mcre Media : 01/24/26

Saturday, January 24, 2026

ICE

### Analysis of the X Post

The link you shared points to a post on X (formerly Twitter) from the account @DOGE__news, which describes itself as a "daily culture and politics news source." Posted on January 24, 2026, at 8:15 AM GMT, the content reads: "John Kerry in 2009: 'In five years, scientists predict we will have the 1st ice-free Arctic.'"

The post includes a short video clip (about 23 seconds) from a 2009 U.S. Senate session broadcast on C-SPAN2. In the footage, then-Senator John Kerry (D-Massachusetts) is seen speaking emphatically from the Senate floor, gesturing with his hands. He's wearing a dark suit and pink tie, addressing an empty chamber with a few staff or colleagues in the background. The on-screen text identifies him and notes the time around 2:41 PM ET. Kerry states: "In five years, scientists predict we will have the first ice-free Arctic summer. That exposes more ocean to sunlight. Ocean is dark. It consumes more of the heat from the sunlight which then accelerates the rate of melting and warming rather than the ice sheet and snow that used to reflect it back up into the atmosphere."

As of now (January 25, 2026), the post has garnered significant engagement: 4,858 likes, 1,553 reposts, 513 quotes, 1,948 replies, 720 bookmarks, and over 661,000 views. This suggests it's resonating in discussions around climate skepticism, politics, and failed predictions.

#### Context and Fact-Check of the Prediction

Kerry's 2009 statement appears to stem from an op-ed he wrote for the Huffington Post on August 31, 2009, where he claimed: "Scientists project that the Arctic will be ice-free in the summer of 2013."<grok:render card_id="9b44d6" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Similar remarks were made in Senate hearings and speeches around that time, such as a July 2009 panel where he referenced projections for an ice-free Arctic by 2013.<grok:render card_id="ec9a05" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> In a 2010 town hall, he adjusted it slightly to "ice-free Arctic in 5 or 10 years."<grok:render card_id="1e8658" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render>

These predictions were based on models from scientists like Wieslaw Maslowski of the Naval Postgraduate School, who in the late 2000s forecasted rapid ice loss leading to near-ice-free conditions (defined scientifically as less than 1 million square kilometers of sea ice extent) by around 2013.<grok:render card_id="068c42" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> However, this was not the scientific consensus; many experts at the time projected it would take longer, into the 2030s or beyond.<grok:render card_id="937bd3" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> PolitiFact rated Kerry's claim as "Mostly True" in 2009, acknowledging the basis in some research but noting the unsettled timeline.<grok:render card_id="0be0c2" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render>

The prediction did not come to pass. By summer 2013, the Arctic sea ice minimum was about 5.35 million square kilometers—far from ice-free.<grok:render card_id="2e1ac3" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Critics, including conservative outlets, have since highlighted it as an example of overhyped climate alarmism.<grok:render card_id="00b9a5" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Explanations for why it didn't happen include natural variability (e.g., weather patterns like the Arctic Oscillation), underestimation of ice resilience in models, and the fact that early projections were based on aggressive scenarios that didn't fully materialize.<grok:render card_id="1a43ff" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Climate scientists emphasize that while the exact timing was off, the trend of declining ice is clear, driven by human-induced warming.<grok:render card_id="70bfb9" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render>

#### Current Status of Arctic Sea Ice

Fast-forward to 2025: The Arctic sea ice reached its annual minimum on September 10, 2025, at approximately 4.60 million square kilometers, tying for the 10th-lowest on record according to NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC).<grok:render card_id="7675eb" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render><grok:render card_id="3fcd97" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Other sources, like Copernicus, reported an average September extent of 5.2 million km², still well above the ice-free threshold.<grok:render card_id="1d4c55" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> The NOAA Arctic Report Card for 2025 notes that all 19 of the lowest September minima have occurred in the last 19 years, indicating ongoing decline.<grok:render card_id="b6c9c0" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render>

Updated projections from climate models now suggest the first ice-free Arctic summer (under 1 million km²) could occur as early as the 2030s under high-emission scenarios, or mid-century under lower ones.<grok:render card_id="ce108d" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> This delay from 2009 estimates reflects refined modeling, including better accounting for variability and feedback loops like ocean heat absorption.

#### Reactions and Broader Discussion on X

The replies to the post (1,948 as of the fetch) largely mock Kerry and climate predictions in general, aligning with skeptical viewpoints. Top replies include:

- @MRobertsQLD: "Another globalist lie exposed. Nature defeats globalist agenda - again. Truth is emerging."

- @craigiskowitz: An image (likely a meme) with no text.

- @Fat__Elvis: Another image, possibly humorous.

- @Celtic_Crab: "@JohnKerry Once a Bozo, Always a Bozo!" with an image.

This fits a pattern on X where resurfaced clips like this fuel debates on climate policy, with one side viewing it as evidence of exaggeration and the other as a mischaracterization of evolving science. The post's virality (high reposts and quotes) suggests it's part of ongoing discourse around figures like Kerry, who served as U.S. Climate Envoy until 2024.

