Kansas City Weekly Power Rankings

In a week marked by protest on a myriad of local issues, we pick out the locals who stood out from the crowd and demonstrated the greatest influence in Kansas City this week . . . Checkit:

Council Lady Kathryn Shields


In no uncertain terms, she pushed back Downtown Kansas City corporate welfare . . . At least for this week:

“I think it’s time for the developer to really go back to the drawing board and really come up with a different model,” Councilwoman Katheryn Shields said.

And so KCMO taxpayers get a reprieve from a speculative office building project.

Councilman Lee Barnes


Councilman Lee Barnes is the chair of the Neighborhood, Planning & Development Committee, which discussed a controversial neighborhood ordinance Wednesday.

"We want to spur density, but we want to do it in the right way,” Barnes said. “That's one of the major impacts of what we're trying to accomplish." "It's one of those ordinances that our community wants to make sure that we get right,” Barnes said.

The debate will continue for another week . . .

Fairfax UAW Strikers


This week they battled the heat and rumors of a Presidential fix. Either way these strikers lead the local discourse when it comes to working class life and the struggle to survive despite growing economic hardship.

And So . . . 



This list has been compiled according to scientific TKC polling and market research data and it's a weekly comprehensive guide to local powerful people, trends and our times.

You decide . . .

Santa Trains For Tragedy In Kansas City

Kansas City sign of the times as the holidays approach . . .

33 Mr. and Mrs. Clauses are participating in the training, which covers grief, autism and post-traumatic stress disorder in children and military veterans.

Read more . . .

Santas nationwide meet in to KC for special training

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - The holidays are still a few months away, but the time has arrived for Santas to get ready. In fact, Mr. and Mrs. Clauses from all over the nation are getting ready right here in the Kansas City area.

Kansas City Artsy Weekend Guide

A glimpse at social life and hipster activities for all of those middle-class denizens looking to push back their progress during the week. Read more:

Weekend Possibilities | Plaza Art Fair, Troostapalooza And Chiefs Watch Parties

There are about 48 hours between leaving work on Friday and the time you start thinking about work once again on Sunday night. Weekend Possibilities is your roadmap for food, drinks and fun for the perfect Kansas City weekend. 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

JACKSON COUNTY PROSECUTOR & COMBAT FIRE BACK: ANY ERROR WOULD BE THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S ERROR!!!

The Courthouse war of words continues into Friday night . . . Following a statement from the Exec on his criticism of a recent report and demand for retraction ... His colleagues offer a strident response.

To wit . . .

AMID COMBAT REPORT CRISIS: JACKSON COUNTY PROSECUTOR MEAN JEAN PETER BACKER PUT BLAME ON EXEC FRANK WHITE FOR ANY ERRORS!!!

Here's the word:

Prosecutor and COMBAT's statement on BKD audit

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker and COMBAT Director Vince Ortega issued this statement this evening regarding a press statement made today by County Executive Frank White's office.

In our own meeting this afternoon with BKD, BKD confirmed that the only specific alleged inaccuracy identified by County Executive Frank White's office was information given to them by the County Executive's office. So any error would be the County Executive's error.

BKD was always aware that the report was being released once it was final because it was a public record regarding public funds. We advised them it would be released within days of it becoming final. And we made clear it would be released without redactions. We also advised them once the report was released.

It was important to the integrity of this report that other county departments were not given the opportunity to scrub, redact or delay this report, as has been practiced in some county departments. You should be reminded that the County Executive's office heavily redacted a consultant's report on the poor conditions at the Jackson County Detention Center and sought to seal documents that supported a grand jury's report on conditions at the jail.

We will review any other specific allegations of any error with our auditors.
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Developing . . .

TKC BREAKING NEWS!!! JACKSON COUNTY EXECUTIVE FRANK WHITE CALLS FOR RETRACTION OF COMBAT REPORT!!!

The Courthouse leader makes a bold argument in this Friday statement and sends word to County lawyers questioning their work and tactics.

To wit . . .

JACKSON COUNTY EXEC FRANK WHITE FINDS FAULT WITH THE RECENT REPORT CRITICAL COMBAT ANTI-CRIME TAX MANAGEMENT AND CHALLENGES THE MANNER IN WHICH IT WAS RELEASED!!!



There's also an interesting passage wherein Exec White notes that the report wasn't supposed to be shared as he references the Prosecutor.



Here's the official word FIRST on TKC . . .

Jackson County Executive requests retraction of COMBAT report

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has sent a letter today requesting BKD, LLP to immediately issue a public statement retracting their report regarding the County’s public safety sales tax, commonly known as COMBAT.

The letter comes after a meeting this morning between County staff and BKD representatives about the numerous inaccuracies, omissions and misleading statements within the published report.

