Manhattan, KS May 2024

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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.

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.

Women of Impact

Hello Manhattan!

I am thrilled to present this year's Women's issue. While every issue of Manhattan City Lifestyle holds significance for me, the May Women's issue stands out as my personal favorite.

Meeting the women who fill this month’s pages and learning their stories was an absolute privilege. Principal Kathy Stitt’s service to our community is a gift. We are blessed to have had her expertise as an edu cator and her vibrant energy leading our classrooms and schools for the past 38 years. Dr. Vaishali Sharda embodies the best of K-State: she is a brilliant researcher who is working to create a more sustainable future for Kansas farmers. For the past 35 years, Lori Bishop has connected volunteers with meaningful volunteer opportunities, fostering friendships and strengthening bonds in our community. Casey Ebert and Jasmin Thompson, the leaders of MasonWells Day Spa, have transformed a once unremarkable, out-dated hotel into a gorgeous wellness haven. Their focus on providing a supportive environment where their staff can grow professionally was truly inspiring. I wish we had more pages to devote to each woman featured in this issue.

In preparing to write this month’s letter, I’ve been reflecting on Mother’s Day. This will be the first Mother’s Day since my mom passed, a pain I know many of our readers share. I have been pulled through the most acute period of grief by my family, close friends, and female mentors. I feel truly blessed by the way people within our community show up for each other — and have shown up for me — in times of pain and struggle. This year will be different, but we will continue to celebrate the love, kindness, and humor of my mom.

In closing, I would like to say happy Mother’s Day to all of the mothers, grandmothers, and mother-figures!

Warmly,

HEATHER HOFFMAN, EDITOR @MANHATTANCITYLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Tyler Jackson | tyler.jackson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Heather Hoffman | heather.hoffman@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

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

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Laura Paige

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

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

Experience Elite Orthopaedic Excellence

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS

1: Landon enjoys himself at the Kansas State open house at the College of Veterinary Medicine 2: Girls on the Run Sneaker Soiree 3: Annie turned 10 years old at a Kansas State women’s basketball game! 4: Ever been in the Garden Store at Blueville Nursery? It’s worth the trip! 5: The inaugural Octogon of Doom 8K at Bramlage Coliseum was a great success! 6: You can’t beat the fresh selection of flowers at Blueville Nursery! 7: K-State’s Gabby Gregory takes the ball to the hoop at Bramlage Coliseum

LANA SIGLE

SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

KATIE RINIKER

KATIE RINIKER TYLER JACKSON

Girls On The Run 5K

Join us for an inspiring 5K on Saturday, May 4th at 9am, held at K-State's Memorial Stadium. Girls on the Run provides programs that empower girls of all abilities to discover their inner strength and foster meaningful friendships through joyful movement. Each season, Girls on the Run Flint Hills serves 300 girls with the support of 100 coaches. Support this incredible organization in this family-friendly event! Register now at register.chronotrack.com/r/78763 and visit gotrflinthills.org for details.

Manhattan Entertainment Co.

Manhattan Entertainment Co. is MHK’s newest destination for unforgettable events! Led by artist Nikita Razo, this vibrant venue offers an array of events including themed trivia nights, comedy shows, and dance parties. On every third Wednesday of the month, MEC invites local talent, including musicians, poets, comedians, and dancers, to take the stage at Variety Night. Additionally, the venue is available for private event rentals. Discover more at www.mhkentertainmentco.com

Thank you, Glenn's Music

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Glenn’s Music for 41 years of dedicated service to Manhattan. Established in January 1983 by the late Glenn Axelton (1938-2013) in the 400 block of Poyntz Avenue, Glenn’s Music has been a cornerstone for music enthusiasts and students in Manhattan, Junction City, and neighboring communities. The family expresses sincere appreciation to all who contributed to the success of this cherished business. Thank you, Glenn, for your lasting legacy.