If you'd like more details, such as analyzing the @DOGE__news profile, fetching related threads, or searching for counterarguments, let me know!

Henry McClure
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Black rock

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has indeed made comments aligning with the core of your summary, though the phrasing and context come from remarks he made in 2024 (which have resurfaced and been widely discussed in late 2025/early 2026 on platforms like X).

In a speech at a World Economic Forum-related event, Fink argued that developed countries with **shrinking populations** (often due to restrictive or "xenophobic" immigration policies, as he described them—citing examples like Japan and China) could be the "big winners" economically in the coming era. He noted that these nations are accelerating investments in robotics, AI, and automation to offset demographic declines, potentially boosting productivity and living standards. In contrast, countries relying on mass immigration to address labor shortages might face greater social challenges in transitioning to machine-substituted workforces, as well as strains on cohesion, housing, and resources.

Key excerpt from his remarks (paraphrased from multiple reports):

"I can argue, in the developed countries, the big winners are the countries that have shrinking populations... The social problems that one will have in substituting humans for machines is going to be far easier in those countries that have declining populations."

This ties directly into broader debates on immigration's economic and social impacts in Western nations, where critics highlight issues like housing shortages, wage suppression, and integration challenges. Proponents of stricter policies often point to China (which admits very few refugees and maintains tight population controls) as a model for prioritizing long-term national stability and technological self-reliance over rapid demographic boosts via immigration.

Fink's statements—coming from someone managing trillions in assets and engaging with global leaders—have fueled discussions, with some viewing it as a shift or acknowledgment that mass immigration hasn't delivered promised benefits everywhere, especially as AI advances reduce the need for imported labor. Recent X posts and articles (including viral clips) have amplified this, often framing it as validation for anti-mass-immigration arguments amid ongoing policy scrutiny in the West.

Your summary captures the essence accurately, though the remarks aren't brand-new (they're from mid-2024 but recirculating now). It's adding significant heat to the global immigration debate, especially as governments weigh economic growth models against social and fiscal sustainability.

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
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Baking

**Summary of the Healthline article on Baking Soda Baths** (from https://www.healthline.com/health/baking-soda-bath):

A **baking soda bath** (sodium bicarbonate added to bathwater) is presented as an inexpensive, generally safe home remedy primarily for soothing various **skin conditions** and related irritations. It's differentiated from Epsom salt baths, which focus more on circulation, blood pressure, and nerve function (though the two are sometimes combined).

### How to Take One

- Prepare a relaxing environment (e.g., candles, music).

- Add **¼ cup to 2 cups** of baking soda (amount varies by condition; start lower for children).

- Soak in warm (not hot) water for **10–40 minutes**.

- Rinse off residue afterward, moisturize, and stay hydrated.

- Do a patch test first to check for reactions.

### Claimed Benefits

The article lists several potential uses, mostly supported by limited studies, anecdotal evidence, or traditional remedies:

- **Skin conditions** — Relieves itching/irritation from eczema, psoriasis (supported by some older research), poison ivy/oak, diaper rash, chickenpox.

- **Yeast infections / vulvar issues** — Soothes itching/burning; may have antifungal effects (e.g., a 2014 study showed it kills Candida cells).

- **UTIs** — May neutralize urine acidity, reduce pain, and aid healing.

- **Constipation** — Relieves rectal pain by relaxing the anal sphincter.

- **General / detox** — May relieve tension/pain, promote perspiration, boost circulation, encourage healing, "detox" the body, and support immunity (often enhanced with Epsom salt, ginger, or oils). The highlighted section notes baking soda baths are "more than a treatment for skin conditions" and can be used "to boost your health" via these cleansing and relaxing effects.

Many benefits are described as soothing or supportive rather than curative, with varying levels of scientific backing (some referenced studies are dated or small-scale).

### Risks and Safety

- Generally well-tolerated, but baking soda can be absorbed through the skin → rare risk of alkalosis (especially in babies/children; one old case cited).

- Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, high blood pressure, diabetes, open wounds/infections, or prone to fainting.

- Not for everyone; patch test recommended.

- Consult a doctor first, especially for specific conditions, children, or if symptoms persist.

- Stop if irritation occurs.

Overall, the article portrays baking soda baths as a low-cost option for symptom relief (especially skin-related), but emphasizes they're not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used cautiously. The "boost your health" phrasing ties into broader relaxation, detox, and circulation perks of bathing with it added. If you're considering trying it, check with a healthcare provider for your situation!

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
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time kills deals

Stats

**YouTube Channel Analytics for @HenryMcClure ("Henry McClure 'LIVE'")** — as of late January 2026

Your main channel **youtube.com/@HenryMcClure** is the hub for your daily/near-daily content: live streams, shorts, Topeka local news insights, real estate commentary, economic development talks, political takes, and occasional sponsored or personal segments (often tied to MCRE Media and your Shawnee County/Topeka focus).

### Current Public Stats (Aggregated from YouTube Pages & Search Snippets)

- **Subscribers**: Approximately **324–325** (slight fluctuations in cached results; most recent listings hover around 324–325). This is public and visible on the channel homepage.

