Movie Reviews - A Bad Year for Movies

 

Kansas City News - Movie Reviews - A Bad Year for Movies

The year was 2007.  After doing a little Google research I realized that the last good year for big movies was 2007.  In 2007 the hits kept coming and coming - "No Country for Old Men", "Into the Wild", "Superbad" - these were the titles that came out literally one after another.  I remember thinking "man, I can't remember the last time I saw a bad movie".

The same is not true for 2010.  I can't believe how many bad movies I've seen this year.  I want my money back!  Here are some movies that top my list of "holy crap I can't believe I just paid to see this" movies:

Movies I Actually Walked Out On

1.  The Crazies - This movie was mildly interesting for about oh, 20 minutes or so.  It starts off with a great scene at a little league baseball game set in a nice rural town.  A man dressed in farmer garb walks aimlessly through the middle of the outfield wielding a shotgun.  A police officer is at the game, recognizes the old man and tries to call him off.  The old man is obviously deranged and the police officer is forced to shoot him.  And that's the end of the movie.  Just turn it off after this as it turns into the most ignorant sequence of events ever presented on film.  The old man at the baseball game scene is the scene that is in most of the previews - and now I know why - because it's the only good part in the whole movie.

2.  Brooklyn's Finest - Okay, let's take Richard Gere, the most pussy ass actor in Hollywood, and try to make him look tough.  No, and then no again.  Richard Gere should stick to his chick flick roles as the guy that every girl wishes their man resembled, ruining life for us regular guys.  This movie was doomed as soon as they cast Richard Gere.

3.  It's Complicated - Understandably I shouldn't have even tried this one, but it is just what you think it would be.  Old, coffee drinking, wine and cheese breath washed up actors trying to be classy and humorous.  I didn't actually walk out on this one as I fell asleep.

Movies That Only Moderately Sucked

1.  Alice in Wonderland - Johnny Depp is fairly consistant at picking out good scripts.  Knowing that he would probably take this classic tale to the edge, I took a chance.  Although I made it through the whole movie, I honestly can't remember much about it.

2.  Diary of a Wimpy Kid - This movie had every chance at being hilarious.  They could have just borrowed from Malcolm in the Middle's creative core.  But no, this movie is way to P.C. and it has all the flavor of a rice cake.  I thought for sure that it was written by a woman but I was suprised to find that it was indeed written by a guy named Jeff something or other.  Anyway, I was hoping that this movie would be a great salute to classics like "The Wonder Years" and "Malcolm in the Middle", but alas it was not.

Movies That Saved 2010

1.  Shutter Island - Easily the best movie of the year, I can't really go into detail on this one as anything I write will give something away.  Just think of how you felt after you watched "The Sixth Sense" and you've got it.  GREAT movie, even if you don't like Leonardo, trust me, you will like this.

2.  Hot Tub Time Machine - If you were born in the late 60's through the early 70's you will love this ride.  A great throwback movie that even features one of the great 80's movie stars in John Cusack.  Complete with a Poison concert, and set at a ski resort in Colorado, this movie has too many laugh out loud moments to count.

KU Loses to North Dakota State

KU's loss to North Dakota State this past saturday at home in Lawrence was the most embarrassing in the program's history. After the program was elevated to never-before seen heights by winning the Orange Bowl and putting together back-to-back bowl seasons, Turner Gill has almost destroyed everything Mark Mangino built with one swift stroke.

At first I thought I was overreacting, but taking into account KU's opponent, I am confident that this is the lowest KU has ever sunk. North Dakota State is an FCS school, and not even a good one at that. The Bison went 3-8 last year, and lost key playmakers on offense and defense. KU couldn't even score one touchdown against this team? Not one? Absolutely pathetic.

I know KU lost some of the most prolific offensive players in the program's history, but the team still has talent. It has former high recruits all over the offense and every offensive lineman has starting experience. KU should have been able to play its scrubs and still beat this team by two touchdowns.

KU looked unprepared, unmotivated and downright helpless against "mighty" North Dakota State. Turner Gill inherited a team with young talent due to Mark Mangino's best recruiting classes ever before his departure. Gill needs to at least make progress this season and win a few games, or his tenure in Lawrence will be shorter than anyone ever could have guessed.

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Kansas City Water Services Sneaks in Rate Increase

Kansas City Water Services Sneaks in Rate Increase

The Water Department started billing customers monthly last July. To some of you who have never lived in Kansas City, this may not seem unusual. But as long as anyone can remember, the KCMO Water Dept has billed every 2 months. Anyway, they effectively raised the service charge by almost seven dollars per month. I suspect they thought no one would notice. Well people did notice, and they're none too happy. Water officials claim that customers have been been asking for the change to make monthly budgeting easier. Monthly budgeting easier with an almost $7 increase in fees per month?

