February 2025

The People’s Theater: A timeless gem in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, with exciting upcoming events

19 February 2025
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: February 2025
Peoples Theater
Photo courtesy PHHD

The People’s Theater at 110 Veterans Parkway, Pleasant Hill, Missouri, has been a beloved cornerstone of the community since its establishment in 1909. Originally constructed to host live performances, the theater has witnessed numerous transformations over the decades. In 1948, it was rebuilt in an elegant Art Deco style, aligning with the architectural trends of the time and offering the community a beautiful space for entertainment and gatherings.

After a period of closure in 1972, the theater experienced a remarkable revival in 1982. Dennis Dittemore and his family breathed new life into the venue by introducing the Big Creek Country Show. This live musical performance quickly became a cherished Saturday night tradition, entertaining audiences for over forty years and solidifying the theater’s place in the hearts of Pleasant Hill residents.

In early 2023, real estate investor Jennifer Rugh purchased The People’s Theater, beginning another exciting chapter. With a vision to restore the theater’s historical significance and further cement its role as a community hub, Rugh outlined plans to expand its offerings. These plans include movie screenings and additional live shows on Friday nights, ensuring the theater remains a central gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

Today, The People’s Theater stands as a testament to Pleasant Hill’s rich cultural heritage. It continues to serve as a vibrant venue for entertainment and community events, blending its historical charm with modern performances that appeal to all generations.

Upcoming Events You Won’t Want to Miss!

The People’s Theater is set to host an exciting lineup of performances this spring, offering something for everyone. Mark your calendars for these sensational shows:

March Events

  • March 1: A Tribute to Styx & The Doobie Brothers — Kick off March with classic rock vibes and timeless hits from two legendary bands. A must-see for fans of rich harmonies and iconic tunes!
  • March 15: Arena Rockers: Def Leppard & Guns n’ Roses Tribute Bands — Get ready to rock out to powerful anthems and electrifying performances that capture the spirit of these iconic rock legends.
  • March 22: THE M80s – Midwest’s HOTTEST 80s Cover Band — Take a trip back to the 80s with the region’s top cover band, playing all your favorite hits from the decade of neon and nostalgia.

April Events

  • April 5: Vinyl Revival: Deep Grooves & Classic Tunes — Experience the magic of vinyl with deep grooves and classic tunes that will get your toes tapping and heart singing.
  • April 26: REO Speedwagon & Cheap Trick – A Tribute — End the month with an unforgettable night of rock anthems. Celebrate the music of REO Speedwagon and Cheap Trick with this fantastic tribute performance.

Why You Should Visit The People’s Theater

With its rich history and exciting future, The People’s Theater continues to be a beacon of culture and entertainment in Pleasant Hill. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the upcoming lineup of events offers the perfect opportunity to experience the theater’s charm firsthand.

From legendary rock tributes to 80s hits and classic vinyl grooves, there’s no better place to enjoy live music and community spirit than at The People’s Theater. As it continues to grow and evolve under new ownership, this historic venue remains a shining example of Pleasant Hill’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.

Don’t miss out—grab your tickets, gather your friends and family, and be part of the vibrant entertainment scene at The People’s Theater in Pleasant Hill, Missouri!

History –“Back Home, April 1865”: A new deal mural in Pleasant Hill, Missouri

15 February 2025
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, February 2025
The mural “Back Home, April 1865” is located at the Pleasant Hill Post Office, 124 Veterans Parkway, Pleasant Hill, Missouri.

In the heart of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, a striking piece of history resides in the local post office—an oil-on-canvas mural titled “Back Home, April 1865.” Created by the renowned artist Tom Lea, this artwork stands as a testament to the resilience of the Missouri countryside and its people in the wake of the Civil War. Commissioned in 1939 through the Treasury Section of Fine Arts, a program of the New Deal aimed at enriching public buildings with art, this mural encapsulates the devastation of the Civil War era and the arduous journey of recovery that followed.

