This late night/early morning wayback/throwback conversation offers an interesting glimpse at Show-Me State politics in addition to a peek at rising factionalism amongst the GOP in the aftermath of the Prez Trump White House.
Check-it . . .
Navy SEAL & former Missouri Governor Eric Greitens joined Pete Mundo on KCMO Talk Radio.
You decide . . . HOPEFULLY, we'll have more news and links sometime before lunch. STAY TUNED!!!
The newspaper is out by the end of the year and here's a peek at the new listing . . .
"Ambassador Hospitality LLC, which acquired the office property for $30.1 million in 2019, is exploring "numerous" reuse options for the building as well as demolition so the site can be fully repurposed, according to a Wednesday release from Kessinger/Hunter."
More deets here for subscribers . . .
Kessinger/Hunter lists Kansas City Star building for lease or sale - Kansas City Business Journal
Hot off the presses - The Kansas City Star's downtown office and printing plant now is available for lease or sale, as the newspaper prepares to vacate by the year's end. A new listing for the building at 1601 McGee St. will be handled through Kessinger/Hunter & Co.
This news happened last week on Friday and nobody really cared, and so they put out another presser and local newsies dutifully picked it up.
Here's the Kansas City booze news follow-up coverage for our insomniac friends . . .
Westport Ale House and The Fall reopening after being shuttered for four months
Westport Ale House and The Fall will be reopening after voluntarily shutting their doors due to COVID-19. They closed on November 16, 2020, to proactively protect staff members and the community. "When they were moving 3 a.m. licenses to 10 o'clock for the bar business, the most responsible decision was to close down," says partner Scott Mars.
Local reaction to this work in progress was overwhelmingly negative and it looks like money saving minimalism has disheartened Kansas City amateur urban planners.
Proof . . .
Fox4KC: Many, including Kansas City mayor, not happy with new design of Buck O'Neil Bridge
Money line after a "virtual tour" didn't convince locals . . .
"The design drew criticism from Lucas on Twitter. He’s grateful to see the project moving but said he wants to retain as much of the old bridge as possible."
Sadly, given the COVID cash crunch planners aren't even pretending to care about public criticism and this low-rent bridge will remove an iconic structure and replace it with a generic one.
Developing . . .
Here's a peek at the "new normal" that will test Constitutional law and offer a glimpse into how much control private companies have over the movement of Americans.
Read more . . .
Coming soon: Digital COVID-19 vaccine 'passport' keeps records readily available for travel, events
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Many people might be itching to go to that concert or on that big vacation but worry about who's vaccinated against COVID-19 or not. The ticket to all those places you love could be right on your phone.
Aspiring politicos should take note . . . City Hall workers are one of the biggest and most neglected voting blocs in Kansas City.
Targeting their ranks won't turn out well for incumbents.
Read more . . .
As Kansas City looks to trim budget, proposal includes early retirements
As Kansas City looks to trim its budget, one proposal includes early retirements.Because of the pandemic's impact on the city's sales tax, the earnings tax and others, city leaders are looking at a $70-million hole.On Wednesday, City Manager Brian Platt told the finance committee that early retirements could save the city a million dollars this year."We think that number will actually end up being much higher," Platt said.There is no solid number yet on the number of city workers that might take one of three different plans.
Tonight's quick peek at some of the top headlines on our mind tonight . . .
Check-it . . .
Hole Year InPothole season is upon us, crews jumping from snow to road repairs
As we continue thawing out from last week's cold blast, you may start noticing an unwelcome sight more often on your daily commute - potholes.After the brutal two-week stretch of winter weather, Kansas City metro area road crews are jumping into pothole repair.In Kansas City, Missouri, public works has already received more than 400 requests through 3-1-1 to fill potholes around the city.Pothole crews have been scattered around the city this week and are getting a jump start on that work.
Man killed in Sunday night KCK crash found Wednesday
KANSAS CITY, Kan. - A man who died in a Sunday night car crash was found in his car Wednesday morning in Kansas City, Kansas. KCK police officers responded around 11:40 a.m. to the 6100 of Riverview Avenue to check the report of a vehicle in a creek bed, according to a police department news release.
Kansas City Vaccination Task Force meets for first time in closed session
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The first meeting of the Kansas City Vaccination Task Force did not yield much information for the public. Members went into closed session almost as soon as the meeting started on Wednesday afternoon. What is known is that the city is partnering with both Walmart and the YMCA of Greater Kansas [...]
