The TKC Saturday Night Podcast: Autumn

I may have jumped the gun on this one but I figure now that Autumn is here, it's time to celebrate the arrival of the new season with a few choice songs.

In general, songs about Autumn are horribly depressing, so I decided to mix in some tunes vaguely related to the word "Fall" in order to lighten the mood. However, I couldn't help but lead off with a haunting version of "Autumn Leaves" by Eva Cassidy. If you know anything about her career, it's enough to rip your heart right out . . . Still, before her untimely death, she performed one of the best renditions of that song I've heard in a long time.



Similarly, it was about time to include the song "Seasons" by the Cunninlynguists because the tune is awesome and expresses some of the common discontent with the current state of hip-hop music.



And just for giggles, here's a bikini photo of Autumn Reeser, who always puts me in a good mood.



So, enjoy the beginning of this fall season folks and, as always, have a safe and fun weekend. Thank you for reading.

KC's Latino Community profits from Funkhouser's fumbling

Recently, there was more news regarding Mayor Funkhouser's horrible luck when it comes to his appointments and how he has managed to horribly stumble through the process.

Turns out, in what is seemingly an attempt to dig himself out of a hole when it comes to the Semler debate, Mayor Funky has pissed off this base (nullus) in Clay County and appointed some Latino dude that isn't really that qualified for the ATA board.

This is an especially painful paradox for Mayor Funky given that his talk radio supporters often cite Mayor Funky's "principles" in sticking up for Frances Semler. HOWEVER, the only "principle" apparent in the choices for Mayor Funky's appointments aren't related to qualifications but instead seem to rest on promoting his Administration's agenda or rewarding loyalty. Obviously, Mayor Funky is mistaking the idea of "principles" for patronage and politics.

The people of Clay County recommended folks who had experience when it came to transportation issues and it now looks as if their well thought out and carefully picked recommendations were all but ignored in favor providing "damage control" for the embattled Funkhouser Administration. The Mayor's response is buried in the article and it's not only laughable but also dangerous:

Funkhouser said he was not looking for someone to serve on the ATA board who had expertise on public transit issues. He said professional staff was already in place to handle those matters.

Rangel would represent the interests and values of the citizens, Funkhouser said.

“I was looking to represent the diversity of the community,” he said

Riiiiiight.

Again, this is just another STUPID decision by Funkhouser and it only shows his screwed up, cold Vulcan logic believes that pissing off EVERYBODY in the City somehow represents: "Diversity." His (mis)understanding of the concept of diversity is probably one of his greatest failings as both a leader and a human being.

Sad thing is, the Latino leadership who is still pissed at the Mayor over the Semler appointment isn't going "accept" this truly token gesture. While I'm sure they're all happy for Rangel, there's no way this is going to diffuse their dissatisfaction - In fact, expecting it to do so not only underestimates KC's Latino Leadership but is also unfair to Rangel.

So here's an important question: For you folks who support Mayor Funky for not "caving into demands from La Raza" and local Latinos. How to you feel about the Mayor appointing a unqualified Latino to an important board based only the need for diversity?

Personally, I find it insulting. And yet again, this is just another example of the Mayor's lack of political acumen.

Diversity doesn't mean digging up your Latino neighbors or cronies and turning over important work for the City to people based primarily on loyalty. I'd really like to know if the same people who support Semler, support this obvious affirmative-action appointment by Mayor Funky because they are related.

Thing is, I don't mind the appointment but only because it throws yet another Latino into a prominent position. Somebody ought to profit from the Mayor's missteps.

If TKC was bestowed with the title of "Kansas City's Chief Boobie Inspector" maybe I wouldn't spend so much time pointing out the many faults of the Mayor.

But the truth is, while transportation may not be Rangel's area of expertise - He is a talented guy (no homo) and the more influential Latinos in Kansas City, the better. But do you think the supporters of the Minutemen feel the same way? I'm guessing no and I'm also guessing that the Mayor's political fumbling with his appointments have cost him more political support than he could possibly imagine.

Here's what KC hip-hop looks like

By all accounts, last night's show at the RecordBar was pretty successful. The "Fall Fresh Fest" played to a full house.

The Godfather of KC Rap - Reach promoted the hell out of the thing.

And from the looks of it he wrestled up a great crowd, some NICE performances and (most importantly) some great photos.



For a look at the good times, check out a slide show set up by Reach OR check out the collection of pics individually in the photo gallery.

And for the life of me, I can't find a photo of anybody displaying the usual tough guy swagger that accompanies most hip-hop shows and that's VERY refreshing and speaks to the NEXT LEVEL to which KC Rap acts are taking their game. Sure, they may attract hipsters but there's also more broads in the crowd which is a MUCH welcomed change.

"SICKO" PROTESTS IN KANSAS CITY!!!

Tess Koppelman covers this extremely important local story that sadly, went overlooked by other news outlets:

Protests were taking place all over the country Friday night, demanding better health care for all.

The protests stemmed from a Kansas City man's story told in the Michael Moore documentary "Sicko." Tracy Pierce's story was featured. He died in February of last year after being denied several medical treatments . . . People in Kansas City protested outside Pierce's health insurance provider, Coventry

Come to think of it, I'm surprised this story (and so many others like it) doesn't have people more concerned and riled up given that the lack of affordable healthcare is an issue that affects almost all of us . . . AND our Governor Baby Blunt has such a horrible record on healthcare AND KC's Mayor has chatted about cutting off indigent care . . . In other words, politicos in this part of the country are literally trying to kill their opposition . . . Eh, maybe that's a little strong, but they're sure as hell helping to ensure that po'folk in Kansas City can't afford decent care.

The Royals Stay Losing!!!

The Royals finish at the bottom of the American League Central Division for a fourth straight year.

I'm sorry was this the improvement everybody was talking about at the beginning of the season?

At least one "Massage parlor" in Overland Park stays legal

Johnson County prosecutors have dismissed a case against an Overland Park man who had been charged with promoting prostitution.

It's probably too late to chastise a teen grinning at a murder trial

Check out this smiley story from The Star: Robert Haberlein is a 19-year-old charged with first-degree murder, but the grin on his face Friday in Wyandotte County Juvenile Court belied the gravity of that charge.

And it didn’t sit right with the judge.

Wyandotte County Judge David W. Boal surprised the courtroom Friday when he interrupted an attorney and focused his attention on Haberlein. In a stern and frank voice, he demanded to know what the Kansas City, Kan., teen found funny about a premeditated murder hearing.

A gathering of almost as many causal drug users as you'll see in a KC hipster bar

From the KC Biz Journal: More than 125 artists will gather at a town hall meeting Saturday to discuss issues important to the future of artists' lives and the arts in Kansas City.

Why can't KC be more like Canada?

Why is this always the dream of left wing psycho when it comes their pet cause? Sadly, I understand when it comes to healthcare but hoping against hope for doggy treats is just a tad creepy.

The Star's reporting on Semler is booty

The Mayor along with his unskilled and talentless PR staff are still trying to diffuse the Semler debate without any luck.

Their latest trick is some BS press release about so-called "progress" and work toward a settlement on the issue.

This is really just nothing more than a lie. It's hard to believe the Star went with this one given how they've been fooled before and even reported the whole Semler story was over in July.

La Raza Leader Janet Murgia simply says "We're talking" so the "progress" doesn't seem that great to me.

Also, without talking to any of he leadership in KC, La Raza would have a hard time selling this one to the locals. However, for the record, the same thing DID happen to the NAACP locals when their leadership surprised everyone with a decision to stand against the hate group that has co-opted the Funky Administration. Also, for the record, Funkhouser and the Minutemen are one in the same at this point.

But, the fact remains that there IS NO DEAL BETWEEN LA RAZA AND THE FUNKY BUNCH and time is running out.

Once again, the Star is swallowing Mayor Funky's hype hook, line and sinker. Incidentally, it's also sad to see that Funkhouser hasn't dropped his divide and conquer strategy given that it's only serving to further sully his reputation in the Latino community which he begged for support earlier this year and then ultimately betrayed.

So what are you doing this weekend?

There's a lot of stuff happening this weekend in KC that almost sounds important enough to miss the season premiere of SNL. Almost.

Here's some of the events I'm listing. Use the comments to list your own:

The Japanese Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Carlsen Center at Johnson County Community College.

Racefest 2007 is already underway at The Legends. Also, that's an interesting name since I think that there's predominantly only one race of people who show up in order to smell exhaust fumes and watch cars make left turns.

For all the marbles: An attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest marble tournament will be hosted Saturday by the Toy & Miniature Museum of Kansas City.

As always the Event Driver has a great list of local music shows.

Also, don't forget this very important local hip-hop event tonight:

Anti-Immigrant reactionaries will cost KC

A special thanks to Logtar for sending this article my way:

Towns Rethink Laws Against Illegal Immigrants

Apparently, the end result of listening to the insanity spouted by people like Krazy Kris Kobach is documented here:

"With the departure of so many people, the local economy suffered. Hair salons, restaurants and corner shops that catered to the immigrants saw business plummet; several closed. Once-boarded-up storefronts downtown were boarded up again.

Meanwhile, the town was hit with two lawsuits challenging the law. Legal bills began to pile up, straining the town’s already tight budget. Suddenly, many people — including some who originally favored the law — started having second thoughts.

So last week, the town rescinded the ordinance, joining a small but growing list of municipalities nationwide that have begun rethinking such laws as their legal and economic consequences have become clearer."

And I realize that there are lots of different (and dumb) opinions about illegal immigration but the point here is that representing any town, city or state as a place that's unwelcoming or intolerant of people (more often than not based only on their skin or pattern of speech) is just a bad economic move.

Some say that so-called "illegals" are a drain on a communities resources but are boarded up storefronts and urban blight much better? Northeast KC and a great part of KCK were desolate no more than 10 years ago and now there's activity and BUSINESS in those places . . . That's not entirely a bad thing. Most of the same dolts who believe that immigrants are the most horrible people on the planet also rant and rave about the "welfare" state in their spare time and their "solutions" are all contingent on marching in lock step and mindlessly supporting everything from ineffective abstinence only sex-ed to the endless war in Iraq.

And let's not forget the fact that Illegal Immigrants Are Bolstering Social Security With Billions.

Still, any kind of well-reasoned debate on this subject is impossible for the most part and it's usually buzzwords like Amnesty, Sanctuary or EVIL BROWN HORDES that get the most attention. Yet the conventional wisdom and more importantly the Godfather Part I acknowledges that "wars" (even imaginary ones on the border) are bad for business.

The end of fashion in KC

This kind of thing normally isn't "my bag" (nullus) but I find it interesting nonetheless, KC Fashion week is now at and end with little or no fanfare. However, I did find a great local blogger post that offers a first hand account AND SOME GREAT PHOTOS of the event.

Let the buyer's remorse begin: Larry Johnson is already beat up

SI reports that LJ missed two consecutive practices this week and he already looks like he's running half speed in order ensure that he gets every penny of the cash owed to him that requires no additional effort. Luckily, San Diego seems to be struggling as well . . . Here's a nice pre-game outlook from Arrowhead Pride. Also, there's an even better question by the The Arrowhead Addict: Is Damon Huard a starting NFL quarterback? - And so far I think the Chiefs record speaks to that inquiry better than any mean comment I could write. On the bright side, this means that Brodie Croyle's time is soon approaching and I get to make even nastier comments about his wife . . . Hopefully, withe more photos - Get on it KC photogs.

The latest news in the Semler Standoff Story

After he gets back from vacation (ugh) there are tentative plans for Mayor Funky to meet with KC's Latino Leadership on October 11.

The mayor said he was tired of getting canceled on while Latinos wanted the showdown to be somewhere besides the Mayor's home turf (or at least away from Gloria Squitiro's bare feet).

And this shows at least of bit of progress other than the Mayor Funky's embarrassing tactic of inviting his neighbor to a meeting of Latino "leaders." I mean, things were getting rough there for a while with Mayor Funky really scraping the bottom of the barrel. Rumor is, he was going to invite a Mexican janitor at City Hall for the next meeting, but there isn't one.

The main topic of the discussion is purported to be how the Latino Community and The Mayor can move forward.

Here are TKC's suggestions in order to end the hostility between the Latino Leadership and Mayor Funky:

Mayor Funky needs to PERSONALLY get involved in the growing sanctuary movement in Kansas City. An ordinance signed by the Mayor once again declaring Kansas City as a Sanctuary City pushed by the Interfaith worker justice group might be the best place to start.

Also, there's talk of a TASK FORCE FOR LATINO AFFAIRS IN KANSAS CITY. And naturally I should be the chairman of this effort given that TKC is the most important Latino in Kansas City.

Finally, I hear they're also recommending Taco Tuesday at the City Hall Cafeteria. Sombrero day and a recommendation to have Linda Ronstadt's classic Mexican folkloric album piped in through City Hall's sound system every third Monday.

All of these seem like reasonable requests to me and I only wonder how they'll be met.

Corporate interests own the Sprint Center and the term "scalper" only applies to the poor or people of color

So we've already established the The Sprint Center doesn't really belong to the people of Kansas City and it's only intended to benefit affluent concert-goers mostly from JoCo.

Now, even more news surfaces that the place is really run by all of those people sitting in the corporate suites whose ownership is top secret.

The ticket resellers are making profits hand over fist and recently Channel 9 reported that the Billy Joel tickets went on sale to companies WELL BEFORE anybody waiting in line could get a hold of them.

The companies who profited:

Sprint (based in JoCo)

United Missouri Bank

QuikTrip

University of Kansas Hospitals

And there's a word for this that nobody likes to mention: Scalping.

The problem is, the term seems only to apply when somebody is doing it on a street corner rather than online or through cushy corporate deals. In much the same way that there is still a disparity for jail sentences between crack vs. powder cocaine which essentially classifies white people caught with the drug as addicts while minorities are locked up as criminals.

It's all part of the same hypocrisy and part of the reason why nothing much has changed in this town despite clueless folks pointing toward an empty arena or a group of chain restaurants in downtown Kansas city as a sign of progress.

Barnes and Graves face off in different directions

Hearne Christopher Jr. has a really good column quoting former KC Council member and mayor pro tem Joe Serviss regarding the many foibles of Mayor Funky so far.

Local blog Gone Mild points out that Serviss is an old pal of the Country Club Kay Crowd and taking pot shots at Funky is rather easy seeing as how the guy is one of the least popular people in KC proper right now.

On the other hand, Rep. Sam Graves seems to be working against another powerless foe: Mexican immigrants.

The point here is that neither of them are really running on their record. Graves is nothing but a cheerleader for the failed policies of President Bush, while Kay has an arena with no anchor tenant to answer for in KC . . . So it's fun watching them bash completely unrelated parties in order to confuse voters who as to who they're really running against.

Hot rods (nullus) on a budget in KC

Here's a rather interesting story featured on NPR regarding Kansas City car enthusiasts fixing up their classic vehicles for themselves . . . You know, the opposite of any suburban Harley owner.

Is the Star to blame for the Semler debate?

Channel 9 helps to blame the messenger: The chairman of the CVA board, Bill George, said he is blaming the Kansas City Star newspaper for fanning the flames.

C'mon man, I think I deserve at least a little bit of credit.

Let's cheer for a lack of progress! Celebrate Missouri moving backwards!!!

