TKC BREAKING NEWS!!! KANSAS CITY DEVELOPS FURLOUGH PLAN AS COVID-19 IMPACT DEVASTATES BUDGET!!!

Whilst Kansas City was debating social justice and street signs, our KICK-ASS TKC BLOG COMMUNITY was busy looking at the worsening financial situation at City Hall.

To wit . . .

12TH & OAK ONE WEEK FURLOUGHS COMING SOON AS KCMO CORONAVIRUS BUDGET CRISIS WORSENS!!!!

Here's documentation and proof that the pandemic is tightening purse strings and threatens to put city workers in a horrible bind given that the feds have yet to distribute that desperately needed stimulus part deux.

Legislation . . .

Ordinance #200647: "Directing the City Manager to develop a plan for a minimum one-week furlough for City staff; and directing the City Manager to produce the plan within seven days of passage of this Resolution."

And whilst many love to admonish government workers, this furlough would basically bring city services to a halt and leave residents without any semblance of help from 12th & Oak . . . Basically, Brookside & Ward Parkway would finally see how the rest of us feel.

And while the excluded positions look to keep police & fire going . . . The extraordinary scope of the upcoming furlough reveals KCMO in desperate financial shape.

Developing . . .

KANSAS CITY WARNING: IT'S A HATE CRIME TO DEFACE BLACK LIVES MATTER SIGNS!!!

We've noted a great many reactions to a recent proliferation from City Hall after tribute to adorn the city in Black Lives Matter street murals . . .

Sadly, there are folks out there who aren't so enthusiastic about the move.

And so we have to warn readers about a very real danger . . .

FRIDAY FAIR WARNING: ATTACKING BLM SIGNAGE IS A HATE CRIME!!!

Here's proof and documentation of very real legal expenses . . .

Two people are charged with a hate crime for vandalizing a Black Lives Matter mural

Offenders could face up to a year in jail.

And so, as always TKC simply wants to inform the public and discourage anyone from messing with signage on taxpayer funded streets. Seriously, people who get offended by political signage have no sense of humor or creativity . . . There are always better ways to protest than destruction and, as always, discretion is the better part of valor.

Accordingly, here's another look at the council move that hopefully inspires conversation and discourse rather than unhealthy and unappealing angst . . .

'Black Lives Matter' street murals to be painted at 6 locations in KC

KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) - Kansas City Councilmembers have adopted a resolution that will have "Black Lives Matter" murals painted on designated streets as part of the KC Art on the Block initiative. Six locations for the street murals have been identified.

Developing . . .

More Kansas City Council Members Join Effort To Remove KCPD Chief Smith

Actually, this seems like reluctant yes from this town's top socialite politico . . . HOWEVER, there still hasn't been much movement from the police commish or the Mayor and the top cop has repeatedly stated that he will not resign any time soon.

Checkit:

Council Members Say Lack Of Opportunity Drives Kansas City Violence, Call For Police Chief To Step Down

"The best thing for us to do, as it relates to crime and violence is to ensure that we wage a war on unemployment," Robinson said. When pressed on the issue, Bough said she thinks it's time for Kansas City police Chief Rick Smith to step down.

KCK KILLING OVERNIGHT!!!

The metro cycle of violence continues to spike . . . Here's the latest deadly report from The Dotte.

Read more:

Man killed in late night homicide in Kansas City, KS

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City, KS police say a man was shot at 62nd and Nebraska around 10:00 Thursday night. Police say he later died at a local hospital. A person of interest is in custody. Anyone with information is asked to call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

Kansas City Friday News Selections

Because pr0n is pop culture and pop culture is pr0n . . . We check this platform promo from 33-year-old hottie Haley that inspires a quick peek at pop culture, community news and top headlines.

Kansas City Survivor Stories

More than a Number: Stories from locals who fought COVID-19 and won

Kansas City skyline // Illustration by Celia Searles We have all opened our phones, turned on the news, or listened to the radio and felt our heart sink as more and more COVID-19 cases were reported in the Kansas City area the past five months.

Rock Chalk Big C Redux

New cancer diagnoses climb after plummeting early during COVID-19 pandemic

The number of newly diagnosed cancer patients at the University of Kansas Cancer Center fell more than 30% for several weeks during the first three months of the coronavirus pandemic. Now, the number of new patients is increasing again at a rate above pre-pandemic weekly averages.

Clay County Winning

Jon Carpenter Prevails In Clay County Election Recount

Jon Carpenter has prevailed over Cathy Rinehart in the Democratic primary for Clay County Western Commissioner, following a recount Thursday by the Clay County Election Board. The recount showed Carpenter with 55% of the vote to Rinehart's 45%. The recount was ordered after the Election Board discovered discrepancies from Tuesday's unofficial primary results.

Nation Of Watchmen

Turns out Pornhub gets more visitors per month than Netflix, and I'm looking at you

In news that may or may not surprise, a new report suggests that Pornhub gets even more visitors than everyone's favourite binge go-to Netflix, and that's saying something . . .

Prez Trump Debate Team Confident Amid Close Campaign

Eric Trump calls Biden's African American comments 'disgusting,' says debates will be 'absolute bloodbath'

Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden's recent comments about African Americans were "disgusting," Trump Organization Executive Vice President Eric Trump told " Hannity" Thursday night. "It's an absolute travesty when he says that the Black community is not diverse, is one- dimensional, when he comes out with this nonsense," Trump said.