Biden administration sending masks to poor communities
Why it matters: The initiative comes nearly a year after Trump administration health officials first internallyexplored whether to send masks toevery American in hopes of slowing the virus' spread - an idea that was rejected at the time. Public health experts have since pushed for reviving the concept as a way of reaching underserved communities and emphasizing the importance of mask wearing.
Awkward moment as House Republican leaders clash over Trump speaking at CPAC
Liz Cheney contradicted Kevin McCarthy on whether Trump has a role with the GOP. Former President Donald Trump and his future with the GOP was the subject of an awkward clash Wednesday between two House Republican leaders.
Biden reverses Trump visa ban on legal immigration
President Joe Biden on Wednesday revoked a Trump-era ban on legal immigration for family members of U.S. citizens and residents, as well as diversity visa lottery recipients. In a statement, Biden said former President Donald Trump's order blocking green card applicants and temporary foreign workers "does not advance the interests of the United States."
Postmaster General Taunts Dems: You're Stuck With Me for Good
Louis DeJoy had a defiant message on Wednesday for those craving to see him ousted as U.S. Postmaster General: "Get used to me." The comment came after Rep. Jim Cooper (D-TN) asked the embattled U.S. Postal Service chief how long he would remain as Postmaster General-"long time," DeJoy spat back-during a Wednesday hearing in the House Oversight Committee.
ABC, CBS, NBC avoid explosive sexual harassment claims against Andrew Cuomo on evening news broadcasts
The three major broadcast networks joined CNN and MSNBC Wednesday in avoiding mention of sexual harassment claims against Democratic New York Gov.
People Are Calling Out John Mayer For His Comments On Male Privilege After His Treatment Of Jessica Simpson And Taylor Swift
"I almost cried five times." "I came out OK... I have a very strong feeling that part of that is because I'm a man," he continued. "And I have a very strong feeling that a lot of these things that happen to female performers is endemic to being female."
Mitch Schwartz announces he is having surgery on Wednesday, aims to play in 2021
Kansas City Chiefs right tackle Mitch Schwartz is having surgery on Wednesday, he announced via his official Twitter account. Injury Update: I'm getting surgery today. I was hoping to recover enough to get back for playoffs/Super Bowl but that didn't happen. It's time to address the issue.
Fresh Market donates $30,000 worth of food to northeast KC groups
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The owner of Fresh Market donated $30,000 worth of nonperishable foods to two northeast Kansas City organizations. The Gathering Table and Healing House received multiple truckloads of food on Wednesday from the grocery store. Subhi Zaben, Fresh Market manager and the owner's son, said he sees the need in his community.
Thursday will be partly cloudy with high near 45 degrees
Hide Transcript Show Transcript TEMPERATURE TO FALL OFF. 42 IN THE NEXT HOUR. 30'S BY 7:00. BY 9:00 P.M., 35 DEGREES. TOMORROW MORNING, COOLER THAN IT WAS THIS MORNING. PARTLY TO MOSTLY CLEAR SKIES. AS MENTIONED, LITTLE WIDER. MARSHALL, 26. SAME FOR LAWRENCE. 12 HOUR FORECA, LOOKING IN THOSE 20'S, CLOSE TO FREEZING BY NINE.
And this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
Recent KCPD push back against illegal sideshow street takeovers organized via social media have resonated across the metro.
The message seems pretty clear that KCPD is getting serious about enforcement before warmer weather allows the trend to pick up momentum.
A worthwhile comment from a TKC reader offers perspective on the coverage so far . . .
"Interesting how all of the local media outlets seem to have deliberately left out the part from PDs presser about how two people were shot related to last night’s events.
"It’s very apparent that they are doing their best to shape the narrative by minimizing the side shows as just gatherings of people who want to have fun when there have been so many shootings related to them in the last year."
Proof . . .
Accordingly, we notice law enforcement putting the word out regarding the new tactic.
Reality check: Things are going to get tougher for illegal Kansas City sideshows from now on . . .
KCPD on illegal street racing: 'We want it to stop'
KCPD Trying to Tackle Ongoing Car Sideshows
Kansas City police asking for public's help after illegal street racing ends in gunfire
The message is important if only to avoid further conflict, protect innocent people riding along and so that illicit drivers can't say that they weren't warned. Developing . . .
Judging only by stats, violent crime committed with firearms is a tragic endeavor mostly dominated by dudes.
However, lately we've noticed women at the forefront of Kansas City metro gun violence. For better and worse, desperate ladies are now taking up arms.