Photography by Tyler Jackson

Photography by Tyler Jackson

CANDLEWOOD SHOPPING CENTER

Top Shelf CBD Gold Member Program

• 10% off each purchase

• First Friday of the month, get 25% off

• Early access to new products

• Birthdays - 25% off

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PREMIUM, HIGH-QUALITY CBD Products

3252 Kimball Ave, Manhattan, KS 66503 topshelfmhk.com 785-517-2996

In 2024, we are donating $1 for every gallon

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Kansas. Our goal is 10,000 gallons!

Locally owned and operated by lifelong Manhattan residents & military veterans who are committed to serving you!

WIn this article, we have the distinct privilege of highlighting women who are making a significant impact in Manhattan and beyond. Through their respective career paths, each woman is driving meaningful change and helping others. We are grateful to share a small slice of their journeys and achievements.

O M EN OFIMPACT

LEADERS IN THE MANHATTAN COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY HEATHER HOFFMAN & TYLER JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Dr. Vaishali Sharda

Assistant Professor, Kansas State University - Biological and Agricultural Engineering

In March, Dr. Vaishali Sharda received a $500,000 National Science Foundation award for her research on water sustainability. Through advanced data analytics and computer simulations, her research seeks to safeguard the sustainability of Kansas’s water resources in crop production.

Vaishaili grew up on a research farm in India. After receiving her Masters of Technology from Punjab Agricultural University, she and her husband, K-State Professor Dr. Ajay Sharda, moved to the United States to pursue PhDs at Auburn University, bringing their 15-month-old daughter along for the journey. “This country really is the land of opportunity. You are in the best place to make what you want of your life,” reflects Vaishali.

After receiving her PhD in Biosystems Engineering, she completed postdoctoral research before joining K-State in 2018.

In addition to leading a research team, writing grant proposals, and teaching courses, Vaishali also advises undergraduate students. Vaishali has powerful advice for young people who want to pursue STEM careers: “Don’t hold back. You might have so many more opportunities than people who came before you. Believe in yourself and pursue what you want to do.”

Outside of work, she is a passionate foodie, leading an Indian cooking course at the UFM and writing a food blog with delicious, wholesome recipes: kitchendocs.com.

Lori Bishop Executive Director, Flint Hills Volunteer Center

Just a day prior to our meeting, Lori Bishop was at the Kansas House of Representatives with a group of volunteers, where the Flint Hills Volunteer Center’s AmeriCorps Seniors program was recognized for 50 years of service. For over thirty years, Lori has served the Manhattan community, driven by the mission of connecting volunteers to the needs of local non-profit organizations.  “By volunteering and being hands on, we understand the needs of the community,” shares Lori.

In 2023, through the work of over 600 volunteers serving 50 nonprofits, nearly $1 million was reinvested back into the community. In addition to connecting volunteers to local organizations, Flint Hills Volunteer Center has several signature programs to meet unmet community needs, including Neighbor2Neighbor, Medical Transportation, and Connecting Students to Communities. Through the Suicide Awareness (P.A.C.T.) initiative, Lori hosts a podcast featuring stories and professional perspectives breaking the stigma associated with suicide.

Since childhood, Lori has felt a call to help others. She says, “Giving back was ingrained in my family. Back then, we didn’t call it volunteering; we just called it helping.”

Casey Ebert

Owner & Massage Therapist

Jasmin Thompson, Co-Owner & Esthetician MasonWells Day Spa

MasonWells is the first of its kind luxury spa in Manhattan. The spa’s name has special significance to its owners, Casey Ebert and Jasmin Thompson. Mason is the name of Jasmin’s son; Wells is the middle name of Casey’s son. Both boys are currently in first grade and served as part of the inspiration for their entrepreneur moms to have more flexibility in their daily schedules.

In 2023, Casey Ebert received the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award from the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, but she spent 15 years honing the skills and vision necessary to create MasonWells. After earning her business degree from Washburn University, she developed her management experience at Beauty Brands, before discovering her gift as a massage therapist.

