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September 06.2025
2 Minutes Read

Discover Intense Playfulness: OK Go's Tim Nordwind Prepares for Kansas City Show

Artistic group portrait with mirror reflections at Kansas City events.

Reviving Creativity Through Playfulness

In a world that often feels overwhelmingly serious, the genre-defying band OK Go serves as a vibrant reminder of the importance of creative playfulness. This ethos resonates in their upcoming performance in Kansas City at The Truman on September 11, as they promote their newest album, And the Adjacent Possible. For founding member and bassist Tim Nordwind, the long gap since their last album shaped not only their music but their understanding of life and creativity itself.

Artistic Evolution Fostered by Personal Experiences

Nordwind reflects on the decade-long hiatus where life experiences, including the challenges of navigating through a global pandemic, shaped their artistic direction. The band members, having grown older and experienced personal milestones like parenthood, turned their individual journeys into a wellspring of creativity. Nordwind notes how these life changes provided a newfound depth and understanding of love, essential themes in their latest work.

The Emotional Landscape of Parenthood

"Having children unlocks a whole new ballroom of feelings and emotions that were part of you all along," says Nordwind. This fresh perspective has fueled their music, capturing the complex emotions associated with love. Contributions from band members, especially Damian Kulash’s reflections on what love means post-fatherhood, provide enriching layers to their lyrics. This transformation in understanding not only reflects personal growth but also enhances their creative output, emphasizing the emotional spectrum captured in their songs.

A Joyous Approach to Creation

Known for their innovative visuals and genre-blending sound, OK Go embraces playfulness as a vital component of their music and performances. For this new album, the encouragement of intense playfulness in both the crafting process and in how audiences experience their music plays a pivotal role. As they prepare for their show in Kansas City, fans can expect more than just a concert; it will be an immersive experience filled with joy and creativity that aims to connect on a deep emotional level.

Upcoming Kansas City Events to Catch

As the excitement builds for OK Go's concert, Kansas City residents can also look forward to other engaging events in the area. From delightful family activities to energetic live music performances, there's no shortage of opportunities to connect and revel in local culture. Keep an eye on the KC event calendar to find out more about free events in Kansas City, festivals, and upcoming attractions that celebrate our vibrant community.

Join the Conversation

With such a remarkable array of events on the horizon, what stories resonate with you? Whether it's about a local concert experience or a community gathering, we are eager to hear from you! Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com

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09.05.2025

Discover How Friends of the Kaw are Transforming the Kansas River

Update Protecting Our Waterways: A Community Effort The Kansas River, a vital source for drinking water and recreation for nearly a million residents, is at the heart of a grassroots movement led by Friends of the Kaw (FOK). With a long-standing commitment to cleaning and preserving the river, this organization brings together residents of Lawrence and beyond to advocate for cleaner waters and healthier ecosystems. Origins of a River Advocacy Movement FOK's story began over 30 years ago when concerned Lawrence citizens rallied against a proposed dredging plan that threatened their beloved river. This initial mobilization became the foundation for a powerful coalition dedicated to river preservation. Dawn Buehler, the Kansas Riverkeeper and Executive Director of FOK, articulates the importance of their mission: "We have to do everything we can to keep water as clean as we can, because it’s a drinking water source for 950,000 Kansans." The organization's ongoing initiatives target the removal of what they call "legacy trash"—long-standing debris, including 4,000 tires and tons of other waste—with a target to eliminate this pollution by 2030. The Role of Community in River Cleanliness At the core of FOK's success is their dedicated and growing army of over 300 volunteers. This committed group not only participates in clean-up efforts but also conducts pollution monitoring throughout the river's 173-mile stretch. "If we see it, we turn them in," Buehler emphasizes, showcasing the community's proactive approach to protecting their waterway. Their regular clean-up efforts combine physical action with educational outreach, empowering locals to adopt a stewardship role. Youth Engagement Through Education An essential component of FOK's initiatives is their education programs for young people. Through hands-on workshops, local students gather valuable data on water quality and explore the ecological significance of the Kansas River. By engaging youth in citizen science projects, FOK fosters a strong conservation ethic among the next generation. "What we try to teach students is you don’t have to have all that fancy testing equipment," Buehler explains. "If you can identify some of these water bugs and critters, you can have an idea of the health of that stream." This education not only raises awareness but strives to instill a sense of personal responsibility in caring for the local waterways. Connecting Through Outdoor Activities Friends of the Kaw also links people with the river through various outdoor activities, such as beginner kayaking and the Kaw River Guide program. These events not only help participants learn the ropes of paddling but also promote a deeper understanding of the river's geography and history. Recent paddling excursions included collaborations with the Kansas Geological Survey, emphasizing the significant impact of glaciers on the Kansas River's formation. Making a Lasting Impact The work of Friends of the Kaw exemplifies how local action can create significant change. Their blend of clean-up initiatives, educational outreach, and community engagement fosters a collaborative spirit that cultivates care and responsibility among Kansas residents. As the organization pushes forward with its goals, it paves the way for a cleaner, more vibrant Kansas River—one that can be enjoyed for generations to come. If you’re passionate about enriching our community and the environment, consider supporting Friends of the Kaw. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com