- **Total Videos**: ~**2.9K** (around 2,900 videos uploaded — impressive volume, built up over time with consistent posting of lives, shorts, and clips).

- **Total Channel Views**: Not publicly displayed in full on the About page (YouTube often hides exact lifetime views unless the creator enables advanced stats visibility). However, individual recent videos show very low view counts (e.g., 7–28 views on many uploads/streams from the past weeks/months), suggesting overall lifetime views are modest — likely in the low-to-mid tens of thousands based on upload volume and typical per-video performance.

- **Recent Performance Examples** (from visible video metadata):

- Many recent uploads/shorts/lives: 7–37 views (e.g., "Just build a house 19 acres for $125K" at 13 views; various "Henry McClure 'Live'" segments at 8–28 views).

- One older or highlighted clip snippet mentioned ~11,679 views in a 28-day period (with +9.1K above usual) — this could be from a standout video or aggregated channel surge during a campaign/event period (e.g., 2025 mayoral run).

- Streams: Similar low views (e.g., 21–28 on archived lives).

- **Join Date & Other About Page Details**: The About page doesn't expose join date, exact total views, location, or full description in public crawls (some channels restrict this). Channel description highlights your **45 years in real estate** (mall redev, commercial leasing/sales, TIF/mixed-use, zoning advisory). Links point to twitter.com/mcre1 (your X handle) and likely other socials.

- **No SocialBlade Listing**: Searches didn't turn up a dedicated SocialBlade profile for @HenryMcClure, so no third-party growth graphs, estimated earnings, or historical trends are publicly tracked there (common for smaller channels).

### Growth & Activity Insights

- **Posting Frequency**: Extremely consistent — you're uploading multiple times per week (often daily shorts/lives), as seen in your X shares linking back to new videos. This is a strength for algorithm potential, but views suggest limited organic reach/discovery so far.

- **Content Style**: Mix of long-form lives (15–30+ min on Topeka topics, real estate deals, city council commentary), shorts (quick hits), and reposts/promos. Topics blend your expertise (real estate development, local politics/econ dev) with timely commentary — strong niche appeal for Shawnee County/Topeka audiences.

- **Engagement Drivers**: Views are low on most recent content (single to low double digits), typical for niche/local creators without heavy cross-promo or viral hooks. Spikes likely occur during events (e.g., election coverage, public comments, or tagged big names like in past @elonmusk posts). Your X account (@mcre1, 23k+ followers) is the main traffic source — you frequently link videos there.

- **Opportunities for Growth**:

- **Cross-Promo**: Lean harder into X/Facebook/LinkedIn shares with eye-catching thumbnails/titles (e.g., "Topeka's $30M Mystery Exposed" style).

- **SEO/Thumbnails**: Optimize titles/descriptions with keywords like "Topeka real estate 2026", "Shawnee County development", or trending local issues.

- **Community/Collabs**: Guest spots (e.g., Kansas Now podcast appearance) or local shoutouts could boost subs.

- **Analytics Access**: For precise data (watch time, audience retention, traffic sources, subscriber gains/losses, top videos), log into YouTube Studio directly — that's where full private analytics live (impressions, CTR, revenue if monetized, etc.). Public tools can't access that depth.

- **Monetization**: With 324 subs and low views, you're below thresholds (1k subs + 4k watch hours), but volume could help if views ramp up.

If you share screenshots from YouTube Studio (e.g., last 28/90 days overview, top videos, or sub growth chart), I can help interpret them deeper. Or if you'd like tips on boosting views/subs (thumbnail ideas, posting schedule tweaks, SEO for Topeka searches), just let me know — happy to brainstorm based on your style! 📈 Keep grinding; the consistency is paying off in content library size. What's your main focus right now — growth, monetization, or content strategy? 🚀

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
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Podcast

**Analysis of henrymcclure.live** (as of current data in January 2026)

Your site **henrymcclure.live** remains a clean, focused **personal/media hub** centered on **Henry McClure Live** — your branded content operation delivering daily videos, live podcasts, local Topeka news & insights, economic development commentary, real estate perspectives, and community-focused discussions.

### Core Purpose & Branding

- **Tagline/Welcome Text** (direct from homepage):

"Welcome to Henry McClure Live, your go-to source for daily videos covering local news, Live Podcast, economic development, and engaging content from Topeka, KS. Stay informed and entertained with our daily updates, delivered straight to your Social Media platforms."

- It positions itself as a **content distribution portal** — not a deep blog/archive, but a landing page that funnels people to your active output (mainly YouTube and socials). Emphasis on **Topeka-centric topics** like local development, housing, infrastructure, politics, and real estate trends.

- **Branding tie-ins**: Powered by **MCRE Media** (your media/real estate LLC arm). Footer shows "All rights reserved @ henry mcclure live 2025" — note the 2025 date, which might reflect last major update or forward copyright.

- Built on **Zyro** (now part of Hostinger's site builder suite) — simple, image-heavy layout with asset URLs confirming this. Likely quick to maintain and mobile-responsive based on structure.