During this morning’s meeting, County staff pointed out dozens of errors included in the report that could have been avoided had BKD simply consulted and involved the Executive’s Office in the process. County staff were informed today that the report released earlier this week was actually the fourth draft provided to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, with the first being provided in May. BKD stated that they had assumed the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office was sharing those earlier drafts with the appropriate people to ensure the information was accurate. In addition, BKD acknowledged errors in the report, including their failure to accurately update revenue numbers that were included in the County’s annual audit, which notably, was also performed by BKD.

“While I appreciate BKD’s acknowledgment of some of the serious errors in their report, that alone will not undo the damage that the public release of this misinformation has done.” White said. “The people of Jackson County should be able to rely on the facts contained in reports like this, but unfortunately, politics always seems to trump the facts in Jackson County.”

Numerous times in the report it states that the COMBAT administration was not consulted about the decisions being made, but shockingly, the COMBAT administration during that time period was never contacted by BKD to ask if that was true.

County staff were also alarmed to hear that despite the report’s very first page stating that the report was not to be released nor referenced without both BKD’s review and approval, including the posting of the report on any website, that the Prosecuting Attorney had failed to do so prior to her releasing the report.

County staff continue to review the report for additional errors and are committed to working with BKD, and others, to ensure that all inaccurate information is corrected. Until that time, the County Executive says the community should not rely upon the contents of the report.

A copy of the letter to BKD is attached.
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Update and more context:

Prosecutor and COMBAT's statement on BKD audit

Developing . . .

Kansas City Illegal Dumping Explained

An important behind the scenes report offers one of many reasons why this town remains a hot mess. Read more:

Fire cleanup on Troost may have led to illegal dumping

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City, Missouri, officials are investigating a case of illegal dumping near a building that burned earlier this month. According to the city's Neighborhoods and Housing Services department, an area at 3222 Troost Ave. is one of the city's worst illegal dumping sites. On Sept.

Jackson County Assessment Appeal Help

A continued effort to keep broke-ass denizens of the public in their homes. Take a look:

Jackson County homeowner digs into assessment, discovers errors; here's how you can do the same

JACKSON COUNTY, MO (KCTV) -- William Mashburn is a father of three. He's lived in Jackson County all of his life. We found his emails to the county buried among the thousands of other emails we reviewed. His recent assessment increased 43%.

The Kansas City Friday Roundup

Quick look at the nicer news for our Friday clock watchers . . .

SawFirst: Elsa Hosk in Victoria’s Secret Lingerie Photoshoot

Yahoo: Victoria's Secret Launches Exclusive Lingerie Collection with For Love & Lemons

Market Watch: Victoria’s Secret will offer fewer discounts, which will make the brand turnaround tough

Closer to home, these news links start the weekend:

Kansas City Weekend Carby Goodness Comeback

Kansas City bagel shop creates red and gold bagels for Chiefs home opener

The Kansas City Chiefs are set to host their first home game of the NFL season this weekend, and to celebrate, a bagel shop in the city is offering bagels based on the team's colors. Meshuggah Bagels, which has several locations throughout the Kansas City area, is rolling out Chiefs bagels twisted with red and gold.

Arrowhead Sneak Peek

What you'll notice this season at Arrowhead

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - When the Kansas City Chiefs host their first home game of the 2019 NFL regular season this Sunday, fans will notice quite a few improvements around Arrowhead Stadium aimed at enhancing the game day experience. From increased security efficiency to more variety in the food, here's a breakdown of what's new at Arrowhead in 2019.

Nicest News Of The Week

Cover Story: Dog heaven is a place (and it's called Bar K) - Kansas City Business Journal

Bar K creates a pack all its own by blending a bar for humans and a park for dogs and fun for both, while unleashing unique connections for sponsors. An industry publication dubbed the facility, near Berkley Riverfront Park, "America's Coolest Pet Business."

Sunday Traffic Warning

Construction will impact routes to Arrowhead Stadium Sunday

DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE FOR DRIVERS THIS SEASON. ALL THE CONSTRUCTION AT THE STADIUM INTERCHANGE. THERE ARE GAMEDAY SPECIFIC CHANGES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT. IF YOU'RE HEADING SOUTH ON 43 TO GET TO ARROWHEAD YOU'LL SEE THE BIGGEST CHANGE IF YOU'RE USING GATES THREE AND 4, YOU'LL BE DIRECTED OFF AT 40 HIGHWAY.

Fanboys Take Stock

Chiefs Market Movers after the victory against the Raiders

If you missed last week's opening edition of Market Movers , here's what were doing: Each week, we look for Kansas City Chiefs players that have improved their standing (Bulls) and those that have declined (Bears). Not every player will move up or down each week, of course.

Kansas City Stays Winning Silly Hipster Bar Sports

Prime Time for Pickleball in Kansas City

It's 2 p.m. on a Wednesday in North Kansas City. Summer's tail end brushes the heartland with what feels like an overdue 90-degree day. The streets are mostly quiet. Aside from a few late lunch goers getting back to work, the only noise is coming from Chicken N Pickle.