I've always believed that most of you d-bags only read this site in order to get a glimpse of what the enemy (i.e. a minority) is thinking.

Therefore, I feel obligated to express my disappointment with the fact that the incoming class at MU's medical school hosts NOT A SINGLE BLACK STUDENT and only a few minorities.

I'm certain that what this story really points out is that without some efforts to achieve diversity, white people are more than happy to keep people of color out of their institutions, workplaces and mainstream culture more or less.

Remember that this information comes within a relatively short timespan of earlier efforts to use tricky ballot language in order to abolish any kind of Affirmative-Action efforts in Missouri. And obviously, the end result of this kind of thing is: No Black people.

And in a state where racial profiling on the streets is encouraged, education in a great many minority communities is substandard and combating violence in urban Black communities isn't a priority for politicos . . . It's certain that these numbers are really just a symptom of a bigger problem.

Coincidentally, there are people who might explain away this frightening stat or even celebrate it as some kind of victory rather than acknowledge that the Show-Me state is rife with institutional, systemic racism and the people who exploit it in order to win political office are pretty sick.

Another Latino entity avoids KC

KC Talk reports: Tropical Storm Lorenzo Not Coming to KC

It's a pretty funny parody based on the fact that there are only a handful of people in Kansas City who have a vowel in their name and aren't pissed at the mayor.

Mayor Funky Flees

Kansas City's Mayor is on vacation . . . Again. Since he's heading to the woods of the Ozarks, I thought it would be appropriate to post a vacation-y photo of the wife of Tiger Woods . . . Elin Nordegren. Nice.

Anyhoo . . . Let's not forget Mayor Funky was in JUST in Amsterdam in July where he was also working on his book.

And while the benefit of having Mayor Funky out of town is that there's no opportunity for him to stumble all over himself it seems that his work on his book and so many frequent trips out of town keeps him out of the loop as to what's really going on in Kansas city. NOTE: WITHOUT QUESTION THE MAYOR HAS SPENT FAR MORE TIME WORKING ON HIS BOOK THEN HE HAS DEDICATED TO EASTSIDE VIOLENT CRIME . . . With less than a year on the job, he already seems to be an absentee Mayor. When was the last time you heard of landing a new job and jetting off on vacation twice in less than three months?

Baby Blunt: "Heal thyself!"

According to the Gov. religious organizations take better care of people than the "welfare" state and I guess you could argue that point until you take into account abstinence only education which has encouraged nearly as much dangerous and unprotected anal sex as the harmful combination of X and Cher music.

No homo.

Kansas City has a long history of smacking around old women

There are a few of you who defend Frances Semler because she's a 73 year-old lady . . . Truly that's a bit of intellectual laziness and doesn't represent the character of this town . . . From old ladies being shot by errant bullets on the Eastside to Missouri's frightening elder care homes, the KC area has always shown contempt for old ladies. Here's the latest example:

93-Year-Old Threatened With Jail Over Paint Job

A car crashed into an elderly woman's home last month, and now she's fighting City Hall to avoid serving jail time.

This week, Davidson said she received a letter from the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. It said unless Davidson gets the garage painted within 30 days, she could go to jail.

"If I didn't get it done, I'd have to pay $1,000 or spend 180 days in jail," Davidson said.

Obviously, KC stays winning by holding this old woman to the same standards as everyone else and for once, codes violations aren't being cited in order to hassle/hustle a minority out of their home for the sake of condo development.

Soooooo, if KC can send a 93 year-old broad to the clink then every old lady in the metro should be put on notice: NO FREE RIDES GRANDMA.

What your kid's college fund will finance

The designs for the Kansas Speedway Casino certainly are spectacular . . . And what a lot of folks fail to mention is that the real "engineering marvel" of these plans is the fact that it combines two groups of losers: Gamblers and NASCAR fans . . . And while I'm sure this thing is going to be amazingly successful - It's worth noting that the economic benefits will only be applicable to people smart enough to avoid the slot machines given that bankruptcies have steadily increased in the KC area since our casinos were built. Also, if you're a bastard (like TKC) you might have noticed that KC Casinos are a really "diverse" place but I wonder: Will local minorities will flock to the KCK setup? I don't know if this is by design but NASCAR isn't really popular in the Minority Community while casino gaming has always drawn a significant number of people of color - It'll be interesting to see how the two cultures crash, merge or clash.

I'll hit you back: Stigall is still a scumbag

I've decided that unless Frances Semler resigns, comes over to my house and then we both partake in a Mexican hat dance together . . . I'm not going to call Chris Stigall and his stupid radio show.

Here are my reasons:

If I wanted some white guy yelling at me, I would have kept my job at the grocery store.

I expect all bald dudes to be as funny as Larry David, Stigall is not.

He recently "moderated" a rally with Sam Graves and Krazy Kris Kobach at which a crowd of angry, old white guys hollered and cheered at the prospect of throwing children out of school if it was suspected that they were illegal i.e. brown - This goes even against Missouri State Law and the advice of most educators and anyone with a soul. Really, the only people who endorse crackpot ideas like that are crazy homeless bums and I avoid them as well.

He has a problem with the bikini models and scantily clad celebrity "beatches" I post on my blog . . . And really, if someone is that prude or would reach so far for a political point then talking with them would only serve to frighten them back to the depths of whatever suburb they're broadcasting from . . . And TKC wants you to be honest with yourself, come out of the closet and deal with any emotional problems that you might have regarding beautiful, hot ass women that are found in wonderful magazines like Playboy, Maxim, Stuff, FHM and the like. TKC rarely, if ever, publishes a photo which reveals a nipple but if you REALLY have a problem with it - You probably shouldn't be reading this site.

HOWEVER, Scumbag, Stigall did link me and TKC respects the etiquette of the Internets so I have to link back to his "round-up" of the Semler situation in which he links TKC but fails to mention the fact that the mean old broad Semler wasn't even required to take part in the application process because she and Shoeless Gloria Squitiro were friends. Therefore, Mayor Funky's reform and principles really just come down to politics and patronage.

And I won't dwell on this but once again I wanted to point toward the truly AWESOME power of the INTERNETS which grants anybody with a modem the opportunity to SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES rather than bow down to some bald, preppy nerd and hope that he doesn't scream at you before hanging up.

Thank you Al Gore.

TKC knows what he's talking about

Hello children, I just wanted to remind you to tune into KC's Morning News with EJ and Ellen in order to hear TKC talk about the newest latest. As always, if you have any suggestions . . . Lemme know. Sadly/luckily I'm not as hot as the Carmen Electra photo featured above but I always make it a point to wear nothing but my underwear when blogging (ew): Life is give and take.

Reach on the radio

Listen to Reach right now.

Mayor Funky can't find any important Latinos to meet with so he invites his neighbor!!!

Oooooooh, this is just embarrassing. The Mayor's regularly scheduled meeting with "Latino Leaders" is really scraping the bottom of the barrel, and Mayor Funky is now forced to invite HIS NEIGHBOR because nobody else wants to show up. Ouch. Admittedly, Joe Arce of the KC Hispanic News is pretty important, but Joe (my old boss) is a really nice guy and and he'll meet with anybody - including TKC. Arce went the meeting but had strong words for the Mayor afterwards: "The bottom line is this is going to have to be a decision that Frances and the mayor have to make," Zeke Amador lost his 4th district bid and failed to get even fewer votes then the pony I backed, but hey that's cool and everybody deserves a shot in politics. Luis Cordova, another good guy was there representing his boss John Fierro . . . Soooooo, the Mayor's divide and conquer strategy isn't really working and the truth is that I've heard from half a dozen people who attended these meetings and the shin digs are pretty useless and just feature the mayor pretending that he's a professor and lecturing the crowd . . . Which is also what he does at most of his "forums" where people are frustrated they can't get in a world edgewise.

The Sprint Center Swindle

It's too late to do anything but grab ankle on this deal but let's take a realistic look at what the Sprint Center offers Kansas City residents:

KC folks can't get tickets to the events at the place.

The arena won't help business at the P&L District because history has shown us this same plan didn't work for Kemper Arena. Folks will go to their chosen event and then head home - Which isn't downtown because the numbers for population inside the loop have always been FAKE.

The Sprint Center will dramatically raise downtown parking prices. A great many parking lots are unregulated and you'll definitely hear people complain when they are directed to lots that charge up to and more than $40 bucks for a single event. Yep, things are going to get a lot more "competitive" downtown. Translation: Hefty price increases for convenience.

Did I mention the ticket fiasco? The Sprint Center will profit Ticketmaster far more than the people of Kansas City. As the ticket trust organization gouges prices for events that "regular folks" in Kansas City can't afford to see, you'll be hard pressed to find anybody who benefits from the company's greed.

The secret luxury suites are all owned by corporations and JoCo folks . . . You might be able to prove me wrong, IF the information wasn't guarded with more secrecy than Gloria Squitiro's shoe size.

NO ANCHOR TENANT YET!!!

The Mayor failed to do anything about this before the opening of the place and as the months (and years) go by the allure of the Sprint Center will fade for a franchise that wants to relocate. KC voters were PROMISED a team and the failure to deliver just reflects on the overall failure of the Sprint Center to live up to it's hype.

Finally, let's not forget that the art adorning the place was put together by a NYC artist and the choice completely overlooked local talent. Also, every time I look at the place I can't help but remember that all of the glass in the building was manufactured in China . . . Which doesn't count as minority participation in the construction of the project, because there was almost none.

So who stays winning with this deal?

Ticketmaster, of course.

AEG

And the people who own pricey nearby parking lots.

Without a doubt, the only thing that people in Kansas City Proper got out of the deal was even more taxes for our town.

Great, now nobody in Kansas City will be able to get Garth Brooks tickets either

Garth Brooks To Perform At Sprint Center Nov. 14

Washington High Evacuated in KCK

Police say a "suspicious item" was discovered.

KC School Board prepared to fight

KCMO Schools are rallying the troops as this thing will undoubtedly head to court. I know that Independence has a lot of public support but do they have the wherewithal to outlast an EXPENSIVE legal assault . . . Whereas money wasting court fights are par for the course when it comes to public education in Kansas City Proper.

Over privileged dog park polluters ignore the environmental damage of animal waste

What the WOOF Wackos don't want you to know is that their plans to make life easier for Kansas City doggies and to circumvent leash laws could further damage Missouri's ecosystem.

Put simply, WOOF advocates brag about their plan to pay for the proposed dog park at Sunnyside Park but they haven't put any information forth about what they'll do as far as environmental clean-up for all of their animal waste. It's a much more expensive problem then their admitting.

Let's not forget that animal waste pollution has had a huge detrimental effect on Missouri's environment and waterways. Yet, the WOOF folks don't have a solid plan to deal with all of the solid waste their dogs will be dumping in the middle of Kansas City.

If you haven't noticed, doggie droppings are a problem all over town and a walk on the Westside will quickly alert you to the fact that the new gentry doesn't really like cleaning up after their animals - Also, this is just one of the many ways that gentrification poops all over minority communities.

Therefore, it's important that people in this town ask the WOOF Wackos about their (lack of a) plan to deal with this problem (PIAC grants aren't gonna pay for it all) and how they have put their own convenience and selfish interests ahead of the health of the residents surrounding Sunnyside park and the well-being of the planet.

Why would you even think of eating fake Italian food in Kansas City?

Yesterday's announcement regarding the three fake-ass Italian eateries coming to Electric Avenue only strengthens my belief that the place will ultimately fail and is unwisely competing with even better Kansas City based restaurants.

Local blogger Jim shares my view (at least concerning KC's authentic Italian cuisine) and better local options than P&L District fare.

Normally, I don't like Italian food at all (too expensive and reminds me of a nasty ex-girlfriend) but I'd have to say that if eating at the P&L District means eschewing KC Classics like Cascone's, Garozzo's and Anthony's . . . Well, then fughetaboutit.

Note: TKC doesn't really like Italians or their food (since most of them have long forgotten about their illegal immigrant roots) but my point is still valid.

Blunt is looking for illegal Mexicans when he should be searching for more Missouri jobs

Headed into a recession, it's going to get harder and harder (and more obvious) that Gov. Blunt is blaming all of HIS PROBLEMS on Immigration when they are actually mostly the fault of his horrible governing abilities. Check it: "Missouri's unemployment rate ballooned from 4.9% in July to 5.3% in August. Last month, Missouri had the largest percentage surge in its unemployment rate of any state and the District of Columbia." But wait, the Blunt camp has another magic bullet: Jay Nixon might have taken the wrong car to a meeting. Wow! That's a lot more important than the subject of employement.

Show me a KILLER jurisdiction debate!!!

Edwin Hall allegedly killed Kelsey Smith in Missouri, so why should Phill Kline get to be famous for putting him away. It'll be fun to watch this one play out and see which prosecutor plays to the cameras first. UPDATE: NOPE, looks like they'll convict him in the press in Kansas.

Pitch writer helped to distribute racist propaganda in the weekly's papers

You might remember a few weeks ago, TKC reported that racist material was turning up in Pitch papers out in Southern JoCo. CJ Janovy knowingly or not lied to me (and TKC readers) when she refused to answer a direct question about the paper's involvement in the placement of the material.

Turns out: A WRITER FOR THE PITCH COOPERATED IN DISTRIBUTING HATE LITERATURE IN JOCO WITHIN THE PAGES OF THE PITCH.

Apparently, the Pitch participating in the dissemination of racist propaganda was part of some "investigative" piece that simply comes to the conclusion that being a racist is lonely, if you don't listen to talk radio.

Anyhoo, I'm sure the Pitch can defend this action since they are thoroughly engrossed in defending the rights of KC's most persecuted sect: Hipsters. So I don't expect anything to come of this bit of news other than already widespread understanding that Pitch writers only understand irony when it comes in the form of badly drawn cartoons in their back pages or overwrought 1st person stories that are more akin to diary entries than gonzo journalism.

Also . . . Nice to see the fight against racism for The Pitch comes in the form of distributing hate literature. That, my friends, is liberal thinking in its truest form.

Not such bad news when you think about it

Billy Joel Concert tickets will be hard to get unless you have connections and really bad taste in music.

Getting head in the West Bottoms is horrible

Vandals Cut Off Head Of American Royal Bull

Fresh food in the KC area

Present Magazine publishes a great list of local farms and places near the Kansas City area where you can buy fresh produce, meat and eggs.

Bitches Ladies, if you're planning on making me breakfast. This information might come in handy.

"Bad sugar" leads to KCPD shooting

Crime scene KC posts the following: "The officer's attorney says he was having a diabetes-related reaction and doesn't remember the incident, Tony Rizzo reports." And that's decidedly unsweet.

Jeff Roe's blog defends racial profiling talk

Is Graves planning to cede the Latino vote? That's not too smart in what will be a close election. And I thought the guy was a genius. But if the PR flack of Sam Graves is jumping on board the anti-Latino bandwagon of losers in Missouri, I guess I should probably inform all of my cousins (voters) out North that maybe Country Club Kay isn't that bad after all. Also, that fat bastard owes me a link given all the traffic I've sent his way.

Indianapolis airport backs off Muslim footbaths after KCI controversy

That's my Kansas City, always leading the way in political backlash.

A "the ghey" Travel Guide to Kansas City: Informative and gross

No homo

But there is a pretty comprehensive photo-spread (hehe. ugh. NOOOO!) of people in KC featured in the mag.



