Manhattan, KS February 2024

Love Local S P O R T S + R E C R E ATI O N

K-STATE' S ALL-AM ERI CAN VO LLE YBALL PL AYER ALIYAH CARTER

F E B R UA RY 2 02 4

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Year Number Three

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Tyler Jackson | tyler.jackson@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Cinco De Mayo 2021 was one of those days that will forever stand out to me. I was sitting on Pike’s Peak and looking towards Kansas from the summit of America’s mountain. I was crying. I wasn’t crying because of the beauty of the moment. I was crying because I had changed. The world had changed. To say I was the same person I was a year prior would have been an understatement. As I sat there, I also prayed. There was longing in my prayer. I was praying for something better, something of which I did not know.

Fast forward to later that same day, an unexpected call came from my old friend Ryan Ross. He called to shoot the breeze. In our chat, I learned that he worked for a publication company that sells local magazine franchises. Basically, a combination of everything I had ever done. I knew that this was an answered prayer! I went through the process, bought the franchise, and quit my job. I bartended at Mojo’s in Aggieville to get by, and fearlessly grinded it out until we had a magazine.

We’ve made it to year number three! This is the 25th Issue of Manhattan City Lifestyle Magazine, coincidentally celebrating the Love Local theme! At 39, after having spent nearly half of my life here, I owe a lot to the Little Apple. Manhattan reflects who I am as a person, and that reflection is evident throughout the magazine. Love Local encapsulates this month perfectly.

Inside, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Heather Hoffman, our Editor, and Tim Sigle, our Staff Photographer, who have been with this magazine since its inception. I’m excited to tell you their stories!

I'm also excited to share 'The Legend of RC McGraw' — an old folktale cowboy friend of Johnny Kaw who decided to open a restaurant. Then, without further ado, we have the one and only Aliyah Carter. It was a true privilege and honor to sit down with this All-American K-State volleyball player. She’s such a wonderful person.

Lastly, thank you to every advertiser. Each one of them is a homegrown Manhattan business that makes this town what it is. It’s because of them this magazine is possible.

Happy February! Go Cats!

Warm Regards,

T Y L E R JAC K S O N , P U B L I S H E R @ M A N H AT TA N C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Heather Hoffman | heather.hoffman@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Tim Sigle | siglephoto@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

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 Laura Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

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

Visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / M A N H AT TA N

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

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Featured

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6

Aliyah

K-State’s All-American Aliyah Carter leads a cultural shift for Wildcat volleyball

The Legend of RC McGraw

On the Cover

Departments

K-State AllAmerican Aliyah Carter is excited to return for her final season of Wildcat volleyball in 2024

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

City Scene

10

Business Monthly

14

Athlete Life SPORTS + RECREATION

22

Hometown Hero FOOD + BEVERAGE

28

Must See LIFE + CULTURE

36

Travel Journal TRAVEL

38

Events

RC McGraw’s Bar & Grill surpasses the boundaries of imagination

Two Years

Celebrating two years, meet the staff of Manhattan City Lifestyle magazine

Photography: Sigle Photgraphy Tim Sigle

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FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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MHK TROLLEY

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TYLER JACKSON

5 TYLER JACKSON

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TYLER JACKSON

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KENNY WHITIS

SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

1: Aggieville Brewing Company’s owner, Ryan Emley, with right-hand man, Andrew Grandon 2: The MHK Trolley is available to rent for any occasion!

3: Congratulations to the K-State Wildcats on winning the Pop-Tarts Bowl in Orlando, Florida! 4: Rest In Peace to the incredible, edible Pop-Tarts Mascot (2023-2023) 5: Mitch Holthus, voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, speaks to the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce 6: K-State’s Cam Carter slams the ball against against UCF 7: K-State’s Tylor Perry shoots a three-pointer at Bramlage Coliseum

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FEBRUARY 2024

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Aggieville Brewing Company is now open!

Flint Hills Home Show 2024

Located across the Viaduct at 612 Pillsbury Drive, the new Aggieville Brewing Company brings a fresh perspective to craft beer. With 18 diverse brews, founders Ryan and Amber Emley prioritize delicious, high-quality food. Offering a full menu, including gluten-free options, their food is cooked with care using olive oil, butter, and beef tallow.