Forecast For Now

Rain, thunderstorms likely through Sunday

GATES 3 AND 4, USE THE MANCHESTER TRAFFICWAY EXIT. DONNA: AND IF YOU DON'T HAVE THAT ALL MEMORIZED, JOHNNY ROWLANDS WILL HELP YOU THROUGH IT SUNDAY MORNING. A LOT GOING ON THIS WEEKEND. THE GATES OPEN UP AT 7:00 -- I AM CONCERNED WITH HEAVY RAINFALL DURING THAT TIME, STREET FLOODING, LOCALIZED FLOODING, FOLKS GETTING OUT THERE EARLY IN THE MORNING.

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

COURT RULING DECLARES: WOMEN FREE TO GO TOPLESS IN KANSAS!!!

A legal victory for us all . . .

"Since the 10th Circuit encompasses six states — Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, Kansas and Oklahoma — the decision means it is now illegal for any town in those states to create a law forbidding public toplessness."

Read more:

Women can now publicly go topless in 6 states, thanks to federal ruling

Women in six U.S. states are now effectively allowed to be topless in public, according to a new ruling by the U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. The decision stems from a multiyear legal battle in Fort Collins, Colo., where a city ordinance forbidding women from going shirtless in public has now officially been ruled unconstitutional.

Show-Me Sen. Hawley Surprising Zuck?!?!

The Missouri politico is taking a victory lap on a friendly news outlet after the social media pioneer was polite enough to pay him a visit on the Hill yesterday. Take a look:

Sen. Hawley: Zuckerberg was 'stunned' when I called for third-party audit of Facebook on alleged bias

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley outlined Friday his tough questions for Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg on censorship and privacy on the social media platform, calling for the company to "take real action." "I told Zuckerberg that if he wants to get serious about censorship and proving that Facebook isn't biased, he ought to submit to an independent third-party audit," Hawley told "America's Newsroom."

Rock Chalk Crackdown Coming Soon???

More sports regulatory drama on the way against this b-ball powerhouse, here's the tease . . .

Report: NCAA to detail violation allegations in KU men's basketball program

Stay with KMBC.com for updates {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied! Report: NCAA to detail violation allegations in KU men's basketball program Stay with KMBC.com for updates {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied!

TKC MUST SEE!!! KANSAS CITY KEMPER MUSEUM OF ART INVITES ARTSY LATINX PROTESTERS TO SHARE THE LOVE!!!

Some of the most AWESOME TKC TIPSTERS share this fair use shot of local "LatinX" (ugh) and progressive protesters continuing their crusade against an ultra rich Kansas City family who actually subsidizes a great many artists up in arms against a connection to private prisons that help out La Migra.

This topic (that didn't really garner much traction in the local media) is apropos for this artsy weekend even if there is nothing more genteel and meaningless than an approved artsy display of political angst wherein patrons encourage the alleged discontent and dialogue . . .

Context: Most dudes make this mistake when they ask a lady friend or wife: "What's wrong?"

You decide . . . More important stuff in a bit . . .

TKC Warning: Anti-Gun Crusader David Hogg Will Give KU Talk And Critics Will Lose Their Job If They Publicly Disagree With Him

It would be unwise to forget this recent news story and headline for context . . .

KCTV5: Principal put on leave over gun tweet no longer with Platte County School District

Readers can't say they weren't warned about cancel culture and the tragic fact that THEY can always find somebody else to make the donuts.

And so, because we value all opinions, perspectives and superstitions . . . TKC advises to HOLD YOUR WATER on this debate and realize that social media spewing might feel good but needs to be strategic and tempered with caution.

Personally, because this blog loves bad theater and DOESN'T want to get shipped to Guantanamo Bay, we look forward to listening respectfully to the dude's comments and all of the awesome insights the 19-year-old has to share with the plebs. Checkit:

Parkland shooting survivor, gun-control activist David Hogg to deliver lecture at KU

HAMPSHIRE STUDENTS TO MOBILIZE, ORGANIZE AND MAKE NOISE BEFORE IT HAPPENS HERE.THE MASS SHOOTING AT MARJORY STONEMAN HIGH SCHOOL WAS JUST 16 MONTHS AGO- HOGG SAYS IT'S STILL RAW . THE TRAGEDY SPARKED THE CREATION OF MARCH FOR OUR LIVES URGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO ENGAGE IN THE POLITICAL SYSTEM.

Kansas City Hobo Grenade Was For Realz

It's important to break down stereotypes . . . TKC mistakenly thought our lovable scamps on local streets were only armed with rusty spoons and crazy stories . . . Turns out they're carrying heavy artillery sometimes. Checkit:

Grenade found downtown Kansas City was live, found in homeless person's belongings

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A grenade that was found downtown on Sept. 18 was live, police said. Kansas City police said that the grenade was found in a pile of belongings that appeared to belong to someone who was homeless, they said in a tweet. They are not sure who left it there.