### Site Structure & Key Content

- **Homepage** — Main welcome block, social icons, YouTube subscription graphics (two variants linking to **youtube.com/@HenryMcClure**), call-to-action for podcast bookings, and contact teaser.

- **Contact Page** (/contact) — Simple form (email + message), plus direct booking details:

- Email: **mcre13@gmail.com**

- Phone: **(785) 235-3353** (or sometimes listed as 785-383-9994 in related posts/profiles for real estate).

- Purpose: Inquiries, podcast guest bookings, scheduling appearances.

- **No deep blog, video embeds, or recent post feed** visible on the site itself — it acts more as a **hub/link-in-bio style page** directing traffic to:

- YouTube channel (@HenryMcClure) for videos/livestreams/shorts (45+ years real estate experience highlighted in channel about: mall redev, commercial leasing, TIF/mixed-use, zoning).

- Socials: Facebook (@mcre1), Instagram (@mcre1), LinkedIn (Henry McClure profile), X/Twitter (@mcre1), Pinterest (mcre13).

- No embedded recent videos or dynamic feeds — content lives externally.

### Current Activity & Evolution (2025–2026 Context)

- The site is frequently linked in your X posts (@mcre1) as a signature — often in replies, good-morning posts from Topeka, or promotions (e.g., "Henry McClure Topeka Kansas 🇺🇸 https://henrymcclure.live/"). Used consistently for self-promo, guest invites (even tagging @elonmusk), and location check-ins.

- **Political dimension** has grown prominent:

- 2025 saw you as a **Topeka mayoral candidate** (vs. Spencer Duncan after Mike Padilla stepped down; election in November 2025).

- Campaign site: **sncofirst.com** ("Shawnee County First") — often paired with henrymcclure.live in posts.

- Media appearances (e.g., WIBW interview Oct 2025) and podcast discussions on candidacy.

- iVoterGuide profile lists conservative stances (pro-life, anti-Planned Parenthood funding).

- Real estate remains core (MCRE, LLC broker listings, e.g., lots in Seaman district; 40+ years experience touted).

- Blogs like mcrekansas.blogspot.com and mcremedia.blogspot.com cross-link to henrymcclure.live, with 2025 posts on local topics (mayoral veto power, deals, etc.).

### Strengths & Observations

- **Effective minimalism** — Low-maintenance, drives traffic to high-engagement channels (YouTube, X with 23k+ followers, Facebook).

- **Cross-platform consistency** — @mcre1 handle unified; real estate + media + local politics blend under "Henry McClure Live."

- **Growth potential** — Could benefit from embedding recent YouTube videos, a "Latest Episodes" section, or blog integration to make the site feel more alive (currently very static beyond the welcome text).

- **Audience focus** — Primarily Topeka/Shawnee County locals interested in development, politics, real estate, and your livestream commentary style.

If you're looking to evolve it (e.g., add podcast embeds, update for post-election content, analytics check, or SEO tweaks), or want deeper dives on linked properties/YouTube stats, just say the word! What's your main goal with the analysis? 🚀

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals

Fwd: Wish

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Henry McClure <mcre13@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, Jan 24, 2026, 9:40 PM
Subject: Wish
To: MCRE Media <mcre1.9999@blogger.com>

**No, this claim is not true.** Elon Musk is not officially taking over CBS, nor is there any credible evidence of him finalizing a deal to acquire the network this month (or anytime recently) with promises to "end wokeness" or "scrub the woke agenda" from it.

The image you shared appears to originate from a satirical, meme-style, or intentionally misleading source (note the disclaimers like "NOTHING ON THIS PAGE IS REAL" and "IF YOU BELIEVE ANYTHING WE POST THEN YOU'RE POTATO CROP" from accounts like PATRIOTS). These kinds of posts often circulate on social media or low-credibility sites to provoke reactions, but they lack substantiation from reliable news outlets.

Key facts from reliable reporting:

- CBS (part of Paramount Global) was recently acquired by Skydance Media, led by **David Ellison** (son of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison), in a deal that closed in 2025. This created a new conglomerate, and changes at CBS News have involved figures like Bari Weiss taking a leadership role in news operations—not Elon Musk.

- There are no reports from major outlets (Reuters, AP, NYT, WSJ, Bloomberg, etc.) about Musk pursuing or completing any CBS acquisition. Searches for such deals in January 2026 turn up nothing legitimate—only recycled old speculation (e.g., from years ago about Musk hypothetically eyeing TV networks) or unrelated social media chatter.

- Musk has been vocal about criticizing "woke" culture and has transformed X (formerly Twitter) in line with his views, but there's zero confirmed involvement with CBS. Any quotes or plans attributed to him here seem fabricated or exaggerated from parody/satire content.

If this were real, it would be massive news dominating headlines from established sources—it's not happening. Always cross-check viral claims like this against primary reporting; this one fits the pattern of misinformation designed to excite or troll. If you have a specific source or link for the original post, feel free to share for more targeted checking!

