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October 09.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover How BoysGrow's Controlled Burn Sparks Community Engagement in Kansas City

People at a Kansas City event by a pond during sunset.

Igniting Change: BoysGrow's "Controlled Burn" Brings Community Together

This past Sunday, BoysGrow's South Kansas City farm transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, connection, and culinary artistry, showcasing the powerful impact of community-based initiatives aimed at mentoring urban youth. The event, aptly titled "Controlled Burn," not only spotlighted the culinary talents of Kansas City's finest chefs but also emphasized the organization's mission to empower young men through agricultural entrepreneurship.

A Weekend to Remember: An Immersive Culinary Experience

The open-fire dining fundraiser played host to local culinary luminaries such as Amante Domingo, Vaughn Good, and Michael Corvino. With multiple live-fire hearths serving as the centerpiece, guests embarked on a unique journey filled with aroma and flavor that celebrated Kansas City's rich culinary heritage. Domingo encapsulated this sentiment beautifully by stating, "Those small principles can really shape who you are," reflecting the transformative experience that BoysGrow aims to impart on its participants.

From the Ground Up: The BoysGrow Curriculum

Founded in 2010, BoysGrow offers a two-year paid internship to youth aged 14 to 16, immersing them in hands-on experiences that build not just culinary skills but also vital life lessons in confidence and discipline. John Gordon Jr., the organization's director, emphasized that,"These events aren’t just for raising funds; they’re learning opportunities for our youth, allowing them to engage directly in the culinary and agricultural processes while developing essential soft skills.” Through this initiative, participants not only grow food but also foster their identities.

Bringing the Community Together One Meal at a Time

The immersive dining experience at "Controlled Burn" was designed to prompt guests to connect with their food and the land on which it grows. As guests rotated through the various hearths, they experienced a wide array of flavors—from coal-seared wagyu beef nigiri to Tuscan white bean soup crafted by Domingo. Each dish served as a reminder that food can be a doorway to deeper understanding of community and culture.

What’s Next for BoysGrow and Kansas City?

As the evening unfolded against the backdrop of live music and communal laughter, it became evident that BoysGrow has bigger plans on the horizon. Not only do they nurture young talent, but they also aim to create a sustainable model for urban farming. Gordon Jr. concluded the evening with a heartfelt reminder of the importance of community support, stating that the funds raised directly contribute towards providing paychecks for the young men working on the farm.

Join Us in Supporting Local Initiatives

If you have a story to share or want more details about the incredible work being done by BoysGrow, don’t hesitate to reach out! Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Together, we can continue to stoke the flames of community spirit in Kansas City.

Your Participation Matters

As residents and businesses of Kansas City, your involvement in local events can lead to a brighter future for the community. Whether attending events like the "Controlled Burn" or supporting initiatives that engage our youth, every effort counts towards cultivating growth right here in our backyard. Let's celebrate and support the incredible work happening in our neighborhoods!

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01.06.2026

Don't Miss Corners of the Sky: Wild Psychedelic Rock in KC!

Update Exploring the Wild Side of Kansas City's Music Scene If you're a music lover in Kansas City, chances are you've heard the buzz about the psychedelic rock band Corners of the Sky. In less than a year, they have solidified their status as a must-see live act, captivating audiences with a unique sound and unforgettable performances. On January 15, they will hit the Replay Lounge stage, showcasing their energetic and reverberating set that fans have come to adore. Recordings that Set the Tone Their latest album, Live Under A Bridge, released in December, captures the essence of what makes this band so engaging. As the title suggests, the album was recorded beneath an abandoned railroad bridge in North Lawrence, powered entirely by portable batteries—demonstrating a commitment to authenticity. Band members Jason Perez and Jacob Sell shared insights into their live recording process during a recent Zoom interview. “It’s just fun,” said Perez, explaining their unconventional recording locations. “You don’t see people playing outside much anymore. We’re trying to bring it back.” Their enthusiasm for this raw format is palpable, and it resonates in their music. Behind the Magic: Challenges and Innovations Despite the thrill of live recordings, it comes with its own set of challenges. “Battery life is a huge factor,” Perez noted, humorously recounting how their setup failed as they attempted an encore. The ingenuity involved in their recording methods, from the type of portable batteries used to adapting their performance space, reveals a commitment to creativity and innovation. Jacob brings to life the visual aspect of their performances, noting that video has always been integral to their identity. The band aims to capture the kinetic energy of their performances not only through sound but also through sight, a strategy that enhances the overall experience for fans. This emphasizes the importance of their dynamic presence on stage, adding another layer to their artistic expression. Upcoming Performance: The Replay Lounge Gig Fans won't want to miss Corners of the Sky's upcoming show at Replay Lounge on January 15. The event promises to be more than just a concert; it’s an experience reflecting their dedication to engaging with the audience. With a variety of musical influences and their penchant for live performances, this gig is sure to highlight their growth and raw talent. Future Expectations: What's Next? As we look forward, the band is optimistic about their future as they prepare for 2026. With a plethora of shows under their belt—around 70 in the past year alone—Corners of the Sky is focused on evolving their sound and reinforcing their connection with fans. They are currently mixing their recordings and teasing new material, hinting at a fresh direction that fans can expect soon. “We have exciting projects in the pipeline, including animated music videos,” said Jacob, suggesting that this band is just getting started. Your Invitation to Experience Live Music in KC Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Kansas City music scene, attending Corners of the Sky's show is an excellent way to dive into local talent. Events like these not only support burgeoning artists but also enrich our community's cultural fabric. So mark your calendars and experience the wildness that awaits! If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details about this or other upcoming events, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

