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Wildcat Legends
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
CLENT STEWART KANSAS STATE BASKETBALL, 2004-2008
Clent Stewart is regarded as one of the most notable Kansas State basketball players of the mid-2000’s.
A native of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Clent appeared in 242 games over his four years, scoring nearly 1,400 points in his Wildcat career. His tenure at Kansas State was made unique by the fact that he played for three different coaches over four seasons. Originally recruited by Jim Woolridge, he would then play for both Bob Huggins & Frank Martin his final two seasons. Clent currently resides in Bartlesville, Oklahoma where he works for Phillips 66, and is also the Head Basketball Coach at Bartlesville High School. Clent is married to his K-State sweetheart, Stephanie, and has three children.
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Photo Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Holidays + Giving
December 2023 PUBLISHER
Tyler Jackson | tyler.jackson@citylifestyle.com EDITOR
Heather Hoffman | heather.hoffman@citylifestyle.com
The wonderful holiday season is here. As the spirit of the season envelops us, we often find ourselves seeking to recreate what made the season feel so magical in our youth. The traditions we establish for our own families often mirror the cherished experiences of our childhood. Whether it's the scents, sounds, twinkling lights, holiday festivities, or a blend of these elements, each past season contributes to the current joy and spirit of the holidays. I love when the spirit of the holiday season comes alive in the Little Apple. It all starts with our homes so lovingly decorated and extends to the entire city with many wonderful events. Blue Earth Plaza and Downtown Manhattan are buzzing with the sights and sounds of the season. Be sure to visit our Events page to see what is going on! One of my favorite aspects of the holiday season is the act of giving. It instills values of empathy and kindness, contributing profoundly to our well-being. In a world that can feel divided and fragmented, holiday giving serves as a poignant reminder of our shared humanity. It transcends cultural, religious, and socioeconomic divides, underlining our interconnectedness and offering a chance to foster understanding and compassion. Indeed, Giving is a cornerstone of our existence! In this Holidays + Giving Issue, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and the wonderful offerings of MHK that spread holiday cheer. We also wish to inspire you with various ways to give back. Whether it's the lead set by Manhattan's own Joel Garver or the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign, we urge you to lend a helping hand this holiday season in whatever way you can. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be painful and lonely for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community that need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel loved, respected, safe, and at peace, and that we all remember to take care of each other. This issue is dedicated to Rebecca Anne Hoffman, the mother of our Editor, Heather. Warm Regards & Happy Holidays,
STAFF PHOTOGR APHER
Tim Sigle | siglephoto@gmail.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER
Kenny Whitis
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
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Proverbs 3:5-6 Manhattan City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Manhattan area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Manhattan City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable,
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
DECEMBER 2023
inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue
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18
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F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
14 Clear The Halls!
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Local Experiences
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How To A RTS + C U LT U R E
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Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E
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Hometown Hero LI FE + C U LTU R E
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Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E
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Events
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Properly Store Christmas Decorations
18 Deck The Fridge
Sip, Savor, and Sleigh: The Fridge Wholesale Liquor Store Delivers Winter Wonderland Cocktail Recipes
24 Giving Back
Manhattan's Joe Garver Leads by Example by Always Seeking to Give Alms
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Tim Sigle | Sigle Photography Beautiful decorations at the annual Festival of Lights at Blue Earth Plaza.
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SHOP SMALL | SAVE LOCAL
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DECEMBER 2023
city scene
Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1
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SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
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SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
2 TYLER JACKSON
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SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
KENNY WHITIS
TYLER JACKSON
1: K-State Volleyball sweeps #8 BYU at the brand new Morgan Family Arena 2: K-State’s RJ Garcia catches a pass from Will Howard against Houston 3: Senior #16 Seth Porter, scoring his first collegiate touchdown catch for Kansas State 4: Basketball is back in action at Bramlage Coliseum! 5: Good times were had at the annual K-State Homecoming Parade 6: Texas country singer, Wade Bowen, performs at The Hat in Aggieville 7: It is a wonderful time of year to visit Manhattan’s hiking trails
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C I T Y SC E N E
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DECEMBER 2023
business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.