The Water Department claims that the increase is justified partially because of the increased cost to bill monthly. What? This is the same Water Department logic that has sleeping workers wait for hours for a concrete delivery. I am amazed (but shouldn't be) at the stupidity of this - government in action. Though rates in Kansas City are still very competitive, the fact that the increase was not communicated to the public shows that Water Services Director Terry Leeds is in over his head.

Checkpoints in Kansas City - Labor Day Weekend - Sept 5th

 

Checkpoints in Kansas City - Labor Day Weekend - Sept 5th

As we mentioned earlier in our article about Kansas City DUI Checkpoints, the Kansas City Police Department have made no secrets about the fact that they will be out in force pretty much every weekend conducting checkpoints.

Due to a grant from the Federal Government which was put in place to weed out those driving with suspended licenses or outstanding warrants which most likely stemmed from a fatal car accident that claimed the life of a 12 year old boy on 71 highway (the ghetto highway) and Gregory that involved Clayton R. Dunlap and Damian Slayton, KCPD is now conducting more DUI checkpoints in Kansas City than ever before.  The leftover funding from this grant is now going towards putting up DUI checkpoints pretty much every weekend in Kansas City.

Again, for Labor Day weekend including September 5th and 6th, the most likely dui checkpoint areas in Kansas City will be 77th and Wornall, anywhere on Southwest Trafficway, on Ward Parkway where it splits off into Kansas at 77th Street or where Ward Parkway merges with Wornall Road around 93rd Street.  Avoid Westport all together as it is swarming with ghetto thugs riding around in their stolen cars with "temporary tags" and playing idiotic boom boom music.

Chiefs Beat Packers, Regular Season Prediction

The Kansas City Chiefs finally got a preseason win, beating the Green Bay Packers 17-13 last night at Arrowhead Stadium. The preseason is finally over, which means Kansas City fans can officially look forward to the regular season.

Over the preseason, I felt like I was able to get a good grasp on the Chiefs strengths, weaknesses and possibilities. With that in mind, lets break down the teams game-by-game and take a look at the Cheifs' regular season schedule:

Week 1: San Diego Chargers

The Cheifs will put up a fight, but the Chargers have too much talent on both sides of the ball. LOSS

Week 2: @ Cleveland Browns
Chiefs get revenge from last season's debacle and hang on to win a close road victory

WIN

Week 3: San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have too much talent on defense, and Alex Smith may have moved past Matt Cassel in the QB picking order of the NFL. Sad isn't it?

LOSS

Week 5: @ Indianapolis Colts
This game is terrifying

LOSS

Week 6: @ Houston Texans
The Texans simply have a little more talent on both sides of the ball.
LOSS

Week 7: Jacksonville Jaguars
Kansas City matches up well with the Jags on defense. The offense and special teams should make the difference.
WIN

Week 8: Buffalo Bills
Chambers doesn't drop the sure touchdown this time. Kansas City simply has the better team
WIN

Week 9: # Oakland
Raiders finally have a decent quarterback. Feeling a split this year with the Raiders.
LOSS

Week 10: @ Denver
Mile High has been a house of horrors for the Chiefs
LOSS

Week 11: Arizona Cardinals
Matt Cassel will look like a superstar compared to the mess at QB for Arizona.
WIN

Week 12: @ Seattle Seahawks
The Seabirds lack talent, and seem to be hampered by injuries every year. This game is late, so...

WIN

Week 13: Denver Broncos
Chiefs repeat last year's home finale by running all over Denver again. Not even this guy will save the donkeys.
WIN

Week 14: @ San Diego Chargers
Meh
LOSS

Week 15: @ St. Louis Rams
You and I could lineup for WR for the Rams. Seriously lets do it.
WIN

Week 16: Tennessee Titans
Chiefs will struggle to stop the Titans potent ground attack
WIN

Week 17: Oakland Raiders

Last time I checked, Al Davis still owns this team.
WIN

All in all, the Cheifs have a very easy schedule (most pundits have deemed it the easiest schedule in the league) and have the chance to be competitive. If Cassel can recover from a poor preseason and the defense keeps improving, Kansas City will have a shot.

Man Shot and Killed by Store Clerk in Kansas City

Man Shot and Killed by Store Clerk in Kansas City

For the second time this week, a disturbance at a local Shell Station has lead to gunshots. The gas station and convenience store located at 5501 Bannister Rd in Kansas City was the scene of a fatal shooting last night. Police responded to a disturbance call at the location that was quickly upgraded to a shooting around 7PM on Friday. A witness described the victim as "acting crazy", throwing things and generally tearing the place up before the clerk took action. The clerk reportedly tasered the man before shooting him. Police arrived to find the man bleeding just outside the door of the store. He later died at the hospital.

