Kansas City Coronavirus Infections Pass 1K, Kill Two Dozen As U.S. Reports 100K Dead

Tonight's count so far amid a tragic and historic American milestone . . .

KCMO Health Department: "As of May, 27 KCMO has recorded 1,050 positive COVID-19 cases and 24 deaths."

Here's a look at local impact and the big picture as the pandemic persists . . .

KCMO Reopen Redux

KCMO COVID-19 restrictions will be extended into June

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The 10/10/10 restrictions in Kansas City, Missouri, will continue into next week, but it's unclear how far out Mayor Quinton Lucas plans to push that extension. Lucas said Wednesday in a Facebook post that, while the city's current order that went into effect May 15 is scheduled to end Sunday, it "will be extended.

Show-Me Rising Missouri Coronavirus Stats

Missouri cases of COVID-19 climb 201, bringing total to 12,492 since outbreak began

LEGALLY. LATER THIS WEEK KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI MAYOR QUINTON LUCAS SAYS HE WILL ANNOUNCE A PLAN TO EXTEND THE REOPENING ORDER THAT EXPIRES THIS WEEKEND. TONIGHT THE MAYOR'S SPOKESPERSON , TELLS ME HE IS TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND ACTIVITIES LIKE THE LARGE POOL PARTY AT THE LAKE OF THE OZARKS.

Golden Ghetto Opt-In

City leaders plead for COVID-19 regulation after Johnson County makes it voluntary

More than 20 city council members from across Johnson County have signed a letter urging county leaders to adopt coronavirus restrictions that can be enforced. After Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced she has shifted responsibility for COVID-19 prevention to counties, Johnson County health officials said they would not impose their own restrictions.

Numbers From Kansas

KDHE gives briefing on new deaths and cases of coronavirus in Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNW) - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced Wednesday that the number of deaths linked to COVID-19 in Kansas jumped 17 since Friday. The total is now 205. Dr. Lee Norman, the secretary of the KDHE, discussed the higher death toll during his briefing Wednesday afternoon.

Stat Blame Game

How the pandemic in US compares to rest of world

Two days after the US recorded its first case of coronavirus, Donald Trump said the situation was "totally under control" and assured the public it was "going to be just fine". Fast forward four months and the virus has spread across all 50 states, leaving a death toll of 100,000 from more than 1.6 million confirmed cases.

Macabre Gamble Pays Off

Poker player wins $10K bet that U.S. coronavirus death toll would hit 100,000 by September

The United States reached one of its grimmest milestones on Wednesday with the news that the country's death toll from the coronavirus pandemic has hit 100,000 people. [ Coronavirus: How the sports world is responding to the pandemic ] Even grimmer might be the resulting payout to a certain professional poker player.

Defiant Party Postscript

Backwater Jacks, host of 'No Ducks Given' party, responds to criticism

ST. LOUIS (KMOV.com) -- Saying they took necessary precautions, Backwater Jacks in the Lake of the Ozarks defended their decision to host a party in which videos posted to social media showed large crowds and little social distancing.

Developing . . .

AMERICAN CIVIL UNREST ERUPTS OVER POLICE KILLING GEORGE FLOYD: WILL IT SPREAD TO KANSAS CITY?!?!

Remember that during similar uprisings over Trayvon Martin & Michael Brown, local protesters clashed with KCPD even amid largely peaceful demonstrations in Kansas City . . . Here's a glimpse at push back against authorities across the nation in the era of coronavirus:

Conflict erupts at Minneapolis, L.A. protests over George Floyd death

Protests in Minneapolis over the in-custody death of George Floyd escalated into violence Wednesday night, as stores were looted and police deployed tear gas. At least one fire broke out during the second day of downtown demonstrations by hundreds decrying Floyd's death.

Kansas City Front Line Workers Demand Hazard Pay Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

TV commercials talk a lot about "support" but here's a local situation demanding something more substantial than happy thoughts. Checkit:

Some Truman Medical Center workers protest over safety, hazard pay

Some workers protested outside Truman Medical Center Wednesday saying their voices are not being heard.Workers made up of lab technicians, medical assistants, dental assistants and others said it is all about safety and hazard pay.

MISSOURI SENATOR HAWLEY ATTACKS TWITTER IN DEFENSE OF PREZ TRUMP FREE SPEECH!!! HOWEVER, CRACKDOWN COULD ALSO KILL TKC COMMENTS!!!

Missouri's most strident supporter of Prez Trump is pushing back against big tech and shaking his fist at Silicon Valley in a manner that has implications throughout the Internets.

However . . .

