County government and controversy surrounding property taxes as well as the local library system and their public conversations concerning diversity and equity. Oh, and did you realize Woodland Elementary was not inside City limits? Neither did we.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 12:43:38 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 30, 2019 is here.

Friday conversation: We are Lee's Summit

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 07:18:05 -0500

The Lee's Summit community is made up of people, eople define the community. Hilary Graves and John Beaudoin sit down with Nick for a Friday conversation about a new public art project starting this weekend.

The one with the dueling meetings

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 07:09:23 -0500

The City of Lee's Summit and the LS R-7 School District faced off this week in a duel of big announcements. OK, it wasn't really a face off. Nor was it a duel. But there was big news coming out of both City Hall and the Tony Stansberry Leadership Center as the mayor held his annual State of the City address and the R-7 Board of Education met and approved the CFMP team's recommendation to move 6th into the middle schools in 2022-2023 school year.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 13:05:52 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 23, 2019 is here.

But what does this mean for me?

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 21:09:26 -0500

This week's City Council meeting consisted of the annual discussion of the municipal tax levy. Jason and Nick take some time to break down what this annual review is and what it means for the average Lee's Summit tax payer and resident.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 13:13:54 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of September 16, 2019 is here.

Chili and wings and salsa, oh my!

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 20:54:35 -0500

For this Friday conversation host Nick Parker sits down with Ben Rao to talk about the upcoming Lee's Summit Chilifest and to celebrate the entrepreneur's 1-year anniversary of the Bridge Space coworking space in downtown Lee's Summit.

The 6th graders — should they stay or should they go now...

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 08:03:00 -0500

This week, we remember 9/11, we remind ourselves to keep talking about mental health and we take a look at the CFMP team's recommendation to the Board of Education — which includes moving sixth grade students out of elementary and into middle schools.

Friday conversation: This is Shawn Harrel

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 07:31:48 -0500

He's a musician, a radio host, an editor, a videographer and a philanthropist. He's also a pretty darn good teacher. This is Shawn Harrel.

Teen Takeover: Our stories, our perspectives

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 21:11:06 -0500

In the final installment of our teen takeover, Hudson, Rylee, Malorie and Olivia offer some of their own stories, experiences and perspectives on mental health.

See the need; Meet the need

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 07:30:48 -0500

Nick and Jason sit down with Lee's Summit Social Services executive director Matt Sanning to chat about his organizations efforts to continue meeting the needs of our community.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 08:10:34 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 26, 2019 is here.

Takeover, Part II: A day in our teenage lives

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 08:02:39 -0500

In the second of our three-part series where local teens takeover the podcast to talk about youth mental health, Rylee, Malorie and Olivia discuss the everyday lives of teens in our community.

Eating wings & helping people

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 07:49:13 -0500

Nick and Jason offer a quick look into some of the local news before a conversation with Chris Turney and Chad Juarez about local non-profit Wings 4 Water.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 00:01:00 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 19, 2019 is here.

The teen takeover doth begin

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 00:01:00 -0500

Beginning today, a group local teens — Hudson, Rylee, Malorie & Olivia — are taking over the Friday episodes for the next three weeks. Stemming from the Community Task Force on Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, this group of 14- and 15-year-olds have decided one of the things this growing community conversation on youth mental health needs is the perspective of actual youth. So for the next three Fridays, the microphones are theirs as they bring you candid conversations on mental health, technology, and life as a teen in our suburban community. If you have questions for this group, or topics you’d like to hear more about, please message us through our Link 2 Lee’s Summit Facebook Page or by email at nick@link2leessummit.com.

City Council Notes: a little surprise; nothing surprising; & a lack of explanation

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 08:26:03 -0500

This week, Jason and Nick look in on the City Council as one member makes a somewhat surprising announcement, the results of strategic planning efforts are made public, and the City sells its rights to a piece of property with no explanation to the public.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 15:08:10 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of August 12, 2019 is here.