Discover everything you need for home renovations or building your dream home. Explore vendors including general contractors, design consultants, architects, and landscaping professionals.

Find the latest and greatest in home design, from green technology and garden equipment to kitchen countertops and cabinets. Admission cost: $5. National Guard Armory, 721 Levee Dr, Manhattan, KS. Friday, February 23 - Sunday, February 25 flinthillsbuilders.org/home-show

Photography by Aggieville Brewing Company

It's the 7th Annual Adult Corporate Pinewood Derby!

Join us on February 9th for the Adult Corporate Pinewood Derby at the future Robbins Motor Company site — formerly Diamond Roofing, Highway 24 and Excel Road. It’s an exclusive 21+ night of thrilling pinewood car races! Build your own, or cars are available to rent. Tickets include food, beverages, and live & silent auctions. K-State’s Avery Johnson is scheduled to make an appearance! Email Krystal.Baldwin@ scouting.org for more information.

Photography by Tyler Jackson

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ALIYAH K-STATE’S ALL-AMERICAN ALIYAH CARTER LEADS A CULTURE SHIFT FOR WILDCAT VOLLEYBALL

ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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AT H LE T E LIF E | S P O RTS + RE CRE AT ION

I

n a climactic moment, a volleyball fiercely shuttles back and forth over the net before a roaring crowd. Positioned on the wing, Aliyah Carter of Kansas State keeps her eyes locked on the ball. In a swift and calculated motion, she bursts into action, propelling her 5’10” self mid-air, defying gravity with both agility and power. As she ascends to the 35-inch apex of her jump, time appears to halt, and the arena holds its breath. With impeccable timing, she unleashes a thunderous spike.

The ball hurtles towards the floor, unstoppable, triggering an explosive eruption of cheers from the crowd upon impact. This marked the match-winning point, securing a sweep over the defending National Champion Texas Longhorns. An instant classic, it was the precise moment when

the entire volleyball world was vividly reminded of the name Aliyah Carter.

In 1990, Joe Carter moved to Dubuque, Iowa to play basketball for Loras College, where he met his future wife Tassie. Joe, a sixth-grade science teacher, and Tassie, a nurse practitioner, would build their lives together by welcoming three children into the world. Those three have proven to be quite athletic. The oldest is Joshua.

A gifted basketball player, he played at Upper Iowa, a NCAA Division II school.

The middle son is Noah, who is currently in his senior season in basketball at Missouri.

Then, there’s Aliyah.

While her name was indeed inspired by the singer, Aaliyah, Joe and Tassie preferred a different spelling. Aliyah Irene Carter was born on May 2nd, 2002, and immediately had a competitive spirit. Being the youngest child, let alone a female with two older

brothers, she grew up watching them play, leaving her fueled with motivation. Around sixth grade, she began joining her dad and brothers at the gym several times a week.

While a self-proclaimed, subpar basketball player, Aliyah found her own benefit from the gym. While her brothers played basketball, Aliyah focused on sprints and plyometrics. This hard work earned her the ability to jump high, and it began the path towards her own sport – volleyball.

Her drive, alongside the unconditional love and dedication of her parents, landed her at the Adrenaline Volleyball Academy, a prestigious, national volleyball club in Hiawatha, Iowa. Her parents dedicated several evenings a week to drive the three hour round trip to the Iowa Sports Center. Which of course, they always enjoyed. That was their idea of vacation – basketball tournaments for the boys, and volleyball tournaments for Aliyah.

CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M A N HAT TA N

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An instant classic, it was the precise moment when the entire volleyball world was vividly reminded of the name Aliyah Carter.

It didn’t take long for her efforts in the gym and on the court to get recognized. In eighth grade, she was offered her first full ride scholarship from the University of Iowa. While her dad was elated, Aliyah opted to postpone such a significant decision, aiming to wait until at least her junior year of high school before making a commitment.

She began high school at Hempstead High School, guiding the Mustangs to the state tournament her freshman year. Transferring across town to Wahlert Catholic High School, she joined their renowned, double-digit state championship winning team, winning two herself.

Notably, she achieved back-to-back state long jump championships, with both jumps surpassing the impressive mark of 18 feet.

Embarking on official visits to both California State University, Long Beach and Pepperdine University in California proved to be a valuable experience. However, the distance from home became apparent during this exploration, leading her to recognize that the West Coast lacked the familiar Midwestern collegiate vibe she had come to appreciate.