Higher Calling???

Donald Trump claims Joe Biden is 'against God;' Biden calls attack 'shameful'

WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump unleashed another strident attack on Joe Biden over religion on Thursday, saying his Democratic opponent, a devout Catholic, is "against God" and even religion itself - comments Biden denounced as "shameful." "No religion, no anything," Trump told supporters at a brief airport rally in Cleveland as he visited Ohio for an economic speech.

Identity Politics Snafu

Biden criticized for comparing Latino and African American diversity

President Trump Joe Biden Joe Biden Biden says his faith is 'bedrock foundation of my life' after Trump claim Biden clarifies comments comparing African American and Latino communities Kanye West may have missed deadline to get on Wisconsin ballot by minutes: report MORE on Thursday, targeting comments that the former vice president made the day before on the country's Black and Latino communities.

Blazing Against Guns

New York sues to dissolve NRA over "brazen" corruption

At an online press conference this morning, New York Attorney General Letitia James announced legal action to dissolve the National Rifle Association, which she said has defrauded tens of millions of dollars from its donors, corruptly enriched leaders including longtime president Wayne LaPierre, and is riven by fraud and "brazen illegality."

Rolling With COVID

Sturgis motorcycle rally expected to draw 250,000 to South Dakota amid pandemic

A massive 10-day motorcycle rally in South Dakota begins Friday and is expected to draw up to 250,000 tourists, pitting local businesses who rely on the event to stay afloat against citizens concerned about a coronavirus outbreak.

KC Sign Of Pride

'World's Largest' Chiefs logo on Kansas farm will turn red and gold this fall

You've gotta be a huge Kansas City Chiefs fan to plot out what may be the world's largest Chiefs logo. This one is even more special - it's out in a field in southwestern Kansas.

Kansas City Still Makes Time For Summer Reason Other Than Social Media

What Kansas City Book Lovers Are Reading During The Pandemic

Find out what books our guests are recommending for leisure, education and social consciousness this summer. Adib Khorram's picks: " The Summer of Everything," by Julian Winters" Vampires Never Get Old," edited by Zoraida Cordova and Natalie C.

Another Stay At Home Weekend

Weekend Possibilities | Celebrating Charlie Parker, an Outdoor Movie & More

Socially distanced concerts, virtual events and volunteer opportunities mark August's first full weekend in and around Kansas City. For anyone with plans to get out and about, be sure to wear a mask. Friday, Aug.

The Rolling Stones - Scarlet is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now . . .

Dropping Kansas City Tribute To The Big One

War remembrance, local hope for peace and desperately needed conversation featured in this worthwhile report . . . Read more:

Atomic Bombs and Paper Cranes

President Harry Truman's 1945 use of atomic weapons likely represents the 20 th century's most profound military decision. For the past decade, the former president's eldest grandson has engaged in a continuing public dialogue with those who survived it. Since 2010 Clifton Truman Daniel has met with those possessing personal memories of the Aug.

Kansas City Friday Eat Out

Kansas City foodies are working exceptionally hard to reopen this town safely . . . Here's their latest effort that combines another good cause. Checkit:

Harvesters Hosts 'Forks on Friday' Fundraiser on Aug. 7 in Kansas City

This year, Harvesters is adopting a new approach to its annual Forks and Corks fundraiser. Instead of gathering supporters at a venue, Harvesters invites diners to visit and support local restaurants on Fri., Aug. 7, for "Forks on Friday."

Rich Life Of Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes Explored By Youtuber

Worthy of late night consideration or background noise . . .This is part of an ongoing social media series and offers a way for the plebs to be included in the success of their betters . . . Checkit:



Developing . . .

Kansas City Hipster Coronavirus Checklist

Credit where it's due, this is a quick and painless look at local resources and basic health info with links to more research . . . Local hipsters might be failing at covering the news but this practical checkup could be useful for chattering class in their moments of doubt.

Read more:

Think you have COVID-19? Here are the steps to take.

Photo by Engin Akyurt, courtesy of Unsplash You've got symptoms. Now what? So you woke up with a fever, a cough, and/or shortness of breath. Or, you came into contact with someone who tested positive. Let's agree that this is goddamned stupid that this disease has all the same symptoms as anxiety and allergies at the beginning, so it's just...

KCPD Hip-Hop Collaboration Redux

Another look at this rap battle for a good cause and community outreach with a nice beat that's easy to dance to . . . Take a peek:

Producer teams up with KCPD for music video months before protests

Back in January, a film producer teamed up with Kansas City police officers for a music video called "Disarmed." "Are you going to allow it to remain the same? Do you enjoy being upset?"

TKC READERS REMEMBER: JACKSON COUNTY PROSECUTOR JEAN PETERS BAKER FAILED TO BRING CHARGES IN DAISY COLEMAN RAPE CASE!!!

Daisy Coleman committed suicide this week.

With a few scathing comments and notes sent our way, TKC readers have asked us to mention the local connection to a current elected official:

News fact check from 2013:"Jackson County prosecutor Jean Peters-Baker announced that rape charges in the Daisy Coleman case would not be filed . . ."