A couple of examples that might not be as glamorous as Rosie Jones & her hottie pal Stacey pictured above but strike far closer to home . . . Read more:
Kansas City woman charged following string of bank robberies -- Watkins entered the Central Bank on Feb. 1 and handed a bank teller a note that, according to court documents, read, "Hand over all the money, and I won't shoot." That day, Watkins escaped with a little more than $1,800. The following day, Watkins entered the Capitol Federal Saving branch and presented a similar note. This time the note read, "Hand me all the money, or I will shoot." Watkins left the bank with $971.
And then . . .
24-year-old woman charged in connection with Raytown homicide -- The victim had called police ad told them that his girlfriend had a gun and said, "She's trying to kill me." She told detectives that he told her not to shoot, but she fired one shot and he fell to the floor. He then said, "I'm dead. I'm dead."
Developing . . .
In spirit we agree with cutting back on corporate welfare.
Sadly, a TON of money redistributed over generations hasn't produced viable results for this town's signature school district.
To be fair, here's hype written from activist notes . . .
Kansas City Developers Were Getting Millions In Tax Breaks - More Of That Money Could Soon Stay With Schools
After eight months of intense behind-the-scenes negotiations, the Kansas City Council is poised to vote on a new policy to rein in tax incentives for development. The Council's Neighborhood, Planning and Development Committee on Wednesday endorsed a measure that reduces available incentives. The ordinance goes to the full Council on Thursday for a vote.
Remember that not so long ago the KC legend was a bit more critical of the superstar golfer . . .
Golf Digest: Tiger Woods gets clubbed by golfing great Tom Watson over sex scandal that's 'bad for our game'
Today he joins the nation in wishing the injured pro his best . . .
Tom Watson wrote: "Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Tiger. We all wish you a complete recovery."
Read more . . .
Golf, sports world react to Tiger Woods' car accident
The news of Tiger Woods' car accident in Los Angeles Tuesday morning generated a strong and passionate response from the golf and sports community.
At the risk of sparking far too much cynicism about post-racial community outreach, we share a quick glimpse at local media promotion of a Kansas City branding deal that might or might not make potholes more pleasant for (broke-ass) riders of every race and creed.
Meanwhille, the pandemic has inspired more people to save up and buy a used car.
Take a look . . .
Urban League, KCATA partner on racial equity, social justice bus
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Urban League of Greater Kansas City partnered with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority to roll out a racial equity and social justice bus. The bus commemorates Black History Month and the Urban League's 100-year civil rights legacy.
The satire writes itself in a recent story of hypersensitivity that locals hope to politely ignore.
However, activist outcry against the implications of playground equipment deserves deeper consideration as Kansas City struggles to honor the memory of an American civil rights icon.
To wit . . .
KANSAS CITY FAITH COMMUNITY LEADER CLAIMS PLAYGROUND ROPES ARE RACIST AND THREATEN YOUNGSTERS WITH THE LEGACY OF HATE CRIME VIOLENCE!!!
It's a bold allegation that volunteers and organizers didn't anticipate.
Check the story . . .
KCTV5: Feedback on MLK, Jr. Square Park raises unexpected concern
They money line was buried and deserves to be highlighted . . .
Kevin Woolfolk, the director of membership engagement of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference’s Greater Kansas City Chapter, sent a message in the Zoom chat that read, “Not happy with ropes in the play area. Ropes are a symbol of Jim Crow racism, injustice, and terror…. Might be a good idea to eliminate ropes as a feature of the park.”
The knee-jerk reaction would be to take offense and in turn escalate the conversation.
Alternatively, we think the concern merits serious and precise deliberation.
TKC isn't so old we don't remember playground ropes. Forgive us if we don't see it anything more than a lame physical activity that doesn't seem as fun as playing video games.
Given that a reference to horrific institutionalized violence that once targeted African-Americans now threatens to impact the design of the KCMO park rehabilitation; we invite readers to contemplate the future wherein youngsters and all people are prevented from having any fun because of perceived historical implications or after municipal leader acquiesce to the effective rhetorical tactics of a faith community leader. At the very least, this town risks living out the plot from Footloose if this temperamental worldview isn't respectfully challenged.
In conclusion . . .
We can only hope to reassure EVERYONE that it's highly unlikely the designers of youth activities intentionally referenced hate crimes in their plans. Moreover, the path to move forward and out of the shadow of alleged systemic racism might be to exercise some level of fortitude when confronted with the imagined legacy of "problematic" playground equipment thereby teaching youngsters to overcome easily manageable obstacles.
You decide . . .
Kansas City metro politicos understand that they must toe the line for the Biden Administration and progress at the federal level won't translate to local contests without party "unity" by any means necessary.