A graduate of Bellus Academy, Jasmin has specialized in esthetics for the past decade, offering dermaplaning, Hydrafacial, sugar waxing, and more. She is devoted to using her expertise to make people feel confident in their own skin.

This month, the spa is celebrating its one year anniversary, and it has been embraced by the Manhattan community. “I love that I have a community in Manhattan, where the people and businesses support and care about each other,” says Jasmin.

Kathy Stitt Principal, Amanda Arnold Elementary School

For the past 38 years, Kathy Stitt has served the Manhattan community as an educator. In 2007, she oversaw the reopening of Bluemont Elementary in her first year as a principal, a monumental undertaking in which she hired a new set of staff. Since 2018, she has served as the principal of Amanda Arnold Elementary School, a special honor given that her three children attended the school.

Transitioning to the role of principal has allowed Kathy to extend her impact beyond a single classroom to an entire school. In addition to serving as a role model for her teachers, Kathy is passionate about mentoring other principals.

Kathy’s aspiration to pursue a career in education grew from her desire to serve others. “In school, I always tried to be a friend to the underdog, to those who were struggling,” she says.

As an educator, she has sought to bring positive energy to her classrooms, while holding her students to high standards. “I am really passionate about helping students reach their goals and know the sky’s the limit. Education is their ticket.”

Summer Ott Dierks

Dierks Law Firm

For 22 years now, attorney Summer Ott Dierks has been a dedicated legal representative for the Manhattan community, accumulating a wealth of experience and accomplishments along the way. Originally from Coffeyville, Kansas, she earned her degree in agricultural communications and journalism from K-State in 2005. Her professional journey began at the K-State Foundation in the College of Agriculture before transitioning to the Manhattan Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Following in her father’s footsteps, Summer pursued law school, while gaining invaluable work experience at the Kansas Attorney General’s Office and the Kansas Court of Appeals. Upon graduating from Washburn University School of Law, she began working as an associate attorney, swiftly climbing the ranks, and achieving partnership within a year at her firm.

In 2020, she started a new chapter, founding Dierks Law Firm. Practicing in a diverse set of legal areas including contracts, real estate, estate planning, guardianships, child custody mediations, personal injury, and adoptions, her firm distinguishes itself through a commitment to quality and personalized service. Despite handling diverse cases, the firm prioritizes excellence, upholding integrity, and professionalism. Through dedication to top-notch legal services, Dierks Law Firm has built trust within the community, reflecting Summer’s commitment to Manhattan.

Trish Beggs Casie Hartwich Brooke Norman-Tapp

Celebrating a decade in 2024, Rockhill Real Estate Group shines as a beacon of excellence in Manhattan’s real estate scene. Led by seasoned owners Trish Beggs, Casie Hartwich, and Brooke NormanTapp along with a team of 13 agents, Rockhill is deeply embedded in the community, offering unparalleled insights into the local market. With a steadfast commitment to integrity, expertise, and personalized service, Rockhill is renowned as a reliable partner for all things real estate!

The agency prioritizes client-centricity, ensuring open communication and tailored solutions for every individual. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Rockhill provides guidance and support at every step of the journey. Plus, their robust social media presence and visible marketing strategies guarantee broad exposure and effective client communication.

Beyond its professional endeavors, Rockhill is dedicated to community enrichment, actively participating in local initiatives and philanthropic endeavors. Overall, Rockhill Real Estate Group transcends traditional brokerage roles, serving as a trusted ally, a community cornerstone, and a symbol of excellence in Manhattan’s real estate landscape.

Linda Graham

Manhattan Carpet One Floor & Home

Linda’s roots in the home services industry run deep. Her father, the late Roger Schultz, was the founder of Schultz Construction. Her own journey began at Shirley’s Rug Shop, eventually leading her to Crown Decorating, a prominent flooring and paint emporium in 1998. In 2009, Crown Decorating evolved into Manhattan Carpet One Floor & Home, solidifying Linda’s legacy 26 years later.