Her very last college visit was to Kansas State University. It was love at first sight. The beauty of the campus’s, combined with a sense of home, left a lasting impression. The distance, approximately 500 miles or eight hours, proved to be just right—a perfect balance for weekend family

visits without the temptation to return home every week. On her visit, she was able to watch the Wildcats play Texas at Ahearn Fieldhouse, and that sealed the deal. Everything about the Little Apple resonated with personality and what she wanted out of her collegiate experience.

Her freshman and sophomore seasons at K-State showcased outstanding performance on the court. The Big 12 recognized her excellence, bestowing upon her the prestigious title of the 2020 Big 12 and American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Midwest Freshman of the Year. In addition to this accolade, she earned a multitude of other honors, including unanimous First Team All-Big 12 selections in both years.

Entering her junior season in the spring of 2022, she exuded confidence and carried high hopes. She believed this would be the best season of her life, feeling it in her jump, vision, and ball placement.

Until it just wasn’t.

An all-conference volleyball player experiencing a slump can grapple with a mix of frustration, self-doubt, and tremendous pressure.

For Aliyah, her slump felt like an infection she couldn’t shake. It overtook the mental aspect of her game. Overcoming an emotional hurdle like this requires resilience, determination, and a focus on improvement. Thankfully, an answer for the slump was just around the corner.

CONTINUED >

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AT H LE T E LIF E | S P O RTS + RE CRE AT ION

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M A N HAT TA N

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An All-American volleyball player. It was proof that when she believes in herself, she can go as far as she can dream.

On December 27, 2022, K-State Director of Athletics, Gene Taylor, announced the hiring of Jason Mansfield from the University of Washington. An assistant coach for 19 seasons, he was a proven winner. Mansfield played a part in nearly 500 wins, 18 NCAA tournament appearances, seven Final Fours, and a National Championship. He was the right person for the job, at the right time.

Since its inception in 1974, Kansas State volleyball had never had a dedicated arena to call its own. Ahearn Fieldhouse and Bramlage Coliseum were shared with other sports. However, on September 1, 2023, everything changed with the inauguration of the state-of-the-art Morgan Family Arena. This intimate, volleyball-exclusive arena with a seating capacity of 3,100 was precisely what K-State volleyball needed.

Despite the positive changes, when the spring of 2023 arrived, Aliyah found herself still grappling with the mental block that had affected her junior season. After months of introspection, she began gaining clarity within herself, coinciding with her coaches also gaining a deeper understanding of Aliyah.

During their inaugural practice together, Coach Mansfield reminded Aliyah of her true gift: her ability to jump high. He emphasized

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AT H LE T E LIF E | S P O RTS + RE CRE AT ION

that she could undoubtedly hit over anyone; she just needed to believe she could. Aliyah experienced a belief in herself like never before, emanating not only from every new coach on the staff but also from her teammates. It was in this moment that an All-American spirit was forged into steel.

From the moment Coach Mansfield set foot on campus, his guiding motto has remained simple yet powerful: Character, Compete, Connect.

It encapsulates essential questions: What does your character reveal in the face of adversity?

Are you willing to grind and compete every single day? How do you plan to forge meaningful connections with those around you? Character, Compete, Connect—these three principles shape the ethos he instills in the team.

This motto spoke loud and clear to Aliyah.

It’s written on every whiteboard and preached daily. These three words helped set her on the path of falling back in love with volleyball. She realized it was about loving every part of the journey. The highs, the lows. The good, the bad, the ugly. Character, Compete, Connect.

Entering her senior season, she knew this was truly going to be her year. There was a new coach, a new motto, and a new Aliyah. Plus a new arena, and it was game on.

She led the team with 390 kills, and a 9-4 record at The Morg. The new barn saw set sweeps against ranked Texas, Iowa State, and BYU twice. Also, for the third time in her career, Aliyah finished the season as a unanimous first-team All-Big 12 selection and first-team AVCA All-Midwest Region.

On tournament Selection Sunday, K-State’s name was never called. Despite finishing 16-11 overall, with a 10-8 record in the Big 12, plus several sweeps over ranked opponents, the committee overlooked the Wildcats. This left Aliyah fuming. She needed a week to catch her breath, but ultimately, she announced she would return for another season. Due to the pandemic, she still has a year of eligibility.