Accordingly, a recent written letter wrist slap might not be terribly important but serves to demonstrate that progressives aren't going to tolerate any infighting after getting BLOWN OUT OF EVERY MISSOURI STATEWIDE RACE in the 2020 election cycle.
Check the Pitch gleaning/blogging more Twitter content news . . .
Jackson County Democrats censure Trump supporting committee member
The JCDC voted unanimously to issue a formal censure against an elected committeewoman who voiced support for Donald Trump online. // Image courtesy of Lotus Key Homes The Jackson County Democratic Committee had issued the first censure in the committee's modern history against a member after discovering she had openly supported Donald Trump on social media.
This report offers scathing indictments of the Kansas City quick service restaurant industry and yet another reminder of harsh times for entry level employees.
There's hope of progress for more cash under the new administration but the clandestine goal of this movement is fast food industry unionization which has yet to take hold for low-end workers in this industry.
Read more . . .
Go To Work Sick Or Go Without Pay - Kansas City-Area Fast Food Workers Face An Almost Impossible Decision
For workers living on the edge, missing a paycheck can be crushing. "I've gone to work sick," McDonald's worker Terrence Wise said. "This COVID disaster forces us sometimes to do things we don't want to do. And we shouldn't be in a position to have to make those decisions in the first place."
The pause in Winter weather has local foodies desperate to bring customers back to restaurants and sell overpriced chicken in 40 degree weather.
Accordingly, here's a blast of local places hoping to survive the last stretch of the pandemic.
Bring a coat, it's colder outside than it looks . . .
Kansas City's best patios, sidewalk seating and parklets for socially-distanced dining
Thanks to the Kansas City, Missouri, City Council, which approved a new set of ordinances in May, local restaurants are now able to expand their seating into adjoining parking lots, onto sidewalks or to even build custom parklets to create additional outdoor seating through the end of this year.
Last night Kansas City police stepped up efforts to curb the rise of illegal auto stunt gatherings that have become increasingly popular during pandemic crackdowns.
To wit . . .
GUNFIRE AND BRICKS CONFRONTED PO-PO DURING EFFORTS TO STOP AN EPIC DOWNTOWN KANSAS CITY SIDESHOW!!!
Here's a dramatic recounting from near the loop amid reports that two victims were shot amid a rolling gun battle:
Downtown street racing incident ends with shots fired near kids and bricks thrown at officers
Deets . . .
Kansas City police said they received several calls Tuesday night about street racing, dangerous driving and shots fired near the T-Mobile Center. Responding officers found street racers at 17th Street and Manchester Trafficway, and chased the vehicles. About 50 to 60 vehicles fled the area.
"An unknown number of vehicles ran over stop sticks as they attempted to elude officers, fleeing the scene," according to a narrative report released by the Kansas City Police Department.
During the incident, shots were fired near Truman Road and The Paseo while baseball games were in progress nearby at the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy. Also during the situation, police said bricks were thrown at officers from an overpass. No injuries were reported.
More . . .
Several drivers stopped after KC police use spike strips to put an end to sideshow
Even better link . . .
Shots fired near kids, bricks thrown at officers: Kansas City police detail sideshow bust
Another update . . .
Street racing scene turns to chaos in downtown Kansas City
Latest link . . .
Kansas City police bust massive sideshow with 60 cars, shots fired near kids games
Additional info . . .
One report said racers fired shots at the intersection Truman and Paseo, near an ongoing baseball game at the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy.
Officers finally caught up with the group near 17th Street and Manchester Trafficway. Police were able to corral several drivers over stop sticks.
Jackson said people threw bricks at officers off of the 23rd Street overpass along Manchester. No injuries were reported.
Postscript . . .
Officers wrote 67 tickets, towed 18 vehicles, recovered one gun and one stolen car, police said.
Accordingly . . .
This isn't the final showdown against Kansas City sideshows and the gatherings are will likely continue near the loop without this same kind of consistent push to keep auto enthusiasts out of downtown.
Developing . . .
As KCMO violence ramps up, shooting impacts utilities.
Read more . . . .
Stray bullet from overnight gun battle causes gas leak at Indep/Benton Blvds.
Independence Avenue is closed at Benton Boulevard this morning. Sources say that a rolling gun battle that occurred overnight in the area is the cause as one of the bullets struck a gas line in a building on the north side of Independence Avenue.
The so-called local paper-of-record imagines that people aren't ALREADY CARRYING GUNS on the bus. Fact is, so many local shootings near bus stops prove them wrong.
