This post about No Other Home
was originally published at HeSaysSheSaysKC.com under Brent’s pen.

For the longest time, #nootherhome than Kansas City was something Becca might say. She was born and raised here. But for me, it always seemed like I was dreaming of some other place to put down roots.

When I attended the University of Kansas twenty-plus years ago, I dreamt of doing nothing more than getting out of the Kansas City area. Take me to Chicago. Denver. Anywhere but the “flyover” city.

Recently, I’ve had the pleasure of helping Andrews McMeel Universal with Sporting Kansas City Matt Besler’s book, No Other Home. The book is an unconventional biography in that’s not told chronologically but centered around certain inspirational and thoughtful themes — from his days “competing” with his brothers growing up to the birth of his child.

One of the major themes he tackles is a choice he made in 2014 about remaining in his hometown and continuing to play for Sporting KC instead of pursuing an international career and a bigger payday.

Inspired by the book, a KC friend of mine decided to share some of her reasons why there is #nootherhome for her than Kansas City.

If you’re not familiar with the innovative education opportunities Minddrive.org provides KC youths, definitely check them out. Cars powered by social media? Heck yes.

And though I was once a naysayer, here are the reasons I’ve become a convert:

The Kansas City #NoOtherHome Vibe

After years of sleeping at the wheel, the KC metro is hustling. Big bets in Kansas City, Kan., on the Kansas Speedway and Sporting Park and in Kansas City, Mo., on the Sprint Center arena and Power & Light District paved the way for additional downtown development, including the street car, and a future single terminal airport.

The city is also seeing some other key cultural and business imports, such as the Folk Alliance and tech firms from both coasts. Continue reading →