Mark H. Jones

Good morning, world! 🌎 We have spectacular new high-resolution images of our home planet, all of us looking back through the Orion capsule window at our Artemis II astronauts as they continue their journey to the Moon.

In a sudden turn of events, US 12-month inflation expectations have surged to 5.2%, the highest level since March 2023. In just 3 weeks, markets have gone from pricing-in rate cuts to rate hikes.

WATCH: A Waymo vehicle blocked traffic as first responders raced to the Austin bar mass shooting, where three were killed and 14 injured.

The time has come for downtown baseball, and a return to where the story first began... in the heart of Kansas City, where we gather to celebrate its triumphs, traditions, and most cherished moments. At this moment, Union Station glows in Royals blue, serving as a powerful symbol of a truly generational opportunity rooted in both history and hope. Long before today, however, teams and ballparks — some now remembered only in name — laid the foundation for baseball in our historic core. Included are the Unions at Athletic Park in 1884. The Kansas City Cowboys at League Park in 1886. The Royal Giants at Shelley Park in 1910. The Packers at Gordon & Koppel Field beginning in 1913. The Kansas City Blues at Association Park in the early 1920s, before moving in 1923 — along with the Monarchs — to what would eventually be called Municipal Stadium. In 1955, the Athletics started playing in a nearly entirely rebuilt Municipal Stadium, followed by the Royals in 1969 before their move to Royals Stadium in 1973. Now, a new chapter in Kansas City’s baseball story is ready to unfold. Included is a sincere expression of gratitude for the visionaries and leaders who brought us here — from the enduring legacy of Ewing Kauffman to today’s Royals ownership, led by John Sherman. The restoration and reopening of Union Station 25 years ago—made possible by the shared commitment of citizens on both sides of the state line—marked a turning point for our city. Since then, our downtown has been reimagined and revitalized, earning recognition across the nation and beyond. We are vital and vibrant and not turning back. So, we look ahead with clarity and optimism. We see an opportunity to bring baseball’s legends, legacy, and love back to the place where it all began. A downtown ballpark offers something special—an exciting atmosphere that draws together friends, families, and fans in moments of shared joy. It strengthens community, celebrates teamwork, and reminds us of the simple beauty of the game. It’s time to welcome downtown baseball home—once again, for all of Kansas City.

Big wins don’t have to come with big tax hikes. This historic public-private partnership brings the Chiefs to Kansas with no new state taxes for Kansans and no impact on the current state budget—all while generating more than $4B in economic impact.