Under Linda’s stewardship, Manhattan Carpet One transcends its role as a mere flooring provider, becoming a cornerstone of comfort and style for countless households. Through a combination of premium products and expert guidance, they transform spaces into sanctuaries of warmth and elegance. Linda’s leadership is seen throughout Manhattan, enriching lives one step at a time.

Offering an array of flooring options including hardwood, luxury vinyl, carpet, laminate, tile, and other variants, they are dedicated to enhancing the beauty of Manhattan, one home at a time.

“

M y e x p e c t a t i o n s w e r e

b l o w n a w a y i n p r i c e , q u a l i t y , a n d c u s t o m e r

s e r v i c e . I c a n n o t i m a g i n e a

b e t t e r c a r p e t c l e a n i n g

e x p e r i e n c e . ”

Carpet | Upholstery | Area Rugs (785)776-1927

www.carpetcleanse.info

ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

April Kientz Meet Heartland Dermatology’s

A CONVERSATION WITH APRIL KIENTZ, APRN-C OF MANHATTAN’S HEARTLAND DERMATOLOGY

Meet April Kientz, APRN-C, the latest addition to Heartland Dermatology in Manhattan.

“I love Heartland Dermatology’s commitment to excellence in all facets of the patient experience so we can come to work, do what we love, and hopefully leave a positive impact in the lives of those we encounter.”

What inspired you to specialize in dermatology?

The skin is the largest organ and, unlike diabetes or high blood pressure, disorders of the skin are readily apparent to patients and all those around them. At times, skin lesions and conditions of the skin can be quite distressing. This highlights the meaningful impact we, as dermatology providers, can have on our patient’s self-esteem, comfort, and confidence as we seek to treat and improve symptoms. Whether it’s clearing acne, reducing plaques of psoriasis, or early detection of skin cancer so it can be effectively treated, these interventions can have a profound impact on quality of life. Being able to play a part in improving someone’s mental health while managing skin health is quite inspiring to me as a provider.

What steps do you take to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction during procedures or treatments?

With the help of Heartland’s nursing, medical, and support staff, we make every effort to create a welcoming and calming environment in our practice to help patients feel at ease. Before any procedure or treatment, we thoroughly explain the process, answer questions, and address concerns to ensure patients are well-informed and comfortable. We also use advanced techniques and technologies that prioritize safety, minimize discomfort, and optimize results. Additionally, we encourage open communication and follow-up appointments to track progress and address needs promptly.

What do you love the most about Heartland Dermatology?

I work alongside many talented and professional dermatology providers who are passionate about improving patients’ skin health and quality of life across the Heartland region. Here at Heartland Dermatology in Manhattan, the dedicated group of professionals committed to providing exceptional care includes Dr. Harden, Erin Thornton, PA-c and Casey Jankord, PA-c. We have a common goal to serve our community by caring for their skin health to the best of our abilities. As an organization, I love Heartland Dermatology’s commitment to excellence in all facets of the patient experience so we can come to work, do what we love and hopefully leave a positive impact in the lives of those we encounter.

We’re more than just a local manufacturer. Parker plays a critical role in various industries including agriculture, racing, defense and more. Our commitment to quality and precision ensures that you have reliable equipment that always performs at its best. We’re proud to play our part. While our products reach far beyond our local community, our heart remains here, in the Manhattan community we’ve called home for over four decades.

Breaking Platinum Barriers

TAYLOR NEWMAN TRIUMPHS AT PLATINUM & COMPANY

ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITIS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

In Blue Earth Plaza, near the heart of downtown Manhattan, stands the Little Apple’s most dynamic hair salon. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, exceptional service, and outstanding results, Platinum & Company is a place where dreams are woven into each strand of hair. It’s where every customer is made to feel as beautiful as the new hairstyle they leave with.