Fast forward a week or so after her return announcement, and Aliyah finds herself inside the Vanier Sports Complex, diligently working on an essay in the December chill, making her final push toward graduation. At that moment, Coach Mansfield gives her a call. As she answers with a friendly “hello,” he delivers the exciting news, “It’s coming out tomorrow, but I wanted to let you know that you’re an All-American!” With her signature long, curly hair, Aliyah leans back in her chair and breaks into a radiant smile.

Achieving All-American status has long been a significant goal for her, and now she has attained it—a testament to the belief she holds in herself. An All-American volleyball player, proving that when she trusts in her abilities, she can reach heights as limitless as her dreams. This is good news for K-State, because this team is poised to soar as high as Aliyah can fly!

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M A N HAT TA N

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M

THE L

N E

F O RC D

R AW CG

EG

Owner Nick Powers

RC MCGRAW’S BAR & GRILL SURPASSES THE BOUNDARIES OF IMAGINATION

ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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H OM E TOWN H E R O | F OOD + BEVERAGE

“Manhattan ain’t big enough for outlaws like you, partner.”

- RC McGraw

In the enchanting Flint Hills of Kansas, there once lived a legendary cowboy named RC McGraw. Now, RC wasn’t your ordinary cowpoke. He was best friends with Johnny Kaw. He could ride tornadoes, serenade coyotes, and lasso the moon on starry nights. His horse, Lightning, was said to be so swift that even the wind struggled to keep pace.

One fateful day, the notorious outlaw Buckshot Bill swaggered into the Little Apple, itching for trouble. The tension crackled like summer lightning, and in the blink of an eye, RC McGraw and Buckshot Bill faced off on Moro Street, creating a showdown destined for folklore.

Dust clouds billowed and bullets zipped through the air like angry wildcats. RC’s six-shooter played a quick tune of justice. With a tip of his hat and a wink, RC declared, “Manhattan ain’t big enough for outlaws like you, partner.”

A man of unexpected turns, RC decided to retire his guns and open RC McGraw’s Bar & Grill. Legends spoke of RC’s chili with the kick of a bronco, and steaks so tender they melted like morning mist.

People flocked from across Kansas to try this cowboy’s culinary creations!

While a tall tale, RC McGraw’s Bar & Grill surpassed the boundaries of imagination to become a real-life destination where dreams and flavors are intertwined.

On February 23, 2000, RC McGraw’s Bar & Grill opened, welcoming patrons at the northern end of the Blue Hills Shopping Center in a spot formerly known as Kickers.

Although RC McGraw wasn’t an actual person, founder Doug Long chose the name affectionately to pay tribute to two dear friends. He honored Roger Reinbold with the “R” and Cletus “Clet” Umscheid, Sr., with the “C.” The name McGraw suited the envisioned caricature, and thus, RC CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M A N HAT TA N

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The “R” is for Roger Reinbold, and the “C” is for Cletus “Clet” Umscheid, Sr.

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H OM E TOWN H E R O | FO OD + BE VE RAGE

McGraw came into being. Now simply recognized as McGraws, the establishment has been under the ownership and management of Nick Powers for the past decade.

Ironically, Nick’s journey to McGraws unfolded much like a folktale itself.

Originally from Cimarron, Kansas, Nick, a K-State student in 2002, served as the designated driver for a college date party at McGraws’ Blue Hills Room. Driving a flatbed Ford F-350, Nick’s first entry into the shopping center took an unexpected turn when a wheel detached from the truck, causing damage to a catering van.

The following day, Nick met Doug, agreed to cover the damages, and simultaneously accepted a catering position at Rambler’s Steakhouse. Nick gradually integrated into McGraws, assuming a managerial role.

By 2005, he became a partner, and in 2013, he assumed sole ownership.

As you swing open the door, a comforting wave of warmth welcomes you to the expansive, 4,500-square-foot interior exuding a rustic charm reminiscent of an old western saloon. The walls are adorned with Lincoln Log wood, mirrors, and numerous neon signs. Conversations create a gentle hum, accompanied by clinking glasses and the subtle background melody of country music. In the middle lies a designated wooden dance floor, with a concert stage towards the back. The 100-foot bar, featuring wood from the Powers’ family farm in Windhorst, Kansas, showcases an impressive collection of aged whiskey bottles and eight gleaming beer taps.