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
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Wish

Key facts from reliable reporting:

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
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Exodus

The Facebook link you shared (https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AXc8JzgVB/) points to a video post featuring Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The accompanying caption or description highlights Texas as having the most powerful economy in the nation and claims that with the launch of "New York Stock Exchange Texas" (NYSE Texas), the state adds the title "Financial Capital of America" to its resume. It attributes this to free enterprise and common-sense business regulations.

This is **true** and based on real events and statements.

In early 2025, the New York Stock Exchange (part of Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.) announced plans to launch **NYSE Texas** — a fully electronic equities exchange headquartered in Dallas. This involved reincorporating its existing NYSE Chicago operations into Texas and renaming it NYSE Texas (pending and later receiving regulatory approval).

Governor Abbott celebrated this announcement, stating explicitly: "Texas is the most powerful economy in the nation, and now we will become the financial capital of America."

He rang the NYSE Closing Bell in celebration of the NYSE Texas launch (in Arlington, Texas, around August 2025), joined by NYSE executives and others. The move aligns with Texas' strong economic growth, hosting the most NYSE-listed companies (representing trillions in market value), and attracting businesses through pro-growth policies.

This ties into broader developments like the separate Texas Stock Exchange (TXSE) initiative and Nasdaq's expansions in the state, reinforcing Texas' rising role in finance.

The video appears to be promotional/official content echoing Abbott's and state announcements — no signs of fabrication or misinformation in the core claim. It's accurate boosterism from the Governor's office about Texas' economic momentum.

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals

Hazelwood

The captain of the Exxon Valdez during the 1989 oil spill was Joseph Hazelwood. He was in command when the tanker struck Bligh Reef in Alaska's Prince William Sound on March 24, 1989, though he had left the bridge and handed control to a third mate just prior to the grounding. [1, 2, 3]

Key Details About Joseph Hazelwood:

Conviction: Hazelwood was the only crew member criminally charged, ultimately convicted of a misdemeanor charge of negligent discharge of oil.
Sentence: He was fined $\$50,000$ and sentenced to 1,000 hours of community service.
Acquittal: He was acquitted of more serious charges, including operating a vessel while intoxicated.
Death: Hazelwood passed away in July 2022 at age 75. [1, 4, 5, 6, 7]

While Hazelwood was the captain (master), the third mate, Gregory Cousins, was in charge of the bridge at the time of the accident. [3]

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://alaskapublic.org/news/2022-09-12/exxon-valdez-capt-joseph-hazelwood-dies-at-75

[2] https://www.wfsb.com/2022/09/12/exxon-valdez-capt-joseph-hazelwood-dies-75/

[3] https://evostc.state.ak.us/oil-spill-facts/details-about-the-accident/

[4] https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/09/business/joseph-hazelwood-dead.html

[5] https://nypost.com/2022/09/13/joseph-hazelwood-captain-in-exxon-valdez-spill-dead-at-75/

[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Hazelwood

[7] https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2022/09/13/obit-joseph-hazelwood-exxon-valdez-oil-spill/6891663071731/

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
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Food

As of late January 2026, the best news in the Kansas City region includes significant recognition for its culinary scene, with six local spots named semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards, including Anjin, Drastic Measures, and pastry chef Helen Jo Leach. Other notable highlights involve major development in Johnson County and the ongoing, high-stakes discussions about the Chiefs' potential move to a new domed stadium in Wyandotte County. [1, 2, 3]

Key updates for the Kansas City region:

• Culinary Recognition: Kansas City Magazine (https://kansascitymag.com/the-6-kc-area-spots-nominated-for-james-beard-awards-copy/) highlights the area's 6 semifinalist nominations for the 2026 James Beard Awards.

• Stadium Speculation: Discussions continue regarding the Chiefs potentially building a new domed stadium near the Legends in Wyandotte County.

• Local Development: Johnson County Post reports that the Incred-a-Bowl owner in Overland Park has made required repairs, avoiding demolition, while new developments are planned in northern Overland Park.

• Infrastructure & Safety: FOX4KC.com (https://fox4kc.com/news/kansas-city-metro-shares-weekend-snowstorm-preparations/) reports that crews are prepared for a winter storm over the weekend of January 24-25, 2026, with 12-hour shifts to manage heavy snowfall.

• Safety Success: A 7-year-old child was found safe following an Amber Alert in the metro area. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Note: Information is based on reports as of January 24, 2026. [4]

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXKwT3i75sE

[2] https://johnsoncountypost.com/

[3] https://kansascitymag.com/the-6-kc-area-spots-nominated-for-james-beard-awards-copy/

[4] https://www.kctv5.com/2026/01/24/first-warn-weather-day-winter-storm-underway-snow-bitter-cold-arrive-kansas-city/

[5] https://fox4kc.com/news/kansas-city-metro-shares-weekend-snowstorm-preparations/

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals

Just be honest

The image you shared appears to be a meme or social media post making several claims about Keith Ellison, the current Minnesota Attorney General (as of January 2026). It accuses him of physically abusing his girlfriend (implying domestic violence that caused visible injuries like a black eye), labels him a "woman beater," states he is also the Deputy Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), and suggests Democrats are suppressing discussion of the issue. I'll break this down factually based on available information, including the 2018 allegations against him, official investigations, and clarifications about the photo and his roles.