Actually, I wanted to post this not only because a lot of the ghey people read TKC (and leave anonymous comments about how much they hate Mexican immigrants) but also because the tech coming from online document site Scribd is pretty impressive. Nullus. They offer a really intuitive way to put your documents online.

And this photo spread (ugh) and KC round-up from The Guide Magazine is very comprehensive of all things gay in KC. Here are the thumbnails from the site from their KC visit, if that's your bag baby but you may not want to look at them at work if your boss hates gay people. Guide Mag probably rates about an R/N-17 but still manages to make me very uncomfortable.

Jack Stack review

If you're going to clog your arteries, you should be well-informed.

Today's KC drive-by

The victim was taken to the hospital, KC's body count continues.

"JoCo folks should be worried. Very worried."

Really, when "they" come for your Halloween costumes: Your personal liberty can't be too far behind.

Here are the best two posts I've read about the subject in between the laughter regarding anyone so prudish as to put Halloween on trial:

Hot Lovin'...but Not In Kansas

Halloween Store Indicted For Obscene Costumes

Still, I see opportunity for Kansas City Proper in all this . . . Any prosecutor to bring a case against Halloween costumes or even widely available mainstream porno movies would be laughed out of office in KC. . . Therefore, this cowtown's former glory days as a vice capital of the Midwest could experience a "renaissance" as well . . . Unemployed, lady real estate agents are going to have to find a way to make a living somehow now that the condo market has come to a standstill.

"It's Corn Shuckin' time!"

A good local blogger post, great photos. And some very important information about The 2007 Atchison Fund Raising Corn Shucking Contest.

KC Talk's Halo 3 review

Spoiler: Grow up.

Note to local sports writers: STOP being friends with the players!

L.A. writer and blogger Matt Welch points out an interesting article about legendary Dodgers commentator Vin Scully that is completely applicable here in Kansas City . . . Friendships among media pundits and players is cheapening the commentary. Also, it doesn't help that any consistently negative (i.e. realistic) coverage regarding KC's teams will get you blacklisted faster than you can say, "You're doing what to my press pass?"

"I'm now willing to pay a personal income tax of up to 5% if we can have light rail in KC."

I always link when Toast blogs about social issues and her latest post pretty much captures the sentiment of most light rail supporters and also frightens me to the core of my existence.

It's business time at TKC

Every once in a while, some d-bag asks me: "TKC, do you ever make money with this blog?" And then I say, "No, now go and make me a sandwich!" Obviously, this leaves everyone unsatisfied. Also, Google owes me $17.53.

But the truth is that I never envisioned that this blog would make me money, directly.

However, my bloggy efforts have given me access to A LOT of people who show up here in order to read what I think (and then angrily reply).

And that's gotta be worth something. I hope. More importantly, the fact that a local blogger publishing from his mom's basement has garnered a sizable audience in the metro area and is often the topic of the mainstream press demonstrates the skill and acumen possessed by TKC.

Therefore, I'm letting people know that the brilliant, prolific and ingenious mind behind this blog is available as a consultant for all kinds of media.

TKC provokes, entertains, incites and educates readers on a daily basis and I want to do the same with any kind of media with which I'm involved.

TKC has mastered producing and consulting on content for the following mediums:

Internet

Film/video

Print

Billboard

So, anyone (with money) who wants to smack their audience around "like bitches" can inquire about my services at: tony@tonyskansascity.com.

Soft Swing in KC

Just in case you were asking yourself: "How can I get herpes?" Here's a "soft swing" site from KC that's probably defunct. Also, there's the CraigslistKC casual encounters section that guarantees you'll need some sort of medical treatment after you hook up.

He only knows numbers: Mayor Funky flunks quiz about KC's gay community

Like it or not, KC has a very vibrant and politically active gay community (I also hear they're good dancers). If you don't believe me, you can check out mags like CampKC for more relevant information than I could ever provide. However, I do know for a fact that Mayor Funkhouser is only interested in cold Vulcan logic, meaningless numbers and little or no interaction with people who don't completely support his agenda wife. Put simply, if you haven't been a supporter of Mayor Funky from day one and his wife's bare feet in the Mayor's office . . . Forget about making his X-mas list.

Anyway, in a recent interview in The Advocate . . . Mayors of other cities were able to not only talk up their towns but also mentioned aspects about the LGBT community in their cities. Mayor Funky couldn't come up with anything that would lure young, gay professionals to KC other than good real estate values. In the middle of a housing slump no less. My God, he didn't even mention KC has a percentage of one DJ for every 3 people in the Midtown area.

Anyway, once again this showed little knowledge of KC as one of the most gay friendly cities in the Midwest (Joplin doesn't count) and the fact that gay politicos (like Jolie Justus) abound in KC.

And you know what: A very smart person once told me that a politico's insensitivity always starts with minority communities but ends up focused on the gay community. I guess they knew what they were talking about . . . Just a thought.

Anyway, this article was forwarded my way by a couple of prominent members of KC's gay community and I'm guessing that they aren't thrilled with Mayor's Funky's administration either. Which isn't surprising.

Also, NO HOMO on this whole post.

The whole world isn't watching

We're in the middle of Fashion Week in Kansas City.

There's even a blog to go along with it!!!

Additionally, a few photogs on Flickr are posting photos of the week's worth of events that would be completely the ghey if not for a few fine ass models.

You're slightly less likely to be robbed at gunpoint on the Plaza

KSHB: Kansas City Police say they've solved a series of armed robberies near the Country Club Plaza.

Jewish-Muslim Love Story in KC (sadly, non-porn)

From the KC Jewish Chronicle: “David & Layla”, which opens today for a limited engagement exclusively at the Glenwood Arts. Additionally, the filmmaker will be on hand to answer questions about his movie.

Electric Avenue won't begin its quick burnout until Mid-November

So the weather will be nice & cold in order to encourage shoppers.

Really, watching this thing fail is going to be painful . . . Sprint Center folks are going straight home after their events and they'll be pissed off about pricey parking anyway. The number of downtown residents has always been exaggerated and nothing more than a fantasy. And most of those H&R Block employees are going to be eating lunch at their desks or the company cafeteria given that their company is borrowing money like crazy and nobody wants to look like the weakest link as the recession approaches.

So, good luck KC . . . And don't forget to turn the lights out when this thing fails much more quickly than anyone ever anticipated (after a few opening months of bliss and hype).

Stigall is small potatoes

He's giving TKC free advertising today in an attempt to get me to talk with him (so he can hang up on me, maybe yell and otherwise make for some neat radio but not advance any understanding of the issue) but I've got better things to do cartoons to watch.

Any of you bags think I should give him a call?

I don't feel like it because this blog is the best way to get a perspective from TKC. But I like hearing a hate radio douche obsessed with this blog.

Note: D-bags loyal to his program (who are somewhat nice) seem to want me to "debate" with him. Still, I've always made it policy to avoid angry white dudes and focus my efforts on white women.

The downfall of a KC secret garden

For some of you, this could be the saddest news you'll read all day: A huge pot bust at a South KC home yielded 8-10 foot marijuana plants discovered by the KCPD with "170 marijuana plants spread through almost every room. Some hung from garage rafters" when officers went inside.

And even the thought of that stuff is giving me the munchies.

Killing wife required "cool reflection" for KC Firefighter who shot her in the back with a 12-gauge shotgun

KC Firefighter convicted of killing wife

The Call: "Is one person really worth the furor and controversy? Probably not."

The Call publishes a great editorial. And also hosts a letter from the most wonderful Latina in KC: "Mayor Responsible For This Mess"

Just as importantly, the cover of the KC Newspaper featured some great photos of the Jena 6 protest and a really interesting article about a KC lawyer and the local NAACP branch working to get damages for a guy wrongly accused of murder and put on death row.

Finally, I think anybody really wanting to gauge opinion in KC's Black Community might want to take a glance at the pages of the call rather than just wait for Jason Whitlock to sell out in order to get a few pats on the head and nice comments from the elderly, white demographic that reads The Star.

Sanctuary movement in KC gaining steam

Local churches get together to support Sanctuary for immigrants in Kansas City and essentially note that Jesus wouldn't stand at the border with a gun or promote rounding people up and shipping them away on trains.

But Let's not forget the movement started right here on TKC (at least as far as KC is concerned). Also, I think endorsing a resolution or ordinance for Kansas City as a "Sanctuary City" could be the first step toward Mayor Funky digging himself out of his horrible political mess. (Even though this whole thing really isn't about immigration)

Also, using Jesus to win political points is all well and good.

Still, I found a quote by Krazy Kris Kobach even more inspiring:

Kris Kobach, a University of Missouri-Kansas City law professor, said federal law prohibits harboring an illegal immigrant with knowledge the person is in the U.S. illegally.

“There are many points of view about the role of churches in our society and how much civic engagement there should be,” said Kobach. “But I think one area that until very recently has been pretty clear is, churches shouldn’t themselves violate federal law.”

Which is just more evidence that the anti-immigration activist really doesn't know the law given that the Kansas Court of Appeals recently ruled that simply being an "illegal alien" isn't against the law . . . Which is an interesting precedent and might be part of the backlash against anti-immigrant activists and so many of Kobach's time & money wasting losing efforts.

Mayor Funky opens downtown with anti-business sentiment

From the KC biz journal . . . Funkhouser: Renewed Downtown won't need more incentives

Condos call the shots in Kansas City

One Park Place is going to close Penn Valley park after hourse or at least build an expensive fence so that crackheads, public sex enjoying homersexuals along with a few other deviants will have to walk a few feet.

A private, luxury high-rise is gating off a public park, and its one of Kansas City’s most visible landmarks.

The gate would be paid for by the place selling million dollar condos next door. They plan to shut it down every night at ten to enforce the rules that ban cars at night.

While I don't think the plan will work, I don't mind these condo folks wasting their money in order to build a fence . . . What concerned me most is watching local reporter Russ Ptacek reach down into the druggie vagrant garbage pile in the middle of the park and pick up a leftover baggie that probably belonged to a junkie (or someone who carries around Splenda) . . . Really, I nearly gaged when I watched him reach for the empty piece of paraphernalia and hold it up to the camera. Truly, and I'm not kidding about this: Some TV journalists deserve credit for their bravery.

More money to persecute lonely pervs

Kansas AG wants to expand cybercrimes unit. An additional $433k will go to new staff and maybe a special invitation to Dateline's Chris Hanson (or maybe not).

Yet another group bitchslaps Mayor Funky!

Here's my alternate headline:

KC Convention and Visitors Association to Mayor Funky: Stop being so stubborn and take care of business!!!

And this one is really bad for the Mayor as even more groups begin to realize that his complete lack of political acumen is putting Kansas City's finances and future in bad shape.

The Kansas City Convention and Visitors Association will fire two salvos at Mayor Mark Funkhouser before week’s end, seeking to avert a crisis in the local tourism industry.

The city-financed agency’s board on Tuesday voted unanimously to authorize Chairman Bill George to draft and deliver the letters, the first urging the mayor to resolve the Frances Semler controversy diplomatically — and quickly — before the city’s reputation is indelibly tainted.

The second letter will urge Funkhouser to back off his opposition to tax breaks and tightly focus such breaks to attract a 1,000-room hotel downtown.

The thing is, I can only see this thing getting worse or at least endlessly lingering and crippling the Mayor's administration (IF the the opponents of this fringe, vigilante group can play it properly) . . . What happens when La Raza doesn't show up? Other than millions of dollars of revenue gone from KC? What about the NAACP? Millions more. And the oldest and largest Black Fraternity- Alpha Phi Alpha? And the National Hispanic Chamber of Commerce?

Can you see where this is headed?

Meanwhile, the talk of the Mayor's "principles" is pathetic.

What principle is Mayor Funky clinging to other than standing by the stupid mistakes of his wife?

TELL THAT BITCH TO PUT HER SHOES ON GET OUT OF CITY HALL!!!

There, I finally wrote it and now I feel better. If the very awesome Perez Hilton can call a celeb a whore then I think I'm well within my rights and the boundaries of good taste given that even Funky's supporters are saying as much (under their breath).

It's now or never and SERIOUSLY risking a recall in a few short months. The media knows that this story means READERS and VIEWERS so there is no way they're going to let it drop. EVERYBODY with something to say on this topic is going to get some time in front of the mic . . .

IT'S A FEEDING FRENZY THAT THE BARELY ELECTED MAYOR FUNKY JUST CAN'T HANDLE!!!

And the Minuteman supporters and talk radio callers can't help him on this one because they DON'T LIVE OR VOTE IN KANSAS CITY PROPER.

So Mayor Funky has a choice . . . He can fix it (accept her resignation like he should have done in the first place) or face a Mayoral tenure that was hobbled by the fact that he couldn't stand up to his wife or some old woman . . . And that's really the funniest thing about all of this.

Pricilla's, a party store and a video place are Indicted for obscenity in JoCO

Crime Scene KC has the details on how one group of crazies is making life harder and WASTING MONEY to fight constitutionally protected speech. Really, it's hard to believe that even JoCo is that prudish . . . Yet the whole thing may represent an opportunity for KC if this town can attract people looking for a safe place to enjoy what has unconstitutionally been deemed as vice (for the moment).

The KC School District Ditches

Eh, everybody knows the one place their most likely to meet is in court. Here's headline: KCMO School District Absent At Independence School Forum

Mayor Funky's kitchen cabinet has sunk to new depths: ATTACKING NUNS!!!

I knew it would be just a matter of time before Dan from Gonemild.com joined up with Minutemen. Not really, but I wanted to write that.

Anyway, I found Dan's latest post interesting because it attempts to hold a nun to commonly held standards of logic. And that's just stupid given that nuns worship an invisible force in the sky.

Still, Mayor Funky's supporters are simply desperate. This stupid issue and the Mayor's stubbornness are destroying any hope he and his devotees had for his administration. Therefore a little nun bashing is in order.

And given that the Council and Funky pushed through the TIF reforms (the Mayor's only real issue) is there anything he can really accomplish with such little support on the Council or in any place but among his campaign staff? Maybe a RECALL isn't a bad idea.

Note: When people start smacking around "brides of Christ" it's pretty obvious they're all out of ideas and really frustrated.

Also, here's a TKC TIP (YEAH!) for local bloggers - Write about the Semler debate . . . No one can deny it will garner hits. Pro or con, this baby drives traffic and every media outlet, newspaper and blogger in Kansas City knows it.

Never Trust Nebraska Furniture Mart

The Internets a wonderful place when it comes to customer reviews.

Another way people from Kansas City can send their money to China

Hey, at least this way you might see some profits from a local firm marketing a fund geared toward investments in China whereas the fact that most the Sprint Center glass was manufactured in the Far East never benefited anyone in this town.

Mayor Funky Promises Plentiful Parking

I just wanted to bookmark this link for the record . . . Because it's gonna be a disaster. As the KCMO Parking Administrator admits there will be congestion and officals warn that parking for downtown events will be MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE. Try more than 30 bucks FOR A SINGLE EVENT which would represent a 300% increase in some places . . . Yeah, the parking problem is solved until the a few people get towed or folks finally have to get their wallet out and PAY.

BETRAYAL!!! FUNKHOUSER IS LOSING HIS EDGE IN THE NORTHLAND AS WELL!!!