Throughout the local media we've seen accusations that "the system" failed Ms. Coleman but that "system" is represented by a single politico who made the controversial call in a tough case not so many years ago . . .



To be fair, it's not accurate to blame anyone for this tragic suicide. It's merely important to fact check the political rhetoric of many media outlets who have FAILED to mention a local politico at the apex of the controversy which vaulted Ms. Coleman into the media spotlight.

And so along with suicide prevention resources we share more info and our respects to Daisy and so many friends & family who loved her . . .

Daisy Coleman, student featured in Netflix documentary on sexual assault, dies by suicide

Daisy Coleman's death was a tragedy more common among sexual assault survivors than you might think

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

You decide . . .

KANSAS CITY COUNCIL LADY ORDERED TO 'IMPLICIT BIAS TRAINING' FOR DARING TO QUESTION SKETCHY AIRPORT REBID!!!

In a dispute betwixt two council ladies it's important to understand that voices were not raised, there were no curses or use of racial epithets and an apology was issued in less than a week. However, mere perception and allegations of racism were enough to distract every Kansas City media outlet from the financial motivations at the crux of this debate.

Mayor Quinton Lucas ordered Council Lady Teresa Loar to "implicit bias training' in an ironic twist of fate given that the mandate for all City Hall workers to undergo this training was devised by Councilwoman Melissa Robinson; the aggrieved party in this 12th and Oak drama.



In the final analysis, council lady Loar merely asked: "Who wrote that for you?" and moved her head in a way that her political opposition didn't appreciate . . . Amid heightened racial tensions, that was enough to garner citywide rebuke and allegations of racism from a coalition of demonstrators. It's not unfair to say that most people couldn't live up to this rigid standard of public behavior in the context of a job that requires tough questions and political challenges. But again, that's not the REAL story. 

Now . . .

The easy move is to get worked up about this scream about political correctness like a mini-cable-news talker; but that's not the point of this blog. We want to help readers from every part of Kansas City understand how City Hall REALLY works.

Accordingly . . . 

BRAVO!!! UNIONS, CLERGY AND ACTIVISTS EFFECTIVELY USED RACIAL DRAMA TO FLIP AN 80 MILLION DOLLAR AIRPORT BID!!!

For the record, none of this cash was ever going to TKC so we aren't getting too emotional about any of this . . . Instead, helping to UNDERSTAND the distraction is our public service to readers.

The humiliation doled out to Council Lady Teresa Loar comes with the territory of public service . . . And so she's have to avoid eye strain while pretending to pay attention during her political reeducation.

However, media separating the EPIC New KCI pavement contract from this divisive racial drama is an unforgivable omission and doesn't accurately represent the situation.



One more time for the cheap seats . . .

THE ACCUSATIONS OF RACISM WERE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THIS EPIC 80 MILLION DOLLAR NEW KCI REBID PLOY!!!

Credit where it's due . . . The gambit looks successful. At the very least, there will be an opportunity for allies to take a bigger cut out of New KCI.

And again, in this economy, a fight over 80 MILLION BUCKS is worth sacrificing a great deal of dignity.

The only real loser in this situation is any sucker who thinks that THIS HOT MESS will advance the cause of social justice, tolerance or diversity. This is a classic Kansas City shuffle wherein media distraction was essential.

On the bright side, it looks like Council Lady Loar will keep her chairmanship on T&I after the wrist slap as Mayor Q fakes a bold decision without betraying any more of his street cred to protesters or handing over all ensuing New KCI construction decision to protesters. 

Check the links:

Kansas City Mayor Orders Implicit Bias Training For Councilwoman After She Mocks A Black Colleague

Kansas City Council Asks To Rebid Lucrative KCI Contract In Hopes Of Including Minority Contractors

Kansas City councilwoman offers apology after alleged racist behavior

Developing . . .

DIVERSION!!! KANSAS CITY CELEBRATES NONVIOLENT OFFENDER FREEBIES!!!

An artful way to keep po'folk out of prison whilst still passing on lawbreaker bills to everybody else . . . Read more about a benefit for those who have more time than money:

KC City Council passes ordinance on diversions

KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) - On Thursday, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said the city council passed a unanimous ordinance that compels "the Municipal Court to provide, at minimum, 20 percent of non-violent indigent defendants the opportunity for diversion."

Kansas City Quickly Running Out Of Cash As Coronavirus Pandemic Worsens

This town and just about every local biz is going broke whilst running at less than 1/2 capacity . . . Check the link for great documentation about the rate of diminishing returns . . . Read more:

Finance provides insight into budget shortfalls and potential fixes

Representatives from the City's Office of Management and Budget (OMB) updated the City Council and Mayor Quinton Lucas on the status of Kansas City's budget amid the COVID-19 pandemic in the Aug. 6 Business Session. The city's earnings tax showed a decline of 3.1% in April and May, which to date is lower than the decline expected of 5.2%.

Kansas City Thursday News Serving

Hottie Kimmie is 29 but that's 72 in modeling years, nevertheless we admire her swagger as she inspires this update regarding pop culture, community news and info from across the nation and around the world . . .