Embark on a culinary adventure with McGraws’ menu, offering bold flavors in famous chicken wings, gourmet salads, and perfectly crafted burgers. Dive into entrees such as their handmade, breaded

pork chops, chicken fried steaks, expertly grilled sirloin steaks, and the unique taste of Rocky Mountain oysters. Weekly specials, including the popular Thursday Taco Night, give patrons something to look forward to throughout the week.

McGraws has long been a dynamic hub of lively events, featuring heart-pounding concerts with icons like the late Mickey Gilley, Blackhawk, Afroman, Saving Able, and Manhattan’s very own Crosswinds.

Immerse yourself in specialty events such as Micro Mania Wrestling, karaoke night, intense poker battles, and the famous Bike Nights every other Wednesday from May to September. McGraws guarantees an eclectic mix of thrilling entertainment for unforgettable nights.

Additionally, McGraws offers catering to elevate any gathering of any size, both inside the Blue Hills Room and offsite. With meticulous attention to detail, McGraws seeks to provide an experience in which guests can focus on socializing and savoring delicious food without preparation hassles.

One of the newest additions to McGraws is the “partio” — a party patio located behind the building. Conceived by Nick and Jon Pope, construction was completed with the help of loyal McGraws’ patrons in the summer of 2022. The partio features native limestone slabs and a captivating pergola, blending nature and sophistication seamlessly.

As the sun dips below the partio’s horizon, casting a warm glow over Manhattan, the legend of RC McGraw continues to echo through the streets. Welcome to a dining experience where the extraordinary meets the every day, and every dish is seasoned with a pinch of the legendary RC McGraw’s spirit.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/M A N HAT TA N

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ARTICLE BY HEATHER HOFFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITOR HEATHER HOFFMAN & PHOTOGRAPHER TIM SIGLE HAVE BEEN WITH MANHATTAN CITY LIFESTYLE SINCE THE FIRST DAY Staff Photographer Tim Sigle, Publisher Tyler Jackson, & Editor Heather Hoffman

TWO YEARS 28

M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

In honor of our second anniversary, I wanted to introduce you to our local staff. Since the inception of Manhattan City Lifestyle, a small but passionate team of three has been working tire-

So, for many years, I put my writing ambitions on the back burner.

After college, I completed a two year stint leading a new education program at a Washington, D.C. law

“MY JOURNEY HAS REFLECTED THE ADVICE I SHARE WITH MY STUDENTS—THAT THE PATH TO OPPORTUNITIES STARTS WITH EMBRACING IMPERFECTION.” lessly each month: I serve as the publisher, Heather Hoffman as the editor, and Tim Sigle as our photographer.

They’ve been with me since day one, and I’m blessed to have them by my side. - Tyler Jackson.

HEATHER HOFFMAN, IN HER OWN WORDS:

I have wanted to be a writer since I knew how to read. There was one major issue with this goal: I didn’t want anyone to read my writing. For this reason, I did not join my high school newspaper nor take a single undergraduate creative writing class. Ira Glass, the acclaimed radio host, has a quote that can explain my reluctance to share my work with the world — or even just a small writing circle: “For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good. It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not.

But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you.”

firm, before heading north to graduate school at Harvard.

In graduate school, I wanted to take advantage of the immense resources available and jumped in head first to the icy waters of new experiences: coding, data analysis, public speaking.

Finally, I decided to take my first creative writing course.

When the professor, Nancy Sommers, asked me to share a narrative essay for the whole class — sixty people! — to dissect, I sheepishly agreed. The feedback shared was generally kind and helpful, and the critical feedback didn’t kill me.

I learned many valuable lessons from this course, but perhaps the most impactful was that you sometimes have to give yourself permission to write poorly before you can write well. Great writing often comes to the surface after multiple revisions. This is a lesson that I share with all of my students, many of whom I help with their college admissions essays.

CONTINUED >

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The staff at the Bill Snyder Highway Half Marathon

Heather and her partner Ervin exploring San Francisco

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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

In August 2021, I was discussing this idea with friends, including my partner Ervin and my new friend Tyler, during happy hour at Taco Lucha. My ears perked up when Tyler began discussing Manhattan City Lifestyle, the magazine franchise he had recently purchased. He was looking for an editor and thought I could be a good fit based on our conversation.