Introducing the all-new Doggie Daycare at Timber Creek Veterinary Hospital! Introducing the all-new Doggie Daycare at Timber Creek Veterinary Hospital! Boasting 40 spacious kennels, an extensive outdoor play area with two swimming pools and engaging structures, your dog won’t want to come home! Catering to both social and non-social dogs, they ensure a tailored experience. Plus, travel easier knowing your pet has direct access to top-quality veterinarian care while boarding. Don't miss out – call now to reserve a spot! Your pup's ultimate getaway awaits this holiday season! Photography TimberCreek Veterinary Hospital
Holiday Open House at Blueville Nursery Experience holiday magic at Blueville Nursery's Christmas Open House and Winter Container Workshop on December 8th and 9th Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland with an array of Christmas trees, vibrant poinsettias, festive wreaths, lush greenery, and an enchanting selection of ornaments and decor. Join the workshops to create stunning winter containers for your home. Don't miss this opportunity to add a touch of holiday cheer to your surroundings! Gift cards are available as well. Photography Blueville Nursery, Inc.
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Junior League of the Flint Hills' Adopt-A-Family Manhattan’s annual Adopt A Family, presented by the Junior League of the Flint Hills, embodies The Little Apple’s true spirit of giving during the holidays. For the 2023 holiday season, this heartwarming program matched community donors with 127 families, including 420 children! Through this initiative, Manhattanites came together to help create a brighter, more hopeful holiday season for all! To Adopt A Family the next year, sign up each October while space remains available at jlflinthills.org. Photography Megan Ronnebaum
Scan to read more.
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
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DECEMBER 2023
local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.
Experience the enchantment of Manhattan's holiday season. Immerse yourself in festive light displays, partake in winter activities, and savor delightful holiday-themed beverages. It's the most magical time of the year!
Our Picks for Holiday Happenings HOR SE DR AWN CAR R IAGE R IDES: Experience Downtown Manhattan's festive lights on a complimentary horse-drawn carriage ride! Rides will be offered from 5-8 pm Friday, December 8th to Sunday, December 10th. Blue Earth Plaza, Manhattan, KS THE HI LO: Head to The Hi Lo for a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar featuring festive drinks and an explosion of holiday décor beginning November 24th. 1119 Moro St, Manhattan, KS MCCAIN AUDITOR IUM: On December 6th, McCain presents "A Christmas Carol," the timeless redemption journey of Ebenezer Scrooge. This heartwarming holiday story reminds us of the importance of generosity and compassion. 1501 Goldstein Cir, Manhattan, KS ICE SKATING: Lace up your skates and glide on the ice at Wefald Pavilion. Afterward, savor the warmth of hot chocolate – a perfect winter's day! Wefald Pavilion, 314 Central Park Rd, Manhattan, KS, Manhattan, KS AGGIEVILLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION: Enjoy an evening in Aggieville with live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show, and ring in 2024 with the Little Apple Ball Drop! 1125 Moro Street Manhattan, KS
Ice Skating
Scan for more photos and the full list.
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Clear The Halls! A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
One of the best things about the Holiday season is getting to decorate your home. One of the worst things about the Holiday season is putting the decorations away once they’re over! Properly storing Christmas decorations is crucial to preserve their quality, prevent damage, and streamline future holiday preparations, ultimately ensuring a joyful & festive experience. When stored correctly, this ensures your decorations are in good condition for the following year, and years to come. This stepby-step guide will help you organize and store your holiday items efficiently, so they’re ready for next year’s festivities.
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H OW TO | A RTS + CU LTU RE
Step 1: Gather Supplies Before you start, gather the necessary supplies: • Cardboard boxes or plastic bins with lids • Bubble wrap or tissue paper • Ziplock bags or small containers for fragile ornaments • Labels and a marker for categorizing and identifying boxes • Tissue paper or bubble wrap • Large garbage bags for artificial trees or wreaths Step 2: Sort and Declutter Begin by sorting through your decorations. Discard any damaged or broken items and consider donating or giving away items you no longer use. This will help declutter your collection and make storage more efficient. Step 3: Clean and Dry Decorations Wipe down ornaments, lights, and other decorations to remove dust and residue. Allow them to air dry completely before packing them away to prevent mold or mildew growth.