### The Allegations of Abuse

- In August 2018, during Ellison's campaign for Minnesota Attorney General, his ex-girlfriend Karen Monahan publicly accused him of emotional and physical abuse during their relationship, which ended in 2017.

### The Photo in the Image

- The photo of the woman with a black eye shown in the meme is **not** Karen Monahan, and it has no connection to Ellison's case. Fact-checking sites like PolitiFact, Snopes, and Politico have debunked similar viral images as hoaxes or misleading composites, often using stock photos or unrelated images to sensationalize the story.<Monahan's allegations did not involve punching or causing a black eye; they centered on the dragging incident and verbal/emotional abuse. No photos of injuries from her claims have been publicly released or verified as linked to Ellison.

### His Role as DNC Deputy Chair

- Ellison served as DNC Deputy Chair from 2017 to 2018 but resigned after winning the Minnesota AG election in November 2018.The meme's reference to him as the current Deputy Chair is inaccurate and likely based on outdated information from the 2018 allegations period.

### Claims of a Democratic Cover-Up

- The allegations received significant media coverage in 2018 from outlets across the spectrum (e.g., NYT, NPR, BBC, CBS, Vox, Politico), including Democratic-leaning ones.

Overall, the meme is misleading. Serious allegations were made and investigated but not substantiated. Ellison denies them, and key elements (the photo, his DNC role) are false or outdated. No new developments have emerged since 2018 to change this. If you're referring to something specific beyond "True" (e.g., a different aspect of the image), feel free to clarify!

Henry McClure
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
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Loser

### Deep Dive into Top Tank: Topeka's Entrepreneurship Initiative

Top Tank was a one-time entrepreneurship competition launched in Topeka, Kansas, in 2017, designed to spark business growth and revitalization in the downtown area. Modeled after the popular TV show *Shark Tank*, it aimed to attract innovative business ideas by offering substantial financial backing in exchange for equity stakes. The project was spearheaded by a group of prominent local business leaders who sought to highlight Topeka's potential as an affordable, accessible hub for entrepreneurs, countering perceptions of economic stagnation. Below, I'll break down its origins, structure, key events, outcomes for participants, and why it ultimately concluded without repetition, along with any relevant updates through 2026.

#### Origins and Goals

The idea for Top Tank emerged from informal discussions among six Topeka businessmen who wanted to showcase positive developments in the city, such as downtown improvements, public-private partnerships, and educational investments like the East Topeka Learning Center. They emphasized Topeka's advantages: low cost of living, minimal traffic, proximity to larger markets (e.g., Kansas City), and support from organizations like GO Topeka and 712 Innovations. The focus was on filling downtown storefronts with retail, food, or service-based businesses to enhance quality of life and draw regional attention.<grok:render card_id="3b4818" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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The organizers were:

- **Brent Boles**: Managing partner of Schendel Lawn & Landscape (also co-owner of SPIN! Pizza).

- **John Dicus**: Chairman, president, and CEO of Capitol Federal Savings Bank.

- **Cody Foster**: Co-founder of Advisors Excel.

- **Jim Klausman**: President and CEO of Midwest Health Inc.

- **Mark Ruelle**: President and CEO of Westar Energy.

- **Greg Schwerdt**: President of Schwerdt Design Group.

Five of them (Boles, Dicus, Foster, Klausman, and Ruelle) pooled personal funds to create a $100,000 prize pot, while Schwerdt contributed pro bono design services to help finalists refine their proposals.<grok:render card_id="c36043" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> The group partnered with *The Topeka Capital-Journal* for promotion, viewing it as a way to celebrate local talent and encourage business ownership.<grok:render card_id="4af99f" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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The initiative officially launched on June 18, 2017, with a dedicated website (toptanktopeka.com, now defunct) for submissions. Entries were due by August 31, 2017, and organizers hoped to draw applicants from beyond Topeka, including nearby cities like Wichita, Omaha, and Des Moines.<grok:render card_id="96fd90" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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#### Competition Structure and Timeline

- **Applications**: 59 proposals were submitted, exceeding organizers' expectations. Ideas spanned restaurants, museums, retail, and more.<grok:render card_id="97f07c" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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- **Narrowing Process**: A selection committee reduced entries to 20 semi-finalists by early November 2017. These applicants visited Topeka for in-person discussions and tours to learn about local opportunities.<grok:render card_id="4e3760" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> By December 2017, it was further narrowed to 10 finalists.<grok:render card_id="950a98" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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- **Final Preparations**: The 10 finalists received donated design support from local firms (coordinated by Schwerdt) to polish their pitches.<grok:render card_id="5498d8" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> The competition culminated in a public symposium on February 17, 2018, at the Topeka Performing Arts Center, featuring a keynote speaker and community involvement.<grok:render card_id="ee15d3" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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The finalists and their concepts were:

- 2 Scoops Saloon (ice cream parlor) – Allyson Shove-Chard.