The mural, painted in the late 1930s, tells the poignant story of a time when Missouri’s countryside had been ravaged by the turmoil of war. With the war’s end in April 1865, the people of Missouri faced the daunting task of rebuilding their homes, livelihoods, and communities. Tom Lea’s depiction captures not just the physical destruction but also the emotional weight of the moment. The figures in the painting appear determined yet weary—a reflection of the hope and hardship intertwined in the post-war struggle.

Born in 1907 in El Paso, Texas, Tom Lea was an artist, illustrator, and writer whose works are steeped in history and human emotion. He studied at the Art Institute of Chicago before embarking on a distinguished career that included creating murals for the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and serving as a war correspondent during World War II. Lea’s ability to fuse narrative storytelling with his artistic talent made him one of the leading figures of New Deal-era public art. His murals often explored themes of historical significance and military life, as seen in “Back Home, April 1865.”

Lea’s work became synonymous with a vivid sense of storytelling. His ability to evoke powerful emotions and capture historical moments through art is exemplified in one of his most iconic paintings, The Two Thousand Yard Stare, a chilling portrayal of a battle-weary Marine during World War II. The painting became a symbol of the psychological toll war takes on soldiers, cementing Lea’s place in the canon of American war art.

For those who visit the post office in Pleasant Hill, “Back Home, April 1865” is more than just a mural—it’s a piece of history, a visual chronicle of perseverance, and a reminder of the power art holds in capturing the essence of a nation’s journey. It is a haunting portrayal of a battle-weary Marine during World War II. This painting has become an iconic representation of combat fatigue and the psychological toll of war. His works are highly valued, with some pieces fetching significant sums at auction and being displayed in prestigious institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Pleasant Hill welcomes backyard chickens: City council approves new ordinance

15 February 2025
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, February 2025

In a significant move for local sustainability and urban farming enthusiasts, the Pleasant Hill City Council has approved an ordinance allowing residents to keep chickens on residentially zoned properties with single-family dwellings. The ordinance, which will go into effect on March 31, 2025, marks a victory for those advocating for the inclusion of backyard poultry in the community.

Key Ordinance Details

The ordinance outlines specific guidelines for keeping chickens, ensuring the birds’ and residents’ safety and well-being. Here are the essential points every chicken keeper should know:

  • Five or Fewer Hens Only: Residents can keep up to five hens, but roosters are prohibited, reducing noise concerns for neighbors.
  • Backyard Only: Chickens must be kept in the backyard—front and side yards are off-limits for their enclosures.
  • Proper Housing: A well-ventilated, fenced, and roofed chicken coop is required to house the birds. Chickens must be confined to the coop when the resident is not home.
  • No Other Farm Animals: The ordinance strictly limits chickens—ducks, pigs, goats, and other farm animals are not allowed on residential properties.

A full version of the ordinance will be posted on a dedicated city webpage for those interested, complete with all the details and instructions for raising chickens at home.

The Effort Behind the Ordinance

The approval of the backyard chicken ordinance is the result of a collaborative effort within the community. Candy Edwards, who played an instrumental role in the initiative, expressed excitement and gratitude after the council’s decision. “We did it, Pleasant Hill!! The Backyard Chicken Ordinance has officially passed, and starting March 31, residents can legally keep hens!” she wrote in a statement.

Edwards went on to thank the community for their support: “This has been a team effort, and we are so grateful for everyone who showed up, shared their voices, and supported this initiative. A huge thank you to Chief Wright and Mayor King for working through the details with us. Excited for what this means for our community—backyard flocks are coming soon! Thank you, Pleasant Hill!”

Mayor King’s Confidence

Before the council vote, Mayor John King expressed confidence in the passage of the ordinance, citing the success of similar laws in neighboring cities. “Other surrounding cities allowed chickens and had no issues,” he said, reassuring residents that the transition would be smooth and beneficial for the community.