Friday conversation: Talkin' bout a revolution

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 00:01:00 -0500

Beginning next week, four local youth will take over the Town Hall Friday Conversation episodes on August 16, 23 and 30. This week, host Nick Parker sits down with Kerri Gray, Elizabeth Baldwin and Terry Trafton to talk about the Lee’s Summit Community Task Force on Youth Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, community-wide efforts to decrease associated stigmas and preview the three episodes produced by the youth to address these same topics in their words and for their peers. In the second half of the episode, Nick is joined by two of the four youth hosts as they get listeners ready for their podcast takeover.

If you, or someone new is in need of help, please visit FirstStepForHelp.com or call 888.279.8188.

The need for transparency is still out there

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 13:06:00 -0500

Whether talking about City Hall or LSR7's Stansberry Leadership Center, Nick and Jason see several needs for more transparency and better communication with the citizens of Lee's Summit.

Looking ahead and moving forward

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 00:01:00 -0500

Nick and Jason take a step back to look at how the community moves forward after what has been a tumultuous time for the Lee's Summit R-7 School District and our town.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 00:01:00 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 29, 2019 is here.

Backing the play

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 10:12:28 -0500

Jason and Nick sit down with Friends of Lee's Summit vice chair Terry Trafton to discuss the local PAC's decision to back the City of Lee's Summit's bond issue on the August ballot.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 11:08:58 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 22, 2019 is here.

This is Erin Albright

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 07:18:31 -0500

She's was a teacher and she's been a massage therapist. She makes her living as a successful graphic artist. And in 2019, she became a best-selling author with the release of her children's book 'Sassie's New Home.' This is Erin Albright.

Development balancing acts

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 08:47:20 -0500

Nick and Jason look at the balancing act between the City and development community when it comes to infrastructure development and upgrades before taking a first look at the upcoming election on a bond issue.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 12:11:32 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 15, 2019 is here.

Ready, set, pitch

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 10:19:58 -0500

Nick checks in with Jon Cundiff and Seth Kakuske to discuss the evolution of Velocity Lee's Summit, an networking and support community of entrepreneurs. The group's signature event, the Pitch Pub Crawl, is set for 5 p.m. July 18 in downtown Lee's Summit. Visit the Velocity LS Facebook page for more details.

The ordinances, the are aligning

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 07:26:45 -0500

The City of Lee's Summit continues its work to align its ordinances with new state law concerning the use of medical marijuana. Nick and Jason offer a little insight into this process, as well as a few other tidbits from around the community.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 11:53:37 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 8, 2019 is here.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 00:01:00 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of July 1, 2019 is here.

Permission to succeed

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 00:01:00 -0500

Life hasn't always been easy. His choices, he says, weren't always based on what was best for him. But happiness and fulfillment came when he learned to get out of his own way and simply give himself permission to do the things his soul craved. Today, he feeds his soul with a passion to tell stories of love and possibility through music. This is John Hardesty.

The calm before the boom... and the bloom

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 10:44:46 -0500

June is coming to a close and the Independence Day holiday is next week. Nick and Jason take a quick look at some of the events happenings coming up. And for our fellow government and process nerds, we take a shallow dive into Thursday's Planning Commission meeting and public hearing concerning zoning ordinances and the new state law allowing for medical marijuana.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 00:01:00 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink for the week of June 24, 2019 is here.

She's a deviant — a Change Deviant

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 15:43:26 -0500

She's an inn operator and an HR consultant. She's well on her way to publishing her first book. But what she's really out to do is becoming a world class "change deviant." But before that can happen, she sits down with host Nick Parker to explain the concept and talk about finding our own definitions, and paths, to life success. This is Liesl Hays.

The one with some forward progress

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 07:37:49 -0500

Jason and Nick held the show back a day this week as they awaiting a decision from the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education on the district's equity plan. The duo takes a look at the vote and what that means going forward.

This is Esian Henderson

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 12:38:43 -0500

Today he celebrates his 34th birthday. He's a former professional basketball, a real estate professional and a coach, partnering with Nike for his Kansas City area youth basketball camps. This is Esian Henderson.

