Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Independence - "Really?"

When I observed the location of one of the new “Independence – Real People – Real Progress” billboards on 24-Highway, it seem fitting and actually says a lot about our actual progress here in the historic area of town.  It’s adjacent to an unkept lot with overgrown vegetation and code violations, adjacent to the oversized and prominent high-voltage lines that traverse in front of the Truman Library and dissect a National Historic Landmark District, adjacent to a used vehicle lot where vehicles are displayed on grass and gravel, across from the scrap metal dealer where stolen copper lines and bronze artwork end up, a corridor where about 40 businesses have abandon property, and a once prominent corridor that moved wagon trains towards the west that now handles migrant vagrants traveling east from KC.  It’s a street that KC has prominently named “Independence Avenue” but locals here call it by its State Highway 2-digit number.  And to top it off, the PR campaign that brought us this billboard was financed with public funds from our Heritage Tourism budget.  Yes, that’s right, this billboard at this location does send a message.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Signs of End Times

Luke 21:25 – “And there shall be signs ……”  and here they are!  St. Mary’s Catholic has begun marketing their property with these large 2-sided commercial signs.  Three of these signs are prominently posted on three of their four corners of the city block that makes up their church and school buildings embedded in our historic neighborhood.  Not sure if only some or all of their property and buildings are for sale.  Last year, they announced they were closing only their school.  Most churches like to maintain ownership of the property around them for the potential of future expansion or, in at least one case here in the neighborhood, for “self-defense.”  Good luck St. Mary’s.  It was a great 160-year run.  And maybe posting this blog and photo will assist in marketing the project.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Historic First for the Truman Neighborhood

Razor Wire!  Yes, that is right.  The introduction of this architectural element is a first for the Truman National Historic Landmark District, thus making history.  I missed the unveiling ceremony at the First Baptist Church.  It’s my understanding that razor wire and even barbed wire (which they have also) are not legal in residential areas.  The adjacent neighbors have quite a view from the backs of their lots and not to mention that this is what church members see as they enter their building through their main entrance.