Kansas City Star FINALLY Notices Jackson County Exec Frank White Missing In Action

We talked about his silence on Tuesday and now the paper-of-record confirms our reporting, again. Checkit:

County Executive Frank White misused anti-crime tax dollars. And now he's hiding?

September file video -- Jackson County Executive Frank White accused legislators Monday of treating his appointment of a new COMBAT director as a 'political football.' Legislators accused him of shutting them out of the process.

TKC BREAKING NEWS!!! METRO COUNCIL MEMBERS ENDORSE GREEN NEW DEAL AND JOIN KANSAS CITY CLIMATE STRIKE!!!

Today a sizable gathering of Kansas City young people inspired by Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez rally for change in policy and to raise awareness on climate issues. Members of council from both KCMO & JoCo also offer their support . . .

More to the point and our EXCLUSIVE this morning . . .

COUNCIL DUDES JOIN KANSAS CITY CLIMATE STRIKE & ENDORSE GREEN NEW DEAL!!!

Here's the word FIRST ON TKC . . .

Young people with Sunrise Movement Kansas City strike from classes, workplaces as part of global call for climate action, Kansas City Councilman Eric Bunch and Overland Park City Councilman Logan Heley join them, among others, and back local Green New Deal



Kansas City, Missouri - Hundreds of young people with the Sunrise Movement and other organizations left their classrooms and workplaces today to meet-up at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and march to the nearby rally at Brush Creek/Theis Park. Local members of Sunrise Kansas City will join millions of young people striking around the globe to call upon the political and media establishment to take action on the greatest existential threat of our time.

“Climate change is the biggest threat to humanity. It is on us to move forward and push for change in all aspects of our lives. We must support big and bold initiatives like the Green New Deal,” UMKC Student Body President Justice Horn will say. At the rally, Horn will also push for the University of Missouri system to Divest its $13 million of fossil fuel holdings.



The 11AM student rally is one of thousands of strikes taking place across the U.S. At the rally, young members will demand a regional and federal Green New Deal, a city climate emergency declaration, and a just transition for frontline communities.

“We need justice for minority groups and those in poverty who will be most affected by the severe natural disasters. We need justice for the workers who will need new jobs once fossil fuels can no longer be obtained. The Green New Deal will ensure that no one is left behind,” 17 year-old St. Teresa’s Academy student Kailee Ford will say.

At 5PM, adults from many organizations in the Kansas City Climate Strike coalition will join the Sunrise Movement for a second mass rally at Mill Creek Park on the Plaza. The coalition will include The Sierra Club, Extinction Rebellion, MoveOn, Indivisible, 350, the Service Employees International Union Local 1, Missouri Interfaith Power & Light, Fossil Free UMKC, KC Vegans for Climate Justice, Climate Council of Greater Kansas City, Bridging the Gap, Kansas City Tenants, the UMKC Geology Club, StandUp KC, UMKC Women in Science, the Battery Tour, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City Mountain Movers, March for Our Lives Kansas City, and the Metropolitan Energy Center.

This large coalition will deliver a swath of messages related to the climate crisis before marching on the Country Club Plaza. Some, like Grandview resident Craig Hewitt, 23, from Kansas City’s Extinction Rebellion chapter, will call for increased urgency from the news media.

“Media outlets seriously need to raise more awareness on the Climate Crisis. This is about the future of our species,” Hewitt will say.



At the 5PM rally, 4th District Kansas City Councilman Eric Bunch, and Ward 1 Overland Park City Councilman Logan Heley will join the organizations and speak at the rally. Both politicians will be the first on the local level back the Green New Deal, responding to the many demands of their constituents in Missouri and Kansas respectively.

“We demand the next president of the United States to prioritize solving the climate crisis by enacting a Green New Deal as their first job. We demand that our congresspeople take the Green New Deal pledge & reject any fossil fuel money. And we demand our local, elected officials: governors, mayors, state legislators, and city council members to stand with us in declaring a climate emergency and implementing a Green New Deal for Kansas City and Missouri,” Missouri State University graduate student and Kansas City-native Amy Ramirez will say.



“No more injustice, no more destruction, and no more corruption. Today we strike for First Nations people to call for respect of indigenous land. We strike for frontline communities who have been displaced and/or hurt by climate injustice. We strike for our lands and oceans to protect biodiversity. We strike for workers, families, minority communities, plants, animals, and future generations to achieve the future we know that we can have,” Amy will add.
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Developing . . .

Kansas City Tivoli Grindhouse Redux

It's not really the same, the locale is not really as comfortably sleazy but survival and high art fare is close enough for most cinema lovers in an era when Netflix is really America's movie screen . . . Take a look:

Kansas City's Tivoli Theater Gets A Hollywood Ending, Will Re-Open At The Nelson-Atkins Museum

When Kansas City's oldest independent theater closed in April after nearly 40 years in Westport, Tivoli Cinemas owner Jerry Harrington said he didn't expect it to open again. "No, I did not," said Harrington. "I really thought I was retired."

Countdown To Jackson County Exec Frank White Resignation???

