Best-selling tea towel maker’s business model hangs by this thread: ‘the more I give back, the more I’ll succeed’

​​Elene Banks, founder of Kansas City-based Absorb-Lumen, turned her boutique clothing store into a mission-driven business that puts eco-friendly kitchen essentials in the spotlight, all while giving back to the community through a charitable business model. “It was a happy accident,” Banks said, “We started a boutique online and tried to carry tea towels from…

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Developers plan to transform historic UMKC building into boutique hotel, spa

Editor’s note: This story was originally published by the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Click here to view the original article. A local group comprised of Sunflower Development Group and hospitality veteran Jen Gulvik has secured permission to proceed with a historic redevelopment project involving one of Kansas City’s most beloved assets: the Epperson House at…

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TikTok ban would mean an ‘astronomical’ change for these Kansas City content creators

Editor’s note: The following story was published by KCUR, Kansas City’s NPR member station, and a fellow member of the KC Media Collective. Click here to read the original story or here to sign up for KCUR’s email newsletter. Video creators around Kansas City are concerned about their livelihoods and Congress’ ability to limit free speech if the Supreme Court…

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Mayor proposes $1M in off-duty LEO pay; River Market eyes ‘witching hours’ security to combat crime wave

An ordinance pushed by Mayor Quinton Lucas would fund extra security services in KCMO business districts through collaboration with regional law enforcement agencies — a move aimed at preventing more thefts, break-ins and vandalism incidents targeted at Kansas City small businesses. Lucas’ proposal would invest up to $1 million to increase the presence of off-duty deputies…

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