More Freebie Bus Money

KCATA receives nearly $8 million grant to update operations facility

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is getting a boost from the Federal Transit Administration to the tune of nearly $8 million. Officials announced the grant, which totals $7.98 million, on Thursday. The money can be used to "replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities."

Recount Across The Bridge

Clay County initiates election recount after 'programming error'

The Clay County election directors on Thursday initiated a machine recount of roughly 44,000 ballots after errors in at least six races from Tuesday's election.

Rock Chalk Testing Ordered

KU will mandate initial COVID-19 testing for campus community, Girod says

Story updated at 7:24 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5: The University of Kansas will mandate that all students, staff and faculty members who are able to return to campus take a free saliva-based COVID-19 test, Chancellor Douglas Girod announced Wednesday. The tests, which will be administered before the semester begins Aug.

Hottie Summer Celebration

Kimberley Garner is a dream in tangerine as she hits St Tropez beach

She jetted to the sun-soaked South of France last week after lockdown travel restrictions eased. And Kimberley Garner looked as though she was having a ball on her European summer jaunt as she cooled off at a bar on Pampelonne Beach in St Tropez on Wednesday.

Former First Lady Feeling Kinda Blue

Michelle Obama says she has 'low-grade depression'

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama has said she is suffering from "low-grade depression" because of the pandemic, racial injustice and the "hypocrisy" of the Trump administration. She said managing "emotional highs and lows" required "knowing yourself" and "the things that do bring you joy".

TKC Fact Check: Prez Winner Will Likely Start New War

Trump advisers hesitated to give military options and warned adversaries over fears he might start a war

Amid escalating tensions with both North Korea and Iran, President Donald Trump's advisers hesitated to give him military options fearing the President might accidentally take the US to war and deliberately informed their counterparts in both countries that they did not know what the President would do next, multiple former administration officials tell me.

Veep Confronts Cognitive Questions From Conservatives

Joe Biden unable to answer softball questions and media's silence is 'mind-blowing,' says Sarah Sanders

It is "shocking" how quiet the mainstream media has been in covering presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden's incoherent answers to "softball" questions, former White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told " Fox & Friends" Thursday.

USA Awaits Free Money

McConnell believes Dems, GOP will reach virus relief deal 'in the near future'

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell would not say Thursday when he expects Congress to strike a deal on a fifth coronavirus relief package, but said both Democrats and many Republicans have a "desire" to boost an economy and health-care system ravaged by the pandemic.

Retro TV Comeback

'Who's the Boss?' reboot confirmed by Tony Danza and Alyssa Milano

We are waiting on you, Judith Light. Tony Danza and Alyssa Milano say that a reboot of "Who's the Boss?" is in the works.

Summer Tradition Cancelled

Deanna Rose Farmstead will not open in 2020 due to COVID-19

Organizers for a favorite Kansas City-metro area family attraction say because of the coronavirus, it's not safe for them to open this year.The Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead in Overland Park, Kansas, announced online Thursday that the farmstead will not open its doors to the public in 2020."The Farmstead is a regional facility that draws visitors from all over," organizers said in a post online.

KC Accepts Care Package

Kansas City's sister city in Taiwan donates masks to Truman Medical Centers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City, Missouri's sister city in Taiwan presented Truman Medical Centers with a mask donation Thursday morning to help slow the spread of COVID-19 during the pandemic. Tainan is one of a dozen members of the Sister City Association of Kansas City.

Summer 2020: Kansas City Fatty Swim Time For Those With Private Pools!!!

Elephant dives head first into new swimming pool at Kansas City Zoo on live TV

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - People aren't the only ones soaking up a little time at the pool this summer. A new exhibit just opened at the Kansas City Zoo, and one elephant is taking full advantage of the featured swimming pool. "He's like any teenage boy.

And this is the OPEN THREAD for tonight . . .

Coronavirus Threatens Kansas Politicos

The pandemic isn't as picky about victims in Topeka . . . Here's a glimpse at precautions and increasing risk. Read more:

Kansas House speaker had coronavirus; Gov. Kelly to get tested

NINE NEWS AT 4:00. KELLY: WHILE SCHOOL DISTRICTS ACROSS OUR AREA CONTINUE CRAFTING THEIR BACK TO SCHOOL PLANS, MANY LOCAL COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES ARE DOING THE SAME. HELLO, I'M KELLY ECKERMAN. LARA: AND I'M LARA MORITZ. KMBC 9'S MATT EVANS GOT AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY RIGHT NOW ON THE CAMPUS OF JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE.

Coronavirus Cash Questions Make Nursing Home Life An Even Scarier Prospect

For those of us with people doing time in one of these institutions . . . Here's another IMPORTANT heartbreaking not-so-fun fact and just a bit more insight on why Missouri passed that Medicaid expansion vote:

Some nursing homes keeping residents' stimulus money, federal officials warn

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - If you have loved ones in a longterm care facility, be sure to find out whether they've received their stimulus check. State and federal officials warn that some nursing homes are keeping the money. That's illegal. Monica Bush was worried that had happened to her when she called FOX4 Problem Solvers.

