Manhattan, KS April 2024

THE LITTLE APPLE’S JAMIE BOSSE IS PROMOTING FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR ALL AGES

The Investment Issue

I adore Manhattan for various reasons, but one significant aspect is the vibrant synergy that exists between community life and the academic pursuits of students from Kansas State University, Manhattan Tech, and Manhattan Christian College. Within this dynamic intersection, the term investment assumes a multifaceted significance — a commitment to personal growth, community enrichment, and the distinctive interests of the college students who actively contribute to the liveliness of our town.

First and foremost, the importance of investing in oneself cannot be overstated. Personal growth, skill development, and self-discovery lay the foundation for individuals to become active and engaged members of their community. By prioritizing one's own well-being, paths, and ambitions, individuals set the stage for a more fulfilling and purposeful life. This self-investment becomes a driving force for positive contributions to the community.

Simultaneously, investing in the Little Apple is a reciprocal process that fosters a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. As townies of Manhattan, we are interconnected with our neighbors, our local businesses, and local institutions. Contributing time, resources, and talents to community initiatives creates a ripple effect that enhances the overall well-being of the town. It is not merely a financial transaction, but a commitment to the collective prosperity of the community.

With such a diverse and dynamic student body, the two colleges and university represent a pivotal aspect of our community. Understanding and investing in the interests and activities of college kids is essential for building bridges between generations and fostering a cohesive community. These students bring a unique vitality into Manhattan, blending a wide range of interests that span academic, cultural, and recreational activities.

Whether through attending sporting events and participating in festivals, supporting our local colleges and their students is a means of enriching the fabric of our community life. This inclusive approach strengthens the bonds between the university and the town, creating a harmonious coexistence that benefits both students and long-time residents.

As residents of this vibrant town, let us actively engage in this cycle of investment, creating a community where the unique interests and contributions of all members are celebrated and valued. It is a reciprocal relationship where personal growth enhances community well-being, and a thriving community provides a nurturing environment for individual development.

Thank you for investing your time in the Investment issue!

Warm Regards,

Tyler

TYLER JACKSON, PUBLISHER @MANHATTANCITYLIFESTYLE

Wildcat Legends

WhenexaminingK-Statebasketballinthe21stcentury, DJJohnsonemergesasoneofthestandoutplayers.

Hailing from St. Louis, MO, the 6’9” athlete was the inaugural recruit to commit to Bruce Weber’s program, joining K-State in 2012. Throughout his tenure as a Wildcat, Johnson participated in over 100 games, amassing nearly 700 points and 500 rebounds. After the 2017 season, he pursued a professional basketball career in Greece and internationally before returning to the United States and playing in the NBA G-League for a few seasons. DJ is currently residing in Kansas City, where he is an Urban Designer and Real Estate Consultant.

Photo Courtesy of Kansas State Athletics

LEADING CONSTRUCTION MANHATTAN AND BEYOND

PROUD BUILDER OF KSU FOUNDATION’S EDGE COLLABORATION DISTRICT

Did you know?

Established in Kansas City in 1999, McCownGordon planted its first regional office roots in Manhattan a decade ago. We are thankful for the meaningful relationships we have created in this community and the buildings we’ve brought to life. With an office nestled within the dynamic KSU Edge Collaboration District, we are nearing completion of Phase III, further solidifying our commitment to innovation and growth

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: DJ Dan of Q103.5 on the roof of Taco John’s during the Have A Heart Campaign 2: Congrats to the Manhattan High Indians wrestling team on winning the 6A State Championship! 3: Congratulations to Manhattan High sophomore, Caeleb Hutchinson, on winning back-to-back 6A State Wrestling Championships! 4: Spring awaits at Blueville Nursery! 5: Longtime Manhattan resident Fred McGee & Coach Jerome Tang. Fred now resides in Junction City. 6: David N’Guessan goes up strong to the hoop against TCU 7: Tylor Perry hits a three against KU at Allen Fieldhouse

TYLER JACKSON

KRISTIE HUTCHINSON

KRISTIE HUTCHINSON

BLUEVILLE NURSERY

BROCK GLENN

TYLER JACKSON

SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY CITY SCENE

Want to be seen in the magazine?

8-10: The 77th & Final K-State College Rodeo at Weber Arena

TYLER JACKSON SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

4th Annual Aggieville Showdown

The Aggieville Showdown is a truly unique event! Join us for an unparalleled experience featuring a cattle show, a western fashion showcase, and live music performances.