Step 5: Disassemble and Clean Artificial Trees If you have an artificial tree, carefully disassemble it, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the branches and frame with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust. Allow it to dry completely. Step 6: Store Lights Properly Avoid tangling by using a light storage reel or wrapping lights around pieces of cardboard. Label each strand with a tag indicating the location it was used (e.g., “Living Room Tree”). Step 7: Pack by Category Separate decorations by category (e.g., ornaments, lights, wreaths) and place them in individual boxes or bins. Wrap larger items, like wreaths, in tissue paper or plastic bags to prevent dust accumulation.
Step 9: Store in a Dry, Cool Place Choose a storage area away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent damage to your decorations. Avoid storing them in attics or basements prone to extreme temperature changes. Step 10: Store Artificial Trees and Wreaths If possible, place your artificial tree and wreaths in specialized storage bags or boxes. If not, cover them with large garbage bags to protect them from dust and pests. Step 11: Add to the collection year-round! From antique stores to online second-hand marketplaces, be sure to keep your eyes open throughout the year for great holiday decoration deals! Following these step-by-step instructions will help you put away your Christmas decorations properly, ensuring they stay in great condition for years to come. By taking the time to organize and store your items carefully, you’ll be able to enjoy stress-free holiday decorating next season.
ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Step 4: Wrap Fragile Items For delicate ornaments, wrap each one in tissue paper or bubble wrap. Place them in individual Ziplock bags or small containers to provide extra protection. Label the containers with a brief description of their contents.
Step 8: Label Boxes Clearly Label each box or bin with its contents and the specific area it was used (e.g., “Kitchen Decorations” or “Outdoor Lights”). This will make it easy to find items next year.
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Make a PACT to ACT Learn how to Ask the question and address the myths and stigma surrounding suicide. Be able to Care for someone while waiting for professional help to arrive. Team up with professionals so a crisis situation is never handled alone.
Learn More and sign up for a FREE presentation today and help us remove the barriers to care. www.flinthillsvolunteercenter.com/pactrequest The PACT program is funded by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services in collaboration with the Riley County Health Deptartment.
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ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Deck The Fridge
SIP, SAVOR, AND SLEIGH: THE FRIDGE WHOLESALE LIQUOR STORE DELIVERS WINTER WONDERLAND COCKTAIL RECIPES Spice up your season of holiday merrymaking with this trio of festive, holiday-inspired mixed-drink recipes, courtesy of Manhattan’s Fridge Wholesale Liquor. If you’re looking for a comforting warmth, a zesty kick, or something classic yet indulgent, this collection promises to elevate your joyous gatherings! Find every ingredient available at The Fridge at 1150 Westport Drive in Manhattan. 21 means 21. Please enjoy responsibly!
Bourbon Cider Twist ingredients: • 6 oz. Evan Williams Spiced Cider • 4 oz. Angry Orchard Cider • 1/2 oz. lime juice • Optional garnish: fresh lime wedge • Optional: dash of Fireball Whisky
directions:
1. Pour the liquors into a mixing glass or cocktail shaker. 2. Enhance the flavor with a bright twist of citrus by squeezing in ½ oz of lime juice. 3. If using a mixing glass, gently stir the ingredients with a stirring stick or cocktail spoon. If using a shaker, give it a gentle shake. 4. Carefully strain the mixed ingredients into a prepared highball glass, filled with ice.
Bourbon Cider Twist
Garrett Dyson, Marketing Director: An Oklahoma native, Garrett graduated with a degree in graphic design from Rogers State University. Since 2019, he has served as the principle force behind the Fridge’s award winning digital marketing content.
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C ULIN A RY CR E AT ION S | F OOD+ BE VE RAGE
5. Add a fresh lime wedge to the rim of the glass to garnish, or let it float in the drink for an added burst of citrus aroma and flavor. 6. Optional: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a dash of Fireball whiskey for an extra exciting twist.’ Enjoy this delightful combination of spiced and hard ciders with a zesty lime kick!