LOOK CLOSELY!!! MISSOURI SENATOR HAWLEY'S PROPOSED CRACKDOWN COULD ALSO LIMIT COMMENTS ON TKC AND FORUMS ACROSS THE INTERNETS FROM EVERY POLITICAL SPECTRUM!!!

The first hint of the legislation is sloppy and what he really opposes is the monopoly that Twitter has over the political conversation . . . This is easily solved with MORE FREEDOM FOR INTERNETS PUBLISHERS, PLATFORMS AND PROVIDERS, NOT LESS.

Still, the GOP launching a very big government crackdown on Internets discourse offer just a hint that both sides of the aisle aren't as different as partisan hacks might believe . . .

Nevertheless . . .

Most of this is simply political posturing with no real policy aim and simply a top level show of support for the brash style of the Prez Trump has once again captivated the entire nation.

Take a look:

Show-Me Senator Hawley Sending Message To Big Tech

Hawley on Twitter fact-checking Trump: 'Big Tech' is subsidized by taxpayers and censors Americans

'Big Tech' is subsidized by taxpayers and censors conservative speech, Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley said Wednesday. In an interview on "Fox & Friends" with hosts Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, and Brian Kilmeade, Hawley said that Americans deserve answers from these companies.

Clipping Twitter’s Wings???

Republicans working on legislation to strip Twitter of federal liability protections

Sen. (R-Mo.) and Rep. (R-Fla.) on Wednesday separately announced they were both working on legislation to strip Twitter of federal protections that ensure the company is not held liable for what is posted on its platform.

Question Over Tags

GOP Sen. Josh Hawley asks Twitter if fact checks are meant to target Trump for 'political reasons'

A Republican senator asked Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey on Wednesday whether the social media giant's decision to fact-check President Donald Trump's tweets on mail-in voting was politically motivated. The move by the president's favorite social media platform to slap warning labels on his tweets "raises serious questions about whether Twitter targeted the President for political reasons," Sen.

Accordingly . . .


This move doesn't really scare TKC because we can always turn comments off and find new and exciting ways to chat with denizens of the discourse. However, we're more anxious to see if our Conservative readers want to crack down on Twitter and thereby limit many online platforms in the process . . .

You decide . . .

TKC TOLD YOU SO!!! KANSAS CITY SOUTHLAND DEADLY VIOLENCE SPIRALS OUT OF CONTROL AMID CORONAVIRUS!!!

Actually, this problem has been YEARS IN THE MAKING as this part of the city simply doesn't get the same level of interest and advocacy as other parts of the metro yet they cope with more densely crowded neighborhoods and a housing shift from single-family homes to apartments . . . Take a look:

'It's A Nightmare' - Police And Community Leaders Puzzled By Spike In Homicides In South Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri, has continued to struggle with a rising tally of homicides and shootings, even amid the coronavirus pandemic. But one area of the city, in particular, has seen a major - and largely unexplained - spike in killings.

Kansas Voters Cringe At Bob The Plumber As Second Rate MAGA Public Speaker

For an aspiring politico, he's still a great plumber.

The small biz dude doesn't seem ready for prime time and his skills talking about issues more important that toilets might sink his campaign that's already circling the drain.

Take a look:

Plumber turned Senate candidate struggles during weekend GOP debate

Hide Transcript Show Transcript WITH THE FACT CHECK TONIGHT. PRESIDENT TRUMP HAS TO DEAL WITH A LOT OF CRAP. WHAT HE NEEDS IS A GOOD PLUMBER. MICHEAL: HAMILTON IS KNOWN THROUGHOUT THE AREA BECAUSE OF THE PLUMBING BUSINESS HE RECENTLY SOLD. DURING AN OBSCURE SATURDAY GOP U.S.

KCPD Rescue Youngsters From PCP Mom

Tragic situation and allegations of neglect documented as local authorities step up to save these NEXTGEN youngsters from tragic circumstances. Checkit:

KC police, community team up to help 5 local kids rescued from horrific conditions

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - At KCPD's East Patrol, police teamed up with the community to help five kids stuck in the middle of a heartbreaking situation. Officer Greg Smith and social worker Trena Miller found the children in horrific conditions. "Trash up to your mid-calf, feces from rodents and stuff crawling around, rotten food," Miller said.

Another Look At Kansas City Democracy Coronavirus Cutbacks For June 2nd Election

The municipal vote is in danger of becoming even more irrelevant, here's a look at the damage already underway:

Cost Of Living Spike Decided By Fewer KCMO Voters

Election primer: Jackson County voters will decide 13 tax questions next week

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson postponed the scheduled April 7 election by executive order amid a statewide stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. next Tuesday, June 2, for the delayed election.