Early Wednesday morning, cops were called to the same station. Two armed men tried to hold up the store. A clerk (we don't know if it was the same one involved in last nights incident), pulled a gun from his waistband and fired several shots. The would be robbers fled and have not been arrested. One of the men may have been shot.

I think the message has been sent to would be robbers and other dirt bags. Do not pull any shenanigans at the Shell Station at 5501 Bannister Rd. They are packin' and not afraid to spray a little lead. One more piece of trash cleaned off the street.

KC Irish Fest Kicks off Today at Crown Center

KC Irish Fest Kicks off Today at Crown Center

Friday marks the beginning of this year's Irish Fest at Crown Center. This will be the Eighth year for the annual event. The fun starts at 5PM on Friday and continues through Sunday evening starting at 11AM on Sat & Sun. It runs until 11PM each night. There will be shops and food vendors, and of course green beer! Tickets are available at Hy-Vee or at the gate ($15 each, kids 12 & under, Free).

New for this year, Quixotic will perform on Saturday night at 9PM. They blend music, dance, and aerialists in their performance. I think of a Cirque de Soliel type of show (though I have never seen Quixotic). If you can't make it to the Irish Fest, there is live streaming available at the festival website. The Heritage stage has activities and classes relating to Irish Heritage. You can learn how to brew beer, dance the Riverdance, or how to play traditional Irish games. The Red Hot Chili Pipers are also new this year. The eight piece band plays something know as "bagrock" - Think Classic rock on the bagpipes - awesome! They won the British show When Will I Be Famous.

For the little ones, there is a children's area. The theme this year is Halloween - it was invented by the Irish you know. A kids' entertainment stage will run every day until evening as well with acts such as The Toe Jam Puppet Band and The Mad Scientist.

Massive Crashes on I-70

Kansas City police and rescue workers had their hands full last night, with a multiple vehicle crash taking place on I-70 east of the sports complex. The accidents occured when Chiefs fans were on their way to Arrowhead Stadium before the Chiefs' final preseason game against the Green Bay Packers. The pileup comes on the heels of Kansas roads being named third best in the nation.


Around 12 vehicles were estimated to have been in a single crash, which occured on I-70 near Pittman road. The crash closed the eastbound lanes on I-70, and several people were taken to the hospital for injuries. Reports now indicate that traffic is flowing freely again, however there has been no news on the injuries.

Given the chaotic nature of driving to and from football games, it is surprising that incidents like the one that happened last night are not frequent. Traffic is intense, people are continuously trying to move into a better position and alcohol is often involved. Hopefully this crash will make Cheifs and Royals' fans more cautious when driving to and from the stadium.

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Andy Roddick Goes Nuts at US Open

Andy Roddick bowed out of the US Open at the earliest stage of his career, falling to unseeded Janko Tipsarevic 3-6, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) in the second round last night. Roddick looked flat, berated a lineswoman for several games and then turned his frustrations on to the head official. It was a sad display from the world’s former number one player, who may never recover from losing his epic Wimbledon final against Roger Federer last year.

Roddick’s reaction to a correctly called foot fault was uncomfortable to downright embarrassing. Rather than focus on the task at hand, he continued to argue and berate both the lineswoman and the head official. Roddick improved his play after the incident, but was no match for Tipsarevic who played very well and kept Roddick on his heals all night. Roddick looked flat, going through the motions more than trying to win the match. By the time he started playing better, it was too late.

The poor play and embarrassing outbursts has been a continuing trend for Roddick this year. He has never recovered mentally from losing the marathon final against Federer at Wimbledon last summer, and if his recent play is any indication, he never will. Roddick has won a grand slam and had a great career (he also has a hot wife in case you wondering), but it is time for the next great American player(s) to step up.

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Derrick Washington Kicked Off Mizzou Football Team

Derrick Washington Kicked Off Mizzou Football Team

On Wednesday, the Missouri Football Program announced the permanent suspension of Starting Tailback and team co-captain Derrick Washington. Washington was the leading rusher the last two seasons for the Tigers. This all stems from a Class C Felony Deviant Sexual Assault Charge. I don't want to get into details, but Washington is displaying the offending (allegedly) appendage in the picture to the right. The incident is alleged to have happened on the morning of this past June 19th. Though Washington will not touch the field again for Mizzou, he will be allowed to retain his scholarship if he remains enrolled in the University.