Here is the latest talk circling around the Northland: A great many folks in that part of Kansas City don't want to be portrayed as racists and they DO NOT STAND BEHIND FRANCES SEMLER.

Consequently, Mayor Funky is losing support among his last remaining constituency. As his brief tenure as Mayor has been defined by his stubbornness and lack of political skill.

A recent column by Bill Graham points out that Mayor Funky's endorsement of his wife's cronyism has PASSED OVER more qualified candidates who would have done better by the Northland.

Meghan Conger of Kansas City, North, in her application for appointment to the board obtained from City Hall by The Star: Conger has worked on parks and neighborhoods for more than 15 years in the Briarcliff and Roanoke neighborhoods. She’s been involved with community centers, and Conger said she was ready to help “shake things up.” She also gave a detailed statement of how she wanted to make parks more appealing to people and financially efficient.

But Conger and others were passed over for Semler — who did not apply, but was asked to serve by Funkhouser . . . Semler was also an early and strong supporter of Funkhouser’s bid for mayor. She wrote a tribute to his candidacy that appeared in February in The Star’s letters to the editor.

This looks like the mayor’s office preferred putting a friend on the board instead of appointing someone with proven experience and interest in park issues.

And while Semler is as brave as Hell on talk radio, Graham discovered that SHE DIDN'T EVEN WANT TO BE ON THE PARKS BOARD IN THE FIRST PLACE.

Even more interesting, Semler has often been cited as a woman "who just wants to grow roses" BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY Graham reveals that Semler has had no involvement in KC Parks and the only issue she for which she has gained noteriety is her hatred of all immigration.

The following passage by Graham highlights her crackpot outbursts and her willingness to turn commerce AND JOBS away from Kansas City in order to satisfy her own agenda:

Semler is familiar to those who attend Northland Neighborhood Inc. meetings.

Former City Councilwoman Bonnie Sue Cooper said Semler accosted her at least twice at NNI meetings about Cooper’s support for a proposed customs port that would allow trucks carrying goods from Kansas City to enter Mexico without delays at the border.

Semler insisted that Mexicans would be brought in to work at the customs port, Cooper said, even though she explained that the workers would be local and the trucks were headed south.

“I could not make her understand,” Cooper said.

Sound familiar? Currently, two major conventions might avoid KC while Semler and her talk radio supporters couldn't care less and would rather see this town lose millions than avoid this city being branded as a backward burg.

And judging from so many interactions that folks have had with her, this is a woman unhinged and it's funny to read that she's not even granting interviews to The Star for the moment. NICE. Even better still, her quotes on this backlash against her appointment are awkward and embarrassing at best.

Really, it's only a matter of time until she calls somebody (hopefully me) a Wetback.

But the most important thing that Graham reveals is that Mayor Funky did a disservice to the Northland by overlooking more qualified and appropriate candidates in favor of petty personal loyalty. In other words, he completely betrayed one of his campaign promises regarding better access to government.

In a growing number of circles, folks in the Northland have come to resent this move and they aren't thrilled to be cast along side a member of a vigilante group who can only find favor on talk radio and not IN THE REAL WORLD or at least not in Kansas City, Missouri.

While mascots in general are worthless, KC Wolf redeemed himself for just a moment

A quick glimpse of the video we've all seen featuring KC Wolf helping to subdue a dumbass fan has been floating around the Internet all week and it seems to be the highlight of an otherwise sloppy game.

The Digital Divide is growing smaller in KCK while Wi-Fi is primarily offered with the purchase of luxury goods in KCMO

KCK school kids received free laptops last week and now the Star reports: One Economy announced Tuesday night that it will offer free AT&T DSL service at the homes of 100 student leaders.

Cloudy KC

Yesterday's weather was awesome!!! I really got a chance to catch up on my napping along with a few other things.

Looking through Flickr I recently found a nice shot of the clouds around Kansas City which also surrounded World's of Fun yesterday. Somehow I think that's a metaphor for I don't know what exactly . . . Anyhoo, the KC Group on Flickr is always worth looking at and you may want to check out the local photos of Aurthur's Design, which are pretty good.

More posts forthcoming . . .

The Jason Whitlock Diss Track

Here's a youtube video featuring a diss track dedicated to KC Star sports writer Jason Whitlock.

Except for the thinly veiled threats of gun violence, it's a pretty decent track (with extra funny photos) as the KC Rap group SBL (or someone from their crew) may or may not have followed up their unfortunate Larry Johnson track a couple of weeks ago with a sophomore jinx.

10,000 posts along with an infinite number of reasons why TKC is the most important blog in Kansas City

This is the 10,000th post I've filed on this blog.

I'd like to share with you some of the things I've learned in more than 3 years of blogging.

First of all, I think the most important thing that I've discovered is that a popular blog is predominantly read by people who have or aspire to have a popular blog. I don't believe in silly concepts like "participatory journalism" but I will note that: More than message boards, or mainstream media or any site that "hosts" the content of an Internet publisher (Youtube, blogspot, Myspace) - A blog with its own domain offers a unique opportunity to express ideas with a freedom that hasn't been seen since the days of the Pamphleteers.

I've also learned/rediscovered that the best (i.e. my favorite) kind of irony, satire and social commentary takes place when people don't know if the author is serious or not. The best reactions to this blog have always been from people experiencing cognitive dissonance and/or confusion regarding a local topic on which I've opined that's close to their heart.

I never expected to make friends with this blog, but I did. I was also lucky enough to meet a very lovely and wonderful person and this blog deserves some of the credit. I've also ended friendships because of this blog, I've made political enemies and I've been surprised to discover just how petty and paranoid so many politicos in Kansas City can be AND how many people can't take a joke.

TKC has made the news with this blog, TKC is a news substitute for people normally not interested in the official story delivered by the local MSM and TKC has become the news once or twice when political mudslinging and petty planted stories have unfolded in the mainstream press. But more than anything else, TKC has encouraged countless local bloggers with the same desire to bring their opinions to the local blogosphere and the world. As long as I'm running this blog I will continue to link and refer readers of this site to other local blogs that I enjoy, this is the best way to build an online community given that offline mentions and media coverage rarely translate to hits or page views. Bloggers who check their site statistics know that links are the best way to encourage reading, watching, playing and participation on the Internet.

But there is a downside to the obvious rise in "influence" of local blogs. When I started this blog, I viewed it as an opportunity to collaborate with local media outlets. In a few instances this has happened (TKC likes talking to the folks on KMBZ every now and then) but the local media has responded to bloggers in a largely lukewarm fashion. More than a few mainstream media outlets view local bloggers only as competition. It's worth noting that media outlets like The Pitch still don't allow their freelancers or staff writers to publish blogs that aren't sanctioned by New Times/Village Voice Media and this is also true for countless other local news outlets. Similarly, I've always been puzzled as to why more KC media outlets wouldn't want to capitalize on TKC's daily audience of several thousand. I never expected syndication because the content of this blog only works in THIS place but the only offers that I've had to write for other publications coming from solely from this blog have only been desperate publishers looking for a sucker to write for free. Thankfully, I'm very good at what I do in the real world (Internet stock trading, ebay, napping, freelance writing and lawn mowing) so I've never really looked at this blog as something that would benefit me financially. I go back and forth on this as far as the future is concerned but what this blog does best is demonstrate the many ways in which TKC KICKS ASS.

And finally, we come to the question of character. I won't ruin the joke. As traffic has doubled over the past six months (again) I've had so many people e-mail me in order to express their outrage at what I "think" . . . As if they were privy to my most private motivations and intentions. Time and time again, I've warned people not to take this place too seriously or mistake Antonio Botello for TKC. But, again, the funniest part of this blog has always been the righteous indignation which it has elicited despite my reluctant attempts to explain the nature of this page along with the fact that 1 out of very 5 posts are accompanied with a re-purposed photo of a bikini model or Paris Hilton. And while I'm not sure I've accomplished anything on the following front: TKC has always intended to demonstrate how easily, stupidly and quickly local news stories can be spun into jokes, rants and memes.

Sadly, there are far more humorless people in Kansas City than I ever anticipated and that's been demonstrated clearly as TKC has been blocked not only by KCI Airport but also at Kansas City, Missouri's City Hall under the new Funkhouser Administration.

But I've known for so long that people will believe whatever they want despite the intent of any author. Lately, death threats, racial slurs and a bit of antipathy directed toward my way haven't fazed me one bit but instead remind me that there is clearly a price to pay for any public statement that doesn't reinforce mainstream or otherwise passionately held sentiment. In any culture there is a tendency to enforce conformity and the Internet doesn't escape the influence of this dark aspect of human nature. And on the lighter side of this topic, I haven't encountered the statement "Your name sounds Italian so why do you care about Mexicans?" since I was a kid getting an education among so many rednecks at a lower middle-class Catholic school . . . Therefore, I've had a long time to learn how to embrace, acknowledge and ultimately ignore criticism from folks who never had my best interests at heart in the first place.

Finally, we come to the frightening subject of the future. Admittedly, this isn't EXACTLY the 10,000th post - It's just a rough estimate. Most efforts to mark time are really nothing more than feeble attempts to manipulate it. I can't write for certain what the future holds for this blog or anything else for that matter. But I will note that TKC does more than "try his best," TKC COMPETES and that competitive spirit (mindset of a champion?) will always be manifested on this blog for as long as I continue this endeavor. CHEA! This place has always been a playground of sorts and it has been a privilege to provide Kansas City with a blog where even the most crackpot ideas can be kicked around and examined rather than ignored by this town's mainstream press. The Internet has been depicted as the "wild west" but the truth is that bloggers and all online publishers are still subject to the law, and it's the very same "law" (in a broad sense) which allows open discourse, opinion, parody, satire and even sexy photos of half naked white women to flourish in what is truly the ONLY real alternative to the mainstream news which is now completely dominated by corporate interests. I guess that's a long winded way of writing: GOD BLESS AMERICA AND THE 1ST AMENDMENT.

So the future of TKC isn't for anyone to know, even me. I've been on this planet for 33 years and that's long enough to know that faith is a gift. I have faith that this blog hasn't been a futile exercise, I also have reasons to continue the effort and encourage more folks to do the same.

Running this blog has been a learning experience and I'm so thankful that I've been able to offer 10,000 posts to anyone who's interested. I'm thankful for the support of my family. I'm thankful for the tipsters who have given me greater access to the inner-workings of this city than I could have ever achieved through decades of reporting and I'm thankful for every visitor who knows the definition of irony, sarcasm, satire and parody . . . And without invoking any of those previously mentioned concepts, I thank God, without whom no author can realistically expect to attract an audience.

And to all of you who've made it this far, thank you for reading.

Peace.

Wake up and discover the world is ending

Here's what I'm reading in The Star (and other places) this morning:

Thank you Global Warming for taking mercy on my beat up car: Warmer-than-normal winter predicted for KC

KC is just getting more violent. And few of our elected officals are speaking up: Man Killed in Attempted Carjacking.

So, here's how losing your money will look according to mock-ups of proposed casinos.

Remembering an insanely grizzly Olathe Massacre.

Follow-up: LINC wants 1.5 Million for a program with no educational value. A bit of controversy regarding a contract with the Boys & Girls club for School Board Prez David Smith. AND ONE MORE reason why you shouldn't ever THINK of putting your kids in the KCMO Public School District.

ALONZO WASHINGTON: PROPRIETOR OF KC'S MOST PURPOSEFUL BLOG.

The odds just got a little better for babies belonging to cons: "Security concerns and the state's limited resources outweigh female offenders' right to abortions, the state of Missouri argued Monday in defense of a policy against transporting them to an abortion clinic."

Loose Park Bathrooms are extra nasty and don't have locks.

Tell a local cyclist to shut up AND share the road.

Debra Hinsvark tells her story and emboldens Mayor Funky supporters who were embarrassed after the attempt to fire Cauthen failed. Question of the Day: Is it ever right to support a "stop snitchin" campaign. TKC isn't being clear, TKC doesn't care.

JACKSON COUNTY RACE WAR IN JAIL (THIS TIME)

County Exec Mike Sanders is "as happy as a little girl" to have $20 mil at his disposal

The County is broke as Hell . . . But the Chiefs won an early season game that was essentially meaningless, so I guess it all evens out.

Jackson County won’t be able to meet its payroll or pay all of its bills without borrowing up to $20 million by the end of the year.

County Finance Director Troy Thomas said the county probably could get by with borrowing $10 million to $15 million, but Sanders’ proposal allows up to $20 million.

Sanders warned the Legislature in July that the loan was likely because expenses would exceed revenue before the year was out. The county has cut 142 positions and taken other steps to tighten its belt.

Some legislators said the loan was the only way to get through the year.

The loan would be through UMB Bank and involve tax anticipation notes issued to raise whatever amount the county needs, up to $20 million.

The interest rate would vary from 3.6 to 4.7 percent, finance officials said.

Thankfully, Sanders and his inner circle are safe from all this turmoil as it's yet another topic that can be thrown at the tail feet of Kathryn Shields. So, I only hope that Sanders can put the loan to good use and maybe buy some shovels in order to dig out of this financial hole.

The forthcoming recession is Ford tough

KSHB reports that the Ford plant in Claycomo will shut down for two weeks next month due to lower sales.

The shutdown will be from October 1st through the 14th and it will affect 2,000 workers.

There are a lot of reasons (other than illegal immigration) that have contributed to this and the main excuse cited is that nobody is buying those big ass F-150's. There's that and then the fact that Ford's are pretty horrible cars which you can't exactly blame on the Jena 6 or mojados looking for work.

Tasty Local Newsy Links For Today

The UAW Strike WILL affect the KC area.

KC Home invasion force charged. I guess now they're in a quagmire. (hehe)

Abortion debate in Missouri still kicking.

Northeast Jackson County folks boiling mad over insanely long 2 week boil order.

Police Investigate Homicide Of 69-Year-Old Man in Northeast

Lawrence is getting move lively . . . And violent.

Fired Cops still pleading ignorance over arrest that ended with a woman miscarrying despite pleas for help. However, the Chief notes the officer in question disregarded policy.

Massive Missouri Steroid case involves KC dude.

Painfully simple headline: Man Shot In Head Dies From Injuries

TKC loves local blogs (and boobs)

Aw . . . C'mon now peeps. We can't stay mad at each other. And the truth is that NOBODY links KC blogs more than TKC.

Here's the best of what I'm reading:

The local news is nothing more than a collection of local advertisements nowadays. KSHB might be the worst offender, if we can all move past Channel 9 running a week long series of "stories" in support of Sheridan's frozen yogurt.

Irish KC is getting back in the swing of things.

Local blogger Brad is still better looking and has more fun than everyone else running a blog in Kansas City.

The author of local blog Chimpotle is one of the many nerds people waiting in line for Halo 3. Which, obviously, calls for some introspection.

Did I mention that I read this blog daily?

A blogger broad with bullets.

KC BLUE BLOG ONCE AGAIN REPORTS THAT BLUNT IS OUT TO FIGHT ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION EXCEPT WHEN HIS BUDDIES ARE INVOLVED.

The X-man is making a note to mention every blog in KC but TKC - The most important one. Note to local minorities: Having an opinion is the best way to lose "friends." LOL at the notion of "friends" both online or off.