Police Desperately Seeking Conversation With Overland Park Couple After Hit & Run

Another glimpse that Golden Ghetto good life comes with a great deal of risk . . . Mugshots shared by police for perspective . . . Read more:

Overland Park police search for people of interest in fatal hit-and-run crash

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Overland Park police are searching for two people of interest in a deadly hit-and-run crash involving a pedestrian. The crash happened around 10 p.m. on July 29 near West 77th Street and Metcalf Avenue, when a driver struck 63-year-old Sherry J. Dunn as she was crossing the street.

TKC TOLD YOU SO!!! MAYOR AND COUNCIL PROCLAIM: BLACK LIVES MATTER STREET MURALS COMING SOON TO KANSAS CITY!!!

In all of their wisdom, Kansas City council today decided to align city streets with a controversial and celebrated movement in the midst of election season.

We predicted as much.

Just a few moments ago, our third favorite local blog confirmed our first news weeks ago . . .

"City Council members voted 12-1 in favor of a resolution saying the city “recognizes the importance and significance of the Black Lives Matter movement and desires to commemorate the message through painting street murals.”

"The legislation says the murals will be at Briarcliff Parkway and North Mulberry Drive; Baltimore Avenue and 10th Street; 18th and Vine Streets; Troost Avenue and 31st Street; Brookside Boulevard and 63rd Street; and Meyer Boulevard and Troost Avenue."

Developing . . .

Overland Park Council Dude Suffers Political Smackdown After Domestic Battery Charge

Golden Ghetto consequences and a bad mugshot. Remember to smile when they book you, it takes away the power of public shaming.

Read more . . .

Overland Park City Councilman removed from a committee assignment after domestic battery charge

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Overland Park Mayor Carl Gerlach, removed a councilman from a committee assignment after the councilman was charged with domestic battery by a Johnson County Court. The incident allegedly happened on July 21. Hamblin had no prior criminal history, according to court documents.

SHOW-ME WEED FOR MISSOURI!!!

Here's a regulatory debate given that weed is actually more widely available than bubble gum . . . Read more:

When Missouri dispensaries will begin selling medical marijuana and why it isn't being sold yet

About 100 dispensaries statewide expect to begin selling this fall ST. LOUIS - Missourians who have been issued medical marijuana cards are losing patience. "We, the people, directed our government to facilitate medical marijuana sales in Missouri. When will the first patient be able to make a purchase?"

KC Southern Stock Bump Amid Acquisition

Interesting local biz tidbit for the investor class reading the blog . . . And for anybody who mistakenly thinks that "The Wall" was anything more than an empty campaign promise. Read more on this international trade gambit:

Why Kansas City Southern Stock Popped 10% This Morning | The Motley Fool

Follow @@RichSmithFool Shares of railroad ( Kansas City Southern NYSE:KSU) went tearing down the track this morning, rising more than 10% in early trading and still up a respectable 4.8% as of 12:55 p.m. EDT.

MAYOR QUINTON LUCAS RISKS NEW KCI DISASTER IF HE CAN'T MANAGE EGOS IN RACIALLY CHARGED KANSAS CITY AIRPORT CONTRACT DRAMA!!!

At this very moment there's an online chat that will reinstate demands to remove a council member from her position as committee chair over a dispute with one of her colleges.

Her detractors claim that Council Lady Teresa Loar questioned the intelligence of her colleague Melissa Robinson and then mocked her with a head movement.

Notice that complaints about the neck swivel have disappeared given that our blog community rightfully pointed out the ridiculousness of the claim along with the fact that white women whirl their neck around all the time - It's NOT a culturally specific gesture.

In fairness, Councilmember Robinson had every right to express her displeasure and her concerns have been met with an apology.

Stripping Councilmember Loar of her duties would be unprecedented and not commensurate given that the description of the dust-up isn't anywhere near as entertaining as Councilman O'Neil and Ellington screaming at each other just a few weeks ago.

But we all know this hot mess was never about a dispute betwixt council members, their antics have always been nothing more than a sideshow.

As usual, as always, every real debate in Kansas City and the world is about money. And when people scream that it's not about money, it's about money.

Just as we've warned: Outcry regarding diversity, inclusion and equity have proven effective in leveraging a major airport contract.

"The council’s Transportation, Infrastructure and Operations Committee voted 4-1 against giving an $80 million airfield paving contract to a Colorado firm instead of a St. Joseph, Mo. firm, KCUR reports. The committee will ask both firms to give their finals bids, which the full council will vote on Thursday."

The punchline here is that this is really a union beef and the firm pushing this dispute is every bit as white as the one it's attempting to replace. Rest assured, no matter who wins this arguement, the percentage of minority laborers on the job in Kansas City won't be impacted significantly . . . In much the same way that that New KCI "sky fountain" never materialized.



And let's not forget that the airlines are now on the record warning that all of this drama threatens to delay the project amid the perilous financial circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic.

The real story . . .

UNION LEADERS, ACTIVISTS, AND CLERGY ARE LEVERAGING BLACK LIVES MATTER RHETORIC IN ORDER TO GARNER MILLIONS FOR THEIR POLITICAL ALLIES!!!



This is a neat trick but it's unclear if cowtown airport contracts were the primary concern of a nation embroiled in civil unrest following the unforgivable police killing of George Floyd.

After today's press conference concludes we'll followup with more generic MSM coverage of the drama but there's one, OBVIOUS, thing we want to make clear right now . . .