A common refrain from Courthouse Insiders on the antics of the current Administration:

“This is just arrogance and reckless spending of the taxpayer money that it`s wrong," said Jackson County Legislative Chair Theresa Galvin.

Meanwhile, more patient onlookers know the current Administration is on borrowed time. And we wait . . .

Read more:

Jackson County official reacts to alarming audit of crime fighting program

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- As FOX4 first reported Wednesday, an audit of the Jackson County crime fighting unit COMBAT shows misuse of voter approved sales tax funds. Shortly after assuming responsibility for combat in January, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker ordered an outside audit of the program.

KANSAS CITY WON'T GET MISSOURI STATE TROOPER HELP TO FIGHT RISING CRIME!!!

Missouri State Troopers are on the way to cope with rising crime in STL but they won't be making a stop in KCMO.

Checkit:

Gov. Parson announces focused on curbing crime in St. Louis area, not Kansas City

Deets:

So, why isn't the governor in the KC area announcing a similar plan?

"We've got a very serious crime problem," Mayor Quinton Lucas said. "St. Louis has a slightly more serious one, particularly given its small population."

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department's crime statistics page shows 144 homicides in the city, which has a population of roughly 300,000, through Sept. 17.

Meanwhile, KCMO has a population of about 490,000.

Still, Lucas said he has engaged in ongoing conversations with Parson about ways to support investigations and prosecution as well as ensuring adequate funding for social workers and trauma treatment.

Developing . . .

Kansas City Gillham Park Suffers Junkie Litter

Reality check for urban core families as the heroin & opiod epidemic endure and endanger locals who aren't carefully watching every step i.e. everybody.

Read more:

Mom, child discover syringe at Gillham Park playground

There are several open 311 cases dealing with homeless people sleeping around the playground at Gillham Park or trash, including broken glass and used needles, strewn about the grounds. It's a growing concern for parents and a problem for the KCMO Parks and Recreation Department.

Fact: Kansas City Advocates For 'Local Control' Accuse KCPD Of Murder

Irresponsible activists are mixing a push for bad policy with an emotional grief-stricken argument so that they can avoid any tough questions or debate about the wisdom of a move that mostly serves to push KCPD pensions closer to the hands of wasteful 12th & Oak politicos.

And so the plight of this family suffering a tragic loss overwhelms any rational conversation the community deserve to have about local police control.

The tactic is disgraceful, repugnant and uses very real human suffering as a political prop . . . Tragically, local news won't call them out on the disgusting stratagem.

Take a look:

Family Of Man Shot And Killed By Kansas City Police Questions Official Version Of Events

Faith-based advocacy group More2 is demanding justice from the Kansas City Police Department following the fatal police shooting of Terrence Bridges in May. The group is calling for an indictment of the officer who killed him. The KCPD said on May 26, they responded to 911 calls about a domestic violence incident involving a firearm.

Mayor Quinton Lucas Seyz 15-Year-Olds With AR-15s Are A Problem In Kansas City

At the 2-minute mark of this clip the new City Hall honcho offers an "interesting" theory about gun violence in KCMO but then quickly works back to more practical concerns and his recent legislation.

Check the conversation . . .

Mayor Quinton Lucas talks with FOX4 Crime Files about his plans to address violent crime in the city.

You decide . . .

Kobach Earns New York High Rise Fundraising Help From Billionaire And Media Elite

This Kansas firebrand raising big bucks for his Senate campaign in a luxurious NYC locale should remind even the most loyalist hacks that PARTISAN POLITICS IS NOTHING LESS THAN MASS DECEPTION WAGED AGAINST THE WORKING POOR.

Translation: Most American political "heroes" are interchangeable stooges all working for the space monkey in the basement of the White House who REALLY runs things.

Take a look:

PICTURES: Peter Thiel Holds Fundraiser For Kris Kobach at NYC Apartment (Featuring Ann Coulter)

Political figures flocked to the Park Avenue apartment of PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel on Wednesday evening for a fundraiser in support of Republican Kris Kobach's 2020 Senate campaign. The fundraiser for Kobach, who has received support from President Donald Trump on a number of occasions, featured prominent personalities from the who's who of the American conservative scene.

Missouri Bishop Condemns Ultra-Conservative Anti-Immigration Pundit Michelle Malkin

More than 10-years ago the alt-right pundit imagined "reconquista" in order to boost her fortunes over broke-ass Latinos and now she's taking on the Church ito dutifully serve the egos of senior citizen white dudes . . . Not you, you're one of the good ones.

Here's a glimpse inside the crisis of conscience for most Kansas City Conservative Catholics who want to forget that Jesus was a broke-ass refugee who, reportedly, was so down on his luck that his blended family had to sleep in a barn.