Check Kansas City Voter Map

Where is your new polling place for June 2nd?

Photo by Parker Johnson For the June 2nd elections, do you know where you're voting? Chances are, your polling location may have changed without your knowledge. As many churches are not serving as voting centers, some assignments for voters have been altered, and you might not have been altered.

COVID-19 Kills Perks For Kansas City Voters

'Sticker shock' coming to Jackson County poll locations

Changes are coming for the June 2 election in Jackson County, which was postponed from April 7 by executive order amid statewide stay-at-home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic. New poll locations, safety protocols and a ban on "I Voted" stickers are among the changes next week.

Developing . . .

SHOCK!!! MISSOURI GUV PARSON REBUKES 'MISLEADING' KANSAS CITY STAR CORONAVIRUS REPORT!!!

Responding to a report from this cowtown's so-called paper of record . . .

“This is very misleading and insinuates that we knew of other positive cases prior to the first announcement on March 7, which is not true,” Gov. Parson said during his daily briefing on Facebook Live Wednesday.

Read more:

Gov. Parson disputes story that says COVID-19 was in Missouri weeks before first case was announced

The Kansas City Star published the story "Coronavirus was in Missouri weeks before first case was announced, state data shows" on Tuesday JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Missouri Governor Mike Parson addressed an article out of Kansas City that said coronavirus was in the state weeks before the first case was announced.

Kansas Workers Keep Waiting On Unemployment Insurance Payments

The economic devastation of coronavirus continues and working families CONTINUE TO WAIT FOR HELP from a system that has FAILED so many people who paid into the system their entire lives but still haven't received any help.

Take a look:

Kansans wait for PUA payments, state says payments in process

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas Department of Labor announced the processing of $107,145,399 in unemployment benefits Wednesday. This amount includes regular unemployment, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).

Kansas City Wednesday Night News Look

Sommer Ray is a 23-year-old American fitness model who has amassed over 17 million followers on Instagram. Tonight she inspires this peek at pop culture, community news and more . . .

Kansas City Awards More Cash To Crosstown Traffic

KCATA approves funding to sustain IndeBus services for 1 year

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority approved one year of funding Wednesday to keep bus service within Independence active. Independence will receive $1.6 million for its IndeBus services as part of $10 million issued to KCATA under federal CARES Act funding intended to "supplement lost revenues from sales tax, passenger fares and local support during COVID-19," according to a news release.

Kansas City Big Gamble Awaits

Ameristar Casino Hotel in KCMO to reopen next week

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Ameristar Casino Hotel in Kansas City, Missouri, plans to reopen next week with limited capacity and additional safety measures in place. Boyd Gaming Corporation, the parent company of the hotel and casino, said Wednesday that gaming and "a limited number of amenities" will resume operations at 11 a.m.

Ford Tough Reassurance

Ford responds to concerns about COVID-19 case at Claycomo plant

After Ford shut down part of its Claycomo production line on Tuesday after a positive case of COVID-19, KMBC 9 News received multiple emails and social media messages from friends and family of plant workers asking about why it took only an hour to disinfect and clean part of the Ford Transit production line before employees resumed work.

KCK SHOOTING TONIGHT!!!

KCK police looking for person of interest in Wednesday night shooting

KANSAS CITY, KS (KCTV) - Police are investigating a shooting Wednesday evening. Police were called to the 4700 block of State Avenue just after 7 p.m. KCKPD are currently on the site of a reported shooting in the 4700 block of State Avenue. PIO on site.

Looking For Sommer Love

Sommer Ray Shows Off Stunning Curves In White, Pearly Corset & Thong On Instagram

Sommer Ray graced her fans with yet another sultry photo shoot on her Instagram feed on Wednesday afternoon. The model shared a massive series of images in which she sported an all-white corset ensemble as she posed on a set of stairs. The look did nothing but favors for her stunning curves.

EPIC Pool Party Defense

Tucker rips media for scolding outdoor Americans: 'The fact that you disobeyed them drove them insane'

Tucker Carlson opened Tuesday's edition of " Tucker Carlson Tonight" by ripping the mainstream media for shaming Americans who spent part of their holiday weekend outside and not wearing masks. "Grilling a hamburger in the fresh air. Hitting the park. Walking the beach for a couple of hours. It's essential.

U.S. Count Keeps Climbing

U.S. coronavirus death toll rises above 100,000 in world's deadliest outbreak

The U.S. has surpassed the grim milestone of 100,000 deaths as a result of the coronavirus, according to data from Johns Hopkins University, significantly more than any other country in the world. More than 5.6 million people have contracted the coronavirus across the globe, with the U.S.

