Sugar Creek

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe has proposed deep cuts to art funding across the state as part of an austerity initiative emphasizing smaller government and fiscal discipline. Artists and arts advocates say their cultural contributions help drive economic investment.

Some eastern Jackson County residents, frustrated that Kansas City has dominated politics in the county, have been pushing for a "Jackxit." It would be the first time in 150 years that Missouri created a new county, although many elected leaders are skeptical it will gain traction.