This is a somewhat surprising move for the program to remove a player who has not yet been convicted of a crime. Either Missouri officials know more about the incident than the rest of us, or they are assuming no resolution will be met in time for Washington to play this season. I applaud them for their quick decision, and for not revoking his scholarship. With the other legal problems facing members of the Tiger football program, this incident cannot linger on to further tarnish Coach Gary Pinkel's outstanding reputation or serve as a distraction for the team.

Missouri opens their season Saturday at 11:30 against the Fighting Illini in St Louis. Sophomore Kendial Lawrence and Junior De'Vion Moore will pick up the slack at tailback.

Man Beats, Robs Blind Uncle

There is low, and then there is really low. Way below that lies where Allen Bennett lies, a man being charged by authorities of robbing and beating his uncle. If you thought that sounded bad, it gets worse: his uncle is legally blind.


Bennett, who looks like the blind beating type, says he did not take part in the beating and has not seen his uncle in months. So we are supposed to believe someone else did this (despite the uncle's testimony)? Committing this horrible action is one thing, but lying about it might even be worse (if that is possible).


Unless it is this guy, the blind must rely on others for help, especially those that are family. I hope that the law gives Allen Bennett a stricter penalty considering that not only did he do something terrible, but he did it to a man who was completly defenseless.

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Kansas City Rockfest to Return to Penn Valley Park

Rockfest 2011 Will be in Penn Valley Park

The Kansas City Parks Board will allow Rockfest to return to Penn Valley Park in 2011. They voted 3-2, narrowly approving a one-year deal for the annual festival promoted by 98.9 The Rock. The Liberty Memorial collects $50,000 for the event, and the Parks Dept another $50,000. Aggie Stackhouse, Board Commissioner and perennial party-pooper, voted against the decision saying 55,000 people is simply too many for the venue.

You may recall, this year's event, headlined by Godsmack, caused quite the controversy. It deteriorated into a Woodstock-like mess as heavy rains inundated the park. Concertgoers reveled in the muddy aftermath, sliding down hills and playing in the mess. Complaints were also aimed at the noise, excessive drinking (what?), and trash left behind. AEG Live, the producer of the event, paid thousands to return the park to its previous condition after the event.

For 2011, AEG has some new rules to work with for the event. Among these, they must come up with a new parking plan to avoid damage from vehicles, provide more security, and fence off the area around the Firefighters' Fountain. The lineup for next year's event has not been announced yet.

Cassel wants more big plays from Chiefs

Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel has gone on record that the chiefs need to throw the ball down the field more, and I couldn't agree more. The Chief's lack of a big play threat has been a big fat albatross hanging on the neck of an offense that has shown promise but has yet to break through and find consistency.

Cassel indicted that part of the Chief's problem was that the team hasn't shown much of its playbook this preseason, although last year's offense hardly struck fear in opposing defenses when it had the ball and was using its full array of plays. Getting the ball to running backs Thomas Jones and Jamaal Charles is the primary focus of the offense, and rightfully so, but the Chiefs must be able to stretch the field to give its backs running room and keep safeties away from the line of scrimmage.

While no one is expecting the Chiefs to put up its Dick Vermeil era numbers, the team will need more points per game while its defense continues to experience growing pains. The problem the Chiefs face is it lacks a Randy Moss type receiver that can stretch the field. Dwayne Bowe has looked promising in spurts, and Chris Chambers can do this. Hopefully Charlie Weiss can use his creativity to keep defenses off guard with a few big plays so Kansas City's real strength, its rushing attack, can be effective.

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Mission Couple Busted for Growing Marijuana

Mission Couple Busted for Growing Marijuana

A Mission Couple was arrested Friday. 300 Marijuana plants were found growing in their home in the 5200 block of Reeds Rd. Todd and Eva Norman both face felony charges of cultivating and selling Marijuana. That is quite an operation, who said dope smokers just sat around all day watching Family Guy Re-runs.

The latest bust comes on the heals of two other very recent drug busts in Johnson County. Last week an Overland Park man was arrested after Sheriff's Deputies found 96 pot plants growing in his house. Joseph Radetsky was charged with cultivating marijuana and not having a tax stamp for his marijuana. Did you know that you have to pay taxes on your marijuana in the state of Kansas? Also this month, a former Johnson County Sheriff's officer was busted for growing Marijuana and Mushrooms in his home.

I don't know what is going on here, in this economy we should be applauding individuals who show an entrepreneurial spirit, not arresting them. At least we got some dangerous drugs off the street, Johnson County is not doubt safer than it was last week. Watch out for those pot heads driving 40mph on 435, Far out man!

Fast-Food Ratings Released

A report today released by the Kansas City Star's financial section detailed the best (and worst) values in the fast-food industry. The survey polled 6,500 people and assembled information on best values, foods and more.