American Civic Unrest Erupts After Police Killing

Hundreds gathered in the Minneapolis intersection where George Floyd died after police encounter

About 24 hours after George Floyd's death, hundreds packed the streets of Minneapolis, many gathering at the intersection where Floyd was pinned to the ground by police officers shortly before he died.

Summer Fun Amid Pandemic

Choose your adventure: 16 safe summer day trips to get you outside

Stir-crazy yet? After nearly three months of social distancing, that's to be expected. And yet, things aren't exactly back to normal. Never fear, we're here to help with 16 great day trips from Kansas City. We picked spots that are safely spacious-think secluded hikes, prairie ghost town and massive earthen mounds-but which offer excitement, fresh air and much-needed changes of scenery.

Hipsters Celebrate Comeback

West Bottoms shop owners eager for return of in-store customers, livelihood

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One of Kansas City's oldest and most historic parts of town is looking past the pandemic. From spring through fall, the West Bottoms is full of antique and vintage shoppers on the hunt, people combing through floors of unique furniture and wares.

Left Turn Redux Coming Soon

Lakeside Speedway set to reopen on Friday

KANSAS CITY, KS (KCTV) - This is the second straight season Lakeside Speedway has had to delay the start of their season. They were delayed last year because of flooding and are now delayed because of the pandemic. They can't wait to have people in the stands but say fans can expect many restrictions.

KC Corona Clouds Forever

Scattered rain showers, storms possible Thursday

Hide Transcript Show Transcript RIGHT NOW. WE WILL GRADUALLY COOL OFF THIS EVENING. RAIN CHANCE 30%. MANY OF US WILL JUST HAVE CLOUDS. LET'S GO THROUGH THIS EVENING AND THURSDAY. THERE IS 9:00 P.M. SCATTERING. I DON'T EXPECT TO BE SEVERE. THURSDAY, MORE SCATTERED SHOWERS MOVING. WATCH AS WE GO FROM 7:00 TO LUNCHTIME.

And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now . . .

METH TOWN ROLLING GUN BATTLE AND CRASH KILLS INNOCENT DRIVER!!!

Tragic crash report today: "An uninvolved motorist died Wednesday following a crash caused by two people who were chasing each other following a shooting. Officers responded around 2:30 p.m. to the 800 block of North Emery for a domestic disturbance call with shots fired, according to a news release."

Read more:

Shooting incident leads to deadly crash in Independence

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - Independence police are investigating a shooting incident that ended in a deadly multi-vehicle crash at US 24 Highway and Sterling Avenue. Police responded to a shots fired call around 2:30 Wednesday afternoon near E. Nettleton and N. Emery. Before police arrived on scene, the people involved in the shooting left the residence [...]

Kansas City Road Rage Gunfire Echoes Through Westside This Week

We talked about this shooting previously, here's a link to more detail for subscribers and a glimpse at the growing quotient of violence near the loop that has replaced rampant real estate speculation . . . Checkit:

One shot in road rage incident in KC

Kansas City police are hoping to identify the driver of a vehicle involved in a road rage incident that left another driver shot. The shooting occurred May 20 at Avenida Cesar Chavez and Jarboe Street.

Police Report: Meth Town Dude Admits Shooting His Former Love

Tragedy to the East and a look at rising domestic drama across the metro amid coronavirus lockdown . . . Take a look:

Records: Independence man turns himself in after fatally shooting girlfriend

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Independence man is facing a murder charge after he turned himself in to police, saying he had fatally shot his girlfriend at their home, according to prosecutors and court records. On Tuesday morning, Deon Sanders, 25, went to the Kansas City, Missouri, East Patrol Division and set a gun outside the building.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas Shares Sneak Peek At New COVID-19 Reopen Rules

The 10-10-10 plan turned out to be a dismal FAIL for the city hall leader as restaurants and small biz basically pushed him into a political corner and he flip flopped on the most stringent requirements of his controversial public health policy.

Here's a hint at the new plan currently underway . . .

Mayor Q Tweeted: "Kansas City's current order ends May 31. Necessarily then we will have more to share soon on our amended order (we will still have compulsory elements) and plans for our continued responsible reopening approach."

Fox4: Current Kansas City reopening restrictions will be extended, Mayor Lucas says

KSHB: KCMO COVID-19 restrictions will be extended into June

A reply from Mayor Lucas:

"10/10/10 appears to be the only jurisdictional reopening rule anywhere around here that's actually still the same it was two weeks ago. But, I do look forward to sharing further details on our ongoing reopening process!"