- A La Carrot (health food store/restaurant).

- aDRONEaline Racing (indoor drone racing facility).

- Chatterhouse Coffee Shop.

- Confectionary Disasters (likely dessert-focused).

- G's Cheesecake and More (cheesecake bakery with breakfast and sandwiches) – George Kearse.

- Local Fox Clothing Store.

- Restaurant Collective (restaurant incubator).

- Solitaire Spa and Barbery (spa and barber services).

- The Brew Bank (self-serve craft beer taproom) – Ryan Cavanaugh, Dusty Snethen, and Melissa Snethen.<grok:render card_id="5ffca5" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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#### Winners and Immediate Outcomes

In a surprise twist at the finale, the investors awarded two prizes instead of one, citing the high quality of all pitches.<grok:render card_id="e223ae" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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- **First Place: The Brew Bank** ($100,000) – A innovative taproom with 20 digital self-pour taps (10 for Kansas microbrews, 10 national, plus wine), emphasizing community gatherings in large shared spaces. The founders (who already ran video production companies) highlighted beer's role in fostering connections.<grok:render card_id="207cd2" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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- **Second Place: G's Cheesecake and More** ($50,000) – A bakery specializing in fresh cheesecakes, with additional breakfast items and open-face sandwiches. Kearse aimed to make it a destination spot, inspired by iconic eateries in other cities.<grok:render card_id="42d155" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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The event was hailed as a success for generating buzz, with organizers noting it taught lessons about entrepreneurship barriers in Kansas.<grok:render card_id="db6207" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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#### Long-Term Outcomes and Participant Updates

By November 2019, five of the 10 finalists had successfully opened businesses, demonstrating some lasting impact despite the challenges of starting retail ventures.<grok:render card_id="c40957" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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</grok:render> However, not all thrived long-term, reflecting broader economic pressures like the COVID-19 pandemic and downtown foot traffic issues.

- **The Brew Bank**: Opened at 822 S. Kansas Ave. in a historic building. The win provided credibility for additional loans.<grok:render card_id="10a172" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> It became a popular craft beer spot, praised in 2023 for its innovative self-serve model and community focus.<grok:render card_id="7d2e35" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Unfortunately, it closed in November 2024 due to lingering post-pandemic financial strains, including reduced patronage and rising costs. Owners held a "bar-age sale" to liquidate merchandise.<grok:render card_id="3c80d8" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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</grok:render> As of 2026, the space remains vacant, per local restaurant roundups.<grok:render card_id="97cee3" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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- **G's Cheesecake and More**: Opened at 821 SW 21st St. (near downtown). It offered seasonal cheesecakes, custom orders, and catering.<grok:render card_id="e70909" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Hit hard by the pandemic, it announced a temporary closure in May 2022 but reopened after resolving a property seizure by the Kansas Department of Revenue (likely tax-related).<grok:render card_id="a09d78" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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</grok:render> However, it appears to have closed permanently sometime after, with Yelp and Tripadvisor listing it as closed by early 2026, and no recent activity on its social media.<grok:render card_id="28e958" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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- **Other Notable Finalists**:

- **2 Scoops Saloon**: The Chards pivoted to open Fire And Ice Distillery, which was celebrated in a 2018 Top Tank Facebook post.<grok:render card_id="cbf298" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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</grok:render> Limited updates available, but it may still operate as a distillery.

- Information on the remaining finalists (e.g., A La Carrot, aDRONEaline) is sparse; some likely opened briefly but aren't prominently active in 2026 searches, aligning with the post's note on struggling establishments.

Overall, while Top Tank injected energy and funding, many ventures faced sustainability issues, echoing the X post's skepticism about long-term benefits amid a landscape of business closures.

#### The End of Top Tank and Legacy

Top Tank was conceived as a standalone event and did not repeat.<grok:render card_id="78069e" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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</grok:render> Organizers expressed openness to similar initiatives but shifted focus elsewhere. Its Facebook page went dormant after 2018, with no posts since.<grok:render card_id="18b529" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> No scandals or corruption were uncovered in research—despite the X post's title implying exposure; it seems more a critique of unfulfilled visions than wrongdoing. Searches for "Top Tank Topeka corruption" yielded only general Topeka allegations unrelated to the project.<grok:render card_id="df1005" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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Who ultimately benefited? The organizers achieved their goal of promoting Topeka's entrepreneurial spirit and downtown potential, potentially boosting their own community profiles.<grok:render card_id="667434" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> Participants gained exposure and funding, leading to at least temporary business launches. However, with winners like Brew Bank and G's closing, the long-term economic impact appears limited, prompting the post's inquiry into sustained success.

A spiritual successor emerged in 2025: "The Lion's Den," a Shark Tank-style pitch competition held October 23, 2025, in Topeka. It offered training, exposure, and two $10,000 prizes for young entrepreneurs and innovative ventures, organized during Global Entrepreneurship Week.<grok:render card_id="7cf06b" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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</grok:render> This suggests ongoing interest in similar efforts, but under new branding. As of January 2026, no outcomes from Lion's Den are detailed in available sources.