The full report, which can be found here, listed restaurants such as Panera and Chipotle as favorite large chains, while Subway lead the mega chains category. Starbucks lead the fast service category, and P.F. Changs was listed at number one for the full chains.

Many of these winners are no surprise due to its niche and value; Subway attracts both sandwich lovers and those looking for "healthier" options and Starbucks has had a large following for years. Some restaurants that did make the top five surprised me, most notably McDonalds at second place for mega chains. McDonalds is cheap, but it is hardly what comes to mind when I think of quality food on the go. Overall, the list has few surprises, and confirms that Americans mostly love the same fast-food restaurants as they did twenty years ago.

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More Legal Trouble for Mizzou Football Program

More Legal Trouble for Mizzou Football Program

For the fourth time this month, a member of the Missouri Football Program is facing legal trouble. Early Sunday morning, Beau Brinkley, a reserve tight end, long snapper, and Kearney native, was arrested in Columbia on suspension of drunk driving and illegal window tint.

August started with a DWI arrest for assistant coach Bruce Walker (nice example). Personally, I believe he should have been fired immediately. A couple of weeks later, Will Ebner, one of Mizzou's returning Linebackers and likely starter was also arrested for drunk driving. A troubling pattern for MU Football was already emerging when we learned last week that leading rusher and starting tailback Derrick Washington had been suspended indefinitely by the team. We discovered a few days later that a restraining order had been granted by a woman who says Washington Sexually assaulted her. No arrest has been made or charges filed in that case.

The events of this last month are unusual for a Missouri Football program that has been disciplined in the past. Head Coach Gary Pinkel needs to send a strong message to his players and coaches that this will not be tolerated. Missouri will have enough trouble on the field this season as they have been plagued with injuries as well. If nothing else, Mizzou nation can always be comforted by the fact that KU still sucks!

USA Basketball Has Right Attitude at World Basketball Championships

Team USA appears to be looking to send a message to the world that its poor showing in the last World Basketball Championship was a fluke. The Americans crushed Slovenia, 99-77 today to jump out to a 2-0 start. Team USA, which many have deemed the American "B" team due to its lack of high-profile stars such as Kobe Bryant or Lebron James, has looked impressive after appearing to be uninspired in its last WBC outing.

Now at 2-0 following big wins over Slovenia and Croatia, Team USA is looking to do something it hasn't achieved since 1994: win the World Championship. To do so, it will rely on young players that were absent from the United States' gold medal winning squad of 2008. After poor showings in 2002 and 2006, many pundits wrote off this team due to its lack of marquee players and the overall youth. Despite the low expectations, the Americans have looked dominant so far, with Kevin Durant appearing unstoppable at times.

What makes this year's team have a shot at the title is a new attitude. Young, hungry players are exactly what the national team needed for a rejuvenation. Many NBA stars look at the WBC as a secondary event compared to the NBA and the Olympics, and this attitude showed in 2006 when many players seemed disinterested and lethargic on the court. By fielding a team of young, hungry players eager to prove their skill to the world and other NBA players, this team will have a chance to win the WBC and earn an automatic berth into the next summer olympics.

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Most Dangerous Airports - Top 10 Dangerous Landings, Takeoffs

 

Most Dangerous Airports - Top 10 Dangerous Landings, Takeoffs

10.  San Diego Airport - Lindbergh Field

This airline claims the worst aviation accident in the history of California.  In 1978, Pacific Southwest Airlines flight 182 collided with a student driven Cessna 172 in mid air causing both plains to plummet to the ground and killing 144 people including some people that were on the ground.  The reason that San Diego's Lindbergh Field makes it in at our number 10 spot of most dangerous airports is because of the unusually high amount of air traffic that this airport gets each day.  Pilots also complain about the proximity of a large parking garage that sits just 200 yards from the entrance to the runway.

9.  Madeira Airport - Portugal, Spain

In at number nine most dangerous airports is Madeira Airport in Portugal.  In 1977 a 727 overshot the tiny 5000 foot runway at Madeira and fell 130 feet down onto a beach and burst into flames causing 131 fatalities.  Since 1977 Madeira has extended their runway to 9000 feet, however in order to do this they had to extend each end of the runway directly over the ocean.  Pilots know that if they don't hit their mark on the runway they will plunge into the ocean from either direction.
 

8.  Eagle County Airport in Vail, Colorado

Located in a valley to maximize wind challenges, Eagle County Airport is a danger due to surrounding mountains, snow, and most curiously the altitude.  Airplanes lose power in higher altitudes, which is fine when they have reached cruising speed at 30,000 feet but it's bad when they need sudden bursts of power to maneuver a safe landing.  Takeoff is the most challenging for pilots as there is an extremely precise takeoff pattern which navigates them precariously through the mountains.

