Kelly Eckerman

Mar 7, 2024 | kmbc.com | Kelly Eckerman

A local shoe company has joined with Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City to create a sneaker that not only promotes the non-profit organization but also sends out a powerful message. Ozell Shoe Company, based out of Lee's Summit, has created a custom shoe that incorporates the Big Brothers Big Sisters color and logo both inside and out. The founder of Ozell Shoes, Titus Ozell Golden, grew up in a single-parent household himself and believes in the importance of mentoring.

Feb 2, 2024 | kmbc.com | Kelly Eckerman

The eastern Kansas boys basketball community is rallying behind the head coach of the Blue Valley Southwest High School basketball team. Dustin Leochner has been struggling with West Nile virus since October. All coaches in the Eastern Kansas League are joining forces to support Leochner and his family. Leckner started feeling sick with a cold or flu-like sickness back in early October, family members said. After several days of getting worse, Leckner's wife took him to the emergency room.

Oct 25, 2023 | kmbc.com | Kelly Eckerman

A local scientist has devoted her life to biomedical research and developing ways to treat disease. Little did she know her work would come full circle when she became the one fighting for her life. Dr. Heather Marshall is a director of model organism research at the Stowers Institute in Kansas City. For more than two decades, she's worked with animals — studying diseases and how we cure them. "Particularly with mice.

Oct 19, 2023 | kmbc.com | Kelly Eckerman |Nick Sloan

Wayne Keim, an 86-year-old Vietnam veteran who served three tours of duty, finally received the military medals he earned over six decades ago --- all thanks to the determination and kindness of a stranger. Keim, who served in the Navy and completed two subsequent tours with the Army, had long resigned himself to a quiet life, rarely speaking about his time in Vietnam. For the military, the Vietnam era was a period marred by a lack of recognition from many Americans at the time.

Oct 5, 2023 | kmbc.com | Kelly Eckerman |Nick Sloan

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Deanna Munoz, the founder of the Latino Arts Foundation, is spearheading an initiative that brings Hispanic culture to life through art. The program, held at a Latino art class in Kansas City, offers children an opportunity to celebrate their Hispanic roots in a creative way. While many of these children are accustomed to witnessing the vibrant low-rider cars at various Hispanic festivals, they are now taking part in creating their own miniature versions.