Henry McClure
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Big mistake

Yes, the information in the post is accurate. On January 22, 2026, the Trump administration announced the completion of the U.S. withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO).<grok:render card_id="f4460a" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> The following day, January 23, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom's office announced that California would join the WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN), making it the first U.S. state to do so.<grok:render card_id="0dcb20" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

</grok:render> This move was positioned as a direct response to the federal withdrawal, with California stepping in to maintain involvement in global public health efforts.<grok:render card_id="d43ced" card_type="citation_card" type="render_inline_citation">

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Henry McClure
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Truth

The Instagram Reel at that link (https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSA7mTuFfoT/) is posted by the account **@libsoftiktokofficial** (Libs of TikTok Official).

It makes the following claim in the caption:

> "1,700 criminal illegals were RELEASED from prison in Illinois under JB Pritzker

> M*rderers, p*dophiles, r*pes, and violent offenders are back in YOUR communities because Democrats want to protect them from ICE.

> They are putting American lives at risk."

This appears to be a short video or static post (typical of Libs of TikTok content) designed to highlight and criticize Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's policies on immigration enforcement and criminal releases.

The core factual assertion — that **1,700 "criminal illegals" were released from prison in Illinois under Pritzker** — refers to a real policy/event from late 2024/early 2025. Illinois (under its TRUST Act and related policies) does not allow state/local law enforcement to honor most ICE detainers for immigration enforcement purposes unless there's a judicial warrant and specific violent felony criteria. As a result, when certain incarcerated individuals completed their state sentences, they were released rather than transferred to federal immigration custody if ICE issued only an administrative detainer.

Reports from around that period (including statements from ICE and conservative outlets) indicated that hundreds to low-thousands of individuals with criminal convictions (including some serious offenses) were released into communities instead of being taken into ICE custody directly after state incarceration. The "1,700" figure aligns with numbers cited in several ICE-related announcements and Republican critiques of sanctuary-style policies in Illinois during Pritzker's administration.

However, the reel's framing is heavily editorialized:

- Not all were necessarily "murderers, pedophiles, rapists" — the offenses varied widely (from lower-level crimes to violent felonies).

- Releases happened because of state law limiting cooperation with ICE, not a deliberate "Democrats want to protect them" action targeted at those specific offenders.

- Many such individuals were later arrested by ICE or faced deportation proceedings anyway.

In short: **The 1,700 figure is grounded in reality** (stemming from documented non-cooperation with ICE detainers in Illinois), but the reel dramatically amplifies it with charged language to argue Democrats are endangering the public by prioritizing immigrant protections over enforcement. It's partisan commentary rather than neutral reporting.

Henry McClure
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Mace

The post you're sharing is from **U.S. Representative Nancy Mace** (@RepNancyMace), a Republican congresswoman from South Carolina. She posted this on January 23, 2026 (late evening GMT, which aligns with today given the current date/time).

This appears to be her own firsthand account of a recent legal victory in a civil case originating in South Carolina state court.

### Key Details from the Post and Context

- **The Win**: Rep. Mace represented herself pro se (without a lawyer present for this specific hearing) and successfully had the case **removed/Transferred** from a South Carolina state court to **federal court**. This was based on federal jurisdiction questions, including constitutional protections under the **First Amendment**, the **Speech or Debate Clause** (Article I, Section 6 of the U.S. Constitution, which protects members of Congress from certain state-level interference related to their legislative duties), and **federal supremacy**.

- **Background on the Gag Order**: In December 2025, a South Carolina judge imposed a **gag order** on Mace and other parties in related civil lawsuits. These suits reportedly stem from allegations Mace made against individuals (including entrepreneur Patrick Bryant and businessman Eric Bowman) involving claims of abuse or related matters. The gag order restricted public discussion of the ongoing cases.

- **Her Argument**: Mace views the state court's actions (including the gag order and suggestions from opposing counsel that she could face jail for her social media posts about "injustice") as unconstitutional attempts to silence her as a sitting Member of Congress for performing her duties and speaking out. She frames this as "lawfare" — using the legal system for political or harassing purposes.

- **Outcome**: By moving the case to federal court, she effectively challenged the enforceability of the state-level gag order in a venue she believes is more appropriate for federal constitutional issues. She describes this as a defeat of efforts to intimidate or silence her.

Her official press release and website confirm the removal to federal court as a "significant legal victory" vindicating her First Amendment rights and constitutional protections.

This case ties into broader tensions involving Mace, including past sanctions fights, lawyer-related disputes (e.g., accusations of fabricated citations in filings), and her ongoing political activities (she's been active in congressional oversight and is seen as a potential contender in South Carolina politics, like a gubernatorial bid).

Congratulations to her on the procedural win — standing up pro se against that kind of pressure takes resolve, and it's a reminder of how core constitutional safeguards (like federal jurisdiction and Speech or Debate protections) can check state-level overreach in cases involving federal officials.

If you'd like more details on the underlying lawsuits, the specific judge/court involved, or reactions to this post, let me know! 🇺🇸

Henry McClure
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