The Kansas City Business Magazine did something that may take us a while to forgive. Its editors are apparently part of a tiny minority of people who want to encourage Jason Grill’s narcissism, regardless of the consequences for the common good. They selected him as a “Rising Star of Business” in the Kansas City area.
The recognition prompted him to release his own accolades for himself in a self-written press release, the likes of which rival even his self-written Wikipedia page. Usually people who accept awards try to demonstrate or at least feign magnanimity – recognizing the community, thanking mom, etc. Jason doesn’t get around to that, and instead spends the entire release huffing and puffing about himself.
We pulled some excerpts:
“chosen because of their drive, ambition, and ability to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for their business and the future of Kansas City . . . honored him for his work and ability to build bipartisan support in the Missouri House of Representatives. He was also recognized for his ability to connect people and businesses as an attorney . . .”
About two inches from these quotes is one of the most ironic campaign slogans ever: “Humility to Listen, Energy to Lead.” But the most worrying part of the press release is probably this quote:
"It [the recognition] inspires me to continue to work hard to build partnerships and coalitions, and be more involved in Kansas City and Missouri civically, politically, and in business," said Grill.
In some worlds, people might think that love for the community and the intrinsic value of helping others is a reason to be civically involved, not the desire for public recognition. Is Jason’s promise to “be more involved” part of a new quest to win awards? That would certainly mean more material for The Source, but on the whole we'd prefer it if people would stop encouraging him.
Anyway, we're obviously biased, but we think the 2009 Clown Awards were a more appropriate honor. He received it for writing one of the most narcissistic wikipedia pages we have ever seen. For a few other reasons as well, we think it was more aptly deserved.
What in world does being a state legislator have to do with being a "Rising Star in Business." Those people are parasites on the back of business.
Posted by: JVaneaton | February 18, 2010 at 11:23 AM
Didn't he rape a girl? I'm pretty sure he did and there are police reports to prove it. Too bad she got paid off and didn't file charges.
Posted by: obvious information | February 18, 2010 at 11:58 AM
I'm pretty sure he did rape a girl. She should start her own wikipedia page for all the other girls he has assualted over the years to come forward.
Posted by: areyouserious | February 19, 2010 at 08:16 AM