Exhibitors aged 8 to 25 will present their finest market and breeding cattle. The highlight of the show will see six of the top cattle entering the ring to vie for prizes totaling over $5,000. The evening will culminate in interviews with the winners and a grand closing ceremony.

Parkside Station, now open at 11th & Poyntz!

Located across from City Park, Parkside Station makes its home in a historic car shop. Conceived by Phyllis Pease and founded by her daughter Hannah Pease, the restaurant is strategically positioned adjacent to Little Batch Co. Parkside Station invites you to indulge in lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, accompanied by locally roasted coffee, a variety of beverages, and delectable homemade pastries. 1026 Poyntz Avenue

Pool School at Energy Center-Manhattan Pool on May 2nd

Join Energy Center-Manhattan Pool for Pool School on Thursday, May 2nd. The session for commercial pools is at 3pm, followed by residential pools at 6pm. Alicia Stephens, the BioLab Trainer of the Year, is the guest instructor. This event is open to the public, and promises a blend of entertainment and valuable information. Whether you're a current or aspiring pool owner, this engaging class is tailored for you! Discounts on BioGuard pool supplies! 528 Pillsbury Drive

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Photography by Bailey Boone

Photography by Kenny Whitis

Photography

ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

INVESTING IN PHASE 1 OF MANHATTAN TECH’S BUILDING HIRE CAMPAIGN

THE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTER

Our last interaction with Manhattan Tech President & CEO Jim Genandt was in late October 2022. A quick glance around his office shows a scene that remains familiar, with minimal alter-

The cutting-edge Advanced Technology Center, spanning 47,200 square feet, stands as the cornerstone of the inaugural phase of the Building HIRE Education initiative. Encompassing

“WE MAKE THINGS HAPPEN TO HELP REVOLUTIONIZE AND IGNITE EDUCATION.” -

DR. GENANDT

ations. The corner office retains its sunny and bright ambiance, decorated with classic rock band posters and Blues Brothers memorabilia adorning the walls. Remarkably, President Genandt himself presents an unchanged appearance, with his characteristic long, silver hair and attire consisting of a maroon shirt paired with khaki pants, reflecting the school’s colors. Despite the apparent continuity, a notable change is evident across campus.

Eighteen months ago, and even before then, the realization of the Building HIRE Education Campus Expansion Capital Campaign was merely a vision. Over time, the renderings were finalized and comprehensive plans were developed. The pursuit of funding was underway. Presently, the campus has transformed into a fully operational construction site, with the Advanced Technology Center on the verge of completion.

seven technical programs, this stateof-the-art facility serves as the hub for disciplines including Construction, Plumbing & Electrician Technologies, HVAC, Emergency Medical Services, and Biomanufacturing. Replacing six modular buildings, this singular structure not only consolidates resources, but also accommodates program expansion, strategically aligning with the rising demand in the regional workforce.

Overseen by Manhattan’s BHS Construction and involving partnerships with local businesses, the construction lead for the Advanced Technology Center anticipates completion by the end of April. The relocation of current programs is scheduled for the summer, ensuring a seamless transition for the start of the school year. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony, in collaboration with the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, is set for August 29th.

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Since its establishment in 1965, Manhattan Tech has played a pivotal role in shaping the workforce and bolstering the economy of the greater Manhattan area. The evidence is compelling. According to research conducted by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, Manhattan Tech boasts the top-ranked return on investment among all public colleges and universities in Kansas. Notably, Manhattan Tech excels in specific programs, with its Construction Tech and Registered Nurse programs earning the top spot in the state. In a testament to its overall excellence, WalletHub, recognized Manhattan Tech as the fourthbest two-year college in the nation in 2022, out of nearly 700 institutions. This ranking considered factors such as graduation rate, job placement rate, and job earnings, further solidifying Manhattan Tech’s position as a leader in providing quality education and preparing students for successful careers. Starting after phase one, the estimated economic impact is expected to grow from the current $18 million dollars annually, to over $50 million.

