When politicians write laws with a special interest in mind, the public usually loses. But only squares could object to liquor flowing at the Mutual Musicians Foundation's late-night jam sessions. The foundation is one of the last living testaments to Kansas City's jazz heyday. After a disheartening September 2006 visit by a couple of vice detectives, the place was forced to stop serving alcohol. The 18th and Vine District's resident speakeasy required a change in the law if it was to resume selling adult beverages. So foundation manager Betty Crow and other jazz lovers reached out to state lawmakers. Kansas City Reps. Mike Talboy and Leonard Hughes responded, introducing legislation to allow the foundation to serve until 6 a.m. The bill passed on the last day of the 2007 session. Nice work, guys.