09.04.2025

Orleans: Celebrating Their Legacy and the Timeless Hit 'Still the One' in KC

Update The Magic of Orleans: A Local Legend In the heart of Kansas City, the echoes of summertime pop-rock can be felt through the tunes of Orleans, a band that has weathered the test of time since their formation in 1972. Known widely for their iconic hit “Still the One,” Orleans has continued to captivate audiences with their music, while also contributing to the rich tapestry of Kansas City's live music scene. Celebrating 50 Years of Hits and Harmony As Orleans prepares to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a new album and local performances, the band's legacy is being kept alive by its members, especially bassist Lance Hoppen. Reflecting on his journey, Hoppen shares, "My dream as a teenager was to be a working musician as a career, and lo and behold, when I was 18 and the trio wanted to expand, I got the gig that has shaped my life in a certain way." This candid sentiment highlights the band's commitment to leaving an enduring mark on the music industry. A Journey Through Time: Orleans' Refreshing Sound Even as they honor their storied past with unforgettable classics, Orleans continues to create compelling music, such as their 2021 Christmas album, New Star Shining. With each new project, they bring fresh energy to their performances, enticing both long-time fans and new listeners alike. Hoppen explains that the band's ability to connect with diverse audiences is part of what keeps them relevant, especially during shared tour moments. Audience Engagement: The Strength in Numbers The current tour, which features fellow classic rock artists like Pure Prairie League and Firefall, showcases the power of collaboration. Playing together allows fans to enjoy a night filled with timeless music, creating a thriving community event. Hoppen acknowledges the appeal of such package tours: "Strength in numbers. We do these shows periodically, and having multiple acts allows for larger crowds and a greater atmosphere. It's more appealing.” In Kansas City, such collaborative events are part of the rich landscape of Kansas City events that bring music lovers together. Why ‘Still the One’ Remains Timeless “Still the One” has not only become a nostalgic anthem but also serves as a reminder of Orleans’ place in rock history. The song, with its relatable themes of lasting love and persevering relationships, resonates deeply with listeners across generations. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it remains a staple at live music events, reflecting the parallel experiences of past and present relationships among the audience. Kansas City's Live Music Scene and Upcoming Events As local residents gear up for exciting performances and live music in Kansas City, Orleans' concert at Uptown Theater on September 5 promises to be a highlight on the KC event calendar. Their unique ability to bring folks together under the joyful umbrella of music is reminiscent of the thriving festival culture and family activities in Kansas City that keep the community engaged. Whether you're rediscovering old favorites or experiencing new sounds, events like these are essential to understanding the heart of Kansas City's cultural identity. A Call for Community Connection As we reflect on the incredible journey of Orleans, it encourages us all to celebrate our local legends. Music not only entertains but brings people together in a profound way. Allow yourself to find joy in the music that has defined our lives and the events that foster community spirit. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com

09.03.2025

Discover Kansas City's Exciting New Cocktail Culture at Good Spirits Club

Update Expert Craft Cocktails Now in Prairie Village Sage Monet is transforming the cocktail scene in Prairie Village with her innovative approach through the Good Spirits Club. This series of late-night events at Scratch Gourmet Kitchen brings together local bartenders and cocktail aficionados to create a memorable experience filled with creativity and community spirit. A New Hope for Cocktail Enthusiasts in Kansas City The evolution of Scratch Gourmet Kitchen into a hub for delicious dishes and cutting-edge cocktails has been exciting for Prairie Village residents. Sage Monet, who serves as the Beverage Director for Wildcat Hospitality, is spearheading this change. With the Good Spirits Club, Sage aims to showcase a lighthearted yet expert-level cocktail experience for the community, setting the stage for late-night fun every month. Late-Night Fun and Creativity The Good Spirits Club kicks off at 10:00 PM, turning the restaurant into a cocktail haven, complete with dimmed lights and ambient candles. The events allow the Scratch team to shift gears from dinner service to a late-night experience, providing a fresh atmosphere and cocktails that push the boundaries of creativity. “We want to create a late-night cocktail destination in Prairie Village,” Sage explains, promoting not just amazing drinks but also a vibrant hangout spot for locals. Collaborative Innovation in Cocktails In a world where cocktail menus often become predictable, Sage pushes back by collaborating with local bartenders like Zach Domville from Drastic Measures and others from the popular John Brown Underground and Fern Bar. “This is a way for us to stretch our creativity,” she shared, as she crafts daring concoctions that represent the essence of summer. An example of this is her signature cocktail, the Peach Perfect, showcasing a blend of Probitas rum, peach, burnt honey, and lemon, topped with a delightful cream cheese foam. The Community Spirit Behind Good Spirits Club Sage’s motivation extends beyond just great cocktails; she hopes to foster community engagement and support local causes through the Good Spirits Club. This initiative is not just about enjoying a cocktail; it's about creating a sense of belonging and sharing laughter among friends and family. By giving back to local charities and initiatives, the Good Spirits Club takes its place as a responsible and enjoyable part of the Prairie Village community. Get Ready for KC’s Next Big Thing For those searching for exciting things to do in Kansas City, the Good Spirits Club promises innovative cocktails, community connections, and a lively atmosphere. Upcoming events in KC will feature unique cocktails every month, making it a must-attend for residents. Whether you’re keen on tasting imaginative mocktails or simply enjoying live music in a cozy environment, this new venture encapsulates the essence of a vibrant community. If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com

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