Developing . . .

KANSAS CITY HIPSTERS FEAR CATCHING CORONAVIRUS FROM BIRD SCOOTERS!!!

This mode of transit become even riskier for those who are strictly following CDC protocols. Here's a bit of reassurance from The Pitch that basically repeats concerns of MSM outlets at the start of the pandemic . . . Checkit:

Bird scooters are back on the streets of KC. How do we know they're safe?

The Birds are back. The Birds are back. The Birds are back in town. Is that a good thing? How are they being managed? How are they being cleaned to make sure these transportation devices out in the world aren't helping spread the coronavirus?

Jackson County Pools Reopen Soon

Here's warning of a local splash and the next phase of "the plan" that mostly involves fighting over cash . . . A few restrictions apply as phase 2 & 3 are now underway. Checkit:

Pools in Jackson County given guidelines to reopen

KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- Pools could be allowed to reopen as early as Monday in Jackson County. Officials released new guidelines on Wednesday giving us a better idea of what that will look like.

TKC TOLD YOU SO!!! KANSAS CITY P&L DISTRICT STAYS LOSING MILLIONS!!!

We talked about this WEEKS AGO and now hard times for the downtown entertainment district are news fact . . . Checkit:

KC Live! Reopening Soon; P&L District Pandemic Losses Total 'Tens of Millions'

The Kansas City Live! block is returning to life next week after being dormant since mid-March, but with a more low-key vibe compared to the raucous times of the Chiefs' Super Bowl run earlier this year.

TKC BREAKING NEWS!!! KANSAS CITY MOTORISTS RESIST RAMPANT ELITIST CORONAVIRUS STREET BLOCKADES!!!

During the coronavirus shut down, Mayor & Council enacted a sketchy bit of legislation without much input from the public.

Here's a reminder:

Kansas City officially launched its Open Streets Program on April 23, 2020. The program consists of several parts:

- Neighborhood open streets permit 
- Implementing automatic pedestrian crossings at over 100 intersections in high-pedestrian areas
- Four longer “local traffic only” corridor closures sponsored by the city
- Roadway closures in some city parks

The most innovative piece of the program is the Neighborhood Open Streets permit. Kansas City Public Works collaborated remotely with the IT Department and the citywide permitting system, Compass KC, to create a new permit for anyone to obtain in the city’s neighborhoods. The permit was set up in our system in a matter of days and by the end of the second week, we had received over 20 permit applications.

The Neighborhood Open Streets permit is based on an existing permit format that waives several requirements including fees, neighborhood signatures and design drawings, and puts the onus on the applicant to provide barricades and signage. Our criteria for approving these permits includes streets with low traffic volumes and low speeds, limited to one block, and streets with no other city or utility work in the area. Additionally, each location must maintain access for local traffic, as well as emergency and delivery vehicles.

Accordingly . . .

THE REACTION TO STREET SHUTDOWNS HAS BEEN OVERWHELMINGLY NEGATIVE AND FRUSTRATED MOTORISTS PLEGE TO IGNORE THE SKETCHY SIGNAGE!!!

From a popular message board just now:

"This is hilarious. Which Karen put this up on 71st street? PS I’ll start driving down it every day now."

Another KICK-ASS reader writes TKC:

"What's with every other street in Brookside turned into a private drive? A few people act like they own the whole street and block access for everyone else with little or no approval from their neighbors. Brazen."

To wit . . .

Once again, Bike/Walk Kansas City activists push a traffic "solution" that doesn't really work in the real world. Amid widespread KCMO driver disrespect for these signs, local youngsters and pedestrians might be confronting MORE danger by putting their faith in politically correct civic activist posturing that doesn't account for the reality on local streets.

Developing . . .

KANSAS CITY DOC REX SEYZ MASKS SHOW RESPECT BUT IS KANSAS CITY LOSING MOMENTUM IN CORONAVIRUS FIGHT?!?!

A recent message from Kansas City's Health Department Director offers PPE promotional spin . . .

"Sometimes we lower our flag to half-mast to honor and grieve those who have lost their lives. A new tradition is forming. Wear a mask Face with medical mask when in public to show respect for our fallen residents. Their family and friends will appreciate your act of kindness!"

Meanwhile . . .

Look around and notice fewer masks and locals weary of social distancing practices . . .

AMID DIVISIVE DEBATE OVER THE IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC: HAS KANSAS CITY LOST MOTIVATION TO CONTINUE FIGHTING AGAINST COVID-19?!?

More bad news . . .