7.  Courcheval Airport, France

This airport made our top 10 most dangerous airport list because it is basically a giant ski slope.  Only small planes land here so it doesn't make the news every time there's an accident, but there are plenty.  There are some incredible video captures of takeoffs and landings from Courcheval Airport.

6.  Kai Tak Airport Hong Kong

Prior to 1998 when Hong Kong opened their new airport, Kai Tak was a traditionally dangerous airport.  Famous for it's flybys of downtown Hong Kong at 100 feet or less, the buildings around the airport made it impossible for planes to level their wings to land until they got under 300 feet.  There are several incredible photos of giant planes weaving in and out of buildings in downtown Hong Kong while attempting to land at Kai Tak.  In 1993 a 747 skidded across the runway at Kai Tak and landed in a harbour.  While this was a very highly publicized event, there were fortunately no fatalities.

 
5.  Gibralter International Airport
Gibralter airport makes our top 10 most dangerous airports mainly because there is a four lane highway that passes right through the middle of the runway!  There is a stoplight, similar to one you would see at a railroad crossing that shuts down the highway whenever a plane takes off or lands.  This can stop traffic for up to 30 minutes.  The next challenge is the landing.  The rock of Gibralter creates an extremely complex wind circle that can throw the planes around quite a bit when they reach about 300 feet.  The swirling winds are very unpredictable and cause pilots to be on their "A" game every landing at Gibralter.

4.  Princess Julianna Airport at St. Maartin

The airport at St. Maartin is almost like a tourist attraction.  Planes coming in for a landing fly directly over the heads of beach-goers who frequent a local bar known for it's airplane flyovers.  The local beach bar actually puts up a chalkboard sign listing all of the landings so that the customers can get in good position for the planes to fly directly over their heads!  There is also a local custom called "riding the fence" where people grab onto a fence behind the area where the jets take off, wait for the jets to kick into high and then HOLD ON! as the jets propel winds of up to 70 miles per hour.  Pilots of jets have reported seeing people being thrown as far as fifty feet from the fence.  So far no one has been hurt, and it remains a great tourist attraction.

3. Gustaf III Airport - St. Barts

For starters, pilots have to have a special license to even land at this airport!  A short, 12 minute flight from St. Maartin, this 1200 foot runway only hosts planes holding 30 people or less.  There is a pretty cool video of a plane missing the runway and going into the ocean (no one was hurt) but it shows why this is one of the most dangerous airports in the world.

2.  Toncontín International Airport

Toncontin Airport near Honduras is one of the most dangerous airports in the world and was the host to the country's worst aviation disaster.  In 1989, Tan-Sahsa flight 414, a Boeing 727, failed to follow the regimented step-down proceedures while making their descent and smashed into a mountain killing 127 of the 146 passenger on board.  There are extremely precise step down manuevers that are to be followed when landing at Toncontin.  There are several landmarks including a highway, a house with a pool, and most importantly there are two large white arrows on the runway itself.  Pilots must land the plane between the two large arrows or they will go off the end of the runway.  Planes that miss the mark have to re-elevate and come around and try again until they hit the mark.

1.  Lukla Airport - Nepal

Topping our list of most dangerous airports is Lukla Airport in Nepal.  There have been too many crashes at this airport to list.  Lukla has all of the danger factors; mountains, fog, extreme weather conditions, low visability, and if that isn't enough - you only have one chance to land.  Due to the short runway and the mountains immediately at the end of the runway, pilots do not have the option of overshooting the runway and making a second attempt at landing.  Once the initial descent is made to land, you're landing whether you like it or not.  Takeoff is also a challenge due to the ominous mountains at the end of the runway.  Pilots must gain immediate altitude to shoot over the mountains before crashing into the side of them.  The airport is a source to a local village that is extremely primative and relys on the supplies delivered by plane.  When a plane is going to attempt a landing, a siren is sounded warning the locals to clear the runway.

Missouri's "Adult Entertainment" Law Goes In Effect Today

Missouri's "Adult Entertainment" Law Goes In Effect Today

Missouri Republicans are having their way with strippers in the state. This morning at Midnight the new regulations regarding adult businesses in the state of Missouri went into effect. Under the new law, strip clubs must close at midnight, cannot serve alcohol, no full nudity, and touching of semi-nude dancers is prohibited. Adult businesses also cannot be located closer than 1000 feet from schools, libraries, parks, Churches, or daycare centers (this is the only part of the law that makes any sense). Bible thumping geek and Lee's Summit's own Senator Matt Bartle sponsored the bill.