COUNCIL LADY TERESA LOAR DIDN'T MURDER EMMETT TILL AND SHE'S NOT GUILTY OF ANY OF THE LITANY OF RACIAL INJUSTICES OF WHICH SHE'S BEING ACCUSED!!! SHE DISAGREED WITH A COUNCIL LADY, THAT'S IT!!!

Is she innocent? Nope. There's nobody working in Kansas City politics who can claim any sort of purity.

In fact, insiders know that Council Lady Loar worked closely with the very same people criticizing her when they were all in opposition to the whims of Mayor Sly. Alliances shift quickly in KCMO and it's nearly impossible for most plebs to keep up . . . Which is kind of the point.

Nevertheless and with respect to the fact that 80 MILLION BUCKS is absolutely worth this kind of embarrassing and degrading public slap fight . . .

The real risk here is allowing ANY political faction to control local business, city contracts and commerce. If Mayor Lucas kneels acquiesces to the demands of this coalition then what he's really saying is that New KCI is basically controlled by Black Lives Matter and construction of the biggest project in Kansas City history now depends on the dictates of protesters.

You decide . . .

Steve West And Happy Rock Voters Earn Mainstream Media Rebuke

Here's just a bit national news focus on the weirdo politics of the Northland . . .

Newsweek: Republican Described by Own Party as 'Vile' Wins Missouri Primary Despite 'Hitler Was Right' Remark

Developing . . .

DR. BIRX CALLS OUT KANSAS CITY AS CORONAVIRUS HOTSPOT!!!

A White House health expert name checks this town amid rising cases across the nation . . . Read more:

"We are concerned that both Baltimore and Atlanta remain at a very high level," Birx said on the call. "Kansas City, Portland, Omaha, of course what we talked about in the Central Valley (in California)."

Read more:

Government health experts warn Kansas City about increasing coronavirus cases

The White House coronavirus task force is warning states about an uptick in coronavirus test positivity rates in a number of new cities this week.

Overland Park Pastors Wife Disappears Whilst Seeking Mental Healthcare

This scary situation and police request for help is making news across the nation. And whilst some might justifiably criticize over MWWS, hopefully that concern can be addressed AFTER the lady is found safe . . . Read more:

Kansas mother goes missing while seeking mental health treatment

Police in Kansas are searching for a mother of three who went missing as she traveled to Alabama in search of mental health treatment. Marilane Carter, 36, was last seen leaving her Overland Park home late Saturday. She was driving in a gray 2011 GMC Acadia SUV en route to visit family in Birmingham, Alabama, police said in a statement issued Wednesday.

Show-Me Progressive Victory Lap

We always hear how Messenger is the greatest columnist in the Midwest but this missive sounds exactly like most of the hype we hear when whenever there's an upset victory and it's mostly racially charged cheerleading from a white guy . . . Something that most people find justifiably grating. Read more;

Messenger: It's a new day in Missouri politics. Black Women Matter.

Cori Bush took down a political dynasty on her 2nd try. She ended a 50 year stronghold. Do you understand what that means? The entire Black poltical establishment came after Tishaura. And she put them in the ground. Do you understand what this means?

SHAME ON KANSAS CITY MAINSTREAM MEDIA FOR REFUSING TO COVER SORDID 'KEGGER' KELCE BREAKUP DRAMA!!!

Attention ladies and grown-ass adult male fanboys who dream of emerging from mom's basement one day . . . Kansas City Chiefs TE Travis Kelce is single again.

More importantly . . .

KANSAS CITY MSM IS SO TIMID AND LAME THAT THEY HAVEN'T MENTIONED KELCE'S CAPTIVATING BREAKUP DRAMA!!!

Okay, it's not that captivating but still good for a giggle amid desperate times and mostly bad news for the broke-ass American public. Certainly politically correct and "woke" sensibilities haven't prevented us from laughing at the foibles of a millionaire who is looking forward to even more success and potentially limitless dating opportunities. And it's not like Kegger Kelce is going to understand half of the jokes at his expense anyhoo.

And so, in the name of free speech, liberty, poor taste and the twisted idea of populism which manages to trick most voters nearly all of the time . . . We share these relevant links regarding Kelce's love life . . . Not out of jealousy, but simply because so much local taxpayer subsidy for the Kansas City Chiefs basically makes the guy a minor public official . . .

Checkit:

Love Lost

Travis Kelce confirms breakup with girlfriend Kayla Nicole

Travis Kelce is a free agent. On Tuesday, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end confirmed he and girlfriend Kayla Nicole had broken up, vehemently denying that infidelity was the catalyst of the split. "This is fake news... a lie... and not why Kayla and I broke up...

Kegger Kelce Calls Cheating Rumors 'Fake News' In Semi Prez Trump Tribute

Travis Kelce Confirms Split With GF Kayla Nicole, Denies Cheating Rumors

NFL superstar Travis Kelce has finally confirmed his split with longtime girlfriend Kayla Nicole -- but insists it's NOT because he cheated with a "Becky." As we previously reported, Kayla unfollowed the KC Chiefs TE on Instagram last week and scrubbed her profile of all traces of Kelce ...