Moreover, there is an answer to their sloppy rhetorical question: Concealed Carry on public transit would offer legal protections to lawful gun owners AND hopefully create a moment of doubt in the mind of some criminals who sought to target victims.
To be fair, the increased potential for gun fights on the bus isn't a thrilling prospect. But the reality is those gun battles ALREADY occur . . . Working to disarm the public won't help and only emboldens criminals.
Read more . . .
Concealed carry on KC buses is a terrible idea. How would that reduce gun violence?
Gun violence continues to plague St. Louis, and Kansas City knows all too well it's not immune to the same scourge. The city set a record for the number of homicides last year, and the vast majority of the slayings involved guns.
So far police report a lady in custody . . . Here's the latest:
1 dead, 1 in custody following shooting in Raytown
RAYTOWN, MO (KCTV) -- A man was killed and a woman is in custody following a shooting overnight in Raytown. Police were called about 2 a.m. Tuesday to a disturbance and the sound of gunshots at a home in the 9000 block of East 87 Street.
An international hottie reminds us that day drinking is the new normal as the pandemic persists and we take a peek at pop culture, community news and top headlines.
Check-it . . .
Road To NowhereRock Island Trail expected to open this spring
Soon all 13 miles of the Rock Island Trail will be open to the public. There's no way Eric Burger was going to let a day like this go by without pulling out the bike and hitting the trail."I intend to do quite a few miles on it," Burger said. That's the plan for many walkers, runners and bikers once the trail opens."We're just kind of in a wrap-up and kind of punch list stage of the project," said Matt Davis, project manager for the Rock Island Trail.Davis is hoping for an April opening date.
An adjacent crisis: Liver diseases on the rise during pandemic
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Doctors are sounding the alarm on a concerning crisis happening side-by-side with the pandemic. Alcoholic liver disease was already trending in the wrong direction in the United States before the pandemic. "I'd say over the last five to 10 years the incidence of alcohol cirrhosis has increased as well as the age we're seeing it at.
'This helped out a lot': Independence electric customers gifted $200 credit
INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - As the pandemic continues to take a financial toll on families, including people who have lost their jobs, city leaders in Independence are giving back. The City Council of Independence approved a utility credit for City of Independence electric utility customers amounting to $193.82.
Natalie Roser Leaves Little To The Imagination In Thong Nude Lingerie
In the caption, Roser joked that these were her audition photos for the third season of the Netflix show You. Within four hours, the slideshow has garnered more than 14,500 likes and upward of 220 comments. Roser's followers took to the comments section to engage with her, teasing her about her caption and showering her with compliments.
Mitt Romney says Donald Trump would win Republican nomination if he ran in 2024
WASHINGTON - One of Donald Trump's most outspoken Republican opponents - Utah Sen. Mitt Romney - says the former president would win the GOP nomination in 2024 if he decides to go for it. "I don't know if he'll run in 2024 or not, but if he does, I'm pretty sure he will win the nomination," Romney said Tuesday at the DealBook DC Policy Project.
AOC says GOP minimum wage compromise is 'legislated poverty'
New York Democrat, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, rejected the GOP's latest attempt to counter Democrats calls for a $15 minimum federal wage, saying any attempt to lower the hourly figure was "legislated poverty." "When members of Congress fight to set the minimum wage below a living wage, they are playing a role in creating and preserving poverty in the United States," Ocasio Cortez said on twitter Tuesday.
Oklahoma man accused of cutting neighbor's heart out, feeding it to his family
An Oklahoma man suspected of murdering three people has confessed to killing his neighbor, cutting her heart out and then cooking it to feed his family, authorities said. Lawrence Anderson allegedly stabbed Andrea Lynn Blankenship, 41, to death in her Chickasha home on Feb. 9, The Oklahoman reported.
Iran limits UN nuclear inspections while inching closer to talks with US, others
The U.S. and Iran are inching closer toward diplomatic talks over Tehran's nuclear program, even as the Iranian government moved further outside the original nuclear deal on Tuesday by curtailing international inspections of its nuclear sites.
FDA staff endorses Johnson & Johnson's single-shot Covid vaccine for emergency use
The Food and Drug Administration's staff endorsed Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use, a critical step in bringing a third shot to the U.S. marketplace. The staff report is meant to brief the FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, which will meet Friday to review J&J's request for emergency use authorization.
Johnson County sees 33% decline in teen suicides
JOHNSON COUNTY, Kan. - Johnson County has seen a 33% decrease in teen suicides, bucking a national trend in 2020 that saw suicide as the second-leading cause of death for those between 10 and 34 years old. Health experts said that's due, in part, to a teen-led effort called Zero Reasons Why (ZRW).
