Latest reporting from the Community desk.
Community
Several Johnson County charities and drives are working to meet growing demand for food and shelter heading into the holiday season, including an upcoming toy and food drive, a Mission food pantry serving hundreds of families, and a Lenexa shelter operating beyond capacity.
Community
Olathe city staff have indicated construction on a universally inclusive playground at Two Trails Park could begin in summer 2027, funded by a $3 million Variety KC grant. The park is the third site chosen for the nonprofit's Ten Parks Project.
Community
The Lenexa Public Market's returning Sip, Mingle & Jingle event brings more than 35 local craft vendors, live music from the Kelley Gant Trio, food and drink specials, and hourly prize giveaways on Friday, Nov. 20, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Community
Olathe opened the 119th Street roundabout on Oct. 28, but the adjacent bridge over the BNSF railroad tracks won't open until the end of November while the city waits on railing deliveries.
Community
AT&T has federal approval to begin retiring copper landline service at 89 Kansas wire centers starting Nov. 15, giving affected customers just weeks to switch to a broadband-based phone service or mobile line.
Community
The Lenexa Farmers Market wraps its outdoor season Saturday, Oct. 31, capping a packed weekend that also includes Friday Night Sound Frights with a costume contest, a Kid Zone Open House and a free document shredding event.
Community
AARP Kansas named Olathe resident Susie Mize the 2026 recipient of its Andrus Award, the organization's highest volunteer honor, for her free tax preparation and financial education work.
Community
Lenexa Parks & Recreation is accepting pumpkins at Little Mill Creek Park starting Nov. 1, followed by Christmas tree and greenery drop-offs starting Dec. 26, with Scouts BSA Troop 186 offering curbside tree pickup in January 2027.
Community
De Soto homeowners have until Saturday, Oct. 31, to apply for the Contain the Rain cost-share program, which reimburses up to 50% of costs for rain gardens, native plantings, rain barrels and trees through a joint city-county stormwater initiative.
Community
The 39th annual Lenexa Chili Challenge fills Old Town Lenexa on Friday, Oct. 9, and Saturday, Oct. 10, with nearly 200 competing teams, free chili samples, live music and free admission, though fireworks have been retired this year.
Community
More than 225 public works drivers from 23 metro agencies are competing in the APWA Snow ROADeo at New Century AirCenter in Olathe through Friday, with Johnson County crews chasing a fourth straight overall title.
Community
De Soto's free "Halloween at the 'Fest" brings a forest trick-or-treat trail, bounce houses, free food and more to Riverfest Park on Oct. 17, and the city is recruiting local businesses to host trail stations.
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