Read more:

Missouri Bishop Wants to Gag Michelle Malkin, Squeezes Disavowal From Pro-Life Group

Following noted political commentator and author Michelle Malkin's presentation to the Missouri-based Vitae Foundation, Springfield-Cape Girardeau Bp. Edward Rice succeeded in intimidating the pro-life organization and slurred Malkin for her remarks linking the Catholic Church and illegal immigration. Malkin was the featured speaker at a Vitae Foundation event in Springfield, Missouri, on Aug.

Kansas City Friday Morning News Look

A quick peek at the pop culture scene for the early morning . . .

Peeps: Kim Kardashian Says She 'Started Crying' the Last Time She Saw Saw O.J. Simpson in Public

US: Kim Kardashian, Kanye West Are ‘Over’ Feud With Taylor Swift Despite ‘Rolling Stone’ Interview

OK: Kanye West recently purchased a $14 million home in the state.

Closer to home, these news links inspire our early morning journey . . .

KC Fashionista First Look

RECAP: Opening Night at Kansas City Fashion Week

Last night at Union Station, Kansas City's most influential fashion figures took photos on the red carpet, perused vendor booths and sipped on themed drinks like Five Farms Fashionista and Hussong's Pink Stiletto. Kansas City Fashion Week is here, and the first official night of fall 2019 buzzed with excitement and anticipation of what this season's runway will bring.

Golden Ghetto Anti-Drug Talk

Youth and addiction: An epidemic many are afraid to talk about in the suburbs

LEAWOOD, Kan. -- Some call it an epidemic in the metro's wealthiest county: young people abusing drugs and alcohol in Johnson County. "It was what I did to be OK for a long time," said Sam, who asked that his last name not be used. He started getting high when he was 13 years old.

Kansas City Strike Stories

Former UAW member reflects on 2008 strike in KCK

KANSAS CITY, Ks. - - As the nationwide United Automobile Workers strike stretched into a fourth day Thursday, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly visited with union members on the picket line while calling for a settlement with General Motors.

AX ABOUT THE MENU!!!

Blade & Timber, an Axe-Throwing Experience, Reopens Inside Power & Light District with a Robust Food Menu

Over Labor Day weekend, Blade & Timber, Kansas City's only axe-throwing experience, closed its original West Bottoms location and reopened in a new space inside the Power & Light District in downtown Kansas City.

Local GOAT???

Can Patrick Mahomes be the first to 6K passing yards and 60 TDs?

8:32 AM ET Adam TeicherESPN Staff Writer Close Covered Chiefs for 20 seasons for Kansas City Star Joined ESPN in 2013 KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Patrick Mahomes turned 24 this week, but he's been blowing out the NFL for more than a year now.

Blown Out Last Night

Home runs doom Royals in 8-5 loss

The 2019 Twins have hit more home runs than any team in baseball history. Honestly, we aren't talking about that enough. They hit their record-setting 268th homer on August 31. That is an incredible feat. I think of the Jon Bois video, discussing Rickey Henderson's stolen base record.

Kangaroo City College Rituals

Find your zen with music and meditation on campus

On most days, you can find the rooms in Atterbury Hall hosting student meetings, debates or lectures. Wednesdays in Room 237 however, are not like most days. You'll find the room transformed into a peaceful den. The windows are covered. A circle of lights enclose a circle of yoga mats.

Wafia - Hurts is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now . . .

Kansas City 'Can You See Me?' Painting Exhibit Debuts In Overland Park

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and this recent exhibition speaks to TKC because of it's skill and craftsmanship but mostly because I just like the arrangement of colors . . .

Another decent description which hints at the power that men of good will have when they tell their story honestly . . .

"The six paintings in the Nerman’s Kansas Focus Gallery also deal with racism, and each has a commentary. All the works are single images of African-American men that can be read as self-portraits of the artist, as well as images of men like him."

Take a look:

"Harold D. Smith, Jr.: Can You See Me?," Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art - KC STUDIO

There are only seven paintings in Harold Smith's exhibit "Can You See Me?" but each is so vibrant, mighty, and disturbing that the show feels as expansive as a major museum installation. Smith labors in the trickiest of arenas: he juggles painting, protest and poetry in every artwork. The result?

Choose Your Kansas City Chiefs Poison

From grocery store brand swill to high-calorie craft concoctions . . . Here's how Kansas City fanboys kill brain cells even more effectively. Read more:

What is Your Beer For The Chiefs Tailgate?

Kansas City's source for craft beer info since 2007. Read about events, news, and more from local breweries and bars in the KC metro area.

SATIRICAL FLYING SPAGHETTI MONSTER STAYS WINNING INVOCATION!!!

An EXCELLENT TKC READER notes the local inspiration . . .

"The Flying Spaghetti Monster church, called FSM for short, was formed in 2005 as a response to the Kansas State Board of Education's hearings on evolution in schools. Its founder sent a letter about FSM to argue against teaching creationism in biology classes . . ."

Read more:

'Pastafarian' pastor leads opening prayer before Alaska government meeting

A " Pastafarian" pastor on Tuesday gave an opening prayer on behalf of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster before a local government meeting in Alaska while wearing a colander on his head.