Tap List | Springing Out of A Cold Snap With Beer
Last week, I was hunkered down in the living room with no electricity during a historic cold snap. The faucets were running to keep the pipes from bursting, the fireplace was roaring, and there were blankets of snow as far as the eye could see.
Much cooler today with highs back to normal
Cooler air moves in today to bring us back to normal No major storm systems in sight; Staying dry through the weekend Brief warm up Friday & Saturday KANSAS CITY'S MOST ACCURATE FORECAST Wednesday: Mostly sunny to partly cloudy and cooler following a cold front passage in the morning.
Billie Eilish - ilomilo is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
This link is just for our closest readers, here's a glimpse at Kansas City's last remaining "men of letters" and how they'd like to be remembered . . . Read more:
On the Passing of Literary Men and the Making of Biographies - KC STUDIO
I was nearly three years into my project to write about the life and work of Evan S. Connell when I made another attempt to locate a potentially good source. I couldn't find him the first time. I didn't think he'd still be around, but surely he'd left his papers somewhere, and maybe those would include some letters from Connell.
News of ice cream drama captivates the local upper-middle-class and the BEST, BRIGHTEST & MOST KICK-ASS TKC readers kindly shared first word over the weekend.
Here's the best report on the sitch so far as locals dream of the upcoming season of cones . . . Check-it:
Betty Rae's Ice Cream set to reopen under new ownership after controversy
Photo by Ashley DeckBetty Rae's Ice Cream announced this morning that they will reopen this spring under new ownership. Kansas City, we are beyond excited and humbled to announce the reopening of Betty Rae's this spring under new ownership.... Posted by Betty Rae's Ice Cream on Monday, February 22, 2021 "Kansas City, we are beyond excited and humbled to announce the...
This is an upbeat report from one of the original donation mags which offers a hopeful perspective for local musicians who remain down on their luck.
Read more . . .
With no live gigs, Kansas City jazz musicians find other ways to play
Kansas City, while famous for football and barbecue, is arguably most known for its contributions to jazz. The genre originated among the Black community of New Orleans in the early 20th century before becoming popular among the African American community of Kansas City in the 1920s.
For anyone who really wants to understand the history of urban leadership in Kansas City, this is a worthwhile and essential conversation.
Description . . .
Alvin Brooks’ mark on civil rights history in Kansas City – on the city’s history in total – is indelible. Born into poverty and a racist society, he became a trailblazing police officer and detective, city councilman, and mayor pro tem. Amid decades of advocacy for equal rights, violence prevention, and criminal justice, he founded the AdHoc Group Against Crime and chaired the local chapter of the Congress on Racial Equality (CORE).
In recognition of his lifetime of activism, community building, and public service, President George H. W. Bush named him as one of America’s 1,000 Points of Light.
Brooks, now 88, joins Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas in an online discussion of his remarkable career and life, marking the launch of his new autobiography Binding Us Together: A Civil Rights Activist Reflects on a Lifetime of Community and Public Service. The event also commemorates Black History Month in February.
Lucas likewise rose from impoverished beginnings, earning academic scholarships to high school, college, and law school at Cornell University before returning home to Kansas City and serving four years on the city council. He was elected mayor in 2019.
The presentation is co-presented by PNC Bank and Rainy Day Books.
Take a look . . .
Hopefully, more for the morning update . . . STAY TUNED!!!
The NEXTGEN conservative leader takes his critics to task this evening.
Here's the best quick description of the debate . . . Read more:
Josh Hawley calls allegation he's complicit in Capitol riot "outrageous" and an "utter lie"
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) on Tuesday refuted allegations that he was complicit in the deadly January 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol. Hawley, who objected to President Joe Biden's Electoral College win hours after the Capitol was violently breached, made the remarks on the day of a joint hearing on the riots by the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
Amid COVID harsh times, we're soon to see who REALLY has the power in the Sunflower State. Here's the start of a Winter debate over utility payments.
Read more . . .
Marshall, Davids call on federal commission to consider emergency request after arctic blast
WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and Representative Sharice Davids want a federal commission to hurry up and approve Kansas Governor Laura Kelly's emergency request. As the bitter cold stretch reached its peak last week Kelly issued a disaster declaration and the Kansas Corporation Commission issued an emergency order directing utilities to do everything possible to [...]
The post-Trump economy impacts the low-end of the Kansas City news game exceptionally hard as readers are no longer motivated to open their wallets now that the supreme MAGA leader no longer occupies the White House.
To wit . . .
