You know the one — it’s kind of hard to miss. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Follow along as we trace the building’s origins and what its latest tenant — an AI data center promising tech hub status for KC — says about the city’s future.
Where it all began
As major interstates I-35 and I-70 snaked their way through Kansas City’s downtown core in the mid 20th century, locals spread out to the surrounding suburbs and left the city center in disrepair. Parking lots, office buildings, and not much else dotted downtown by the 1990s, leaving even cultural institutions like Union Station on the brink of demolition.
Luckily, Y2K ushered in more than just low-rise jeans for Kansas Citians, as locals began to push for major revitalization efforts to the tune of billions of dollars.
The Kansas City Star’s $200 million printing press pavilion was officially christened in 2006. Four state-of-the-art German built printing presses churned out hundreds of thousands of daily editions until news industry upheaval resulted in... well, that’s another story.
Subscriber decline led to the building’s sale in 2019, though the Star continued to lease it until 2021. Since then, the giant green-and-glass monolith has sat more-or-less empty on prime downtown real estate.
Christkindlmarkt | 4-8 p.m. | Shawnee City Hall | Free entry | Celebrate three different Christmas cultures in one event, packed with carolers, holiday treats, and Shawnee’s official tree lighting.
Friday, Nov. 22
Hall of Fame Classic 2024 | 7 p.m. | T-Mobile Center | $26+ | This college basketball doubleheader showcases four tradition-rich programs — Iowa vs. Utah State + Wichita State vs. Saint Louis — as they go head-to-head.
Saturday, Nov. 23
U.S. Masters Brass Band Championships | 10 a.m. | Midwest Trust Center, Overland Park | $15+ | Hosted by KC’s top-ranked Fountain City Brass Band, this event brings together competitors across the country for a day of exceptional artistry + performances.
Lenexa’s Holiday Farmers Market | Saturday, Nov. 23 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Lenexa City Hall | Free entry | Load up on everything from cheesecake and wine to body care products and treats for your favorite pet at this special edition farmers market inside Lenexa City Hall.
Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Walnut Creek Winery, Excelsior Springs | $65 | Play with flowers under the guidance of a seasoned floral designer and leave with a beautiful arrangement to showcase on your Thanksgiving table.
Sunday, Nov. 24
The R&B Brunch & Chiefs Watch Party | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Chicken N Pickle, Overland Park | $10+ | Come early for the brunch buffet and mimosa bar, stay for a Chiefs vs. Panthers watch party with plenty of R&B tunes, dancing, and hyped up fun.
For the Good Times : A Tribute to Kris Kristofferson | 7-11 p.m. | recordBar | $13 | Honor the outlaw country pioneer with an evening of storytelling and song, featuring local artists covering classics like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make it Through the Night.”
KCI’s only nonstop flight to Alabama will take off this spring. Starting Saturday, May 24, Allegiant Air will offer service to Gulf Shores International Airport on Wednesdays and Saturdays — an otherwise lengthy 13-hour road trip for southbound beach goers. (KCBJ)
Civic
Jackson County Legislators have overridden County Executive Frank White’s veto, banning the purchase, possession, or transfer of guns + other weapons by people 21 and under. White responded saying he expects the ordinance to be challenged, referencing a Missouri law passed in 2014 prohibiting local governments from enacting gun policies. (KCUR)
Real Estate
Custom iron work, LaCanche Range from France, cathedral ceilings and wide plank white oak floors — sounds like the European villa of your dreams, right? You don’t have to travel far to live the fantasy at this south JoCo modern English manor, listed for $3,575,000.
Opening
Work on catching nothing but net at Shoot 360, Lenexa’s new tech-focused basketball training center. Upon opening at 17255 College Blvd. later this month, athletes of all ages will be able to brush up on various skills using simulators + one-on-one coaching — even competing in virtual competitions with other Shoot 360 locations. (Johnson County Post)
Drink
For $25 a bottle, you can taste “Tomato Wine by Pizza Hut” — the restaurant chain’s new collab with Lawrence-based Irvine’s Just Beyond Paradise Winery. The unique pairing boasts “an aromatic blend of fresh herbs and spices with rich, sun-ripened tomato notes and a subtle hint of toasted oak,” and is likened to white wine when chilled. (FOX4)
Pets
Get into the howliday spirit during Santa Paws in the Park on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Loose Park. From 2-4 p.m., pups and their humans are invited to enjoy a pet parade, ugly sweater competition, photos with Santa, a DIY Treat Wreath, a Furever Tree, and more. Register for free.*
Shop
A sports gift your kids won’t put down: Dribbleup’s top-selling Smart Basketball. Unlock thousands of interactive drills led by real coaches — it’s 60% off for the holidays.*
The Buy
The Buy
An oversized knit sweater that’s 52% off for Amazon’s early Black Friday sale. Get it in multiple colors, like almond, army green, and rust.
ICYMI — The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium are treating its giraffes’ digs to a $10 million renovation, adding year-round indoor viewing, a giraffe feeding experience, and updated amenities. Completion is expected by summer 2026. What a coincidence...