Kansas City Bike/Walk Ruckus Tonight

Quick fun fact about the GOLD STANDARD of KC discourse tonight . . .

KANSAS CITY BIKE/WALK LEADER ERIC ROGERS REFUSED TO ANSWER A DIRECT QUESTION ASKING FOR AN ESTIMATE OF HOW MANY CYCLISTS PEDAL THEIR WAY TO WORK IN THIS COWTOWN!!!

He didn't even bother to ball park it . . . Instead, the politico offered nothing more than a bad joke about math.

And so this local conversation starts with very little insight about the ongoing war for KCMO streets and public funding . . . Take a look:

"Mike Shanin talks to Eric Rogers, Executive Director of BikeWalkKC, about KCMO Master Bike Plan misconceptions. Ron Freeman, Alana Roethle, Theresa Garza and Arthur Benson discuss recent issues for Clay County and Jackson County government, the Kansas GOP decision not to have a caucus in advance of the 2020 presidential election and how Democratic candidates addressed gun control in recent debate."

Take a look:



You decide . . .

ART FAIR SNEAK PEEK: VIOLENCE KILLED KANSAS CITY COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA?!?!

According to the world's most accurate encyclopedia, this longstanding Kansas City entertainment district was established in 1922 by J. C. Nichols and designed architecturally after Seville, Spain, the Plaza comprises high-end retail establishments, restaurants, and entertainment venues, as well as offices.

And now . . .

AHEAD OF ART FAIR 2019 KANSAS CITY MEDIA INDULGES IN PLAZA VIOLENCE AND BIZ PROBLEMS!!!

Here's the latest . . .

KCTV5: Local violence beginning to affect the Plaza’s economy

Money line:

“People just are not patronizing the Country Club Plaza as they had in the past because of past violence."

This is part of ongoing concern about KC violence and tourism -- Fact is, the Plaza has been hurt more than most with big name retailer departures and more generic offerings now dominating so-called "upscale" fare . . .

Timing of MSM interest in the fate of the Plaza has been horrible and might keep even more visitors at bay for the upcoming art fair this weekend.

Developing . . .

JACKSON COUNTY EXEC FRANK WHITE FIRES BACK AGAINST COMBAT AUDIT!!!

More denials from the Courthouse honcho has he uses far too nice "public" radio reporters to get his message across this evening. Take a look:

Jackson County Executive Blasts Audit Alleging Misspent Anti-Drug Money

Jackson County Executive Frank White Thursday blasted the audit of the COMBAT anti-crime tax commissioned by the prosecutor's office. "Unlike numerous members of the media, the County Executive's Office was not provided an advanced copy of the report prior to its public release this (Wednesday) morning," said a statement from White's office emailed Thursday.

Kansas Granny Guv Meets With UAW Strikers

Quick meet & greet and sign of solidarity as this collective bargaining kerfuffle looks like a longer & harder strike than what most auto industry insiders expected . . . Read more:

Kansas governor speaks with local union workers taking part in GM strike

KANSAS CITY, Kan. -- Kansas Governor Laura Kelly visited striking members of UAW Local 31 Thursday. The union, which manufactures cars at the General Motors Fairfax plant in KCK, began its strike earlier this week. Local 31 is asking General Motors for higher pay, better benefits and profit share opportunities.

Kansas City Thursday News Link Pool

We continue #TBT with a close look at an icon and how her hotness has influenced pop culture over the years . . .

Fox News: Demi Moore goes nude on Harper's Bazaar cover, reveals miscarriage, battles with substance abuse

Peeps: Demi Moore, 56, Poses Nude on the Cover of Harper's Bazaar

Harper's: Demi Moore Reveals All

Closer to home, here are the NICER and important news links worth checking tonight . . .

KC Fashionista Tradition

KC Fashion Week celebrates 16 seasons of runway-ready designs

Kansas City, MO - The designers have been selected, the photographers are in place, and the models are ready to strut the runway when the 16th Kansas City Fashion Week kicks off tonight at Union Station. More than two dozen fashion designers from across the country are in Kansas City featuring their Spring and Summer 2020 collections.

Building KCMO Smoke Tech

Kansas City doctor uses "vaping robot" in research

A Kansas City doctor is performing groundbreaking research on vaping, using a robot. KMBC 9 got to go inside his lab for a closer look at his work. Dr. Matthias Salathe spends a lot of time with e-cigarettes. "The notion was it's safe, and frankly we did not believe this," said the pulmonologist.

JoCo Buys NextGen Transit

Johnson County Department of Health leads by example with addition of an all-electric vehicle to the fleet

Olathe, KS - Johnson County Government's vehicle fleet has added its first all-electric vehicle, a Nissan Leaf. The new vehicle will primarily service the Department of Health and Environment's air quality compliance specialist, Mike Boothe, and is the third generation of a series of cars that Boothe has used to start the conversation about how our air quality can be improved by the use of alternative energy.