"TKC WANTS TO BELITTLE BLOG BLOGGER FRIENDSHIPS WE HAVE" - Yes, I do. Also, this woman is crazy.

Posthuman Blues is more interesting than any (most) of this stuff.

Cooking in KC . . . Check it out.

If I didn't mention you and you're a local blogger. It's not because I don't love you, it's because you haven't sent me a nude photo of yourself (if you're a broad) or your wife and/or mother.

Now this makes me laugh

Emaw has AN AWESOME POST about, of course, TKC.

Also, the TRUE MEASURE OF MY INFLUENCE AND POWER is the fact that some old, white lawyer and volunteer adviser to the Mayor writes about and comments on my blog so frequently. In fact, for my money all of the best posts on Gone Mild.com (and most of the other blogs in KC at least) are marginally related to (or have been linked by) TKC. You'd think there are more important things to consider in the local blogosphere. You'd be wrong.

TKC RULES!

LINC is looking out for the students their own financial interests

Here's what I know about the school District: Everything eventually ends in a lawsuit. And there's no way that LINC is "the good guy" in this situation given that their tactic will only take away resources from the District they want to serve. All things considered, it's yet another horrible situation that shows that the KC School District is truly dysfunctional.

The KC Media is out to get Cauthen OR When there is a problem, always blame the Black guy

Today City Manager Wayne Cauthen fired Chief Financial Officer Deb Hinsvark after accusing her of leaking financial details of the floundering Citadel Plaza. Personally, I think MORE administrators at City Hall should be fired so I have no problem with that; especially taking out the gossipy ones first. Secondly, Cauthen is on the line for the ongoing snafu regarding a leaky Police Department roof . . . Which is obviously just reaching as we see that the white folks who want the Funk (heh) to succeed in KC are desperately scrambling to find somebody to serve as a scapegoat for Mayor Funkhouser's political disaster of an administration thus far. Obviously, blaming the city's highest ranking Black guy is a good start and I hear they're looking for evidence that he's an illegal immigrant. Good luck!

Funkhouser's reform isn't for "regular folks" as he pushes a regressive tax

Here is the latest way Mayor Funky is demonstrating that he didn't mean a word of his campaign propaganda and his promises of reform were not only hypocritical but also misleading.
Kansas City is having an election soon(ish) and it's generally believed that the voting public (all 14 of you) will overwhelmingly support the renewal of a 1 cent sales tax.

Of course, everyone is predicting the end of the world at the slight possibility that people won't vote for the thing.

If KC doesn't approve the renewal of the tax there's a chance that the City's general fund would be reduced and that means less money for police, the fire department and basic services.

The tax is one of the major sources of revenue to pay off places like Electric Avenue and a number of other KC taxpayer subsidized projects.

However, what renewing this tax REALLY means that Funkhouser is "staying the course" when it comes to Mayor Kay's spendthrift approach to money management.

If you don't believe that the "tax and spend" approach to running a city is the best path to follow then you might see that: This town has too many EMPTY museums. And maybe it's time to shut down a few that can't pull their own weight. 18th and Vine has been nothing but a drain, maybe it's time KC stopped paying for that disaster? Union Station has garnered ONE exhibit that drew a decent sized crowd in a decade and now the officials of that place (tomb) are basing their financial plan on the hope that lightning will strike twice.

So where is this "fiscal responsibility" that Funkhouser spoke of when he was running for office? Clearly, he's just leading this town down the same path that has created an enormous debt load.

Even worse, pushing for the renewal of the sales tax is a slimy tactic which ensures that the poor and working class in Kansas City will be forced to pay for this town's financial follies. Why? Because the sales tax is a "regressive tax" and the burden of paying it will fall on those with smaller incomes. How? Folks in the higher income brackets can reduce what they're buying (or better yet buy it in JoCo) whereas KC's impoverished and working poor are stuck buying the little they can afford at a steady rate and don't have any room to cut back expenses in order to avoid paying higher sales tax on their purchases. And obviously, finding a way to shop at a more cost efficient location in the suburbs isn't practical for most of the working poor in Kansas City Proper.

But let's not forget that The Star is already backing the renewal of the tax as the Mayor's most prominent cheerleader gets his pom-pons together and it's once again revealed that YAEL ABOUHALKAH SUPPORTS EVERY SINGLE TAX INCREASE THAT COMES DOWN THE PIPELINE.

And what we're left with is a Mayor who talks about regular folks and then pushes for more taxes on them when he's not considering drastic cuts to the City's indigent care plan.

Rather than forcing Kansas City to come to terms with our spending on empty museums, silly shopping plans, speculative development or decreased income from the conventions his administration has chased away; Mayor Funky simply pushes the same old taxes that will only serve to maintain the status quo. In the end, that's not leadership and it does not qualify him as anything close to a "reformer" which was how he was described only a few short months ago.

"Cereal is the food of the Internet"

Chea! The Internets celebrities (Dallas and Rafi) take on the evil, racist, cabal otherwise known as the cereal industry.

Good stuff, lots of laughs, and definitely worth watching. Especially if you're the kind of loser person who thinks of junk food cereal as a meal.

CHEA!

"Matt Blunt's cronies are getting tax credits to help them employ undocumented immigrants"

A great scoop from Gone Mild. Also, it's a universal truth that people care far more about greenbacks than . . . You know.

Quiet! TKC is thinking of Marcel Marceau jokes

Motorcycle mama in a different way than you think: Motorcyclists ride in support of Tina Porter.

Shots Fired Into House

This weekend's KCK rolling gun battle.

More likely to ruin the Internet than identity thieves: Internet Sales Tax.

1 dead, 2 injured in accident south of the metro

Sweet home invasion arrests: Police make arrests in Kansas City in connection to a violent home invasion in Gladstone, Mo.

Dogs and children are more important than you: Child bitten by Labrador in Overland Park

The Star is already giving up for the KCMO School District. However, I think this thing is going to get much uglier as it goes on . . .

The Chiefs are still ranked #32

Stop celebrating a meaningless (and exceptionally ugly) victory.

Every sports reporter worth a blonde escort in his hotel room noted that the game was exceptionally sloppy and the Vikings pretty much gave it away.

Yet so many folks seem determined to follow PR stories planted in the press while Jackson County continues to pick up the tap.

Keep eating!!! Because this is one of the few times the Chiefs will walk away with a victory (they didn't really earn) this season.

However, if you want to surf the net like a champ I advise you to check out the Chiefs cheerleader photos on Channel 5's site . . . It's the only decent thing to see on the page and the only way I was entertained during the game.

Semler was at STL anti-immigrant rally

Not anti-ILLEGAL-immigrant . . . Just anti-Immigrant, here's a quote from surefire presidential campaign loser Tom Tancredo: "Tancredo contends that illegal, and legal, immigrants are harming the nation because many of the newcomers 'refuse to assimilate.'"Tancredo talks only about Latino immigrants in LA. The crowd was decidedly anti-Latino. Semler was in the audience, photos forthcoming . . . Funkhouser continues to ignore her statewide campaign of hatred. The Blue Blog is doing the best posting about this subject . . . Stay tuned, more to come. Thank you TKC tipsters.

Sadly, in a recession, college is less about binge drinking and skanks

The Star reports: Total enrollment at the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park increased 12 percent compared with last fall, which is the highest percentage increase in campus history

Losing idea or lame soccer team? Hendricks gives both equal time.

I like Richard Tolbert but he's not much of a business man, so I don't know why anybody would listen to his designs for Bannister Mall (a minority biz incubator) which is based in fantasy and doesn't really acknowledge the sad fact that the roving bands of Black youth and the perception of the public about them (along with crime stats) ruined the place therefore any kind of retail venture should probably be out of the question for anyone with any sense i.e. anybody but Hendricks. Also . . . Here's the biggest cop out and COWARDLY line I've ever read from any columnist about Bannister Mall: "Customers deserted it for various reasons."

My God, if a columnist can't be any more honest than that . . . People should just stop counting on the newspaper as their primary means of information and opinion . . . Wait. Never mind.

Cathy Jolly and KC's best wishes

The Star reports that Cathy Jolly is winning her cancer battle . . . TKC told you the same thing at the beginning of this month.

Donna Pitman stays winning

The new HD set-up on channel 9 isn't that amazing at all; I already knew Larry Moore was old and Laura Moritz doesn't have to diet any more now that she's "gotta man."

However, the new High Definition broadcast has worked out amazingly well for news vixen Donna Pitman.

The Independence native and MU J-School grad is really a gorgeous and makes me forget (for a moment i.e. 1 minute and 32 seconds) that Channel 9 left the Downtown area like some disappointed hipster in a condo deal gone bad.

Damn, the Dollar General is dangerous

A woman fights of a man who followed her around a Independence, Missouri Dollar General Store and Fox 4 has video of the suspect. . . I wonder if they sell discount pepper spray, maybe it's watered down and can double as burrito topping? TKC doesn't do much shopping.

"The willingness of the press to be used as a dancing monkey in Matt Blunt's grand vaudevillian distraction."

Fired Up! Missouri writes: "A PLAN IS NOT A PONY" in which a very credible case is being made that Missouri's press is being PLAYED FOR SUCKERS . . . Willingly and otherwise.

The Burning Question OR KC in Flames

I'm uncertain but I'm guessing that not since the grand mob era of the 70's and early 80's has Kansas City had a car explosion and dead bodies turn up in the backseat of a vehicle like it did this weekend.

And while these dudes have been described as "Hispanic" by some, the truth is that we'll probably never know exactly why they died in one of the worst ways possible; other than drowning in a vat of sulfuric acid, of course.

So the real question here is obvious: Will Mayor Funky speak to the issue of violent crime in Kansas City in a more substantive way than simply just citing neat statistics and then doing NOTHING in terms of leadership?

In a year that has already seen a local gang war, Mayor Funky has provided even less leadership than Mayor Kay given that at least she had Alvin Brooks to deflect questions whereas the Funky Bunch has neither connections nor credibility in Kansas City circles that normally work to help in the fight against crime.

In one instance after the next, Funkhouser has alienated so many people in "the Black part of town" and the Latino Community that he literally has trouble finding people to meet with in these not so insignificant KC constituencies.

And while most suburbanites and local talk radio callers would gladly ignore the violence in the minority communities of KC proper, people who live in this town know that the same violence has a bothersome way of spreading to surrounding communities and all across the city. Like it or not, we're neighbors.

Therefore people who really know politics and crime in Kansas City Proper know that sooner or later Mayor Funky is going to have to address a problem which he is completely unqualified to handle . . . And maybe THAT is why he's putting off the topic and dealing with more important problems like Hannah Montana tickets.

Friends don't let Friends ruin KC blogging

All right, now that your token Black guy is dead and you've had time to grieve . . . Let's talk turkey.

And before you get too offended, let me make it clear that I'm not talking about anybody who REALLY knew the guy . . . I'm only referring to those of you who developed an unhealthy affinity for (micro-media obsession with) someone the blog of someone you never knew in real life. I met the dude twice, exchanged e-mails with him often, linked all the time and looked forward to every post but I never KNEW the dude in much the same way that you don't KNOW somebody you've only hung out with at a bar or restaurant and you wouldn't think of going to the funeral of your favorite checkout clerk that you probably see more than your mom. Put simply, you people are a lot more looney than you let on . . .

Anyhoo, the people I'm addressing here is the local blogger bunch that threaten to turn this thing we call blogging into a fad faster than you can say CB radio.

I don't have a stake in this really because TKC is a writer, (micro) media mogul and raconteur but I like the idea of blogging because it opens up personal publishing to EVERYONE with an Internet connection and a dumbass opinion.

From what I've seen, the "KC Blogging Bunch" (You know who you are) represent nothing more than a club of people who were PLAYED by Mayor Funkhouser and Joe Miller, have little to NO relevant political viewpoints and are basically using the greatest freedom ever bestowed upon citizens to do nothing but create a social club that is now made up exclusively of white, middle class people . . . Most of whom are suburbanites.

So, until you folks dig up some other Black person to be "friends" with (Don't even think it) then you're doing nothing but offering a skewed perspective on blogging in Kansas City with your expensive digital cameras and horrible taste in restaurants.

Blogging isn't for buddies (even though I've made many) it's about mixing it up, creating, sharing, promoting opinions and ideas (and jokes) that the mainstream press won't touch. It's not a social club for you and your friends and their haircuts.

Wanna do something that helps "the local blogosphere" besides mingling with your demographic? Comment on a strangers blog, look for other local blogs, link and let loose with your own opinions that might cost you your job. Anything less, and you might as well just go back to online dating.

Show-Me Missouri's Conservative side

I like LMC, I don't agree with her about much but I really think that if you wanted to know the viewpoint of A LOT OF conservatives on the latest issues without having to hear anyone yelling or having to look at Sean Hannity's awful haircut then you should read her site; that's why I do.

"Rod Jetton reached dirtbag status this week"

The Blue Blog gets off to a nice start this week with a classic lead and an interesting story: "MO Republican Speaker Attacks Struggling Single Mothers"

Artsy fartsy interview

Contemporary Art Gallery is an online art magazine and they recently did an interesting interview with Paul Dorrell - one of the few people lucky enough to make a living by conning rich people (Yea!) with clever adjectives and bright colors. Don't forget that Dorrell also has a blog and is the founder of the Leopold Gallery.

Gottstein still trying to get a grip on the job

Hey Cameraman.net has some interesting scoop involving my favorite woman on the Council other than that 1st District hottie Bill Skaggs.

Apparently, with some folks on the Westside (okay, one person on the Westside) the "sign issue" is the most important subject in the history of the neighborhood.

So . . . With a great and informative link about KC's wayfinding program and a winning photo . . . The local blog details the trouble Beth Gottstein is currently having dealing with her Latino constituency in Kansas City i.e. we're all a bunch of complainers.

Also, I heard on the Shanin and Parks show recently (while reading a book and taking a dump) that there was some fruitcake pretending to be TKC (isn't that the saddest thing you ever read?) and another talk radio listening douche who made it on the airwaves and said that he's starting a recall campaign against Gottstein. And while only retired and/or marginally employed people believe what they hear on radio it's clear Gottstein faces some challenges in dealing with one of the bitchiest districts in Kansas City and all of KC MO in general given that the coming recession is bringing all of the complainers out in droves.

Which brings me to another point: What I love about this town is that everyone feels their entitled the utmost concern of their elected officals and there's not a hint of the notion (in this town's political scene at least) that most men lead lives of quiet desperation and voter turnout has done nothing but decline in recent years . . . So it's no surprise that Gottstein has taken some criticism over the recent "sign issue" from a few residents (one very "vigilant" dude).

But it's important to remember the following:

Gottstein made a lot of headway (hehe) by supporting the Latino Leadership on the ongoing (never ending) Semler debate. She might have made a few enemies out North over this but considering that the OVERWHELMING MAJORITY OF THE CITY COUNCIL stood together on this one - There clearly hasn't been a political price to pay except from talk radio call-in guests and the e-mail writing campaign put forth by shut-ins on hate site message boards.

In KC Proper, widespread "likability" isn't as important as money or contributors. Gottstein stays winning as long as she doesn't lose anybody willing to write checks. And considering that the 60-70k people who vote in Kansas City (roughly less than 50% of all those eligible) don't think about the council everyday - unless any council person goes to the clink . . . A politico can be despised even in their own district and still stand a good chance of winning a re-election bid. Terry Riley, I'm talking to you.