Upgraded facilities, including modern classrooms and laboratories, promise to elevate the educational experience for students, ensuring they are well-equipped for the demands of the professional world. The Building HIRE Education Campus Expansion Capital Campaign aims to raise funds for the development of the new campus across four distinct phases. Following Phase I, Phase II is dedicated to the creation of a three-story building located at the intersection of Wreath Avenue and Dickens Avenue, catering specifically to bio-services and healthcare needs. Phase III involves the refurbishment of the existing main building and an expansion of the Information & Network Technology program. Lastly, Phase IV will witness the establishment of new and expanded

“THERE ISN’T A BETTER RETURN FOR YOUR MONEY.”

facilities in the northwest corner of the campus, serving as the hub for community services, childhood development, and the regional testing center.

The campaign’s emphasis on industry-relevant programs aligns education with the needs of the workforce, boosting graduates’ employability and positively impacting the local economy. The campus expansion isn’t just about constructing buildings; it’s an investment in the future. This initiative generates job opportunities, stimulates community development, and establishes Manhattan Tech as a hub for cutting-edge research.

The building for Phase I will cost around $16 million dollars, and the funding is nearly half complete. Since Manhattan Tech doesn’t have taxing authority, and is completely funded by tuition and private donations, supporting this campaign is imperative. It’s a testament to your commitment to education, community development, and the empowerment of future generations. Your contribution ensures that Manhattan Tech College continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, making a lasting impact on the lives of students and the prosperity of the community. Join us in building a brighter future through the Building HIRE Education Campus Expansion campaign.

The PACT program is funded by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services in collaboration with the Riley County Health Deptartment.

Jamie Bosse

MONEY BOSS MOM

Jamie Bosse is Promoting Financial Literacy for All Ages

As a first-generation college student attending Kansas State University, Jamie initially envisioned a career in elementary education. However, a financial crisis within her family prompted her to explore a financial planning course, which ultimately led to a reevaluation of her career path. She discovered a passion for financial planning, a field where understanding, organizing, and improving financial health gave her the opportunity to provide others with peace of mind.

Jamie’s transition from aspiring teacher to financial planner did not dampen her desire to empower others through education. In her role, she has seen the power of financial literacy in offering clarity in making informed financial decisions, effectively managing money and debt, and reducing financial stress and anxiety. Ultimately, improved financial literacy has the power to enable the achievement of financial goals.

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ARTICLE BY HEATHER HOFFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

To effectively tackle large financial goals, Jamie recommends starting by visualizing your ideal future to guide your decisions. Recognize that achieving significant objectives can be overwhelming and focus on making incremental changes, such as gradually increasing your 401(k) contributions by 1% annually. Wealth accumulation is a slow process, often misrepresented by seemingly instant successes on social media. Automate your savings to reduce temptation, using separate accounts for specific goals to streamline your progress towards financial milestones.

Listening, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude are, to Jamie, the pillars of being a successful mentor in financial planning. Understanding clients’ emotional ties to money allows her to guide them more effectively towards realizing their financial visions without imposing her values onto their decisions.

As a mother of four, Jamie’s approach to incorporating financial literacy into parenting is grounded in openness and practicality. She challenges the taboo surrounding talking about money, teaching her kids the value of money and the principles of saving and spending wisely. From showing her children how to compare prices at the store to having them earn an allowance and save for desired purchases, Jamie emphasizes the importance of engaging children in financial decisions.

When Jamie’s eldest child was five, she realized the lack of engaging financial literacy resources for young children. This gap inspired her to write a series of children’s books on financial literacy, the tales of “Milton the Money Savvy Pup,” centered around an illustrated depiction of her family’s adorable corgi. These books, alongside her first book for adults, “Money Boss Mom,”  reflect her commitment to teaching financial literacy at different stages of life.

“Money Boss Mom” encapsulates Jamie’s message to parents navigating the financial demands of parenthood—emphasizing that they are not alone in their struggles. The book serves as a reference guide for managing competing priorities, including daycare costs, retirement savings, and college funds. Jamie’s aim is to empower parents, providing strategies to break down overwhelming financial goals into manageable steps, and gradually build towards their vision for the future.

Jamie continues to expand her mission to promote financial literacy and empowerment. Alongside developing new children’s books focusing on themes like gratitude and the positive aspects of taxes, she’s exploring additional avenues to reach a broader audience. Whether it’s through an online class, podcast, or a television series, we are eagerly anticipating Jamie’s future creative endeavors.