It felt like kismet. Even though my schedule was already full between my full-time job at an education technology company and tutoring commitments, I knew it would be an incredible privilege to be part of a local publication representing my hometown. Interviewing small business owners, farmers, local musicians, community leaders, and K-State professors and students has been a joy and source of inspiration beyond anything I could have imagined.

Joining the magazine has forced me to move past my fears in order to create something that’s meaningful to me and, hopefully, to my community. My journey has reflected the advice I share with my students—that the path to opportunities starts with embracing imperfection.

“LANDSCAPE SHOTS & WILDLIFE ARE MY PASSION.” TIM SIGLE, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Tim Sigle is one of the most sought-after landscape photographers in the region. His interest in photography was first sparked when he took a class at Cowley County Community College. His passion soared further when he captured photos from a bird’s eye view while flying over Manhattan Country Club, in a plane piloted by his father. The unique perspective in these images unexpectedly drew high demand from Country Club members, and Tim realized that he could make a business out of photography.

This pivotal moment prompted Tim to shift gears, redirecting his academic focus from Business to pursuing photography at the Art Institute of Colorado. While some parents might feel apprehensive about their child pursuing an arts degree, Tim’s parents were steadfast in their support. He says, “My parents were the ones pushing me to do what I wanted to do. They have supported me tremendously.”

Tim behind the scenes with K-State Quarterback Will Howard for the February 2023: Love Local Issue

Legendy K-State Head Football Coach Bill Snyder for the February 2022: Love Local Issue

CONTINUED >

Olympic Hopeful Janee’ Kassanavoid for the May 2023: Women of Impact Issue

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NCAA High Jump Champion TJ Shankar for the June 2023: Men of Impact Issue

The Sigle Family: Tim, Lana, Cooper, Landon, and Lucy

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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

After completing his degree, Tim was eager to return to Manhattan, where the community embraced his business. He has developed a portfolio that includes portrait, real estate, wildlife, and landscape photography.

Tim’s foray into landscape photography stemmed from a pivotal moment when Gordon Hibbard hired him to capture Rock Springs Ranch, which changed his trajectory as a photographer. Tim says, “Rock Springs is where I learned to really love landscape photography. I absolutely love the Flint Hills and how the hills stack and go on forever.”

Tim’s photography graces numerous locales in Manhattan and across Kansas, adorning both businesses and homes.

His artwork is showcased throughout the brand-new Stormont Vail Health Manhattan Campus.

Tim cherishes moments with wife Lana and their delightful trio—twin boys Cooper and Landon, aged five, and threeyear-old Lucy. Beyond the lens, family joys extend to leisurely golf rounds at Colbert Hills and fun-filled outings at Goolsby’s for bowling and swings on the golf simulator.

Behind Tim’s work resides a profound love for capturing God’s creation and bringing the beauty of the outside world into people’s daily lives.

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ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Finding a life partner just might be easier than finding someone you can travel with.

When the stars align, both partners have an affinity for generally the same kind of vacation, or are willing to compromise.

Here are a few ideas for fabulously romantic getaways. Bon Voyage!

Reservations For Two Dreamy destinations for couples looking to get away.

The Willows

Four Seasons Bora Bora FourSeasons.com/BoraBora

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

At the Four Seasons Bora Bora, overwater bungalows line a glassy lagoon, inviting early-morning swims off your own private dock with a bright breakfast table set on your patio overlooking Mount Otemanu. Meander down the paths of the resort to the Te Mahana Spa. With breathtaking lagoon and Pacific Ocean views from twin infinity pools, the treatment begins with a foot massage and then continues with rebalancing rituals starring indigenous ingredients.

The Willows TheWillowsPalmSprings.com

The Pendry

Palm Springs, California

Originally a millionaire’s private luxury hideaway, the Italianate style mansions were built side-by-side. Rooms include oversized tiled showers, priceless antique pieces and a turndown service to make you feel like the royalty you are. Situated at the base of rugged Mt. San Jacinto with views of the Coachella Valley, The Willows is a perfect base for exploring the Palm Springs or hiking the Andreas or Big Morongo Canyons or nearby Joshua Tree. Open September through May.