I haven't been to a strip club in years, but this sure sounds like it will take all the fun out of it! I can't for the life of me figure out why this is an important enough issue to spend legislative time on. When will lawmakers realize they cannot legislate morality, and men will want to look at naked chicks, anytime, anywhere. Many of these businesses undoubtedly will shut down (which I believe is Bartle's intention), putting people out of work. That's a great idea in this economy. Now, would I want my daughter to be a stripper? No, but I also wouldn't want her to be a politician.

The legal fight likely will not be over for quite a while, but for now - looky, but no touchy. The "crime" is a misdemeanor and punishable by up to $500 and 90 days in jail. Maybe Bartle can get a member of his congregation a job enforcing this new law.

NFL's Move to an 18 Game Schedule Unfair to Players

By now, most if not all NFL fans have heard of the possible lockout looming for the 2011-2012 season. With the owners likely to force a lockout to gain a more favorable contract, it seems rediculous that they would then force their players to play more games that matter.

Personally, I would love to see the NFL's regular season extend to 18 games. I am a diehard football fan and the more games that matter, the better. Four preseason games seems a bit too much, especially considering that the majority of these games feature backups and players most fans will never see during the regular season. Two more regular season games shortens an already-too-long preseason, will generate more revenue and give me two more Sundays of NFL.

Only problem is, this new format pushed by the owners is hyprocritical given their stance on the labor dispute. To put it simply, the owners want players to make less money and play more regular season games. I know most NFL players live comfortably, but asking a player to risk injury two more times in the regular season with lessl long-term guarantees is unfair.

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Three Trails Crossing Bridge Reopens This Morning

Three Trails Crossing Bridge Reopens This Morning

The Three Trails Crossing Ramp repair has been completed. On July 17th, the approach to a bridge connecting I-470 west to I-435 West collapsed. The Collapse was caused by excessive rain that deteriorated the soil beneath the roadway. This left a huge gap of collapsed road leading to the bridge. Thankfully there were no accidents or injuries caused.

For the last several weeks, drivers from the southern suburbs in Missouri have been subjected to a complicated series of detours that have added many minutes to morning commutes. Engineers and geologists have been studying the collapse and have no definitive answers about a cause.

A 225 foot long bridge extensin was constructed to connect the undamaged roadway to the existing collector bridge to I-435. The project was completed 19 days early and cost 5.2 Million dollars. That figure includes a bonus for finishing early. Maybe the Kansas City Water Department should study this project to improve their efficiency! The phrase "completed early" worries me a little since I have to travel over the repair daily.

Colorado Should Leave the Big 12 ASAP

New reports indicate that Colorado is planning on staying in the Big 12 until the 2012 season, despite Nebraska's plans to leave after this upcomming season. The Buffalos indicated that financial reasons are behind the school's decision to stay put for a few seasons.

Only problem is, Colorado still plans on leaving the Big 12 for the Pac 10 once it gets its financial situation dealt with. The same school that can't afford to fire lame-duck coach Dan Hawkins because the buy-out is too high. My question is: why should the Big 12 let Colorado hang around? Why should it bail out a school who is leaving for "greener" pastures in the Pac 10. Especially a team that constantly finishes at the bottom of the league in the revenue sports.

Think about it this way. If you had a girlfriend who decided to leave you for another man, would you let her stay in your house until her boyfriend was available? This is what Colorado wants to do. Stay in the Big 12 until it is financially stable, then jump to the Pac 10. The Big 12 doesn't owe Colorado anything. Another issue is scheduling; when Nebraska leaves the Big 12 will be at 11 teams. With ten teams, the league can have an even schedule in football and basketball. The Big 12 shouldn't complicate its schedule and prolong the inevitable by letting Colorado hang around an extra year.

The Buffs decided to leave the Big 12 for another conference. The Big 12 should move on and carry on without Colorado after this upcomming season, whether the Buffalos want to or not.

Comments?

New Plan for Polsinelli Shughart Building To Be Unveiled Today

New Plan for Polsinelli Shughart Building To Be Unveiled Today

This afternoon, the Polsineeli Shughart Law firm along with Highwoods (owners of the Plaza), will release the redesign for a new office building. The building, planned at the corner of 47th St and Broadway, would be built where the iconic Balcony Building and Tower now stand. The new design is said to incorporate the current Tower into the new building.

The original design, released last week, has resulted in huge public outcry. The design called for the destruction of the historic Tower and Balcony building that has been a fixture at that corner since the Plaza's early days. Opponents of the plan are pushing to have the Plaza designated as a Kansas City Historical Place (who knew it wasn't already). They say consent of the owner is not required to get such a designation.

