What readers had to say about our list of the city’s most powerful people

The Power List 

Our November issue featured a list of the fifty most powerful people in Kansas City, which we defined as having the ability to get big things done through money, connections and charisma. The unranked list included a wide variety of people with pull in this town, from Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes to Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly. Here’s what readers had to say.

“Not sure why people from KU in Lawrence are included. It’s not Kansas City, or even included in the metropolitan area. And why include a basketball coach whose success comes from cheating? I guess this magazine endorses behavior that brings forth an FBI investigation.” — Nick Ewing

“Not sure I’ve ever seen Rev. Adam Hamilton in a bright purple jacket. Definitely sure he should be in this list for much more than his work to hold the denomination together. His heart for this city alone would push him up the list for me. Blessed to have him as my pastor.” —Melanie Hill

“Tech N9ne is easily more influential than 75% of the folks in here… but it ain’t on the list.” —Les Bayihas

“What no Tech N9ne on this list? He owns his own record label with multiple buildings in Lee’s Summit.” —Adam Kennedy

“Disappointed that Dr. Matt Naylor, director of the National World War I Museum and Memorial did not make the list!” —Bill Harris

“An honor to be on this list with so many people I used to have to annoy during call time.” —Jason Kander

“Thrilled to have not made this list so I can continue to operate in smoke filled rooms and shady south KC bars in peace. Also, happy for my friends who made it.” —Geoff Gerling

We asked… What’s your favorite Kansas City Christmas tradition?

The lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree. — Kelly Alvarez-Clodfelter

Collecting Plaza Light ornaments that benefit Children’s Mercy. Sometimes hard to find, but love having a piece of history and helping a great cause. — Randy Kimmel

Plaza lights and the Nutcracker ballet. — Katie Gifford

Christmas in the Park lights at Longview Lake. And the Magic Tree! — Serena Bagwill Smith

Coterie holiday show and a visit with Santa at Crown Center! — Leena Phadke Fry

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