by Betty J. Berry
January 2025 marks the end of my term as President of the Kansas City Blues Society (KCBS). I’ve been doing this for close to five years and have enjoyed it immensely, but it’s time for someone new to step up with different ideas and a different way of doing things. Thanks to all of you, members, volunteers, and music fans who have supported the KCBS by attending live music events, supporting Blues musicians, and supporting the venues who feature Blues musicians.
A highlight of being President has been getting to know many of the musicians and owners/operators of venues around town. Special shout out to the current Board of Directors, Dennis Nelson, Donna Lunnon, Cory Bryars, Curt Straub, Charles “Dutch” Metzger, and Craig Smith, for their support and hard work in making the job easier. I’m sending a special appreciation to Danny Powell for always being willing to help with answers, and musicians Bill Bartelt, John “Junebug” Stuerke, Sean McDonald, and especially Howard Mahan for the solid suggestions they made regarding events and activities.
One of the things you strive to do in a position like this is leave the organization in a better place than what you found it, and to that end, I’m claiming success. Some of those highlights include starting the monthly newsletter 3 years ago; founding the annual Women in Blues showcase to highlight underrepresented women in Blues music in a partnership with BB’s Lawnside BBQ; beginning the annual Blues in the Bottoms show, which is our signature event in conjunction with Knuckleheads Saloon; assuming responsibility for operating the Michael Shannon Musician’s Fund; raising the profile of the KCBS in the region; initiating productive relationships with some of our regional sister Blues societies; and increasing the membership. I’m not claiming sole credit for these efforts: it’s been successful because of the board of directors working together to fulfill our mission.
I do plan to remain on the Board as a member and do whatever needs to be done to continue our momentum.
