“Stop the Silence and the Violence” Bus Ads to Debut

Ads to Debut March 31

(Kansas City, Mo. – March 14, 2011) An ad campaign urging the public to come forward to help prevent crime will soon debut on Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) buses.

The KCATA and community activist and local comic book creator Alonzo Washington have teamed up in an effort to curb the increasing levels of violence in the area. Displaying signs inside buses is the newest component of a grassroots campaign spearheaded by Washington and aimed at preventing 100 homicides in Kansas City. The bus ad’s primary message makes a direct and urgent appeal to “Stop the Silence and the Violence.” The ad also features Washington’s comic book superhero creation Omega Man.

“KCATA remains committed to working with individuals, organizations and law enforcement to keep our communities safe,” said KCATA General Manager Mark Huffer. “It is our hope that the bus ads will prompt people to come forward with information that may help put a stop to future violence in our community.”

The addition of transit advertisements will coincide with Washington’s other efforts that include an anti-crime themed vehicle, a “Stop 100” Facebook page, Washington’s Myspace page as a tips hotline online, airing public service announcements on urban radio stations and ongoing grassroots activity.

“In a city filled with violence, it is great to see that the ATA is playing a role in urging people to come forward with tips regarding violent crimes,” said Washington. “I am confident that high profile billboards appearing on local Metro buses last year contributed to solving murders and arresting suspected killers.”

Advertisements will appear on Metro buses at the end of March. Persons can friend the “Stop 100” Facebook page by logging in and searching “Stop 100 Community.” In addition, Washington’s Myspace page receives tips daily at http://www.myspace.com/alonzo_washington.