End Game

Travis Kelce and Girlfriend Kayla Nicole Split as He Denies Cheating Rumors in Deleted Tweet

In a since-deleted tweet screengrabbed by TMZ, the NFL player confirmed the split but denied rumors that he cheated on his girlfriend of three years Travis Kelce and his longtime girlfriend have ended their relationship, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end confirmed on Tuesday night.

More to the point . . .

If Kansas City MSM and sycophant sports talkers are willing to squash a story so fun and distracting, what else are they hiding from the public and inquiring minds who want to know more than just the press release cover story?!?

You decide . . .

Kansas City Former Mayor Sly James Pens Municipal Self-Help Book

The former mayor shares a plan of a task that he never really accomplished during his tenure.

Here's an affiliate link so TKC gets a cut of every purchase . . .

The Opportunity Agenda: A Bold Democratic Plan to Grow the Middle Class

Now the story:

Former KC Mayor Sly James releases new book

Hide Transcript Show Transcript IF WE DON'T CARE ENOUGH ABOUT EACH OTHER TO BE INCONVENIENCED BY WEARING A MASK, THEN WE REALLY DON'T CARE ENOUGH ABOUT EACH OTHER. ALAN: IT'S PRETTY CLEAR WHERE FORMER MAYOR SLY JAMES STANDS ON THE MASK MANDATE AND THE JOB, CURRENT MAYOR QUINTON LUCAS HAS BEEN DOING.

Dr. Rex Rules Kansas City Schools

Context . . . Not so long ago, this cowtown health honcho tweeted that Prez Trump should be in jail for life . . . And he basically has the last word on a KCMO school reopen.

Read more:

Kansas City health director talks 1-on-1 to KCTV5 News about testing, tracing and heading back to school

KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) - The Kansas City metropolitan area added nearly 400 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday, and positive test rates continue to edge up.

Happy Rock Politico Rebuked Again

Voters on the nice side of the bridge send this politico back to the general election despite his controversial reputation . . . Here's a glimpse at his history:

Described as 'vile' and 'abhorrent' by party leaders, Northland man wins GOP primary again

GLADSTONE, Mo. - Once again, Steve West has won the GOP primary for Missouri's District 15 State House seat despite the opposition of another candidate, GOP leaders in Jefferson City and, incredibly, his own family members. The same scenario played out in the Clay County district in 2018, which kicked off international attention due to [...]

Kansas City Morning News Look

Right now hottie Adriana and her iconic body of work inspire our early morning news collection . . . Take a peek:

Kansas City Shares COVID Cash For Community Survival

UMKC, Kauffman launch $100K resiliency grant fund for minority-owned businesses hit by COVID

Editor's note: The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is a financial sponsor of Startland News. This report was produced independently by Startland News' nonprofit newsroom. A new $100,000 fund is expected to help minority-owned Kansas City businesses - left out of initial rounds of COVID-19 relief - to build resiliency and come back stronger as the pandemic persists.

Fundraiser For Fam

Metro woman selling signs to help show support for 3-year-old Olivia Jansen

ROELAND PARK, Mo. - A metro woman is selling signs to show support for the 3-year-old who prosecutors said died at the hand of her dad and his girlfriend. Her death motivated a stranger to begin a movement in her memory. Tragic, depressing, disturbing - those are some of the words Erica McNease used to describe Olivia's death.

Tigers Drop Standards

University of Missouri System temporarily eliminating SAT, ACT requirements

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The University of Missouri System will make standardized test scores optional in admissions applications for the 2021-22 academic year. The temporary shift in policy is in response to the coronavirus pandemic, which has caused many testing dates to be delayed or canceled.

Masks Working In Kansas

Kansas counties with mask mandate show steep COVID-19 drop

by: AP Wire Posted: / Updated: BELLE PLAINE, Kan. - Kansas counties that have mask mandates in place have seen a rapid drop in cases, while counties that only recommend their use have seen no decrease in cases, the state's top health official said Wednesday.

Adriana Endures

Adriana Lima Is A Bikini Thirst Trap On Instagram, Fans Warn 'Atomic Bomb'

39-year-old Brazilian model Adriana Lima just blasted Instagram with the sultriest summer mood picture of hers, and Instagram is wondering what to do with all the heat. Best known for being the longest-running Victoria's Secret Angel, from 1991 to 2018, Lima is not slowing down and definitely not looking her age.

Social Media Juggernauts Discipline Prez Trump

Facebook Removes Trump Post Over False Claim About Children And COVID-19

Facebook removed a post shared by President Trump on Wednesday for breaking its rules against spreading harmful misinformation about the coronavirus. The post on Trump's personal Facebook page included a clip from a Fox News interview from Wednesday morning, in which the president urged schools to reopen, falsely claiming that children are "almost immune from this disease."

We All Make Mistakes

Washington Post issues major correction after botching Trump-Twitter post

The Washington Post sparked massive confusion Wednesday evening after erroneously reporting that President Trump was banned from tweeting because of a claim he made about the coronavirus. Both Facebook and Twitter were cracking down on clips that were shared from the president's interview on "Fox & Friends" earlier in the day, where he continued his push for schools to be reopened in the fall.

Tech Crackdown Starts

TikTok, WeChat and 'untrusted' Chinese apps should be removed from U.S. app stores, Pompeo says

The United States wants "untrusted" Chinese apps removed from U.S. app stores, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday, calling out popular Chinese-owned apps TikTok and WeChat. He also called for companies to limit their apps from phones made by Huawei Technologies.