Money Boss Mom is aimed at guiding young parents through the maze of financial management. A National Institute on Retirement Security study revealed that two-thirds of working millennials lack retirement savings. Research conducted by Payoff, a financial wellness company, revealed that nearly one in four Americans are experiencing symptoms associated with PTSD due to their finances. This guide demystifies financial planning, offering practical steps for improving financial health. Readers can learn to understand their financial motivations, communicate about money, align spending with values, automate financial processes, and navigate parenthood’s financial demands. This book provides a toolkit for taking charge of one’s financial future.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

CURB APPEAL

Blueville

Nursery’s Landscape Design service can enhance your home unlike anything else

ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY & PROVIDED

Surveying his unkempt backyard, John’s frown deepened. Neglected by winter’s end, the once-vibrant landscape now resembled a wild jungle. Overwhelmed, he sought professional help, dialing Blueville Nursery, Manhattan’s renowned landscaping service. A reassuring voice offered a landscape

Blueville Nursery Landscape Designer Derek deBoer

“We’re a full-service landscape company. We can provide everything from start to finish, from design to implementation.” - Derek deBoer

design consultation, sparking hope for a revitalized yard. John eagerly scheduled, envisioning a transformed outdoor haven for the upcoming summer.

This is a scenario that has played out many times in Blueville Nursery’s six decade plus history. For Manhattan’s oldest, full-service landscaping company, it’s just another day at the office.

A dedicated team of four professionals—Pete Reid, Dan Russell, Tim Sharp, and Derek deBoer—spring into action once an initial design consultation call is received. Initiating the process with scheduling an appointment, they conduct a thorough site visit. This visit holds significant importance in obtaining a clear understanding of the project, and it serves as an excellent opportunity to gather the customer’s preferences and opinions. Frequently, clients may not be entirely certain about what they are envisioning.

Projects are invariably influenced by the underlying architecture of the home. Whether it’s a modern, contemporary, ranch-style, or any other variant, landscape designs are intended to harmonize with the architectural features of the building. For instance, landscape designs for classic Victorian or Colonial-style homes pay homage to the respective era, ensuring a seamless integration that doesn’t clash with the original architecture. This careful consideration fosters an atmosphere that is both welcoming and aesthetically pleasing, steering clear of any discomfort.

Consider, for instance, a contemporary home, characterized by its architecture featuring clean lines and minimalist decorations, adhering to current design trends. Recently, there has been a noticeable shift away from warm colors, tans, and browns,

Grand Mere, Manhattan

with a growing preference for grays and whites, complemented by black trim. This shift is evident in both newer construction neighborhoods and renovation projects, affirming the prevalence of the latest trend in modern home aesthetics.

Once more, aligning with the home’s architecture, landscaping has consistently mirrored prevailing trends. Landscape trends typically undergo shifts approximately every five years, even though the landscapes themselves often endure for longer periods. It is deemed reasonable that a complete overhaul of the landscape may be warranted every five to ten years. Homeowners may find it necessary to refresh their outdoor spaces due to plants becoming overgrown, the emergence of new trends, or perhaps when the property changes ownership, prompting upgrades for enhanced curb appeal. It is at this point that the expertise of Blueville Nursery’s landscape design team truly shines.

During the site visit, the team initiates their assessment by thoroughly examining the architecture of the entire project, encompassing not only the building, but the entire yard. In certain cases, grade changes and retaining walls may prove necessary, and their incorporation might be recommended to optimize the project. The team also explores additional possibilities the site may present. Depending on the circumstances, the plant palette may be curated for shade-tolerant plants, or the vision may lean towards the creation of a woodland garden. From hardscapes to softscapes, the possibilities are endless.

To enhance understanding, the team proactively engages the customer with targeted questions, encouraging them to articulate specific requirements, such as their desire for additional living space and play areas. The objective is to delve deeper into

“The creativity of designing beautiful outdoor spaces at Blueville Nursery brings joy and fulfillment. We get to help create  wonderful environments for clients to enjoy.”

- Derek deBoer

their needs and preferences. Leveraging the wealth of examples available on the internet, they encourage clients to share specific instances that resonate with their vision. This collaborative approach aims to ensure satisfaction for all parties involved by the project’s completion.

Upon the conclusion of the evaluation and incorporation of the customer’s input, the design team initiates the process of bringing the vision to life from the ground up. Beginning with the site information, they integrate all existing features into their software and then proceed to implement the customer’s desired elements.