Not Your Father’s Holiday Root Beer Float ingredients: • 6 oz. Not Your Father's Root Beer • 2 oz. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream • Whipshots Vodka Infused Vanilla Whipped Topping • Optional: Ice cream scoop • Optional garnish: Maraschino cherry
directions: 1. Pour Not Your Father’s Root Beer and Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream into a tall glass or mug. 2. Gently stir the ingredients together with a mixing spoon.
3. Optional: For an extra indulgent treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This will give your drink a classic root beer float texture and flavor. 4. Generously add Whipshots Vodka Infused Vanilla Whipped Topping on top of the drink. You can use as much as you desire to create a creamy and decadent finish. 5. Optional: Garnish with a maraschino cherry for an extra touch of sweetness and color. Serve with a straw to best savor this delightful combination of root beer and bourbon cream with a creamy vanilla topping. It has the familiar flavors of a root beer float with a grown-up twist! CONTINUED >
Not Your Father's Root Beer Float
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Peppermint Mocha Delight
Peppermint Mocha Delight: The Fridge Exclusive Recipe ingredients: • 2 oz. Smirnoff Peppermint Twist • 1.5 oz. Five Farms Single-Batch Irish Cream Liqueur • 1 oz. Luxardo Espresso Premium Italian Coffee Liqueur • Whipshots Vodka Infused Peppermint Whipped Topping • Candy canes for rimming the glass
directions: 1. Crush candy canes in a storage bag and sprinkle them onto a plate. 2. Rim the edge of a martini or cocktail glass with the crushed candy canes: Carefully turn the glass upside down on the plate, ensuring the candy cane adheres to the rim. 3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the liquors. 4. Seal the shaker with its lid and shake vigorously for approximately 15-20 seconds to both chill and blend the ingredients. 5. Using a cocktail strainer, carefully pour the mixed liquid into the prepared glass. 6. Crown your creation with a generous dollop of Whipshots Vodka Infused Peppermint Whipped Topping. 7. Optional: For an extra festive touch, consider a light sprinkle of crushed candy cane on top of the whipped cream. Savor the delightful blend of rich coffee, mint, and creamy flavors. Cheers!
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C ULIN A RY CR E AT ION S | F OOD+ BE VE RAGE
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Giving Back The October sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden hue over Broadway Street in Riley, Kansas at the annual Riley Fall Festival. Laughter and chatter filled the air as families gathered to celebrate the forthcoming season. Among the colorful stalls, a cheerful man named Joel Garver stood, the sleeves rolled up on his black shirt that was seemingly covered in spider webs. In front
of him, a pink cotton candy machine whirrs to life, sending fluffy clouds of sugar into the air. Children's eyes widened in delight as they approached, drawn by the sweet aroma and the magic of the performance. Joel worked with a focused determination, expertly twirling paper cones through the billowing cotton candy, creating vibrant, sugary sculptures. His face lit up with each
MANHATTAN'S JOE GARVER LEADS BY EXAMPLE BY ALWAYS SEEKING TO GIVE ALMS.
ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY & SHERIDAN MILLNER
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delighted giggle from the kids, their sticky fingers reaching out eagerly. He chatted animatedly with parents, offering them a taste of his sugary creations. The festival buzzed with a sense of community, and Joel's presence added an extra touch of warmth and camaraderie. His genuine enthusiasm and dedication were palpable, turning a simple cotton candy booth into a heartwarming spectacle at the heart of the festivities. Joel Garver exemplifies leadership through his unwavering commitment to giving back to his community. As a real estate agent at The Alms Group, he goes above and beyond his professional responsibilities to make a positive impact. As a decorated leader in many fields, his service to others serves as a beacon of inspiration for those around him. A native of Riley, Joel graduated from Riley County High School in 2012. He then attended Kansas State, graduating in 2016 with a degree in secondary education, and a double minor in entrepreneurship and journalism. Once finished with college, he landed his first job teaching at Junction City High School. Coming from a family of teachers, that was a natural path for him to travel down. His mom, Sue, and his brother, Andrew, both teach school in Riley, and his wife, Kelsey, teaches at Manhattan High. A natural handyman as well, Joel has owned and operated a side business, Garver Handyman, for the past ten years or so. Once he left the education industry in 2018, real estate was the next step on his path, because he felt an experienced handyman-turned-real estate agent could bring invaluable & practical knowledge to the table. He felt by expertly assessing properties, he could offer his clients a thorough understanding of a home's condition. This expertise, of course, would then help build trust and expedite sales, providing clients with a seamless and informed experience. So, he became a licensed Realtor, started working at The Alms Group five years ago, and has been meeting and exceeding his own expectations since.