Also, let's not forget that the sign issue is so (un)important that even Mayor Funky has been credited with "progress" on this issue.

Still, I'm biased on this one, I endorsed Beth Gottstein in the general election and I admire anyone who wears black all the time - TKC has way too much dandruff to pull that one off. (ew)

And while I'm all in favor of every kind of Westside advocacy (the squeaky wheel gets the grease - Insert your lame greaser joke here: ________) I'm willing to write this issue off as "on the job" (heh) training.

Finally, while some may call it a slur, I like Gottstein because she's a JAP and by that I mean that I like Japanese people. Gottstein is Japanese, right?

For a more informed and eloquent take on this situation read the post that inspired this one on Hey Cameraman.net.

The most wonderful idea ever conceived

Not KC related other than me thanking God that wedding season is over - However, a German politico recently put forward the proposition that MARRIAGE SHOULD ONLY LAST 7 YEARS. Really, this makes sense on so many levels. And, let's face it, the Germans may have a lot of faults but expediency has always been their strong suit.

TKC Model of the Moment: LotusEyes

TKC is not normally into tattoos but there are some women who can "pull it off" (hehe).

Anyway, recently I stumbled upon a uniquely hot local model who goes by the moniker of "Lotus Eyes." She describes herself as a 27 year-old writer/art enthusiast, returning to the metro after a 10 year hiatus.



Finally, it's nice to see a model that isn't ashamed of her ink; as even top earning cover broads describe their tats like a disability. She says, "Let art model art! We need more tattooed models!" Sounds good to me, TKC would like more models in general.

Anyway, you might want to check out her profile and take a look at a great looking model, writer, music fan and ink enthusiast in KC.

The TKC Saturday Night Podcast: Kansas City's Tween music controversy

Throughout this week there was no more important subject than the scarcity of Hannah Montana tickets for an upcoming show at the Sprint Center.

And I can only hope that one day I might be so successful, bored and privileged that THIS would be the topic which inspired me to contact my elected officials. But that's probably not going to happen.

KC Talk has a great thread on the subject.

And the only thing I can further contribute to this subject is that I HAVE NO IDEA about this act coming to KC but I do know that it's only a matter of time until every young music sensation ends up posing nude for money and probably doing things a lot worse than that . . . So . . . I guess, eventually, we all end up seeing the idols of our youth for what they really are (skanky); and not the hype that once surrounded them.



Therefore, tonight's podcast is dedicated to the crappy music targeted at the tween demographic and how capitalism has supplanted any kind of attempt at artistry in the current American cultural landscape.



Also, who would have thought that Tiffany would end up looking better than Debbie Gibson in the long run? Time is a strange thing.

Maybe Mayor Funky will do something about crime now that it hits the Northland

KSHB reports on a KC home invasion: Police said four men armed with hand guns force their way into a home in the Northland to harm and steal.

"Collaboration Works in Kansas City"

I ran across an interesting story about an organization that received a bit of press last year but definitely deserves even more attention: The Kansas City group is called Collaboration Works. It's a place where donated medical equipment or supplies are given to uninsured and low income people with health needs. Most items are free, but if the group doesn't have the equipment, they can obtain it at cost.

Joints for Joplin (no homo?)

This is the very best thing I'v ever heard about Joplin: A group in Joplin wants local voters to reduce the penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana.

Once more reason to panic OR Maybe they could have put out the blaze with the Muslim foot baths?

Fire scare forces evacuation of KCI terminal . . . Remember the foot bath story? I do. Also, the panic was because of a broken sprinkler.

A fun weekend for you and your friends

There are a BUNCH of things to do this weekend and at least 2 or three of them don't involve crying because you can't find a parking space.

Here's my list (with links from BlogKC) of what seem like nice events that I'll probably skip:

Fiesta Hispana

Something related to the Ameican Royal

The Plaza Art Fair

The Un-Plaza Art Fair

Octoberfest at Crown Center

All of these events seem like a great way to get out and mingle with the wonderful people of Kansas City . . . That's why I'll be at home, in my basement, eating snack cakes and drinking alone.

From the conservative perspective

A competent compilation of links and commentary from local blogger Dee

"KC is the embodiment of the middle." Ugh.

You might have already seen it but here's a nice story from NPR on Kansas City that's only a little big condescending.

Never mind the NKC

Surprisingly, Chastain's plans ignores more than just minority communities. From the Star: NKC participation is critical for light rail, officials say

Apparently, Jackson County wasting money never gets tiresome

Mike Sanders is looking for ways to save money that starts with eliminating jobs but apparently doesn't apply to an EXPENSIVE NATIONWIDE JOB SEARCH that was ultimately pointless or the pricey salaries of his inner circle.

Jackson County is paying nearly $88,000 for recent national searches to fill four management positions that ended up going to local people.

County Executive Mike Sanders stands by his decision to pay a consulting firm to do the searches, even though the county is in a cost-cutting mode that led to elimination of 142 jobs this year.

It's almost enough to make me miss Kathryn Shields who at least tried to save money by having her employees chauffeur her big ass around.

FREE KATHRYN SHIELDS!!!

Al Garza = Not Latino and a sellout

Every time the Minutemen whine about being accused of racism they bring out some talking monkey by the name of Al Garza. Just like any professional "Hispanic" he notes his ethnicity at every turn (TKC only states he is KC's most important Latino every 14th post) . . . In his recent Star editorial he invokes his background while defending ARMED, UNSANCTIONED ACTION against people who share his heritage. The word I'm looking for in Spanish is vendido . . . And it's not that I deny anyone the right to their own (stupid) opinion but as far as the mainstream sentiment in the Latino community goes: Garza stands by himself when compared to MILLIONS of Latinos who have taken to the street to plead for Comprehensive Immigration Reform. Garza is worse than guy's like Ward Connelly in the Black community because he truly represents a fringe element in the discourse regarding immigration. Put simply, to hold up people like Garza or groups like "You don't speak for me" who have virtually no credibility, support or history of involvement within the communities they claim to represent in order to gauge opinion in the Latino Community (i.e. feeble attempts to divide and conquer) is not only irresponsible but a complete misrepresentation of a much larger group that has taken to the street and stood with Latino leaders in rebuking the actions and rhetoric of vigilantes.

Big wampum in catering to your weaknesses

Here's my favorite definition of the word "wampum" in this link and here's the latest way to blow your kid's college money according to the KC Biz Journal: "Two groups have confirmed that they'll turn in proposals Monday for a $300 million-plus destination casino in Wyandotte County.

A pair of Kansas tribes, the Kickapoo Tribe and the Sac and Fox Nation, have long hoped to build a casino in the county and in 2005 bought 80 acres northwest of the Kansas Speedway."

Baby Blunt scapegoating immigrants makes for a good show but lacks substance

The Blue Blog clearly demonstrates what a hypocrite Baby Blunt has become (remains) in his latest move to pander to reactionaries while pushing racial profiling ahead by leaps and bounds in the Show-Me State.

It's also worth noting that Fired Up! Missouri notes that Blunt is in pretty bad shape when it comes to his work on health care as well.

Remember, you have to be in top physical condition in order to hunt down Latinos like dogs. We're very fast and wily people.

Also, and I really want to know how you d-bags feel about this: Is immigration a bigger issue than Blunt's horrible record on jobs, Health care, the life sciences, the nepotism accusations connected to his family's lobbying efforts, his secret and shady DMV deals? Really, does anybody think people who take time to vote (not just call in to talk radio) would despise a few more Mexicans in the State so much that they would overlook his horrible record simply based on one issue which does nothing more than contribute to racial divisiveness in this state?

I'm asking you.

A thoughtful reproductive rights round-up

Great local scribe Sassywho gives birth (heh) to a really great post that connects national trends to recent local events regarding the abortion debate.

Finally, we'll get to allegations of racism in the Indy school secession debate!!!

I'll be there muttering "Fight!" from both sides of the aisles. The Star provides the details: Independence group plans two forums on the proposed shift of schools from the Kansas City district to the Independence district. Each forum is scheduled to run from 6 to 8 p.m. The first will be held Tuesday at the Truman Memorial Building, 416 W. Maple St. in Independence. The second forum is Thursday at Noland Road Baptist Church, 4505 S. Noland Road.

JoCo just got even whiter

Johnson County sheriff’s first black patrolman and detective retires . . . TKC's anti-JoCo stance makes this blog fun (For me at least).

Desperately stealing from South KC

Maybe Mayor Funky might wanna take a second to talk about crime (since it seems to be only getting worse in South KC) in between calling emergency press conferences to make sure JoCo tweens get concert tickets. Meanwhile the problems in South Kansas City (like a recent string of aggressive burglaries) CONTINUE to be neglected in favor of all things related to downtown.

Kansas City Police are tracking an aggressive group of burglars who have cleaned out several homes recently.

Friday afternoon, police responded to yet another home burglary in south Kansas City.
They said the suspects have been targeting homes in the Birchwood Hills and Southern Hills neighborhoods and may be branching out to other areas too.

Most of you d-bags may not agree, but at least South KC once had an advocate against crime and someone who dedicated their career to the problem in Alvin Brooks, while Funkhouser has proven he only ignores anyone that isn't in line with his self-promoting agenda. The new boss has a striking resemblance to former Mayor Kay without any of the nice suits. Please tell me how that's better . . . With so many months gone by and not even a peep from Mayor Funky about any substantive work on the topic of crime (after yet another bloody summer) I'm pleading with the Mayor to move crime up on this list of priorities just a tad higher than #7, maybe in front of tinkering with the School District where he has absolutely no authority.

The true nature of the "English Only" movement is revealed in KCK

Reportedly, speaking Spanish leads to a 15 year-old girl being beaten so badly that she temporarily lost sight in one eye. As the anti-Latino climate at the Turner School District seems relatively unchanged two years after Zach Rubio was suspended for speaking Spanish.

In Kansas City, the odds are pretty good that you'll be killed in your car

The typical news stories involving gun battles and car crashes dominate this evening's headlines. Here are two examples:

Police Find Man's Body In Car

5 Injured In Wreck On Paseo Bridge

Yet, even though cars are admittedly very dangerous . . . I still don't think I'd enjoy using light rail. TKC no likey people or expensive transportation schemes that aren't as efficient, effective or as practical as simply taking the bus - which few (not enough) people in KC ride anyway.

Finally, a challenge Tony G can win!

There are two great Chiefs blogs in this town:

Arrowhead Addict

and

Arrowhead Pride

And they're both laughing about a local loser challenging Tony Gonzalez to a wrestling match.

Funny stuff, but probably a bad idea . . . The Chiefs can't rally function as a team but individually they'll still pretty vicious - That's a warning ladies.

Sometimes (if not all) stealing from JoCo is a good thing

The KC Biz Journal reports: OP tech firm will move to KC, add 135 jobs

Missouri authorities can't deal with Meth problem so they might as well go after Mexicans

Sure, so often the problems are related and law enforcement has always dealt more drastically when it comes to brown people involved with drugs (nobody really cares about toothless,white, po'folk Meth addicts) . . . Still, the comments are great on this Crime Scene KC story: They involve a BOUNTY on the head of every Latino that "looks" like an immigrant and Bringing the forces from Iraq home to guard the border instead (Mexicans more dangerous than Al Qaeda?) . . . Awesome, Blunt stays winning on this issue, in rural Missouri at least.

The Internet is evil (and dangerous)

Not really but child predators are, and sadly they're on the Internet as well. KSHB reports: A Kansas City man who was caught using the Internet to try to entice a child for the second time will serve five years in state prison

Not enough Catholics in Northeast (not really)

Kris Ketz from Channel 9 covers a really interesting story: Northeast Area Catholic Churches Could See Changes . . . However, there's an aspect that went unreported, I've been in this kind of situation several times and what happens to these churches facing decreased membership because of a demographic shift is that a few people resent or have trouble dealing with the fact that the "complexion" of the neighborhood has changed so dramatically. Churches on the Northeast that cater to the Latino influx have experienced remarkable growth and very active membership, while the institutions that don't embrace their new Latino neighbors often flounder. Once again, even for religion, the real "truth" is that change is a constant.

There is nothing going on in KC other than news and rumor related to Hannah Montana

And the lamb broke the 5th and 1/2 seal . . . Local Man To Give Away 6 Hannah Montana Tickets

Tripp Algiers on TKC (no homo)

I like local Indie / Rock / Soul group Tripp Algiers because their music has a certain honesty to it that you don't find from most bands in the beginning stage of discovering their own unique sound.

Also, from what I've heard, the group is pretty intense in their live performances and that definitely comes through on their tracks.

The group's members include:

Matthew Silvers - Guitar, Accordian, Vocals
Benjamin Wachter - Guitar, Keys, Vocals
Willis Blinzler - Bass, Vocals
Drew Burasco - Drums

Surprisingly one of those dudes is a semi-regular reader of TKC and thankfully agreed to let me host their tune Corporate's Ladder on this blog.

The song is pretty damn good and kind of a protest number without "insisting upon itself" as most of the songs in that genre so often do. NOTE: TKC likes writing like a music critic, it makes my judgmental and smug statements seem that much more authoritative.

Anyway, I like the song and if you want to hear more, be sure the check out the Myspace page of Tripp Algiers. OR better yet, go to one of their many local shows.

For the record, the debut release from Tripp Algiers entitled "Old City Crows" is slated October 5, 2007 on BeatOven Records.

Here is the official bio of the group if you're looking for a more informed perspective:

In the course of one year, Tripp Algiers has become known as one of Kansas City's most original rock bands. Listeners and fans of the band have fallen short in describing the quartet's unique blend of rock, jazz, and alternative music. With their debut album, Old City Crows, perched for release in October, Tripp Algiers have created a strong voice both in lyrics and composition. Utilizing their three vocalists, each song of the album has definition and purpose. A listen to Old City Crows is a journey through the joy and pain of life. Social messages are given with such poetry that the listener is drawn into the band's independent worldview. Tripp Algiers does not look to follow the trends of any music scene, but rather blaze new trails.

Furthermore, if show up to one of their local gigs there is a distinct possibility that a few liberal chicks (known for having bad judgment) might be in the audience. In the right light (and with the help of 5-6 PBR's) hippie chicks with vintage eye wear and those weird ass Guatemalan hats can be beautiful.

Rock on.

As always, site feed subscribers can (probably) stream this track directly from their feed readers.

There is no justice in this world if white, middle-class families can't get a fair deal on Sprint Center tickets

Watching the news along with my life experience in general has led me to develop a few truisms, here's one I'd like to share:

When middle-to-upper-class white people are unhappy about something: It's important.

Never mind the Eastside death toll.

Suburban conservatives bristle at the notion that Latino CITIZENS don't want to be racially profiled or threatened with guns by the Minutemen.

And payday lenders and other loansharks ripping off the working poor isn't even a concern on anyone's mind once they start earning more than a measly $50k.

But the CONTROVERSY OVER HANNAH MONTANA TICKETS HAS BROUGHT THE CITY TO A STANDSTILL.

It's front page news

And already Mayor Funky is working to resolve the only issue that isn't completely out of his depth.