Budgets and mediation

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 08:06:02 -0500

The City's budget for the next year has been approved and Jason & Nick discuss what the LS R-7's School District's new plan for mediation between the Board of Education and the Superintendent means for its equity plan.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 11:15:02 -0500

The news, happenings and events from around Lee's Summit — your Monday NewsLink is here.

Are you ready for Downtown Days?

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 08:09:41 -0500

Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street events director Julie Cook joins host Nick Parker to preview this week's annual Downtown Days festival.

Live from the Bridge Space studio

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 07:32:47 -0500

In an episode broadcast on Facebook Live, Nick and Jason are joined by Link 2 Lee's Summit guest columnist John Beaudoin for an in depth discussion on news and issues from the Lee's Summit community. A little technical forced the trio to switch to a mobile device for the final 3 minutes of the broadcast, please forgive the slight interruption in the discussion and change in audio quality. (UPDATE: After this broadcast, the LS R-7 School District announced its Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Dennis Carpenter would be seeking mediation in an effort to better its working relationship.)

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 15:21:13 -0500

All the news, happenings & events from around Lee's Summit, MO.

Friday conversation with Hubert Neth

Fri, 31 May 2019 10:59:19 -0500

The podcast has taken the week off (don't worry, we're back next week!) But I thought it might be nice to look back at one of my favorite interviews. I've known Hubert Neth since my days at the Journal, but in September of 2017 I got a chance to sit down with him and have a fantastic conversation on faith and his 40 years as a minister in our community.

Friday conversation: Ryan Waters and Aaron Simpson

Fri, 24 May 2019 08:36:19 -0500

Nick sits down with Lee's Summit residents and local business owners Ryan Waters (Shredd KC) and Aaron Simpson (Anytime Fitness) to talk about their personal missions to change people's lives through healthy living.

Equity and LSR7 Board — Where do we go from here?

Wed, 22 May 2019 01:39:25 -0500

Much like the topic they were discussing (or maybe you think the word should be avoiding), last week's Lee's Summit R-7 School District Board of Education meeting was at times both difficult and awkward. Let's face it, there was a lot to unpack there. Nick and Jason attempt to break it down and ponder whether some board members' opposition actually display a reason for more conversation on bias and equity.

Friday Conversation: Community group looks to change conversation surrounding LSR7 achievement gap

Fri, 17 May 2019 09:14:44 -0500

Nick and Jason sit down with Corey McDonald and Ron Freeman, of the Community Solutions Focus Group. The group, believing public conversations surrounding the LS R-7 School District's equity plan have had too much emphasis on race, is looking to change the narrative. This is the first in a series of conversations with and about various community groups looking to influence district decision making.

Our next ballot issue and more conversation on the LSR7 equity plan

Wed, 15 May 2019 07:21:57 -0500

Jason and Nick take a look at the City Council's decision to place a bond issue on the August ballot before taking a look at the LS R-7 School District's equity plan and the recommendation to the board on hiring an equity consultant.

Your Monday NewsLink

Mon, 13 May 2019 14:17:20 -0500

Your weekly look at news and events for Lee's Summit, MO.

They've got talent yes they do; They've got talent how 'bout you...

Fri, 10 May 2019 07:26:54 -0500

The annual Got Talent competition benefitting Lee's Summit CARES is just a few weeks away. Executive Director Rachel Segobia and 2018 award winner Kennedy Newell join Nick for a Friday conversation on the popular event. Tickets are available at http://www.lstalent.com

Previews, reviews, bragging & teasing

Wed, 08 May 2019 08:23:03 -0500

The Lee's Summit City Council appears ready to put a no-tax increase bond issue before the voters in August. The City's asking for your input on affordable housing in our community. Oh, and Nick has a little bragging to do.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 06 May 2019 10:13:47 -0500

Your weekly look at news and events for Lee's Summit, MO.