“I think for me, I’m not a great salesman from the standpoint of just showing up to a random crowd and going and introducing myself to everybody,” said Joel. “I want to have some sort of connection, or some common ground, that we can connect on. A lot of times, I try to find that through volunteering, or through involvement with the schools. Also, because I wanted to stay involved with education.” Remaining passionate about education, Joel first became involved with the PTO at the Riley County Grade School PTO, and then also with the Amanda Arnold PTO. Being involved with PTO showcases his genuine concern for the educational well-being of local children. He actively participates in initiatives aimed at enhancing the learning experience, contributing his time, resources, and expertise to support these schools. His hands-on approach and genuine interest in education set a powerful example for parents, teachers, and students alike. Additionally, Joel's active participation in the Boys & Girls Club of Manhattan underscores his commitment to nurturing the potential of young individuals. He recognizes the importance of providing a safe and enriching environment for children to thrive. By dedicating his time and energy to this organization, he demonstrates the impact that one person can have in shaping the futures of many. In addition to being a real estate agent, and serving his community, Joel is a dedicated family man. Meeting his college sweetheart, Kelsey, in 2015, they married a few years later, and started their family with the birth of their daughter, Nora, in 2018. They added a son, Cooper, in 2021, and are happily expecting their third child in May of 2024. At Manhattan High School, Kelsey is the family and consumer sciences teacher, where she teaches classes such as interior design, fashion, apparel & textiles. Her role directly helps Joel, as the two form a dynamic duo, harmonizing his real estate practicality with her knowledge of design
“I want to have some sort of
connection, or
some common
ground, that we
can connect on.”
CONTINUED >
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“I would urge people to get out there and find a way to make an impact. No impact is too small in a community like Manhattan. Time or money, anything you can do will have a huge effect.”
The Garver Family: Joel, Kelsey, Nora & Cooper
aesthetics. Their combined skills create a powerful synergy, providing clients with a comprehensive and appealing perspective on homes, making them a formidable team in the real estate industry. Joel's leadership, backed by Kelsey’s continuous encouragement, extends beyond his professional sphere, demonstrating that true leadership is about
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H OM E TOWN H E R O | L IFE + CULTURE
selflessly serving others. His actions inspire those around him to become more engaged in their communities, illustrating that every individual has the power to make a meaningful difference. Joel Garver's example serves as a reminder that leadership is not defined by a title, but by a genuine desire to contribute to the greater good.
God is for ALL people (and so are we).
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Giving Campaign
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G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE
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This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”
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Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023
Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M A N HAT TA N
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DECEMBER 2023
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
D EC E M BE R 2 N D & 9TH
Breakfast with Santa
FLIN T HILLS DIS COVERY CEN TE R , 31 5 S 3R D ST, MA NH AT TA N, KS Santa Claus is coming to town... to the Flint Hills Discovery Center! This family-friendly event includes a holiday scavenger hunt, a hot breakfast, and opportunities to take a family photo with Santa, decorate a gingerbread man, and craft a take-home ornament. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance: flinthillsdiscovery. org/354/Breakfast-with-Santa
D EC E M BE R 2 N D
K-State Men's Basketball vs. University of North Alabama
BRAMLAG E COLIS EUM, 18 00 C O L L E G E AV E , MA NH AT TA N, KS Fort Riley's Operation Santa: Fort Riley's Operation Santa Claus helps service members and their families provide gifts to their children during the holiday season. Fans are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys or gift cards. All donations will benefit Fort Riley soldiers, especially families under financial constraints and families of deployed, fallen, or injured soldiers. D EC E M BE R 3 RD
