[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 77 (Friday, May 5, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E404-E405]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE KANSAS CITY SPORTS COMMISSION & FOUNDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 5, 2023

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with immense pride to 
recognize and celebrate the Kansas City Sports Commission & Foundation 
for their contributions and achievements in promoting Kansas City 
sports locally and nationally in order to create economic development 
and recreational opportunities to achieve a better quality of life for 
the Greater Kansas City area. Notably, they are responsible for the 
2023 NFL Draft's selection of Kansas City, and most recently, the 
selection as a host city for the 2026 World Cup. It is through the 
advocacy, passion for sports and its benefits, and overall dedication 
to our community that the Sports Commission enables others to see the 
immense potential Kansas City has to offer that too often has been 
overlooked. I am truly honored to represent an organization who works 
selflessly for the improvement of their community.
  The KC Sports Commission and Foundation first opened its door as a 
privately funded, nonprofit membership organization on January 12, 
1966. With Ernie Mehl as the first chairman of the volunteer-led 
organization, the Sports Commission's primary objectives rallied behind 
introducing a new professional baseball team, growing the number of 
Chiefs season ticket holders, and campaigning for the construction of a 
sports complex through the public and private sector. Through their 
commitment and diligence to achieve these goals, the Sports Commission 
garnered the support of various city leaders including Ewing Kauffman, 
Ray Evans, and Earl Smith.
  As a testament to their dedication, the Sports Commission helped 
bring the Kansas City Royals and pass bond funding that led to the 
creation of the Truman Sports Complex, all within two years of their 
founding. By 1989, the organization was restructured as a 501(c)3 
organization with Kevin M. Gray as its first paid staff member and 
Executive Director. Throughout its tenure, the organization has been 
housed at the Mid-America Lubermen's Association, the Cancer Society 
and finally in 2000, landed at 1308 Pennsylvania Avenue where the 
office was renamed The McGuff Sports Center, where it is currently 
located.
  Since its inception, the Sports Commission has operated events such 
as Kansas City's Big 12 Run, the Kansas City Marathon presented by 
Garmin, and the Kansas City Sports Awards Banquet presented by Populous 
among many others. Additionally, it has helped organize and facilitate 
events such as the MLB All-Star Game in 2012, MLS All-Star Game in 
2013, Kansas City Royals World Series Celebration and Parade in 2015, 
and the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in 2019. Under the leadership of 
President and CEO, Kathy Nelson, a KC native and leader, the Sports 
Commission is reaching new milestones in 2023 with a diverse sports 
event schedule that includes the Big 12 Tournament for men and women, a 
NCAA regional and the NFL Draft. The KC Sports Commission & Foundation 
have reached new horizons than ever before, bringing the Greater Kansas 
City area into the national and international spotlight. It is without 
a doubt that the city and its residents will reel in the benefits that 
will come from these events. The NFL Draft will show patrons locally 
and nationally the enthusiasm and spirit of our community and exhibit 
itself as an exemplary example to follow in our cities. This years' 
experience is expected to break records for having the largest stage 
and biggest screens in league history, offering a never-before-seen 
experience. As locals and visitors gather for one of the biggest events 
of the year, we honor and recognize the hard work of the Sports 
Commission that led us here. In three years from now, when Kansas City 
welcomes fans from all over the world for the 2026 World Cup, everyone 
will recognize the love and faith this organization has in its 
community. Ensuring that Kansas City was placed on the international 
stage was not an easy task, but the Sports Commission persevered and 
secured a spot as one of the host cities in the United States that'll 
offer a home to those tuning in for the world's most watched soccer 
event. There is no doubt that this organization will continue to thrive 
in the years to come by striving to reach new goals to better our 
community.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the 
Kansas City Sports

[[Page E405]]

Commission and Foundation for their tremendous accomplishments, 
milestones, and service to the Greater Kansas City area. Their 
enthusiasm for sports and recreation, mission in enhancing the quality 
of life and opportunities of all residents, and commitment to service 
is a model for all. I speak with the voice of Missouri's entire Fifth 
Congressional District as we say a heartfelt ``thank you'' to the KC 
Sports Commission and Foundation as we celebrate and congratulate them 
on all their current achievements and those to come.

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