Amidst the flurry of daily activity within Platinum & Company, stands Taylor Newman. In her early thirties, she dazzles with her signature eyeglasses and fashionable shoulder-length blonde hair, styled to perfection. Her eyes are alight with kindness, and her laughter is like music in the air. Her beauty, both outward and within, captures hearts and leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter her.

Like a quarter of a million other Americans, Taylor has a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of her 21st chromosome, known as Down syndrome. For the past ten years at the salon, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to focus on her strengths.

Born on February 20th to Hal and Lois Newman, Taylor was raised in Manhattan, and attended Rock Creek High School. One of the proudest moments of her life was when she was named the Mustangs’ homecoming queen. Following high school, she enrolled in a program at Kansas State where she could experience a different business each semester. The salon was one of the best experiences that she had, and when the program concluded in 2014, owner Lindsay Lowe loved her so much, she offered her a position. A decade later, Taylor is still the Queen Bee of Platinum & Company.

The enduring bond between Taylor and Platinum & Company speaks volumes about Lindsay’s dedication and spirit. The daughter of Karen and the late Neal Medlin, Lindsay hails from Riley, and she began her salon journey as a receptionist at Crimpers Hair Studio in Aggieville. After the original owner, Cheryl Wilson, passed the torch, Lindsay, alongside her then-business partner April Jacobs, took over the business, relocating to 1101 Moro Street, and rebranding the establishment. Thus, in 2009, Platinum & Company emerged. Their growth necessitated a move to 227 Blue Earth Place in 2019, where they now thrive in a state-of-the-art, 2,000 square foot facility. The place has become such a powerhouse, they have been named as a Top 200 salon in America by Salon Today Magazine for the third straight year—a testament to Lindsay’s vision and perseverance. Without a doubt, another big part of the success story has been the presence of Taylor.

Beyond the professional dynamic, the relationship between Taylor and the entire staff of two dozen people at Platinum & Company has been built on mutual respect, understanding, and genuine care. They foster an inclusive environment where Taylor’s abilities are celebrated, not overshadowed by her disability. They recognize her unwavering dedication, and they value her contributions to the salon. In turn, Taylor finds a sense of belonging and purpose under Lindsay’s supportive guidance. Together, they exemplify the beauty of compassion and inclusivity, enriching each other’s lives through their special connection.

“My most favorite part is I get to be an adult!” - Taylor Newman

“The thing I love the most about Taylor is you see abilities, and not disabilities.”

- Lindsay Lowe

The love they have for Taylor is reflective of the people at Platinum & Company. For example, a couple of times each year, the staff donates their time and services and embraces the community by offering free haircuts through Neighbors In Need. Striving to uplift spirits and foster dignity, they partner with organizations such as Be Able and the Boys & Girls Club, extending their skilled hands to those facing hardship. This program embodies their commitment to kindness, one haircut at a time, fostering bonds and beautifying lives within the neighborhood. Taylor, without a doubt, was a big inspiration behind Neighbors In Need .

Working about 20 hours a week, Taylor always arrives at the salon with a sense of anticipation, eager to embarkon her duties. Finding solace and purpose in her responsibilities, she dedicates herself unwaveringly to many tasks. She restocks the beverage dispenser, and ensures each guest is properly hydrated during their visit. She also does dishes in the breakroom and general cleaning throughout the salon, but her favorite tasks revolve around sweeping floors and tending to laundry. She takes so much pride in her work; she’s described to get a bit ‘spicy’ when someone else does her jobs when she’s gone.

With a broom in hand, she moves gracefully through the salon, sweeping away the remnants of haircuts and styling sessions. She takes pride in each sweep, ensuring that every corner gleams with cleanliness. She then tends to the laundry, carefully folding towels and aprons with precision. Her attention to detail is unmatched, and her colleagues often marvel at her ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into acts of beauty.