A commitment to do more; a challenge to be better

Wed, 01 May 2019 07:34:33 -0500

Nick and Jason are making a commitment to more conversation on community issues concerning the LS R-7 School District.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0500

Local Headlines and events for the week of April 22, 2019

Friday conversation: Creating a community vision

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 00:22:00 -0500

District 1 Council member Rob Binney and Assistant City Manager Nick Edwards join host Nick Parker for a conversation about the City's strategic planning process and how the public can help form the plan for Lee's Summit's next 20 or 30 years.

This is how it's supposed to work

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 00:01:30 -0500

From the earliest episodes of the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast, hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury have spent a lot of discussion on process and how public officials, and the general public, conduct themselves during public conversations on important issues. For the most part, Tuesday night was a near-perfect snapshot of exactly how the process is supposed to work.

Your Monday morning NewsLink

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 10:55:22 -0500

News and events for the coming week.

Friday conversation: A mission for early detection

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 19:52:22 -0500

Ben Rao joins the program to talk about his experience battling skin cancer and how it has inspired him to spend the past nine years preaching the importance of skin screenings and early detection. Rao joins host Nick Parker and his wife, Stephanie Parker, in hosting the April 20 Live Next Cancer Awareness event at Bridge Space in downtown Lee's Summit.

Wow, that's a big menu

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 11:29:00 -0500

Jason and Nick draw a conclusion from last week’s LS R-7 School Board election before diving into a discussion on a presentation before City Council concerning a possible no tax increase bond issue for the August election.

Monday NewsLink:

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 18:59:00 -0500

Your Monday morning NewsLink for the week of April 8, 2019.

Friday conversation: The Local Foundery

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 15:05:00 -0500

Host Nick Parker sits down with Dave Eames & Ben Wine, local craftsmen and owners of Fossil Forge Design, who are opening a new retail store this weekend in Downtown Lee's Summit. Local Foundery will showcase not only their own creations, but work from other makers and creatives.

The school board election — winners, voices & questions

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 15:12:00 -0500

Today, on the Lee's Summit Town Hall podcast: The 2019 election Lee’s Summit R-7 School District election is finished and we have our winners, but what does that mean? Hosts Nick Parker and Jason Norbury are asking these questions as they look at how the election played out and how conversations may shift as the newly-shaped board gets to work.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 13:23:00 -0500

Your Monday NewsLink.

Friday conversation: Celebrating cancer-free and asking 'what's next?'

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 14:16:00 -0500

In a surreal moment, Nick interviews his own wife, Stephanie Parker, to talk about celebrating her 5-year cancer free anniversary and the special event she’s planned to raise awareness and increase early detection. The Live Next cancer awareness event, is set for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 20 at Bridge Space in downtown Lee’s Summit.

Public hearings, elections, debates & the need to keep it real

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 11:34:00 -0500

Jason and Nick take a look at the recent TIF Commission hearing on the proposed downtown multi-family project and offer one last breakdown of next week’s LS R-7 Board of Education election. And while the results are important, the duo point out, how we got there and how we talked about the issues may matter even more.

Monday NewsLink

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 15:12:00 -0500

A quick look into current news and upcoming events in Lee’s Summit.

Friday conversation on adult learning programs at UCM Lee's Summit

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 04:00:00 -0500

Nick and Jason sit down with Dr. Laurel Hogue, vice provost for UCM Extended Studies, and Andrea Bisogna, an adult student and member of the UCM staff, for a conversation about the adult learning program and opportunities at the Lee’s Summit campus located inside the Missouri Innovation campus.

Apartments and possible effects on the downtown district

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 12:46:00 -0500

This week, the City Council was presented with the pre-development plan for a proposed multifamily project on the site of the former Summit Church at Second and Douglas streets. Nick and Jason take a look at the project and conversations surrounding its possible effects on the both the commercial and residential portions of the downtown district.

Monday NewsLink

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 15:07:00 -0500

A quick look into current news and upcoming events in Lee’s Summit.

Friday conversation: Meet LSR7 Board of education candidate Judy Hedrick