- Cat & Jessica, bartenders at the Phoenix Jazz Club in Kansas City
“It was a champion day today when I got up and I’m carrying it with me all day!” I heard this comment from a gentleman while we were touring the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. Yes, Ann and I took a non diving vacation, all be it a short one for the Thanksgiving holiday. We spent the Holiday visiting my brother, Jason Keibler, inKansas City and exploring some of the sites around town. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is fascinating with photographs, films and stories from league players and promoters. In the center is a baseball diamond with large bronze statues of some of the greats in the game at their positions on the field, much like an all-star team.
Another stop was the American Jazz Museum (which happens to be next to theBaseballMuseum). Here you find recordings, instruments and costumes from great players including one of my favorites, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. While many of the listening stations did not work, the museum was interesting and tracked the changes in American Jazz.
Jason then continued on the Jazz theme by recommending drinks and live entertainment at the Phoenix Jazz Club on 8thstreet. While we listened to Lonnie McFadden and later to Dave Stephens, the Makers Mark Manhattans, gin and vodka martinis were served expertly prepared by Jessica and Cat who constantly mixed libations for a bar full of Jazz enthusiasts. Jessica also manages the club so she was often called by name to the stage for comments and banter with the musicians, especially Dave Stevens.
We had only intended to stay for a few drinks and then move on to another dinner location, however, we were having such a good time listening to the music and talking to others in the bar and among ourselves that we decided to stay. Of course Cat told us we really had to stay to listen to Dave because he put on “a really fun show;” so bowing to pressure we had dinner there and finished the evening at the bar. If you are ever inKansas City, you really have to drop in for some cold beverages and some cool Jazz. Be sure to tell Jessica that Ann and Eric, the scuba people fromHouston, sent you. You will not be disappointed.
A trip toKansas Citywould not be complete without a visit to Kincaid Antiques. Cindy always has some unique items in her store and some sale squirreled away in her basement. It is a treat to visit with her and look at some wonderful pieces of history. Of course, no one left empty handed.
Ann and I are back are inHoustonnow; and, I have to return to my diet. Luckily, we left all of the extra stuffing, mashed potatoes, pecan pie, etc. at Jason’s house. So, even if I was tempted, the food is not here. Instead or craving more food, it is time to help people complete their Christmas and Chanukah wish lists (hint, hint). So, if you need help with your holiday shopping – Dive Mom is back!