Despite her challenges, Taylor approaches her work with an enthusiasm that is infectious. She dances to the rhythm of her own heart, and she’s always graceful as she moves about the salon. Her presence brings a sense of joy and lightness to the space, and customers can’t help but be drawn to her magnetic energy.

It’s not just Taylor’s work ethic that endears her to those around her – it’s her kind and gentle spirit. She has a way of making everyone feel welcomed and valued, regardless of who they are or where they came from. Customers often linger a little longer in the salon, not just for a haircut, but for the opportunity to share a moment of laughter and connection with Taylor.

In the bustling salon, Taylor has found a sense of belonging that she had never known before. Here, amidst the whirlwind of hairstylists and clients, she is valued for who she is—a bright and shining soul whose presence illuminates the salon and touches the lives of all who cross her path.

“The thing I love the most about Taylor is you see abilities, and not disabilities,” says Lindsay. “I just think that’s such a cool thing. I wish more business owners could see the opportunity that somebody like Taylor could bring to their team. You know, just because their abilities look different.” Lindsay further adds how important Taylor has been to Platinum & Company. “She’s been an instrumental part of our business, mostly because of the happiness and joy she brings. It is really infectious.”

When asking Taylor her favorite thing about working at Platinum & Company, she was pretty quick to say, “I love doing towels, and getting drinks for the people. It gives them smiles, and they can be happy.” Tugging at the heart strings, she further adds, “My most favorite part is I get to be an adult.”

As the day ended, and the salon quieted down, Taylor would bid farewell to Lindsay and her colleagues with a wave and a smile, already looking forward to the next day’s adventures. For in this little corner of the world, Taylor wasn’t just a girl with Down syndrome sweeping floors and doing laundry – she was a beacon of light and love, reminding us all that true beauty lies in the kindness of one’s heart.

LEARN MORE: Platinum & Company offers haircuts & styling, hair color, retexturing, treatments, Brazilian blowouts, hair extensions, makeup, eyelash extensions, skin, waxing and bridal services.

Dr. Laura Finazzo AuD, CCC-A

Dr Katie Bunker AuD

Ayoka

SHE’S BACK! K-STATE ALL-AMERICAN

BASKETBALL PLAYER AYOKA LEE RETURNS

Kansas State University’s basketball fans rejoice as AllAmerican player Ayoka Lee announces her return, sparking excitement and anticipation for next season.

Ayoka Lee

MY FRIEND, YOU RECENTLY MADE A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: YOU’RE COMING BACK TO K-STATE NEXT YEAR! HOW BIG OF A DECISION WAS THAT FOR YOU?

It was a pretty big decision. It was stressful for a little bit. It’s good to have options, so it was good to be in the position I’m in. But it was just a lot to think about.

I’M SURE IT WAS, ESPECIALLY AFTER THIS SEASON. THE TEAM HAD ITS HIGHS, AND LOWS, AND THEN YOU HAD TO DEAL WITH ANOTHER INJURY.

I didn’t want to make an emotional decision after our last game, but I also knew I have a lot of other things outside of basketball that I really enjoy and love doing. Then, the opportunity to go pro, and all those things were kind of mixed into the decision. I think it just came down to really like looking at where I was at and where I want to be in the future, and the best decision was just to stay here. It comes with a lot of opportunity, and I’ve built a lot of great relationships, and I’m really established here. When you think about it like that, it sounds a little bit easier.

ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT IS IT ABOUT KANSAS STATE THAT YOU LOVE?

I think since the first time I visited, I just have always had just a feeling of ‘this is where I’m supposed to be.’ I don’t think things like that come very often. Since then, I’ve been able to build a lot of great relationships. I’ve been very successful, on and off the court, and just being able to have an impact here that I just never imagined I would. Finding a place where you can do all those things is really cool. In this day and age, that’s not something that a lot of people get to do. It’s really special, and all those things is what makes it.

