News & Issues
The Star Turns Lights Out after More Than a Century at 1729 Grand
By Kevin Collison More than a century of newspaper history ends today when The Kansas City Star staff moves from its historic quarters at 1729 Grand into new space in the Press Pavilion across McGee Street. The Star’s local management, as has been the case since the real estate transaction was first publicized in March 2017,…
Bird Arrives Downtown, ‘Lil Lectric’ Scooters Not Without Controversy
By Kevin Collison The Bird quietly scooted into downtown Kansas City Wednesday, a new smartphone-based personal transportation method that like its predecessors Lyft and Uber, is not without controversy elsewhere. The dock-free electric scooters, which are rented using a smartphone app, are billed as an ideal way for people to roll that last few blocks…
Savoy Bar and Restaurant Reopens Blending Old and New
By Kevin Collison One of downtown Kansas City’s best-known landmarks, the Savoy Grill, reopened last week with the historic furnishings of the original bar intact and a contemporary makeover to the adjoining dining room. “It was a design challenge, taking a beloved space and updating it for contemporary use,” said Molly Swyers, chief brand officer…
Don’t Count Out Human Workers Just Yet
“Robots may be taking over the world, but there’s got to be someone who builds them,” Meg Reinhardt says. And, thanks to on-the-job training she began in high school, Reinhardt plans to be one of the people who keep those robots going. Think you need a four-year college degree for that? Well, think again. Reinhardt,…
Folk Alliance Relocating to Crossroads Arts District
By Kevin Collison The Folk Alliance International is relocating its offices from the River Market to the new Crossroads Westside apartment development and opening a small performance space there as well. The nonprofit, which moved its headquarters here from Memphis in 2013, was offered space in Crossroads Westside in a special deal to fulfill a pledge…