THE KANSAS CITY DONATION NEWS MODEL HAS QUICKLY DRIED UP!!!
Apparently, upbeat news items touting the leadership of Prez Biden haven't sparked the same emotion which GRABBED local news readers during Prez Trump's tenure.
Of course we know all about the low-end of the cowtown news game and we didn't really need any help crafting a post on the topic. HOWEVER, this tidbit was confirmed to us by a fellow local news traveler asking about economic opportunity in another writing avenue . . . We did our best to offer help and merely inquired about a local publication that cast aside this tireless worker despite claims that the publication was supposedly doing well with support from readers.
Here's the word . . .
"It's over. After the election there wasn't any more money coming in. You can't blame COVID either because people were donating right and left when the lockdowns started. This is like second depression for local news. Things were never good but there was a hope that 'memberships' would provide some stability since the bottom fell out of advertising. That didn't turn out to be true.
"People loved supporting editorials and reporting taking on (Prez) Trump and his KC supporters. Now the demand is gone."
That's kinda sad and the only hope is this dire situation is the return of MAGA to the political discourse. Meanwhile, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley is the new local bad guy but he doesn't have the same kind of super-villain clout of the former Commander-In-Chief.
Full Disclosure: On less than three occasions this blog begged for money online just like every other purveyor of the written word and the response was about three times better than what I expected. Just like politicos, there is always money out there for people who are willing to provide written support for the powers that be . . . But that's not really a viable biz model, just a good hustle that's subject to shifting political winds, very much like everything else. Hint: Yes, things are changing soon on this blog as well. But they always have "evolved" slowly.
In the final analysis we share this bit of bloggy bad news if only to provide a glimpse at the adventures of workers at the bottom level of journalism manufacturing who are only a tad more cleaver than so many social media denizens who give their labor away for free in hopes that content creation leads them to untold riches. Good luck!
Developing . . .
For tonight we take a peek at pr0n hottie Alexis seemingly defying stereotypes and gravity as she shows off some of her many talents in addition to this glimpse at pop culture, community news and top headlines.
Warmer weather, more vaxx on the way and economic desperation have pushed along the COVID recovery faster.
Here's a quick guide to a great many reopening announcements and policy changes.
Check-it . . .
KMBC: 'It would help': Small businesses to receive more PPP loans after Biden Admin. changes to program
KSHB: Clay County restaurants, bars welcome loosened COVID-19 restrictions
KMBC: Kansas City, Kansas school board votes to bring all students back for in-person learning April 5
KSHB: Missouri Senate OKs bill to limit COVID-19 lawsuits
KSHB: KC metro family reflects on saxophonist, minister as COVID-19 death toll hits 500K
KCTV5: Kansas hospitality industry gets break in COVID-19 recovery
Developing . . .
The local shooting spike persists and this recent spate of urban core gunfire earns MSM spotlight given some exceptionally clear footage.
Take a look . . .
Drive-by shooting in Kansas City caught on security camera
Olga Pitenko's security cameras on Tuesday morning captured a terrifying situation outside her house on Kansas City's historic west side.A driver in a sedan without headlights opened fire down her street, just north of Avenida Cesar Chavez. Bullets hit her house.Pitenko and her family were sleeping upstairs at the time and were not hurt.
Today's debate focused on bullying, most of which comes from busybody adults targeting youngsters for culture war political vendettas.
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Critics: Kansas bill on trans athletes will cause bullying
LGBTQ-rights advocates warned Kansas legislators Tuesday that their discussion of a proposed ban on transgender students in girls' and women's school sports would lead to bullying, and one group promised to sue the state if such a law is enacted.
Not to be outdone by their GOP colleagues in Texas or inside the Beltway, Missouri Republicans push back against wind power and denounce allegedly sustainable energy for the benefit of rural news stations and utility company benefactors.
Read more . . .
Missouri House opposes eminent domain for wind-energy line
The bill to stop eminent domain in the project needs another vote of approval in the House before it can move to the Republican-led Senate for consideration COLUMBIA, Mo. - Missouri's GOP-led state House on Tuesday moved to ban the use of eminent domain for a large wind-energy power line planned to span from Kansas to Indiana.
Today's post-Super Bowl defeat revelation doesn't really provide much of an update.
However, we notice that talk of booze & prescription drug use whilst driving has been downplayed by local media.
Here's the word . . .
Most of the narrative description of the crash (was) blacked out.
The area where the crash happened was "Dark-Unlighted," according to the crash report.
The report also noted that Reid, whose contract as outside linebackers coach with the Chiefs ran out and won’t be renewed, failed to provide proof of insurance for the vehicle, which was towed from the scene.