Sip & Shop at Liquid Art Winery
LIQUID ART WIN ERY, 1745 WIL DCAT C R E E K R D, MA NH AT TA N, KS | 1 2:0 0 P M Join us for a festive Christmas shopping event with 30+ local vendors at Liquid Art Winery. Savor the diverse offerings of the Tasting Room's menu, including cider, mulled wine, beer, charcuterie, and artisan pizzas while you shop. Admission is free, but remember that you must be 21+ to enjoy alcoholic beverages. Cheers to a merry shopping experience! D EC E M BE R 5T H
K-State Men's Basketball vs. Villanova University
BRAMLAG E COLIS EUM, 18 00 C O L L E G E AV E , MA NH AT TA N, KS White Out: All fans are encouraged to wear white to ensure a K-State White Out for the nationally-televised, primetime match-up against Villanova. D EC E M BE R 6T H
K-State Women's Basketball vs. McNeese State University
BRAMLAG E COLIS EUM, 18 00 C O L L E G E AV E , MA NH AT TA N, KS Wednesday Wildcat 4-Packs: Each Wednesday home game, fans can purchase four general admission tickets and four $10 concession vouchers for just $50. Youth Team Game: Youth basketball teams and K-State camp attendees can attend this game for free with registration at least one week prior to the game. Registration is limited. See kstatesports.com/ promotions for more information. DE C EMBE R 1 2 T H
Jim Brickman's A Joyful Christmas
MCCAIN AUDITOR IUM, 1501 G O L DST E I N C I R , MA NH AT TA N, KS | 7 :30 P M Jim Brickman's "A Joyful Christmas" promises to be a festive, musical journey of faith, love, and togetherness. Brickman’s virtuosic piano artistry and heartfelt vocals infuse timeless carols and seasonal classics with a joyous spirit. Revel in the magical spirit of the Yuletide in this captivating holiday experience. CONTINUED >
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EVENTS CONTINUED
DE C EM BE R 1 7 T H
K-State Men's Basketball vs. University of Nebraska
BRAMLAG E COLIS EUM, 18 00 C O L L E G E AV E , MA NH AT TA N, KS Junior Wildcats Club Day: K-State welcomes members of the Junior Wildcats Club to experience Wildcat Men's Basketball up close. The first 100 Junior Wildcats to show their membership card at the check-in table will receive a K-State gift. Junior Wildcats will also receive discounts on select concessions. A game ticket is required for admission. DE C EM BE R 1 9 T H
Kansas City Chorale: Wintersong
ST. IS IDORE'S CATHOLIC STUD E NT C E NT E R , 7 1 1 DE NI S O N AV E , MA NH AT TA N, K S | 7 :30 P M Directed by Charles Bruffy, the Grammy-winning Kansas City Chorale will make its Manhattan debut. The 24-voice choir is acclaimed for its refined sound, phrasing, and flawless intonation. With 6 Grammy wins and 16 nominations since 2007, their "Wintersong" program, filled with lush choral tapestries and ethereal holiday adaptations, harmonizes perfectly with the acoustic grandeur of St. Isidore's new chapel. DE C E M BE R 3 1 ST
Family New Year's Eve: Glow Party!
FLIN T HILLS DIS COVERY CEN TE R , 31 5 S 3R D ST, MA NH AT TA N, KS | 6 :0 0 P M All the fun of New Year's Eve, but with a reasonable bedtime. This family-friendly celebration gives kids a chance to create themed crafts, dance, eat party food, visit FHDC exhibits including Great Plains: America's Lingering Wild, and play fun games! The evening ends with a balloon drop at 8:30 pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult. flinthills discovery.org/394/Family-New-Years-Eve
Want to be featured?
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Manhattan
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MEET ADDIE
Thanks to early college opportunities at Manhattan Tech, Addie completed our shortterm CNA course and has become a Certified Nurse Aid – all before graduating high school in May. In addition to earning her certification, Addie has completed over 50 college credits that are transferable to many universities and colleges in Kansas! She now moves on to pursue her degree in Nursing at the University of Kansas Medical School having saved thousands! Addie has taken advantage of these concurrent/ dual-credit courses while in high school, giving her a head start on her path to a high paying career!
BE LIKE ADDIE: ENROLL IN EARLY COLLEGE COURSES TODAY Talk to your high school counselor or visit us at:
manhattantech.edu/concurrent 785.320.4547 concurrent@manhattantech.edu
Connect with us: @ManhattanTech
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