When it comes to budget, discussions are deferred until later stages, allowing the team to prioritize delivering the best value during the initial meetings. Customers, initially

seeking optimal value, may not have a clear idea of a realistic landscaping budget. Blueville takes on the responsibility of proposing a value-driven plan, around which clients can then formulate their budget.

Upon revisiting projects or when clients are ready to proceed, the team presents a two-dimensional landscape plan, shareable via email or provided as a full-scale print for notetaking. Furthermore, they possess the capability to generate 3D renderings using tools like Google SketchUp.

Once the plans are finalized, the project is scheduled and added to the calendar. Given Blueville’s consistently busy schedule, new projects are typically planned for the upcoming season or the one thereafter. Following the

Blueville Nursery’s landscape design team offers unparalleled expertise, creativity, and attention to detail.

scheduling, a deposit is made, and meticulous planning ensues the gathering of materials. Customers receive advance notice a few days before the project begins, and utility locates are completed. The design team collaborates with landscape install supervisors, conducting a thorough review of the plans. This involves scrutinizing the material list, ensuring all necessary items are present, and obtaining any missing components. Subsequently, the team breaks ground and prepares for the commencement of the project.

After breaking ground, Derrick Funk, Blueville Nursery’s Operations Manager, collaborates with the installation landscape supervisors to ensure seamless coordination and the execution of the planned tasks. Employing the Trello app, Blueville has efficiently streamlined their communication process, enhancing efficiency from project initiation to completion.

Following a comprehensive quality control review, the team conducts a meeting with the customer to

verify that the job meets their expectations. Upon confirmation, the necessary paperwork and invoicing are finalized, marking the successful completion of the project.

Each project completed by Blueville Nursery carries a warranty period, largely based off the season. Beyond the project, Blueville has a full-line maintenance division. Offering mowing, fertilization, pest control, weed control and irrigation services, they can take care of your yard long after they have finished the project.

Blueville Nursery’s landscape design team offers unparalleled expertise, creativity, and attention to detail. With a proven track record of transforming spaces into breathtaking environments, their team combines artistic vision with horticultural knowledge to craft personalized landscapes that exceed expectations. They really do beautify your neighborhood, one yard at a time!

ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Sunny Lynn

THE WORLD STEAK GRILLING CHAMPION TALKS TO PUBLISHER TYLER JACKSON AHEAD OF HER TWO GRILLING CLASSES AT ENERGY CENTERMANHATTAN POOL.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO BEING A BBQ CHAMPION?

I needed an outlet. I needed something that would take my mind off all the medical issues and stress that was going on in my life. I started to help my ex-husband compete in barbecue. We took a couple classes. I took pages and pages and pages of notes. I wanted to know what I was doing, how to do it, how to master it, and things to look for. I had pages of notes and jumped right into it and fell in love with it. I started competing on my own and I started winning and it kind of took off from there.

“I want to show you all the versatility that you can do in your backyard. The more that I can help people, I just want to help them feel confident in their backyard and have fun flavorful food that they can share with family and friends.”

YOU’RE THE 2021 WORLD FOOD CHAMPIONSHIPS STEAK CHAMPION! HOW DID THAT GO DOWN?

I started competing in steak and I won my second competition that I did on my own. I took first place against 78 other people. That got me a thousand dollars and a golden ticket into the World Food Championships.

In the opening rounds of the World Food Championships, it was against 50 other people in steak. I won that round. They take the top 10 into the finals. I honestly didn’t think it was going to be me. It was unbelievable. I got to the top three and about fell over dead when I ended up winning. I was the very first person to win first place in all three rounds.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR GRILLING CLASSES AT ENERGY CENTER-MANHATTAN POOL!

Friday night, we’re doing an all ladies grilling class because I love to help women feel confident on the grill. I’m gonna teach you how to master a steak dinner complete with a dessert and a wine pairing. It’s only for ladies — sorry guys! On Saturday, we are doing a full-menu backyard class so that you can take your grilling skills to the next level. It’s going to be complete with an appetizer, an entrée, side dishes, and desserts.

World Food Champion Sunny Lynn Manning will be at Energy Center-Manhattan Pool on April 26th & 27th for two grilling classes. Call 785-776-5118 for tickets.