It is also unknown whether one of the passengers in the rear left of the vehicle was using a safety device at the time of the crash.
“This contains the information that is publicly available at this time,” KCPD said in a post that included the crash report online.
Check the links . . .
KMBC: KCPD releases crash report from wreck involving Britt Reid that critically injured 5-year-old girl
KSHB: KCPD releases redacted report from crash involving Britt Reid
KCTV5: Redacted crash report released in Britt Reid case
Developing . . .
POSTtitle
Without question the warmer Kansas City weather is spiking an uptick in local ALLEGED misdeeds and so we share this compilation of local news regarding police action, court cases and crime searches.
A silly local rumor contends that Kansas City metro suspects caught up in the Capitol riot hot mess are getting a wrist slap. Obviously that's wishful thinking from MAGA loyalists given that even the most strident right-wing pundits have disavowed the riot and alleged violence against law enforcement.
This update disputes that notion and offers more deets on a federal case that's exceptionally serious.
Read more . . .
KSHB: Federal judge reverses accused rioter Chrestman's release, orders transfer to DC
Deets . . .
Accused insurrectionist leader William Chrestman, of Olathe, will be transferred to Washington, D.C., where he will remain in custody before his trial on charges in connection with the deadly Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.
A judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued the ruling Tuesday, which overturns an order for Chrestman’s pretrial release issued by a federal judge in Kansas last week.
Chrestman, 47, was arrested Feb. 11 and charged with conspiracy, civil disorder, obstruction of an official proceeding, threatening to assault a federal law enforcement officer, knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority, and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds.
Developing . . .
Kansas City government, box store and social service collaboration offers a glimpse at urban core efforts to speed up distribution of the stalled pandemic cure.
Check the presser shared a few moments ago . . .
Mayor Quinton Lucas, Walmart, and the YMCA of Greater Kansas City have announced a COVID-19 vaccine partnership that will start this weekend and happened every week for the next six weeks.
This should lead to more than 3,500 Kansas Citians in “zip codes with the lowest life expectancy” getting vaccinated, a release from the city said.
Walmart will host the clinics at a Kansas City YMCA location, using a vaccine allotment provided directly to Walmart by the federal government. The vaccines do not pull from and will not change Kansas City’s weekly vaccine allotment from the state.
“Eligible Kansas Citians will be notified of this vaccination opportunity by the Kansas City Health Department,” the release from the city continues. “For safety and security reasons, the particular YMCA location will be disclosed only to those eligible to receive a vaccine through this partnership. Due to a very limited supply of COVID-19 vaccines, walk-ups will not be accepted.”
Kansas Citians interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccine should complete the City’s online interest form in English or Spanish, or call 311.
“As my office and the City continue our work to ensure equitable vaccine distribution, I am proud this vaccine allotment through our partnership with Walmart will be getting to Kansas Citians who need vaccines the most,” said Mayor Lucas. “The Kansas City Health Department has identified and has begun notifying eligible Kansas Citians of this opportunity via email and phone call, to ensure those without regular access to internet who need a vaccine will not be skipped over. As we continue vaccine rollout, we will not leave anyone behind. I thank Walmart, the YMCA, and our COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force for their quick and diligent work, and I look forward to continued partnerships such as this moving forward.”
Check the links . . .
KCTV5: KCMO partners with Walmart for multi-week vaccination event
KMBC: Kansas City, Missouri, Walmart partner on targeted, multi-week COVID-19 vaccination event
Developing . . .
An upscale local establishment relocates to the Golden Ghetto as the KCMO restaurant industry continues to feud with city hall and the culture war street art a few blocks away obviously didn't attract big money customers.
Read more . . .
Brookside restaurant closes, temporarily moves to Johnson County
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Brookside restaurant has closed its doors after 15 years and temporarily relocated to Johnson County. Avenues Bistro, which opened in 2006 at 338 W. 63rd St., recently closed. Chef and owner Joe Birch said the restaurant has moved to a location in Merriam, where it continues to do takeout and curbside orders.
In one instance this local is charged with making terrorist threats. In the latest police report witnesses describe erratic behavior, yelling and a baseball bat.
Check more deets and the mugshot . . .
Independence man in custody for second incident at Independence Center
INDEPENDENCE, MO (KCTV) - Sunday night, a man has been taken into custody for the second time within two months after causing a chaotic scene at Independence Center. Police responded to Dicks Sporting Goods inside Independence Center after it was reported that Rayvon Lewis was armed with a bat from the store and screaming at people.