Kansas City, Mo., has hit 1,000 coronavirus cases, the health department announced.

You decide . . .

After the jump we've got more stories on local & nationwide impact of the plague along with more deets on how the KCMO plans to move forward . . .

TKC MUST READ!!! NORTHEAST NEWS CALLS OUT JACKSON COUNTY PROSECUTOR AMID KANSAS CITY CORONAVIRUS CRIME SPIKE!!!

After her very public dispute with Kansas City top cop over an alleged cover-up, here's one more sign (among many) of public frustration we're seeing with the Courthouse, the Jackson County Prosecutor and Kansas City's law enforcement infrastructure . . . Checkit:

Northeast News: Another Blue Ribbon Commission

Money line . . .

"If the new Public Safety Study Group is going to “study” violent crime, how about taking a close look at the county prosecutor’s office to determine why “catch and release” is employed as a regular practice in Jackson County. Or maybe review why the county prosecutor and her staff won’t use all the federal sentencing tools in their toolbox to send dangerous and career criminals to prison for a long time?"

You decide . . .

Kansas City Artsy Effort To 'Save' Urban Core

We've seen this tactic before BUT the bright side this time around is that the new work is crafted by a more eclectic cadre of LOCAL artists . . . Take a look:

Arts News: One House, One Neighborhood at a Time - KC STUDIO

Felix Maull, a painter and graduate of the Kansas City Art Institute, has been officially installed as the first artist-in-residence at The Art House (previously discussed by James Martin in January 2017). The idea of creating The Art House was championed by Pat Jordan, president of the Gem Cultural and Educational Center, and her partners at the center.

Coronavirus Killing Kansas City Democracy

Another reminder that this election has been seriously hampered by the pandemic AND few voters are likely to even bother going to the polls given the risk vs. reward ratio . . . Checkit:

Kansas City Election Board reduces polling places for June 2 election

Kansas City, Missouri, voters in Jackson County may have a new polling place for the rescheduled municipal elections next week. The Kansas City Board of Election Commissioners said Tuesday that it will reduce the number of polls for the June 2 election in exchange for larger polling places.

Kansas City Midweek Morning Roundup

The hotties of Brazzers remind us the pr0n is an integral part of pop culture as we check community news and info from across the nation . . .

Pet Probs Plauge Kansas City Amid Continued Coronavirus

Pet adoptions high at local shelters during pandemic but surrenders growing, too

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - People in quarantine are fostering and adopting more pets during the COVID-19 pandemic. But many people are also having trouble with the cost of upkeep for their pets. On Tuesday, workers at Midwest Animal ResQ took in 25 new dogs. "We are starting to see an uptick in owner requested releases, [...]

Tribute After Blowup

5 utility workers hospitalized after explosion in KCK

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Five Kansas City Board of Public Utilities workers were taken to the hospital after an explosion on Monday night in Kansas City, Kansas. Electric operations personnel were restoring services to the "Center City 15-4 circuit," according to a KCKBPU news release, and underground crews were called to assist.

KC Biz Endures New Normal

No ribbon cuttings, but new metro businesses are still opening during pandemic

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - The coronavirus pandemic has meant tough times for many small non-essential businesses. But imagine trying to open a business that requires limited touching of surfaces by customers in the midst of a pandemic. That's what one Overland Park couple just did.

Local Hobo Testing Starts

Homeless shelters conduct COVID-19 testing before volunteers return

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - As restrictions lift amid the coronavirus pandemic, Shelter KC on Cherry Street is working to restore a vital part of its organization - volunteers. "It's an opportunity for the homeless to engage with our volunteers," Eric Burger, executive director of Shelter KC, said.

Social Media Crackdown Coming Soon For Divisive Election Season 2020

Trump threatens to 'strongly regulate' social media platforms after Twitter labels his tweets

President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened to "strongly regulate" or even shut down social media platforms after Twitter applied a fact-check to two of his tweets this week.

Wayback Lame Skit Still Haunts Not-So-Funnyman

Jimmy Fallon Apologizes for 'Terrible Decision' After 'SNL' Blackface Video Surfaces

Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday (May 26) apologized for doing blackface 20 years ago during a sketch on NBC's Saturday Night Live. The Tonight Show host and SNL vet said he was sorry after the clip resurfaced and he was criticized for the moment across Twitter.

Celeb Still Hates Prez

Kathy Griffin suggests Trump should take syringe with 'nothing but air'

Kathy Griffin was called out on Twitter Tuesday after suggesting that President Trump should take an empty syringe "with nothing but air." As first reported by the Washington Examiner, Griffin had a graphic response to remarks President Trump made at a White House event dedicated to seniors suffering from diabetes, where he jokingly asked if he should be on "insulin."