This new ordinance reflects a growing trend across the country as more people look to backyard farming as a way to promote sustainability, local food production, and a closer connection to their food sources.

What’s Next?

As March 31, 2025, approaches, residents interested in keeping chickens should keep an eye out for the full ordinance and the web page with guidelines and requirements. With clear rules in place, Pleasant Hill is preparing for a new chapter in urban farming.

While some may view chickens as just another form of backyard pet, others see them as a valuable resource for fresh eggs and a more self-sustaining lifestyle. Whatever the reason, one thing is certain—Pleasant Hill residents are about to embrace a new, clucking reality.

Stay tuned for more updates as the official launch date approaches!

Taylor Kirch: Serving up smoking flavor from farm to food truck

15 February 2025
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, February 2025
Taylor Kirch with his winnings from the Red Barn Ranch BBQ contest in Harrisonville, Missouri
Photo courtesy of Taylor Kirch

If you’ve ever tasted food prepared by Taylor Kirch, you would know that he truly excels in the kitchen. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to write about him for our local newspaper when he hosted a farm-to-table event called Dinner On the Farm in Harrisonville. With a grand banquet table set for forty guests from the region, the evening was filled with succulent gourmet dishes, a beautifully arranged table, and great conversation among attendees. Recently, I spotted Kirch running a food truck at an event in Pleasant Hill, which piqued my curiosity about his latest endeavors.

Dinner on the Farm Table
Photo courtesy of Taylor Kirch

As you may know, Taylor was raised in Pleasant Hill and spent his childhood in the back of his mother’s café on Wyoming Street, where he discovered his passion for cooking. He has hosted many special dinners showcasing his culinary skills and worked in various kitchens across the region. Now, his career is taking a new turn toward barbecue.

While he refined his gourmet skills, one question loomed: what led him to focus on barbecue? The story starts with a marked-down smoker and a genuine desire to make great food.

A couple of years ago, Taylor and a friend decided to enter a barbecue competition at Price Chopper in Raymore, Missouri, but they faced a challenge: they didn’t have a smoker. A quick trip to Walmart led them to an Oklahoma Joe smoker on clearance for $89. Though it was a bit worn, missing a few bolts, and had a broken temperature gauge, it was a great deal. They took it home, entered the competition, and ended up winning.

This contest featured a creative twist on barbecue rather than a traditional style, and it was here that Taylor debuted his now-famous whiskey glaze. He crafted a pulled pork sandwich topped with crispy onions, coleslaw, his signature whiskey glaze, and a dash of barbecue sauce. Competing against seasoned veterans like Plow Boys at the American Royal, it was Taylor’s innovative flavors that stole the spotlight.

From that point, Taylor’s barbecue journey expanded. His next challenge was at the Red Barn in Harrisonville, Missouri, where he participated in a barbecue fundraiser for the Jared Fizer Memorial Scholarship Fund. The competition was tough, but Taylor had a secret weapon: his creative culinary background. His son even boasted at school about his dad’s cooking skills and declared that his father would win against the competition. However, Taylor confesses that he had never smoked a brisket before. The original smoker from Walmart was rusty and had holes from sitting idle in the backyard. Determined, he sought out a better smoker, eventually finding one on Facebook Marketplace. Despite his lack of experience, Taylor confidently smoked every piece of meat, achieving impressive results: first-place wins in multiple categories and the title of Reserved Grand Champion.


Taylor Kirch displaying his prize brisket
Photo courtesy of Taylor Kirch

This victory ignited a spark in Taylor, signaling that he had something special. His wife, Allisons Kirch, remarked, “This is kind of exciting.” Taylor acquired a 250-gallon offset smoker from a church in Missouri’s Bootheel to further his ambitions. After transporting it home, he entered another competition and emerged victorious once again.

