Kansas City is gearing up for the upcoming World Cup, with 650,000 visitors projected despite concerns from the hotel industry, which labeled the city as the most negatively impacted host market. Visit KC President and CEO Kathy Nelson remains optimistic, citing a 31% growth in confirmed flights and increased international interest, although challenges such as the Trump administration's visa bond requirement of up to $15,000 are noted. Meanwhile, Missouri Republican lawmakers are expressing outrage over plea deals in the 2024 Chiefs rally mass shooting, where suspects Terry Young and Dominic Miller had their second-degree murder charges reduced to lesser weapons charges, resulting in two-year sentences. In political news, Kansas state Senator Patrick Schmidt, motivated by the January 6 Capitol riot, is challenging Republican Roger Marshall for his U.S. Senate seat, having raised about $177,000 in early campaign funding. Additionally, a Dutch delegation visiting Kansas City suggested local restaurants serve barbecue and fried chicken instead of Dutch cuisine during the World Cup matches at Arrowhead Stadium, which will host fans from various countries. Lastly, Olathe parent Amber Hartsook is advocating for the recognition of deceased students at graduation ceremonies, pushing for the reading of names for nine students lost in tragic incidents.