COVID Inspires Switcheroo

Sex workers have issued a list of 'safer' sex positions to stick to during the pandemic

Swiss brothels say they will be following a strict set of guidelines as they prepare to reopen after being forced to close their doors due to the pandemic. Their new safety measures include a list of the "least risky" sexual positions for sex workers to use with clients, according to the English-language news outlet in Switzerland, The Local.

Pandemic Pr0n Gets Personal

Porn Takes On a Personal Touch in the Pandemic

As one of the most popular porn stars in the world, Sofia Rose is an industry unto herself. And for much of her 15-plus years in the business, that's meant traveling-often more than she's wanted to. She flew over 100,000 miles in 2019, as video shoots, event appearances, and fan meet-and-greets took her to New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, and other locales.

Local Color Tribute

Group creating coloring book to raise awareness about COVID-19 in northeast part of city

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A group of people in Kansas City, Missouri, hope a picture is worth 1,000 words. The Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and Northeast Arts KC want those pictures to help non-English speakers learn more about COVID-19.

KC Loves UVs

Interest grows for at-home ultraviolet sterilization, urban farming amid prolonged pandemic

"Since the start of the pandemic, Year-Round Garden has seen record sales - month after month," Michael Wilson noted, crediting the boon to a nationwide grow-your-own trend, as well as stress and anxiety surrounding the safety, availability and price of the city's current food supply.

More Corona Clouds Today

Cloudy Wednesday, slight chance for rain

Thunderstorms expected Thursday

Qveen Herby - Sugar Daddy is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now . . .

Kansas City Chiefs Desperately Seeking Fanboy Replacement Options At Arrowhead

Here's a reminder that a "return to normal" isn't likely anytime soon . . . And the upcoming season is already at risk.

Read more:

Eight Things The Kansas City Chiefs Could Use To Replace Fans In Arrowhead Stadium

The NFL is going to have the 2020 season, and they're going to have it on time. A multi-billion dollar entertainment empire simply cannot afford any scheduling inconveniences. This may mean playing without fans in the stands. If the Chiefs are smart, they will have a contingency plan, should this issue arise.

KCK Triple Shooting Aftermath: High School Student Dies From Injuries

Residents in Argentine talk about ending the uptick in violence, here's the latest on the tragic toll that a recent spike in gunfire is taking in this community . . . Checkit:

J.C. Harmon senior killed in triple shooting early Sunday

A teenager who died in a triple shooting Sunday in Kansas City, Kansas, was a student at J.C. Harmon High School.Police said Rey Villalobos died Sunday after being shot in the 1200 block of Argentine Boulevard. Two other victims suffered minor injuries.The school's principal sent a note to parents and students."18-year-old Rey Villalobos was a senior here at J.C.

Kansas City Tech Peacemakers Persist

Here's a long shot effort to reducing the quotient of violence within the community BUT a service that might find a niche given the rising quotient of domestic and personal drama that seems to be on the rise amid ongoing pandemic restrictions.

Read more:

With virus restrictions, one group still works to curb Kansas City's crime - virtually

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City saw a violent holiday weekend, with six shootings reported to police. During the pandemic, community organizations trying to curb crime have been forced to find new ways to operate. The Center for Conflict Resolution works with thousands of families a year.

Country Club Plaza Nordstrom Seyz It's Moving Forward Despite Kansas City Looky Loos Noticing Construction Shut Down

They've stopped turning dirt at the site and there hasn't been any progress in a couple of months. Meanwhile, other construction efforts throughout KCMO continue to move forward during the pandemic.

The newspaper asked about it and then just reprinted corporate hype:

In a statement, a Nordstrom spokeswoman said, ”We plan to move forward with this store relocation and may need to adjust the timing based on COVID-19.”

Nordstrom’s website still lists a 2021 opening for the Plaza store . . .

Developing . . .

Metro North Mall Rebuild Stays Losing

The pandemic worsens the odds of this ambitious retail project that was always a sketchy endeavor and a taxpayer supported mess in the making. Here's an EXCEPTIONAL update on the plan or lackthereof . . .

Latest Metro North Mall Plan Change

If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say right? I mean I should be able to say something about the Metro North Mall redo with it's lucrative TIF financing package but I don't. I mean I look around at floundering or ho hum retail developments all over and...