No más

Mexico state bans sale of sugary drinks and junk food to children

The southern Mexican state of Oaxaca has banned the sale of sugary drinks and high-calorie snack foods to children - a measure aimed at curbing obesity. The bill to reform the state's children and adolescents' rights law proposed fines and the possible closure of stores for selling soft drinks and sweets to children.

Atomic Tragedy Remembered

75 years after Hiroshima, they're still feeling its impact

Regular nosebleeds, three bouts with cancer and blinding cataracts. It's been 75 years since the U.S. dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima - marking the end of World War II and the dawn of the nuclear age - but survivors like Masaaki Takano still live with the consequences.

Local Park Redux

New City Beautiful Movement: Restoring KC's Parks and Boulevards

The 2019 Family Fun Day was coming to a close, but the kids were not ready to leave just yet. Esther Kershaw remembers them trying to buy more time on the inflatable bounce house, despite their parents telling them it was time to go.

Summer Returns To KC

Thursday will feel more like August

Hide Transcript Show Transcript TO WORRY ABOUT FLOODING. GRILLING IS A GOOD IDEA. 77 BY 6:00 P.M. DOWN ONE DEGREE AN HOUR. FINITE :00, 72. WE SET A RECORD FOR THE LOWE'S THIS MORNING, IN THE 50'S, BUT WITH THE WIND TURNING TO THE SOUTHEAST, WE ARE NOT FALLING MUCH TONIGHT, CERTAINLY NOT IN THE 50'S.

Michael Jackson - Black Or White is the #TBT song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now . . .

Kansas City Celebrates Booze Diversity

Followup as this beer drinking celebration of inclusion bubbles up across the metro . . . Read more:

10 metro breweries join national campaign, serving 'Black is Beautiful' beer

SHAWNEE, Kan. - Breweries around the country are uniting and raising their glasses for change. Courtney Servaes, owner of Servaes Brewing Company, is one of 10 brewery owners in the metro serving Black is Beautiful, a stout beer. "It's really about celebrating diversity," Servaes said.

Kansas City Summer Daiquiri Winning

Nice write up and an excellent idea as the heat rises into August . . . Read more:

Today's Takeout: Cajun Cuisine and a Frozen Daiquiri from KC Daiquiri Shop

If you haven't heard, Kansas City is in the midst of the inaugural Midwest Black Restaurant Week, which is dedicated to highlighting some of the city's best Black-owned food businesses. While you should be inclined to patronize these restaurants any time of the year, this week is a great excuse to discover some new spots.

FACT CHECK: KANSAS CITY BUS DRIVERS DESERVE HAZARD PAY!!!

Under the best of circumstances this is one of the hardest and most dangerous jobs in town . . . Now, these front line workers are risking their own neck for the sake of KCMO transportation access. Paying them more is a MUST and might be easier if the bus wasn't offered for free.

Read more:

'Our lives are in danger': KCATA considering hazard pay for drivers, other workers

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - KCATA bus drivers say they want more protection amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Bus operators and mechanics are on the front lines, driving city buses and helping keep the city moving. Now, they're seeking hazard pay. Their concern is heightened because of what's happening at other transit agencies around the country.

Former Kansas City Star Scribe Trolls Culture War Suckers With 'Race Hoax' Hot Take

We feel sorry for anybody who takes the missive of a former local sports hack seriously or wastes more than a few hundred characters on the publicity stunt.

The former Kansas City Star scribe has made a career of a single trick: Cleverly inserting himself into the mire of racially charged debate in a way that angers virtually every side.

A recent example: 

Fox News: Jason Whitlock claims leaked George Floyd footage shows early narrative of his death was a 'race hoax'

There's no real analysis or insight, just a bunch of white dudes who mistakenly thing this hyper-successful scribe is offering them encouragement in opposition to "woke" college students anger tweeting and ruining the lunch their mom carefully packed for them.

We can only credit Mr. Whitlock with remarkably astute insight into this ongoing American debate in order to pick the perfect words to draw more attention to himself and his latest venture . . . Given that self-aggrandizement not social justice has always been his chief concern.

You decide . . .

TKC MUST SEE!!! DEA HONCHO DEFENDS KANSAS CITY OPERATION LEGEND!!!

A recent TV news conversation offers insight on a controversial federal crackdown and the ongoing fight against rising violence throughout the Kansas City metro.

Read more:

Top DEA official in Kansas City for Operation LeGend review

Nearly a month into a federal law enforcement surge in Kansas City called Operation LeGend, the acting administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration visited Kansas City this week to speak with local officials about the operation.DEA Acting Administrator Tim Shea spoke with KMBC 9 Investigates Wednesday about Operation LeGend's effectiveness.

Kansas City East Side Against Higher Taxes

Don't sleep on this news links . . . It's an important sign of resident frustration with the spike in local levies amid rising coronavirus costs . . . Checkit:

Council kills plan for CID at 18th and Vine after pushback from residents, businesses

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - It's back to the drawing board for the historic 18th & Vine District. For months, community leaders have been working toward implementing a community improvement district. However, while some property and business owners wanted to move forward, they didn't want it this way.