Minority-Led

10 emerging makers compete for cash prizes; AltCap, Strawberry Swing team up for fall showcase

By Tommy Felts / September 30, 2024

Editor’s note: The following story was originally published by AltCap, an ally to underestimated entrepreneurs that offers financing to businesses and communities that traditional lenders do not serve. Amid the historic charm of Alexander Majors Barn, 10 Kansas City-area artisans stepped into the spotlight as AltCap and Strawberry Swing teamed up to host the Emerging…

If you build it, they will come: KC leaders pitch downtown baseball to expats eying a return to home plate

By Tommy Felts / September 24, 2024

Downtown baseball remains a winning prospect for Kansas City — and the Royals — civic and business leaders told a crowd of former residents who are considering a move back to KC, encouraging them to imagine a homecoming of big league proportions. “I think everyone agrees that Major League Baseball is a downtown sport,” Jon Stephens,…

BLK + BRWN owner calls on funders to co-author bookstore’s story of activism for silenced narratives

By Tommy Felts / September 21, 2024

A recently launched crowdfunding campaign to help BLK + BRWN make rent could mean the difference between access and censorship for the community served by the indie bookstore, said Cori Smith. “This is my flavor of activism,” Smith said of BLK + BRWN, the 39th Street business she describes as both a passion project and…

Fresh pour at former Ça Va space: Popular chef takes over Westport hotspot with crisp new Champagne concept

By Tommy Felts / September 21, 2024

Westport Champagne bar and bistro Ça Va closed in March for a quick rebrand. Six months later, a new name, owner and concept are bubbling in the space — with plans to reopen by the holidays.   Chef Amante Domingo — perhaps best known for his Midtown restaurant The Russell — is taking over the spot…