The Pendry Pendry.com

Park City, Utah Pendry Park City is a contemporary mountain enclave bringing the mastery of Utah’s awe-inspiring landscape to new heights. The resort is nestled in the center of Canyons Village, with slopeside modernist design, luxury service and thoughtful amenities, ideal for a couple’s escape. Rejuvenate the body with Spa Pendry for a couples massage and enjoy the herbal steam room, relaxation spaces, complimentary refreshments, fitness center and access to the hotel rooftop pool and whirlpool, with stunning views of the mountains.

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FEBRUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S F EB RUA RY 5T H

Sunflower Showdown: K-State Men's Basketball vs. Kansas Bramlage Coliseum, 1800 College Ave, Manhattan, KS | 8:00 PM Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. Coca-Cola and Pepsi. Kansas State and Kansas. When it comes to rivalries, it's hard to beat the Sunflower Showdown! Cheer on the Wildcats against the Jayhawks in what's sure to be a barn burner.

F EB RUA RY 7 T H

The Peking Acrobats McCain Auditorium, 1501 Goldstein Cir, Manhattan, KS | 7:30 PM For over three decades, the Peking Acrobat have wowed audiences across the globe. Showcasing technical mastery in trick-cycling, juggling, and gymnastics, they defy gravity through breathtaking contortion and control. Accompanied by live traditional Chinese music and high-tech effects, their shows mirror a jubilant Chinese Carnival.

F EB RUA RY 1 1 T H

Next to Normal Manhattan Arts Center, 1520 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan | 2:00 PM Amidst the facade of normalcy, a mother’s bipolar disorder unravels a family’s seemingly ordinary life. This Tony and Grammy Award-winning rock musical is a compelling theatrical journey that unpacks grief, ethics in psychiatry, and suburban life. Admission: Adult $22, Military $17, Student/Child $13.

F EB RUA RY 1 1 T H

Diane Schuur at 70 McCain Auditorium, 1501 Goldstein Cir, Manhattan, KS | 7:30 PM Diane Schuur’s illustrious career boasts five Grammy nominations, including two Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Performance on albums “Timeless” (1986) and “Diane Schuur and The Count Basie Orchestra” (1987). She has an astonishing three-and-a-half-octave vocal range and her collaborations have spanned genres and featured icons like B.B. King, Ray Charles, Alison Krauss, and Stevie Wonder.

F EB RUA RY 2 4 T H

Circle of Community Black Business Gala & Awards Manhattan Conference Center, 410 S 3rd St, Manhattan | 6:00 PM Embrace a night of elegance and purpose featuring Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Kuma Roberts and performances by internationally acclaimed artists Jahvelle and the A/C Band. All funds raised will help provide opportunities, culturally-relevant business training, and access to capital for Black and underestimated founders in the Flint Hills. blackflinthills.com/befhgala24 F EB RUA RY 2 8T H

Wine Wednesday: K-State Women's Basketball vs. Iowa State Bramlage Coliseum, 1800 College Ave, Manhattan, KS | 6:30 PM Wine Wednesday Ticket Package: Cheer on the Cats against Iowa State with this fan-favorite ticket package! Each $30 package includes access to a pre-game wine and food tasting in the Shamrock Zone, a K-State wine glass, and a general admission ticket. Season ticket holders can purchase discounted packages for $25.

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EVE N TS

Wildcat Legends

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

AARON LOCKETT

KANSAS STATE FOOTBALL WIDE RECEIVER, 1997-2001

2000 2ND TEAM ALL-AMERICAN FOUR-TIME ALL-BIG 12 CONFERENCE

One of the most accomplished Kansas State football players in history is the legendary Aaron Lockett.

Excelling as a skilled wide receiver and gifted punt returner, Aaron earned the distinction of being named to the All-Big 12 conference team four times and a second-team All-American in 2000. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2002 NFL draft. Following a year stint with the San Francisco 49’ers, he ventured north to Canada and the CFL for a few seasons.

Today, Aaron Lockett is a sports agent and Founder of Next Page Sports.

Additionally, he is one of the visionaries behind the Wildcats Den, a sports collective dedicated to supporting Kansas State student athletes.

Residing in the Houston, Texas area, Aaron shares his life with his wife, Tye, and their daughter, Hayley.

Photo Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics

2000 NCAA PUNT RETURN AVERAGE AND TOUCHDOWN LEADER 2002 NFL DRAFT: ROUND 7, PICK 254 / TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

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