Ep 3. Kansas & Missouri: In the Middle of the Middle of the Midwest
- TV14
- August 22, 2012
- 25 min
-
(12)
In season 1 episode 3 of Up to Speed titled "Kansas & Missouri: In the Middle of the Middle of the Midwest," host Timothy "Speed" Levitch takes viewers on a journey through the heartland of America. The episode begins with Speed exploring the Kansas City area, straddling the state border between Kansas and Missouri. He introduces viewers to the unique culture of the region through its cuisine, music, and architecture.
Speed meets with locals to learn about the history and evolution of Kansas City barbecue, widely considered to be some of the best in the world. He visits the iconic Gates Bar-B-Que, where he indulges in a slab of ribs and chats with patrons about what makes Kansas City's barbecue so special. Speed also explores the vibrant jazz scene, tracing the roots of the genre in the city's historic 18th and Vine district. He sits in on a jam session at Blue Room Jazz Club, where he experiences the improvisational spirit of jazz firsthand.
Moving on to Missouri, Speed visits the state's capital city, Jefferson City. He begins by admiring the Missouri State Capitol, a stunning domed building that serves as a symbol of the state's rich history. Speed delves into Missouri's role in the Civil War, visiting the site of the Battle of Wilson's Creek and learning about the state's complex relationship with slavery. He also learns about the state's important contributions to American literature, including the works of Mark Twain and Langston Hughes.
Next, Speed heads to the University of Missouri in Columbia, where he explores the unique architecture of the campus. He meets with a professor of environmental design to learn about the concept of landscape architecture and the ways in which it shapes our understanding of the world around us. Speed also visits a local farm to learn about sustainable agriculture practices in Missouri.
The episode concludes with Speed reflecting on the beauty and complexity of the region, noting that despite being located in the "middle of the middle of the Midwest," Kansas and Missouri are packed with fascinating history, culture, and people. Above all, he highlights the importance of appreciating the unique qualities that make each place special.