Kansas City Blogger Talks Abortion Rights

A touchy subject and a glimpse at the lady at the center of the ongoing culture war drama given that abortion access amid coronavirus remains widely debated . . . Read more:

A sad story about 'Jane Roe' of Roe vs Wade

In some ways the national debate about abortion, which began even before the 1973 Roe vs Wade Supreme Court decision, has been a model for the rabidly uncivil discourse that now infects our politics and our culture in general. A...

Kansas City Royals 'Make Or Break' Week 2020 Nearly Complete

Here's the most informative local glimpse at the restart of baseball . . . And it doesn't look hopeful. Checkit:

KC Royals: Season's "make or break" week could be here

For the KC Royals and the rest of baseball, these last few days of May could, when the book closes on 2020, turn out to be the defining week of the year. The fate of the season, at least that part within the collective control of MLB and the players, is at stake.

OZARK CORONAVIRUS POOL PARTY REDUX: FREEDOM RUNS DEEP IN MISSOURI OR SHALLOW GOOD TIMES STARTS WAVE OF JUSTIFIED GLOBAL HATERATION?!?!

In the past 48 hours nearly everybody in the world enjoyed the opportunity to dunk on Ozark party people enjoying Memorial Day weekend.

The only question that really matters:

IS THIS OZARK POOL PARTY SPLASH NOTHING MORE THAN 'VIRTUE SIGNALING' OR WARRANTED FEAR OF WORSENING THE LOCAL IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC?!?!?

The answer to the question might or might not be proven correct by way of COVID-19 hospitalization and death stats in the next few weeks. However, public perception of the deadly plague has also been determined by partisan politics.

Some of our favorite news links on the topic today:

KANSAS CITY 2020 HOMICIDE #67: ONE DEAD AFTER STABBING NEAR PROSPECT!!!

Slice of life and a realization that the quotient of local violence continues to spiral out of control amid election season slap fighting betwixt politicos on the local an national level . . .

KSHB: One person fatally stabbed Tuesday

KCTV5: Police investigating fatal stabbing near 18th Street and Prospect Avenue

KMBC: KCPD investigates fatal stabbing outside Family Dollar

Deets:

"The stabbing happened about 7:30 p.m. at East 18th Street and Prospect Avenue.The victim died at the scene."

This is the 67th homicide so far this year in KCMO compared with 54 at this date on the calendar last year.

The homicide uptick represents 24.07% spike in murder despite the recent coronavirus lockdown.

Developing . . .

Kansas City Weekly Hype From 12th & Oak

The Weekly Report provides news and insight about Kansas City, Mo. programs and services provided by City departments . . . But it's mostly happy news from City Hall with a few important tidbits for closer viewers.

Take a look . . .

PREZ TRUMP TWEETS DOWNGRADED WITH FACT CHECK LABEL AS JACKSON COUNTY DEMOCRATS CLAIM REPUBLICANS DON'T REALLY CARE ABOUT FREE SPEECH!!!

A social media tag has MAJOR implications for the discourse . . .

CNN: Twitter labeled Trump tweets with a fact check for the first time

The response from the Prez was fast & furious . .

The Hill: Trump accuses Twitter of 'stifling' free speech after fact check

And here's the hot take Jackson County leaders:

"Trump's lack of understanding on how the 1st Amendment actually works is both horrifying and a reflection of how Republicans do not care about the Constitution or Rule of Law unless it's a campaign talking point."

You decide . . .

Missouri & Kansas Workers Confront Unemployment Insurance Hard Times Cont'd

Websites and phone lines simply weren't built to handle this MASSIVE AND HISTORIC wave of jobless claims. Here's worthwhile coverage of a problem that continues:

Unemployment claimants face jammed phone lines in Missouri, Kansas

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Carolyn Harris of Independence has been out of work since February, but she still hasn't received unemployment benefits in Missouri. "My patience was three hours on hold several times," Harris said. "Many mornings, I get up and first thing I do is call.

Redux: New Normal And Rise Of Social Distancing Accommodation In Kansas City

Another glimpse at new parking lot rules and more outdoor cafes this Summer that might not realize how many people are broke and eating at home. Checkit:

Social Distancing Could Change The Way Kansas City Residents And Restaurants Use Public Spaces

In an effort to make public spaces more social distance-friendly, the Kansas City Council is letting restaurants create makeshift patios. But what other ideas are there to transform the way we use public spaces?

Evergy Power Play Help Out

Posted only as a resource and reminder that harsh times continue for workers across the metro . . . Read more:

Evergy extends pandemic customer assistance

Posted: / Updated: KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KSNT) - A Northeast Kansas utility company is extending its disconnect suspension period and waiving late fees. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Evergy announced in March that it will not disconnect electric service for non-payment and will waive late fees for residential and small business customers.