It's a shame in this economy that a $57 million dollar project has to run up against these kind of obstacles. It seems about the only projects going these days are government related (road work, sleeping Water Dept workers, etc). Polsinelli and Highwoods at least have the PR savvy to listen to the public outcry and make a change. That is more than can be said for New York City Muslims!

Charles Should Start at Running Back

Chiefs head coach Todd Haley continues to insist that Thomas Jones is the team’s starting running back as the start of the NFL regular season approaches. While Jones has had a steady and productive career, the Chiefs must make Charles its feature back for the offense to be successful this season.

If the Chiefs need convincing, all they need to do is take a look at the Tennessee Titans. After initially splitting carries between Chris Johnson and LenDale White, the Titans gave Johnson the feature back title and he responded by rushing for over 200 yards. The Chiefs are in a familiar situation now, with a steady back in Jones and a home-run hitter in Charles. Last season, Charles rushed for 953 yards over the Chiefs final eight games, and provided an offensive spark the team badly needed.

I was excited that the team signed Jones in the offseason, and am in no way advocating the Chiefs render him meaningless. However, Jones has proven he can produce, and will provide a steady rushing attack should Charles struggle. Let Charles have his chance at feature back, and the Chiefs may find their own Chris Johnson.

Comments?

Kansas City Water Department Workers Caught Napping On The Job

Kansas City Water Department Workers Caught Napping On The Job

A concerned citizen shot cell phone video of Kansas City Water Department employees sleeping on the job Tuesday. When confronted by a man holding a camera, the workers acted as if they had done nothing wrong. When asked if it was against city rules to sleep on the job, the Kansas City Water Department employee stated the he didn't know, but was just waiting on a concrete delivery. They had reportedly been sleeping for several hours after arriving one the job around 8:30 in the morning. Other local residents have also seen this crew sleeping several times before.

This incident highlights citizens' frustration with Kansas City government, and government in general. Scenarios like this most certainly play out day after day in this country. It is most disturbing in this day and age where many think the solutions to our problems lie in government intervention. With tight budgets everywhere, it seems the inefficiency of government operations could, and should be addressed.

Though you might likely take issue with the employees themselves, there is a bigger problem here. If these workers weren't sleeping, they likely would not have been doing anything productive either. The questions needs to be asked, if we are to believe that workers were waiting on a concrete delivery, why on earth does it take all morning to get a load of concrete delivered? In any event there are serious problems at the Kansas City Water Department.

More Construction on the Way for Kansas City

Kansas City residents sick of road construction (like me) will be delighted to hear that the city has announced more construction and road closings into the fall. The ramp from Interstate 635 to Kansas 5 will now be closed late October.

Drivers will be provided with an alternate route southbound I-635 towards Parrallel Parkway and then be forced to turn around and head northbound I-635 to eastbound Kansas 5 (yes it as confusing as it sounds).

As a native of central Illinois, I can applaud Kansas City for taking a proactive stance on its roads to prevent the car-ruining potholes that plague the area I grew up in. However, there is a fine line between maintaining good roads and keeping a city under construction for a decade. Take my daily commute for example: I deal with construction on 69 South from the 135th exit until the highway merges with I-35 every day commuting to work, and face slow delays due to construction on any other highway I may take around Kansas City. Normally I wouldn't have a problem with this, except we have been dealing with this for five years.

Perhaps the funding for repaving our roads every single year could be better allocated, or perhaps construction crews simply are not working fast enough. Despite the reasons, I am one Kansas City resident sick of road construction. Although maybe I deal with it another five strait years I will get used to it.

Comments?

"Driveway Tax" Comes to Mission Kansas

"Driveway Tax" Comes to Mission Kansas - Drive Through Tax

Last week Mission City council passed the so-called "Driveway Tax" to raise revenue for street maintenance. City officials estimate tax bills ranging from around $72 for homeowners up to $64,000 for the Target Super center located in Mission. A drive thru restaurant could pay in the neighborhood of $12,000 annually in the new program. The tax bills are generated by a formula that attempts to estimate the amount of traffic generated by a property to calculate the tax bill.

This form of taxation is new to the Midwest, though it in place in at least 18 municipalities in the state of Oregon. Oregon, however, is one of the few states without a sales tax making a tax like this more necessary. The city says they need the money desperately for deteriorating streets, but residents and business owners say this is the worst time possible for a tax increase.

On Monday, the Kansas chapter of The National Federation of Independent Businesses, issued a statement condemning the new tax that will stifle economic growth. NFIB claims the new tax will directly affect the small business owner, the very people who Kansans are looking to to create jobs. Concern is also growing that this new "drive through tax" would set a precedent for other Kansas cities.