Let's not forget that this is the same Mayor who - after a bloody summer and KC standing on the brink of garnering another 100 murder year - HAS PROVIDED NO ACTION ON THAT TOPIC . . . He's already emergency meeting about tickets for JoCo folks. Clearly, that's leadership we can all be proud of . . .

Anyhoo, what folks (especially reporters for some strange reason) don't like mentioning is that Ticketmaster’s chief lobbyist in Missouri is Andy Blunt, brother of Governor Matt Blunt. And Andy recently won a victory for his client in securing the right of ticket brokers to do business online which is EXACTLY WHAT LED TO THE QUICK SELLOUT of the Sprint Center. (BlogKC attacked this subject pretty well recently).

So you can blame the Blunt Family for the fact that your little snot monster is sniveling about some stupid show but you might also want to be honest with your kids and tell them that the same family of Missouri politicos is also responsible for so many children just like them having a hard time accessing medical care simply because they're poor and have real problems that the middle and upper class don't want to consider.

P.S. - General Blather had some great perspective on the non-political aspect of this sorry situation. Money line: "You people make it sound like someone snuck into your house in the middle of the night and stole everyone's left kidney."

Another idea for a commuter train in KC

A train line expansion that currently goes from Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas could reach to nearby Kansas communities and have Kansas City as a last stop on the route if Oklahoma Rep. Wallace Collins has his way . . . It seems really neat AND MUCH MORE PRACTICAL THAN KC'S LIGHT RAIL PLAN but I have no idea why anybody would want (or need) to go to Fort Worth from here . . . Still, the traffic coming this way would be nice and this plan thankfully doesn't involve any sleazy local architectural firms. Yet.

How will you protest if the Chiefs don't win?

Everyone says it's "must win" on Sunday . . . What if KC doesn't? Is it time for Herm or Carl to say goodbye to KC?

Few food buying options on the Eastside

It's not a new problem but this recent story by the Call highlights the fact that nothing is going to change anytime soon. And while Downtown is soon to have a glut of high fat chain stores selling to KC, it's somewhat sad that there's very few places to purchase a head of lettuce in a nearby corner of KC.

KC Stays Winning by lowering standards!!!

The Star reports that this town is full of crap (literately) when we try to deal with our water infrastructure problem: "The Kansas City Council on Thursday passed a conceptual plan to reduce the raw sewage flowing into area streams.

The plan estimates that even if the city spends $3 billion to fix its sewer and storm-water problems, certain stretches of streams will still violate state water quality laws."

KC Came Out For the Jena 6

My bad for not posting anything about the local Jena 6 protests.

By all accounts it was a well attended event and lasted for more than 3 hours.

Alonzo Washington wasn't especially impressed and he makes a good point:

By next week they will all forget about the struggle and continue to do nothing to fight against injustice in this local community. Whenever, you see stuff like this happen a large group of Black people are mad for a while. Then they go back to the same old same old.

I pretty much agree even though I thought the protests were a good start and response to the unfair case. Still, the challenge is to fight injustice in THIS community. To challenge the notion that building more jails is the best solution to Eastside crime. To vehemently express outrage over the racial profiling stats in both Kansas and Missouri and maybe to challenge the STUPID notion that the "stop snitchin" antics of a few people make the entire Black community responsible for the lack of cooperation with (from?) authorities.

KC's Jenna 6 protest was encouraging but let's not forget that so many middle-class wakcos also use the Country Club Plaza Fountain to protest the war and then drive back to their pleasant suburban lives without really making a difference when it comes to the many injustices going on right here in Kansas City.

Kansas City's youth is nasty

Apparently, KC area schools and parents aren't providing any decent sex education either according to a recent KSHB report: KSHB analyzed data from five metro counties tracking youth STD rates from as young as 13-years-old to 24-years-old. We found record level, or near record level, jumps across the board, including a three-fold increase in HIV and an off the chart jump in syphilis.

Patti LaBelle lets loose on a KC fan

Not that I care much about about Patti LaBelle but watching someone from Kansas City get publicly humiliated is always fun.

From the looks of it, it seems that LaBelle overreacted a bit to the guy rubbing his junk on her and then saying "You wanted it!" over a microphone. Strangely, that's pretty much my standard pick-up move whenever I go into a Westport club and most (all) women find it irresistible. But maybe that's just because I'm incredibly attractive and I can bench press a Toyota Truck. Your mileage may vary. It's also common knowledge that I'm as adorable as a newborn kitten or at least that's what I hear when I place unwanted felines in loving homes during my spare time.

Still . . . If you ask me, LaBelle seems like somewhat of a diva here (which makes sense since she is, in fact, a diva) when she belts out: "How dare you!" and"You Disrespect a Black Woman like that?" "Do you know who you're talking to?" at the poor guy who instantly retreats into the shadows. It's all well and good for her to act this way since she's a musical legend but somehow I'm pretty sure this incident is going to translate into shitty "intercultural relations" at Gates, my grocery store and whatever Black woman you're afraid of at your place of business.

Luckily, if you watch till the end of the clip there' a bit of cheesy reconciliation that's right out of a disco ballad.

UPDATE: I don't know if this is true but it's interesting as Hell. Anyway, this turned up in the comments and I think deserves a little bit of extra attention:

Not to mention the fact that the kid, DaRon McGee, works for John Sharp and embarrased the city and the event's organizers. Plus, the kid is a total asshole. He's rude and arrogant to everyone. I live in the 6th and anytime I call Sharp's office, Sharp himself is quite good about taking action, but McGee is rude and worthless.

The nastiest headline that wasn't

If you are a completely immature doofus (and have heard tales of the unmentionable depravity of German porn) like myself, the following headline regarding two Australian adventurers paddling the entire length of the Missouri River will make you giggle:

Big Muddy Lures Paddlers from 'Down Under'

Clearly, some headline writer was REALLY bored and maybe just a tad nasty. Sorry, I will not include a photo with this post because some things, even if they're between two consenting adults, are simply just WRONG. Finally, the "Cleveland Steamer" page on Wikipedia also doesn't contain any photos (thankfully) but the pop culture references section on the topic is funny.

Okay, I can't resist here is a photo of a Cleveland Steamer being launched:



Coloured postcard of the sidelaunch of a major steel steamboat at Cleveland surrounded by a large group of spectators.

TKC keeps the local Internets classy.

Red Friday and the celebration of a horrible season in the making

Yea!!! It's Red Friday and that means it's time to take your kids down to Westport in order to have them cheer for a team that held Kansas City hostage last year, millionaire thug players who earn more DUI's than playoff wins along with other DL Chiefs losers who seem to have a penchant for beating the crap out of their groupies. And when they're not cheering the Chiefs you may want to have the kids take a quick glance at the desperation in the eyes of a single or recently divorced 42 year-old woman binge drinking in the early afternoon while decked out in the team's red gear.

KC's own Sir-Rapes-a-lot

From Crime Scene KC: KC serial rapist charged with eighth attack

From Downtown to Midtown traffic will be at a standstill as JoCo jerks run KC streets

It's always disappointing to me that a lot of great Kansas City events are mired by the legacy of KC's poor urban planning and the fact that scumbags people from JoCo panic when they have to parallel park. BlogKC reminds us that if you're not somebody who enjoys German celebrations, or posing while pretending to look at art, you might want to avoid the middle part of KC Proper this weekend.

Most of the Plaza will be closed to traffic this weekend, as will Grand Boulevard and Pershing Road in Crown Center. The MAX and several other bus lines will be detoured.

So good luck getting around this weekend, and don't forget that just because you rode the bus one time when you were drunk, slumming and you just happen to be a homosexual - That doesn't mean that you're now a public transportation advocate.

Even the Italian Food is Mexican in KC

Local food blog "Cooking in Kansas City" writes a favorable review regarding the singing of Ron Gutierrez, one of the vocalists featured at KC' legendary Italian eatery Cascone's.

Hispanic Heritage Month in KC

Don't forget to check out Fiesta Hispana. I've always liked this time of year - It's a nice reprieve from everyone ranting about how much they hate Latinos/immigrants/brown people - At least publicly and everywhere else but talk radio. Also, for those of you really in the know . . . The kickoff to this event in KC is the Blanco y Negro Gala which will take place tonight. I'll be there if you want to stop by, I'll be wearing a tuxedo and laughing and rejoicing that the progress of operation Reconquista is being helped along by TKC - Unquestionably one of KC's most gully blogs and clearly helping push forward the agenda in the local blogosphere . . . OR since the tickets are $65 bucks a piece and I don't own any nice clothes without ketchup stains, I might just watch some re-runs of "The Office" and eat fast food.

A reason to beat up Latinos that's completely unrelated to the immigration debate

A great post by the KC Blue Blog notes the recent beating of the father of a Marine killed in Iraq who attended an Anti-War protest. Here's a little backstory on what might be the guy who was beaten . . . Sadly, not even this story escapes entanglement with immigration issues - it's interesting that what might be the dude in question was once an illegal but now he's not given that his son died fighting in Iraq. The path to citizenship is a hell of a thing.

New TIF Policy set to help any small businesses still remaining in Kansas City

Too bad downtown Kansas City will soon resemble a strip mall anywhere in America and so many of the longtime small businesses were forced to go bust. Still, it's nice to see some local economic policy directed at real blighted areas. However, KC's best soccer blog reports that the policy might still be used to build YET ANOTHER STADIUM - albeit in a blighted part of town. I guess this counts as a win for Mayor Funky with the help of the Council but, for the most part big biz (you know, the folks with all of the money) in Kansas City have done a great job of arguing that Mayor Funky has an anti-biz bias.

KC Area Vegetarians Can Eat Me

I was reading the Superficial recently was pleased to see that Alicia Silverstone is one step closer to making porn movies. If TKC waits patiently enough, all his dreams will come true.

Because she can't seem to get any paying work as an actress Silverstone has posed naked in an ad for PETA proving once again that the expert use of Photoshop is the probably the most miraculous diet program available.

If only vegetarians actually looked this hot in real life. I've been in quite a few KC veggie restaurants and most of the clientèle look as if they might also frequent heroin dens . . . Only Kansas City heroin addicts aren't quite so smug.

The point is that most KC veggies are so pedantic and obnoxious about their dietary choices in this BBQ loving town that they often mistakenly believe that there choice regarding what they stuff into their mouths (nullus) is some kind of reflection of good character. Nothing could be further from the truth given that there is overwhelming evidence in the world's most accurate encyclopedia that Hitler was staunch proponent of vegetarianism. Once again, it's just another instance of folks in Kansas City valuing the lives of animals far more than people.

Listen to TKC this morning

All of my other wheeling and dealing kept me too busy to post on the blog much yesterday.

Thankfully, my day of Internet stock trading, napping, snack cake eating, ebay playing and TV watching has me well rested and ready to put up some new links on this wonderful Friday in Kansas City.

I'll be talking with EJ and Ellen on KC's Morning News on KMBZ at around 8:30 a.m. so be sure to listen to my very important life lessons.

As always feel free to leave me suggestions as to the local news and Internets trends you're noticing. Which I already knew about . . . I'm just quizzing you.

An Amazingly informative post from I,Shane

Local blogger I,Shane posts a helpful review of PHP guide Textpattern Solutions which might help a lot of folks out there deal with their web design "issues" or at least prevent us from destroying our keyboard with our foreheads.

Mr. Bad Example

KC Blue blog follows the foibles of Matt Bartle.

Minutemen convention in Kansas City expected to attract only 300 people

Thanks to a tipster who sent me a link on MSNBC covering Mayor Funky's Semler Scandal. It's just a roundup really but the interesting tid bit is that the news agency reports that the Minutemen will bring in ONLY A FRACTION of the income that they have chased away from Kansas City. Again, that's not exactly wonderful leadership by Mayor Funky and even more evidence that his claims of fiscal responsibility are nothing but empty campaign promises.

Frances Semler, KC's Newest celebrity, makes bigoted remarks on nationally syndicated radio!!! WHO IS "THEY?"

Once again, (just like all reactionaries) when Frances Semler is allowed to speak for herself, her language is divisive, exclusionary and simply bigoted.

Semler recently gave an interview on 710 where she alluded to both La Raza and NAACP simply as "THEY" in a rhetorical tactic that does nothing but further divide Kansas City.

The Star posted a transcript, here's the most important part:

SEMLER: It only hurts their, their own people. You know I am sure that they are going to spend money in their, you know, the areas of those businesses.

My question is simple: WHO IS "THEY"???

Is THEY, the several leaders from the Jewish Community who have spoken against her appointment?

Are the local Union leaders who have rallied against her, being referred to as THEY?

Is she making the same mistake as Ross Perot when he called the NAACP "You People" . . . Which sounds a lot like THEY.

Or is the THEY she is speaking of a reference to The National Council of La Raza?

She isn't clear but her language is divisive and dismissive of a significant segment of Kansas City's population i.e. nearly all of the local Latino Leadership.

Also, she unfortunately assumes that the scores of folks from conferences who may or MAY NOT come to KC would only frequent establishments run by other THEYs OR Put simply, in her latest stupid statement Semler shows her ignorance and upholds the stereotype that Latinos only eat "tacos in the barrio" when they travel around the country . . . Truth is, if you really knew the La Raza leadership crowd you'd know that they're more accustomed to 4 and 5 star dining than burritos on the Boulevard.

Still, Semler continues to use words like "THEY" to deride anyone who doesn't stand for ARMED, UNSANCTIONED ACTION AGAINST IMMIGRANTS.

Moving on . . .

So far organizations that may not visit KC because of Semler include:

The National Council of La Raza
The NAACP
Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity - The nation’s oldest and largest African-American fraternity
and The U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

And it seems like everyday the group that Semler writes off as THEY is growing larger.

And I don't even want to get into Laura Ingram and all of the other suburban talk radio haters supporting Semler. Let's not forget that most, if not all of these people don't have a vote in KC politics.

Also, for all of this so-called national support it's worth noting the absolute silence coming from the many political clubs that basically RUN KC POLITICS . . . On this issue, so far, NOT ONE INFLUENTIAL POLITICAL GROUP IN KC PROPER HAS COME OUT IN SUPPORT OF MAYOR FUNKY'S STUBBORN STAND. I hope Mayor Funky realizes that it's only 36 short months before he has to go back to these groups for support (BECAUSE THEY RUN POLITICS IN KC) and so far he's shown that the only person he's really out to please is his shoeless wife and that's admirable among certain constituencies (Foot Fetishists) but it's certainly not in the best interests of most KC political organizations.

Yet, despite the fact that Semler has used divisive and loaded language in Nationally Syndicated Radio Broadcasts and pledged to uphold the Mintueman mission statement in her work on the Parks Board according to her "As I see it" column . . . Funky is still staying stubborn.

Sadly, there is this illusion that Semler is some nice old lady but the truth is that she promotes a group that CARRIES GUNS IN ORDER TO INTIMIDATE LATINOS ON THE BORDER.

If the white, suburban, talk radio listening community is so adamantly in support of a group that CARRIES GUNS and pushes forth a political agenda then I wonder if these people would also tout themselves as fans of the Black Panthers. What do you think?



Probably not, but when white people carry guns without any authority other than "super Citizen power" it's supposed to be patriotic.



