Hasta la BYE-BYE Mr. Brady!

From KansasCity.com: Barry Brady is retiring at Highwoods Properties and relinquishing management of the Country Club Plaza, the shopping and entertainment district that he has run for 13 years.

“It’s my decision,” Brady said Tuesday. “Highwoods has been a good company. I’m 62 and I’m going to take some time off.”

To whomever may replace Mr. Brady,

1. Could we please stop the commercialization of the Plaza with national brands?
2. We don't want a Forever21 or an upscale Target. We would love, however, a Dean&Deluca or a Trader Joe's.
3. Don't go the route of the P&L... keep some local flavor like the Classic Cup and other beloved KC eateries!
4. Can we, seriously, turn 46th Street in a promenade, a la 3rd Street in Santa Monica? We may be able to avoid the near-death experience when walking the streets from those who have no intention of stopping at crosswalks and those that punch it coming out of parking garages.

And that's all I have to say about that... for now.

Sincerely,
PlazaBUZZ Resident Bob

What the Plaza needs...

I was out with the FOXy News ladies again last night droppin' spare change on $1.75 PBR draws (or whatever they cost) at Tom's. The ladies were slurping back chocolate martinis... so you know this conversation was a good one.

What does the Plaza need?

My answer, a Beverages & More and a small grocery store... I hate to say it, but like a Dean & Deluca or a Trader Joe's. I realize the problem with these places is that you need an accessible parking lot so that it's easy to get from store to carro. I hate to say it because the chain stores are never my favorite... would totally prefer a bunch of local restaurants.

Of course, I'd also like a Santana's 24 Hour Burrito (only to be found in San Diego).

Instead, rumor has it that we are getting a Forever21 and an upscale Target. RETCH.

Ooooooo, what would be totally sweet is a consignment store for all the local ETSY purveyors!

UPDATE (10/31): Brookstone is now open. It took the place of Sharper Image. Is there really a difference?