Local Punt Legend

Dustin Colquitt will break a big Chiefs record on Sunday

On Sunday, punter Dustin Colquitt will play in his 225th regular-season game as a member of the Kansas City Chiefs. Drafted by the team in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, Colquitt, 37, has already played in more games for a single team than any other punter in NFL history.

Perfect Village Rolling

Prairie Village seeks input on Harmon Park skate park design

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The skate park at Prairie Village's Harmon Park is a common hangout spot for many children. The skate park was a grassroots effort by two teenagers in the early 2000s. One of them, Jake Shepard, died from cancer, two years before the project was complete.

Inner-Suburb Booze News

In Focus: Craft Beer Festival of the Lost Township coming to Raytown on Saturday

The fifth annual Craft Beer Festival of the Lost Township is taking place Saturday in Raytown. The event is put together by Crane Brewing Company and Raytown Three Trails Kiwanis. KMBC 9's Cody Holyoke is focusing on the brewery and the event.The event features more than 145 brewers, along with many beers not available in the Kansas City area.

Local Old School Review

Famous appraiser in Kansas City to value the Steamboat Arabia Museum's collection

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- It started off as a hole in the Missouri River, and then the Steamboat Arabia was dug up. Soon, we might know the worth of that treasure trove of historic artifacts. It's called the King Tut's tomb of the Missouri River.

Rainy Weekend Ahead???

Building humidity hints at rain to come this weekend

FORECAST, A 20% CHANCE OF A FEW SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS FOR THE NEXT COUPLE HOURS. WE SHOULD DRY OUT TONIGHT BUT WE DROP CLOSE TO 70 DEGREES. NORMALLY WE SHOULD BE LOWER THAN THAT. LOOKING AT THE TROPICS, HOW THAT IS GOING TO IMPACT US COULD WE HAVE BEEN TALKING ABOUT IT.

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

Downtown Kansas City 'Strata' Stalled

Money line from the real mayor of KCMO:

“I think it’s time for the developer to really go back to the drawing board and really come up with a different model,” Councilwoman Katheryn Shields said.

More here for subscribers . . .

$94 million Strata office tower delayed another week - Kansas City Business Journal

The $94 million Strata office tower hit another roadblock Thursday, as the Kansas City Council delayed taking up the project. The council expressed concerns about the deal the city has struck with a development group led by H&R Block Inc. and Copaken Brooks.

Kansas City Westside History Threatened

#TBT architecture news and insight into another old school building in danger. Take a look:

Historic Westside church on MO endangered building list

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A historic building in Kansas City's Westside neighborhood is in danger of closing if important repairs aren't made. "These are the kinds of spaces and these are the individuals that create the identity of our city," said Cynthia Ammerman, a preservationist with Friends of Sacred Structures.

TKC BREAKING NEWS!!! KANSAS CITY CONGRESSMAN CLEAVER ENDORSES FORMER VP JOE BIDEN FOR PREZ 2020!!!

The Congressman is a proud member of the Democratic Party establishment and this move not only makes sense but signal a clear power move in the lead up to 2020.

This was part of a group endorsement, here's the local angle highlighted . . .

U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri:

“As a pastor, my values, morals, and faith have been a guiding light throughout my life and time in public service. From becoming the first African-American Mayor of Kansas City to becoming a member of Congress, my strong convictions have given me the foundation necessary to fight for jobs, economic development, and housing reform for the people of Missouri. In the same manner, Joe Biden’s convictions have led him to fight for what he believes in and to serve not only the people of Delaware but the nation.

“Democracy is delicate and susceptible to perversion by the powerful. Over the past three years, we—and the entire world—have witnessed an undisguised assault on our democratic institutions. The man entrusted to faithfully execute the laws of our nation has distorted them to protect his own interests at the expense of the American people. The current administration has led our country into a moral darkness and away from the core values that once made America a respected and dignified leader on the world stage.

“The next election is, in many ways, about whether our leader can restore the soul of our nation and re-establish the long held notion that the United States of America is moving welcomingly and indelibly toward a unified nation. Our nation is in dire need of someone like Joe Biden, a leader who has never been afraid to speak out for what he believes is right. Joe Biden has been a champion in fighting for American families for over forty years. And right now, he’s speaking out against the divisive rhetoric and abhorrent behavior we continue to see under this president. We need integrity to be restored in the highest office. That’s why I proudly endorse Joe Biden for President.”
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Developing . . .

Kansas City Should Support Troostapalooza

This is a VERY FUN AND WONDERFUL KANSAS CITY URBAN CORE FAMILY FESTIVAL.

Not really even interested in debating about it . . . It's just a good time and a great daytime event that locals should check out. Here's more info featuring one of KC's very best promoters.

Take a look:

Troostapalooza festival meant to unite on a street that historically divides

Troost Avenue, the road that runs north/south for more than 10 miles through Kansas City, has long been a line that divides it both racially and economically. But today, that line is becoming blurred. That's a big goal of an event this weekend, Troostapalooza.