Photo by Dorri Partain
Photo by Dorri Partain

Dorri Partain

Managing Editor

A hint of pink was in the room during the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s (NEKC) Annual “Tasty Topic Talk” Luncheon on Tuesday, May 27 as NEKC Chamber members and staff surprised NEKC Chamber President and CEO Bobbi Baker-Hughes with a proclamation from Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas.

The Mayor’s proclamation — Recognizing May 31, 2025 as Bobbi Baker-Hughes Pink Day in Kansas City — was read to Baker-Hughes and guests by Charlie Passantino, chairman for Independence Avenue Community Improvement District’s (CID) board of Directors.

This proclamation noted Baker-Hughes contributions and awards — including numerous years on the City Plan Commission, the NEKC Chamber of Commerce, Independence Avenue CID, Neighborhood Leadership Legacy Award, Carol Coe Community Defender Award and the Jackson County COMBAT Good Neighbor Award — and was signed by Mayor Lucas on behalf of the residents “of this great city.”

Photo by Dorri Partain


Guests were invited to wear pink clothing and flamingo headbands in recognition of Baker-Hughes favorite color and bird, as she celebrates her birthday on May 31. A celebratory toast offered guests their choice of champagne or sparkling cider.

Baker-Hughes stated she was thoroughly surprised and thanked everyone who planned this surprise celebration.

Attendees included NEKC Chamber members (left to right) Jerry Potocnik, Charlie Passantino, Bobbi Baker-Hughes, Ellen Schwaller-Goebel, Beck Gripp, Rebecca Koop and Gary Goebel.