And let's just stop all of the B.S. and start talking about what this debate is really about:

SUPPORTERS OF THE MINUTEMEN ARE ENDORSING WHITE SUPREMACY

Proof: Drunk drivers kill a lot more people than mojados by all accounts and despite police crackdowns the problem is still pretty bad YET if I started AN ARMED GROUP to watch and report drunk drivers every weekend I'd be arrested in no time. Yet because brown people are looking down the scope of Minuteman guns then subsequently their stand against immigration is pushed as "patriotic" by hate radio stations.

Also, 710 really needs to watch their step here because their unabashed pandering to the Minutemen cause seems to be coming awfully close to skirting the limit of equal time regulations by the FCC.

KMBZ has been pretty good about allowing other sides an opportunity to speak but 710 HAS NOT SOLICITED ALLOWED PERSPECTIVES FROM PEOPLE (Local Latino Leaders) WHO MIGHT DISAGREE WITH THE BIGOTED/VIGILANTE VIEW OF THE MINUTEMEN THEY'RE CURRENTLY PROMOTING. Given that they use the public/taxpayer funded airwaves, this is more than a minor oversight and it risks their entire fledging operation that's just now starting to come out of the basement.

Finally, let's wrap this thing up and make sure that nobody really believes that this Semler lady is some nice old broad. She's probably never carried a gun in order to intimidate the poor, huddled masses who yearn to breathe free at the gates of this country but she is now a superstar of the group and DESERVES EVERY BIT OF MEAN SPIRITED RHETORIC that comes her way.

She no longer gets to claim innocence because she's "just" running propaganda for an ARMED group of Latino haters. If so, then I guess Leni Riefenstahl isn't that bad either because she never held anything more dangerous than a camera.




Actually, when you get down to it there are so many stupid assumptions and supportive rants in favor of SUPREMACY regarding this story that it's ridiculous . . . And it only gets sillier when you consider that Mayor Funky has staked his career to a woman that is clearly dividing this city across racial lines, potentially costing KC millions of dollars and tarnishing the reputation of this town which was once considered welcoming to people of all backgrounds.

Better think twice about snitchin' to local authorities: They won't protect your identity

It's too bad the Blue Springs Police and Jackson County prosecutors allegedly dropped the ball when handling confidential info in a recent high-profile case. Revealing the identity of an informant doesn't exactly encourage cooperation and this KSHB story captures the horrible mistake that highlights the role authorizes play in encouraging co-operation rather than just casting blame on the entire Black community when they are justifiably suspicious of promises from law enforcement: "Prosecutors released the informant's identity and home address in public court papers Wednesday when they charged his former friend with conspiring to murder four people.

The informant says police specifically promised to protect his identity in exchange for him acting as the middle man in the murder-for hire plot. The informant says the man wanted to exact vengeance on the girlfriend's emotions, but wanted her kept alive."

Ruh roh! Red Bridge is really in trouble now

The Red Bridge folks are upset again and seemingly can't catch a break. Their latest press release laments the road that's ahead of them and the fact that the fate of their neighborhood seems inescapable.

They're picking on Councilman Sharp with their latest petition which is somewhat smart since they wouldn't want to make the universally beloved Cathy Jolly mad. Still, it might be a lot harder to smear Sharp since he has been one of the strongest voices on the council and in the end it seems the project is inevitable.

Mayor Funky might seek some traction in this instance to take away some support from Sharp but it's important to remember that these folks couldn't deliver South KC to Mayor Funky in a close election and their meetings have now dwindled to less than a dozen people. Still TKC supports all kinds of neighborhood activism and I suggest going after the architectural firm rather than their representatives who might have a chance to help them in the future. Here's the latest information on the state of the new road designs from the Red Bridge Group:

Indications have been mounting that the Red Bridge Road project team, led by the engineering firm Bucher, Willis & Ratliff Corporation (BWR), intends to skew their study of the road away from a park-and-neighborhood friendly road and toward a wide-and-destructive highway-style road . . . However, the BWR team has released a draft public opinion survey so skewed and manipulative that it leaves no doubt they are actively promoting the supposedly discarded "BridgeZilla" design.

Honestly, I wish Red Bridge folks good luck on this one but fighting road development is a touch stance to take in Kansas City . . . Also, if I remember correctly, Mayor Funky promised these people sidewalks and yet they don't seem to be holding him accountable for his pre-election promises that have gone out the window, while Sharp is by all accounts pretty accessible.

The influence of TKC is spread out all over the Internets

Hey folks, you should already be reading Dallas Penn. However, another reason is that Dallas is nice enough to include a recent post from TKC on his page.

The post examines the history of hip-hop and the horrible efforts of athletes who attempt to become rappers. In other words, when you really think about it LJ is much worse than Michael Vick.

CHECK OUT TKC at DALLAS PENN.COM

TKC is reaching out to local musicians and is EXTREMELY pleased to present a song from KC's best rapper: REACH!!!

TKC has long noted an obvious and indisputable fact: Reach is the greatest Kansas City hip-hop artist currently performing.

It's a major achievement of this blog that one of KC's best has allowed his track to be hosted on KC's "most influential" and gully blog.

And as the weather turns colder this song holds special meaning for me at least. Also, it's just a great tune. Among KC rap fans Reach's "Nothing but a Customer" is already a classic.

So be sure to click here and check out "Nothing but a customer" if you haven't already.

TKC site feed subscribers might be pleased to find out that they can stream the song in an enclosure.

To learn more about Reach don't forget to check out his myspace page which hosts some great photos and info about the up and coming career of this KC hip-hop great.

Additionally, if you like local live music performed with stunning skill and masterful lyrics, be sure to check out a local hip-hop show featuring Reach:



Don't forget, if you're a local musician and want to share your music with THOUSANDS of TKC readers . . . Have a myspace page and let TKC download one of your songs.

All that Kansas City Jazz (news)

Plastic Sax, a great KC Jazz blog, posts a pretty comprehensive update of all things Jazz in Kansas City.

KC's Taco Bell Bandits

Here's a not so surprising report from Channel 9: Two people standing outside a Northland Taco Bell were forced at gunpoint to get into car and withdraw money from an ATM, police said.

Not a big surprise!!! No local venue wants to host the Minutemen!

I tuned in to Shanin and Parks this afternoon only to hear the Minuteman Convention in Kansas City can't secure meeting space. At least that's what the head of the Kansas Chapter said to KC's conservative radio duo.

Mind you, the "convention" (er, picnic) is slated for December and they still don't have a venue so obviously the get together is a very amateur affair and the "national convention" most likely won't host more than 700 people which is chicken feed compared to La Raza and NAACP meetings and even doesn't live up to Hispanic Chamber of Commerce business and/or the African-American frat that is threatening to cancel on Kansas City because of the Minuteman.

Put simply, the Minutemen aren't worth losing money over and their trouble finding a venue for their joke of a conference is evidence of that . . . Sadly, Mayor Funky is willing to sacrifice what little political leverage he holds for the sake of the group.

Housing slump hits KC area HARD!!!

New home sales in KC area plummet 22% in August from the year-earlier month

Growing up is better than trying to "punish" an ex-girlfriend. Also, Indy nerds should know hitmen cost more than $200 bucks.

Crime Scene KC is GUILTY of posting the funniest local crime story in recent memory. Also, I'm really surprised the level of street smarts is so horrible among Independence teens. Here are the details of unrequited love and yet another "trying to hire a hitman" story gone wrong in Independence, MO. - That just reads classy.

Mike Worstell, 19, of Independence is accused of trying to hire a hitman as a way to punish his ex-girlfriend, Jackson County prosecutors say. (He allegedly marked three to four other people -- but not the ex.) The case was investigated by Blue Springs and the Jackson County Drug Task Force.

Again, taking TKC's advice in any situation would save time and trouble. TKC says the best way to "punish" your ex-girlfriend is to make more money than you did while dating her and/or date some much hotter. The former usually precipitates the later.

Start snitchin' online!!! TIPS finally begins using the Internet

Crime Scene KC reports that the local crime fighting organization is about to go online after years of using nothing but the phone. Here is how they protect the identity of online tipsters: All incoming messages are routed through a third-party server, which "scrubs" the identifying info before sending it to Crime Stoppers, the hotline says.

Blame Blunt for lack of Sprint Center tickets

BlogKC reminds us that Blunt's bro is lobbying for Ticketmaster so once again this family is ruining everything good about this State and KC's citizens are denied access to the greatest hits of the 80's.

People are more important than dog parks

I never had much faith in Democracy or common decency in Kansas City but upon learning that the lunatics supporting a local dog park have gained success by their despicable tactics, I'm fairly certain this City is at the mercy of some of the worst scumbags humanity has to offer.

The Kansas City park board on Tuesday suspended a new policy on off-leash dog parks that had angered many proponents of such a park in Sunnyside Park.

The board did not rescind the policy but decided not to implement it pending the findings of a new 15-member citizen task force.

On the surface of it, that sounds nice but let's review:

These are the same bitches who showed up IN FORCE to a public meeting and SCREAMED, HOLLERED, AND THREW OBSCENITIES at anyone who dared to get in their way.

It's also worth noting that despite the thuggish tactics of WOOF and their enablers, there are a lot of people opposed to the dog park who are being steamrolled by the publicity seeking crowd. Neighbors who don't have a gang to back them up have voiced legitimate concerns about the smell, the impact on their property values and the increased traffic that will result from the establishment of the doggie park in question.

Yet, folks who don't fall in line with the doggie agenda are cast as cruel, uncaring people who despise grassroots movements . . . Obviously, that's only true in my case.

However, anyone who has seen videotaped footage of these thugs in action knows that the only cruelty that's going on is related to people forced to listen to the overly dramatic pleas, insults and doggie demands for a topic of minimal importance.

Spokeswoman AND FORMER PITCH WRITER Deb Hipp, has cleaned up her act, put on a skirt instead of her liberal, hippie, denim/camouflage outfit and now she's trying to behave herself but the damage to the group's image is irreparable. And even if we can all forget that this group will scream bloody murder when they don't get their way . . . In the end it's their childish, irresponsible and immoral advocacy of doggie rights over those of humans that is far more reprehensible than their intimidating and unfair public demonstrations.

Let's make some comparisons.

The murder toll in this City is pushing closer to 100 as each day passes yet no one (including and especially Mayor Funky) has bothered to raise their voice. Young Black men are dying at a rate worse than the soldiers in Baghdad in urban environments across the country; yet for the most part Kansas City ignores the problem and racist suburbanites blame the entire Black community for the violence of only a few of its members.

Local Latinos speak out against racial profiling and a group that wants to get their political point across by CARRYING GUNS and they are depicted by suburbanites and talk radio hosts as Un-American.

Cyclists are killed at an alarming rate by cars and the driving public keeps the pedal to the metal for the most part. There is no screaming. In fact, bicycling advocates have lost more than a dozen of their tight short wearing comrades in recent years but through media savvy tactics and the fact that Mayor Funky is desperate for anyone one who doesn't hate him outright . . . They've pushed their elitist hobby forward while wasting countless millions of MODOT money that would have been better spent filling potholes . . . All with no yelling or ambushing public meetings.

Anyway, the point is that there are many groups seeking attention for their assorted causes and they have made progress without resorting to the despicable maneuvers of these doggy lovers and that's because it's only Kansas City's "dog advocates" who have placed the comfort of animals above the value of human life.

It's important not to forget the despicable behavior of the dog park people as they now are making headway and seem to be attempting to change their image.

In my opinion, they're just as bad (if not worse) than the Minutemen and other hate groups because intimidation and a lack of respect for human dignity is at the center of their game plan. At least the Minutemen are engaging in extremist behavior for their mistaken beliefs about America's sovereignty while Kansas City's doggie advocates perform their dirty work for a deranged and seemingly sociopathic "love" of household pets.

Dog gone it, KC's largely negative perception of these folks shouldn't change!!!

Their mere existence and the fact that the public is caving into their demands does nothing less than threaten our Democracy. The political tactics of the group amount to nothing more than bullying and blackmail in regard to elected officals wanting the support of a group so bold as to use blatant strong-arm tactics in public.

In response, Kansas City must put down the political ambitions of these doggie advocate bitches lest the streets, parks and playgrounds of Kansas City become infested with disease carrying dog poop and citizens of Kansas City no longer recognize their town but instead awaken to an entire metropolitan area that's one giant dog park.

Surface Parking Survives in Downtown KC!

It's ugly and it's not going away no matter how many millions are spent on the "renaissance" . . . On the bright side, more downtown parking is always a good thing even it it's horrible to look at . . . Here are the sad (for some) details: The properties, which take up the south side of 14th between Baltimore and Wyandotte streets, border the convention center complex and the Kansas City Power & Light District . . . “At this point, we have no plans other than creating some surface parking,” said Vice President Vince Dasta.

Some morning news links with Mena Suvari's Shaved Head

First of all, why do bitches women constantly mess with their hair? Here's a TKC rule to live by: Women's hair should be long enough to pull but short enough so that it doesn't get in my way. That includes time I might have to wait while a broad is screwing around with it.

Also, here are some of the stories I'm reading this morning:

Token Blunt gesture after the past 4 years spent working against low income people in need of healthcare: Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt unveiled a plan Tuesday to help low-income workers obtain health insurance through government subsidies totaling some $600 million a year by 2010.

FFA isn't like the old days

Panel picks Missouri appeals court candidates

Buckner man charged in dog attack

Mayor Funky is horrible when it comes to appointments: KC mayor's office makes premature announcement of appointment to TIF Commission - Another interesting note about this story: The broad quit a six figure job to take the VOLUNTEER position, so maybe the construction boom isn't over just yet OR inside info is priceless.

Let me "affirm" the fact that they should put the igloo back in the place: “Affirmation ceremony” set at KC Museum

You can now be arrested for being an "Internets Celebrity" or maybe it just applies to dumb people making online threats: 2 Accused Of Threatening Police In Video

Convenience for suburbanites is more important than the fate of the planet: Some Upset OP Recycling Center Moves

The best shot at preventing KC crime?

Kansas City homeowner shoots burglar

Kansas City could be getting smaller today in terms of acreage not just minds and sadly not asses

The City Council considers handing over 19 acres to North KC Hospital in return for yet another park but at the cost of potential earnings tax income.

Indy Secession Update: The vote is on, along with more (endless) legal battles

Learn well students, lawyers always win no matter what the outcome of the case. God bless billable hours: The Court of Appeals for the Western District of Missouri rejected the Kansas City district’s request for a stay of a Nov. 6 election on the school-switch issue. That request had come after a lower court on Sept. 11 ordered that the question be put before voters.

But the appeals court also held out some hope for the Kansas City district, agreeing to a fast-track review of the lower court’s decision.

Survey says KC students understand the importance of math & science but don't care

File this one under: "I hear you, but I don't care" and it must mean that unintentionally or otherwise KC students are preparing themselves for a career in politics given that they don't want to know much about Math or Science - Very much like all politicos. Here's the important part of the story: "Most of more than 2,700 area parents and students surveyed by Public Agenda seemed to understand the growing role of higher math and science in our world, but stopped short of seeing themselves in the picture."

Jackson County is ready to ruin the only decent thing about a Royals game

The current Royals scoreboard configuration has won praise from The New York Times so naturally this town has to do something in order to screw it up. The new designs will undoubtedly ruin the configuration that all of MLB has grown to love. Here are the details:

A huge new video board — twice the size of the current scoreboard in center field — should be in