As his reputation grew, so did the recognition he received. Sponsors began to notice, prompting Taylor to enter the prestigious Great Lenexa BBQ Battle, one of the largest barbecue competitions in the region, featuring 175 competing teams. Taylor placed 17th overall, with 9th for pork butt and 7th for beef ribs—an impressive outcome that secured his standing among barbecue elites.


The Great Lenexa BBQ June 22, 2024. From left to right, Kyle Hudson, Jeffrey Allton, Sam Allton, Owen Kirch, Taylor Kirch, Kim Vogel, Allison Kirch
Photo courtesy of Taylor Kirch

Wanting to elevate his game, Kirch decided to create a food truck featuring his award-winning whiskey-glazed recipe. He traded his 250-gallon smoker for a massive 1,000-gallon smoker, extending an impressive 26 feet long. Thanks to local man Dennis Gray, Kirch mounted it on a different trailer and made some adjustments to enhance his smoking setup. He named his business Fern Kee and began his entrepreneurial journey, hoping to one day open a restaurant that serves barbecue made from prime cuts of meat and generous amounts of his beloved whiskey glaze.

“One day, I would love to own the building my mom owned,” Taylor shared with me. His vision is to open a restaurant in his hometown that distinguishes itself from others. Taylor’s goal is to serve delicious food and provide an experience that merges his high-end culinary skills with the charm of small-town culture.

What began as a dream in a small-town café has transformed into a successful barbecue journey for Taylor Kirch, blending his culinary creativity with the rich flavors of barbecue. And the best part? This is just the beginning. The dream has evolved, and now Kirch aspires to offer barbecue comfort in his own restaurant. I think he might need a bigger smoker.


A night to remember: The 15th Annual Daddy-Daughter Dance in Pleasant Hill

14 February 2025
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, February 2025

Get ready for a magical evening that will create lasting memories! The City of Pleasant Hill is inviting all fathers and daughters to the highly anticipated 15th Annual Daddy-Daughter Dance on Saturday, February 22, at the Pleasant Hill Intermediate School from 6-8 p.m. This special event promises a night full of fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments for dads and daughters of all ages.

Whether you’re looking to twirl on the dance floor or snap a few silly photos with your little one, the Daddy-Daughter Dance has it all. With a DJ spinning your favorite tunes, you’ll be able to dance the night away with your daughter by your side. The event also features a delicious spread of desserts, perfect for indulging your sweet tooth, and a photo booth to capture all the special moments.

This annual event is more than just a dance; it’s an opportunity to bond, share laughs, and make memories that will last a lifetime. The atmosphere will be full of love and joy, with every father and daughter pair enjoying a night of celebration and connection.

Event Details:

  • 📅 Date: Saturday, February 22
  • ⏰ Time: 6-8 p.m.
  • 📍 Location: Pleasant Hill Intermediate School
  • 💲 Cost: $35 per couple | $5 for each additional daughter
  • 📝 Pre-registration Required: You can register at www.pleasanthillrecsports.org until Friday, February 21. No payments will be accepted at the door.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make some cherished memories with your little one. Whether you’re a returning attendee or new to the event, this special night is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be sure to pre-register today to secure your spot!

Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of dancing, desserts, and unforgettable memories. See you there!

All About Henry — Missing Grandma

14 February 2025
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, February 2025
Henry with Grandma Sue

Woof woof, hey there, everybody! It’s Henry here, and I hope you’re all staying warm and cozy. These cold temps are a little much for my fluffy self! I can’t wait for spring to get here!
So, I want to tell you about one of my very best pals—my grandma! She’s been living with us for three whole years, but she recently moved to assisted living. I miss her so much! Every morning, I’d hop right up in the rocking chair with her for the best snuggles. It was my favorite part of the day! I still get to visit her sometimes, but nothing beats those afternoon walks we’d take together. We’d stroll around the farm and visit all the other animals.
This picture here was taken during her last week with us, and I just love it. It’s one of my favorite memories, and I’ll keep it in my heart forever.