Two entertainment venues in Kansas City, Sinkers Lounge and Blade & Timber, have closed due to a lawsuit filed by their landlord, Kansas City Live Block 124 Retail LLC, over unpaid rent and alleged unreasonable charges. The lawsuit, initiated in January 2025, claims that Sinkers owes $188,675.84 and Blade & Timber owes $233,985.19 for missed payments. The businesses received their first notice of overdue rent in April 2024, and despite being given a five-day ultimatum to pay, they failed to do so. The tenants argue that the landlord imposed excessive and arbitrary charges, including a 48% rent increase over four years and improper utility fees. They estimate these overcharges to be between $50,000 and $100,000. Both venues are temporarily closed, and the owner, Matt Baysinger, is considering reopening options in Kansas City. The lawsuits will be heard by District Judge Brian C. Wimes in August and September 2025, with the landlord maintaining that the tenants' claims are unfounded.