01.06.2026

Dramatic Shootout: KC Comets vs. St. Louis Ambush in Heart-Stopping Finale

Update Thrilling Sports Drama: The Comets vs. Ambush Showdown In a nail-biting confrontation at Cable Dahmer Arena, Kansas City Comets faced off against the St. Louis Ambush on January 4, 2026. The match unfolded like an emotional rollercoaster, with leads changing hands and the final score resting at a dramatic 7-6 after a shootout, sealing the Ambush's win over the Comets for the second consecutive match on their home turf. Game Highlights: A Match to Remember The game was filled with exceptional moments, starting early as the Ambush took the lead when Robert Williamson scored during his 100th MASL game. But the Comets weren’t going to let the moment pass them by; they quickly responded, leveling the fields with a goal from Zach Reget just minutes later. Throughout the match, both teams displayed high energy, superb teamwork, and immense competitive spirit. Emotional Rollercoaster of Leads As the clock ticked, Kansas City began turning a multi-goal deficit into an impressive series of leads. With goals from players like Rian Marques and Lesia Thetsane, the Comets demonstrated their determination to fight back after being down early. Despite these rallies, the Ambush fought hard, showcasing resilience as they equalized late in regulation thanks to Daniel Torrealba's timely goal, sending the match into overtime for the second week in a row. Goalkeeping: The Unsung Heroes A significant part of the game dynamics boiled down to the keepers—Paulo Nascimento for the Ambush and Phillip Ejimadu for the Comets—who both made astonishing saves throughout the match. Their performance ensured that the game remained tightly contested, resulting in a goalless overtime and prompting a high-stakes shootout. The Thrilling Finale: Deciding the Game During the shootout, the pressure was palpable. The Comets' shooters—Dominic Francis, Zach Reget, and Rian Marques—were all thwarted by the Ambush defense. In contrast, it was Robert Kristo who emerged victorious for the Ambush, scoring the decisive goal that secured their win. This dramatic turn of events proved to be a fierce reminder of how competitive the league is, especially with both teams vying for supremacy. Looking Forward: What’s Next for the Ambush and Comets Now sitting at a 4-3-1 record, the St. Louis Ambush look ahead to upcoming matches, including a game against the Tacoma Stars on January 11, 2026. Meanwhile, the Comets, falling to 6-2-2, are eager to bounce back and regroup ahead of their next game. Fans are encouraged to keep an eye on these teams as they navigate a challenging schedule ahead. Community Connections: Local Support for Teams This thrilling sports encounter reflects the vibrant sporting culture in Kansas City. As local businesses rally behind the Comets and Ambush, the community's support fosters a strong sense of identity and pride. Attending games, supporting local sports, and participating in community events are ways to enrich the local culture and economy. Your Chance to Engage If you have a story to share about your experience at Comets games or want to discuss local sports happenings, we want to hear from you! Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Whether you're highlighting local talent or sharing unforgettable game day moments, your insights are valuable to our thriving community.

01.04.2026

Kansas City Mavericks Secure Overtime Win Over Fort Wayne Komets

Join the KC Mavericks as they secure a thrilling overtime victory against the Fort Wayne Komets, discover Kansas City events, and get involved in community spirit.

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