DR. MICHAEL HAMLER DR. KAYLEA PEARSON

DR. JAROD ZABEL

DR. JAKE PRIDDLE

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 6TH

Octagon of Doom 8K Run

Bramlage Coliseum, 1800 College Ave, Manhattan, KS | 8:30 AM

Lace up and embrace the inaugural Octagon of Doom 8K, 2 mile, and kids’ 1k! Conquer this unique race and feel your adrenaline rush as you sprint towards victory, culminating in a triumphant finish on Bramlage Coliseum’s iconic court. octagonofdoomrun.com

APRIL 8TH

Solar Eclipse Viewing at the Flint Hills Discovery Center

Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St, Manhattan, KS | 10:00 AM

Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center for a celebration of the solar eclipse! From 12:30-3:30 pm, view the 85% solar eclipse from Blue Earth Plaza with local astronomers. No cost to view the solar eclipse; astronomy themed activities are included with admission to the Discovery Center.

APRIL 12TH-13TH

Annual Dorothy Westervelt Geranium Sale at Blueville Nursery

Blueville Nursery, 4539 Anderson Ave, Manhattan, KS

Benefitting the Johnson Cancer Research Center at K-State, the annual Dorothy Westervelt Geranium is a tribute to Blueville owner Darrell's late wife Dorothy, who considered the geranium sale the kickoff to the spring season. Geraniums are relatively easy to care for and have long-lasting blooms. Beautify your home, help remember Dorothy, and benefit a great cause with vibrant geraniums!

APRIL 13TH-14TH

Wamego Tulip Festival

Wamego City Park, Wamego, KS

Thousands of vibrant tulips will be the backdrop for this springtime art and craft festival in Wamego City Park. Take in the kaleidoscope of colorful blooms and enjoy live music, food trucks, a petting zoo and bouncy castle for kids, and 150 craft vendors. Stop by the century-old Schonhoff Dutch Mill to snap an unforgettable photo. facebook.com/tulipfestivalks

APRIL 13TH

MAC & Cheese Arts & Music Festival

Manhattan Arts Center, 1520 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS | 11:00 AM

This festival is a celebration of creativity and community! Free for the whole family, this event features exceptional regional artists, an array of food and drink trucks, interactive activities for all ages, and the "Empty Bowls" project benefiting Common Table, Manhattan's free community meal program. Enjoy live music, dynamic demonstrations, a beer garden, and delicious mac & cheese! manhattanarts.org/351/MAC-Cheese-Arts-Music-Festival

APRIL 20TH

Sunset Zoo's Party for the Planet

Sunset Zoo, 2333 Oak St, Manhattan, KS

Celebrate Earth Day at Sunset Zoo! The Zoo's knowledgeable staff will lead animal meet & greets and share how you can help protect these incredible animals and their habitats. This event will also feature interactive booths, Mr. K's Café's food truck, tortoise feedings, face paintings, and shaved ice. Regular zoo admission rates will apply. sunsetzoo.com/442/Party-for-the-Planet

events CONTINUED

APRIL 26TH-28TH

7th Annual Bayou GatorCraw Fest

Blue Earth Plaza, Manhattan, KS

Celebrate Cajun-Creole culture with a feast of Louisiana crawfish, alligator, chef demonstrations, and live music including zydeco and jazz. Enjoy a Kidz’ Zone, storytelling, arts and crafts, and games, alongside Louisianan and local artisans. This year promises an even grander event with authentic dishes like gator-on-a-stick and Cajun jambalaya. Don't miss this vibrant showcase of Louisiana culture and community spirit!

APRIL 26TH-27TH

Grilling classes with World Steak Champion, Sunny Lynn

Energy Center-Manhattan Pool, 528 Pillsbury Dr., Manhattan, KS

Get ready for a sizzling experience as World Steak Champion, Sunny Lynn, graces Energy Center-Manhattan Pool on April 26th and 27th. The 26th is Ladies’ Night, the 27th is Backyard Barbecue. Join this exclusive grilling class to learn the art of perfecting steaks from the best in the business. Don't miss this chance to elevate your steak game! Tickets: 785-776-5118

APRIL 27TH

3rd Annual Run for the Roses

K-State Gardens, 1500 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS | 9:00 AM

Support the K-State Gardens! Take a scenic route through the lush gardens, across the historic WWI football field, and by the iconic Ahearn Fieldhouse. Winners receive a glazed purple pot featuring a rose-shaped succulent, and every participant receives a shirt, medal, and refreshments. The event features face painting, balloon art, and a stunning backdrop of 10,000 blooming tulips. k-state.edu/gardens/events/run-for-the-roses/

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