RESOLUTION NO. 220909

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Sponsor: Councilperson Robinson

Recognizing the Old School Cookout: A festival of Friendship and Good Food.

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WHEREAS; The Cookout was founded by Mike "Big Mike" Ali, Bennie Ford and Jack Rose in 2015; and

WHEREAS; the origin of The Cookout began because the founders and others kept meeting at funerals and these funeral events became a place to socialize. The founders recognized the need to come together for more happier occasions; and

WHEREAS; the first Cookout hosted nearly 600 people. The numbers have grown to over 1,500 people annually; sustained during the pandemic and one year the rain could not deter the crowd; and

WHEREAS; The Cookout is held at the Swope Park Bandstand during the summer months and features great food, fun and fellowship; and

WHEREAS; for seven years, the event has been a peaceful, pleasurable display of love for one another, unity and friendship. Visitors from across Missouri, Georgia, Colorado, and California attend The Cookout and many of the visitors have replicated The Cookout idea in their respective cities; and

WHEREAS; all Kansas City residents are invited to The Cookout next Summer and are encouraged to join Kansas City in a place where everyone is welcome to raise the expectations of their fellow neighbor, remove titles and status while joining in brotherly and sisterly love; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council hereby recognizes the founders of The Cookout and puts its full support behind those who are making a positive difference in our City; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to Bennie Ford with the recognition of the Mayor, Council, and all citizens of Kansas City for their commitment and service to all individuals.

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