THE WOMEN’S GAME’S NEVER BEEN MORE POPULAR. DURING THE FINAL FOUR, ESPN HAD THEIR MOST WATCHED BASKETBALL GAME IN HISTORY. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE CURRENT STATE OF THE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL?

I think it’s exciting, and it’s really exciting just to see where our program’s at now. I think these past couple years have been big for us, and it’s getting more fans and K-State Women’s basketball more visibility. In the grand scope of everything, I think is just really great.

WELL, IT’S OFFICIAL. YOU’RE COMING BACK. WHAT’S YOUR EARLY THOUGHTS ON NEXT SEASON?

I’m excited. I think I try to live just where my feet are, so right now it’s just focusing on the spring and the summer. It’s just like any other year doing all the prep. I need to be ready once we get to preseason. This is just a little bit more special just because I won’t be coming off an injury. I’ll actually get a full spring and summer, which will be really nice.

YOUR FOOT, KNEE, AND YOUR LEG AND EVERYTHING’S GOOD?

Yeah! Someone once told me that every athlete is someone who compensates their body. So it’s just about maintenance and just continuing to move and keep my body running well.

“I just think the community as a whole is just a special place. I don’t think there’s anywhere like it, and the whole community is for K-State.”

“I think it just came down to really like looking at where I was at and where I want to be in the future, and the best decision was just to stay here.”

BEYOND NEXT YEAR, ANY PREDICTIONS ON WHAT THE FUTURE BEYOND HOLDS FOR YOU? PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL? THEN ANY IDEA?

Yeah, I don’t know. I’m getting my master’s in Couple & Family Therapy. I’m very passionate about that area. So, we’ll just see what happens. But right now, this is where I’m going to be, so this is what I’m going to think about.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT MANHATTAN, KANSAS?

That’s a good question. I’m a big foodie, so I think we have a lot of good restaurants that not a lot of places have. Then, I just think the community as a whole is just a special place. I don’t think there’s anywhere like it, and the whole community is for K-State, which is also really cool. So, I’d say those things.

WE’RE ALL SO EXCITED YOU’RE COMING BACK!

Yeah! Thank you!

MAY 4TH

Town and Country Garden Club

2620 Rangeview Lange, Manhattan, KS | 8:00 AM

Join us for the Town and Country Garden Club, an annual plant sale in which community members sell garden favorites and flourishing houseplants. This unique event merges the love of plants with community support, offering an array of plants directly from local gardens and homes. Your purchases directly supports the K-State Gardens.

MAY 4TH

Flint Hills Festival

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

Celebrate the unique landscape and culture of the Flint Hills! The family-friendly festival includes live music, food vendors, educational exhibits, face painting, and more!

MAY 10TH

Liquid Art Winery's Graduation Reservations

Liquid Art Winery & Estate, 1745 Wildcat Creek Rd, Manhattan, KS | 4:00 PM

Cheers to the achievements and toast to the bright future of your graduates! Savor the exquisite taste of locally produced wine while taking in scenic vineyard views. Liquid Art's Tasting Room will be open 11am - 10pm — no reservations required! Reservations in the indoor event center are available. For more information, contact info@liquidartwinery.com. liquidartwinery.com/event-details/graduation-reservations

MAY 12TH

Mimosas with Mom

A & H Farm, 1374 Collins Ln, Manhattan, KS | 10:00 AM

Celebrate the women in your life with a special day at A&H Farm. Enjoy a petting zoo, check out Mother's Day specials, and hold baby animals, including chicks, ducklings, kittens, goats! Tickets include a drink token for mimosas, mimosa slushies, or kid-friendly 'kid-mosas' with various juice options. ahfarm.ticketspice.com/mimosas-with-mom-24

MAY 25TH

Bill Snyder Half-Marathon & 5k

Bill Snyder Family Stadium | 7:00 AM

Join us for Manhattan's favorite half marathon! Race proceeds support LightMHK, Good Shepherd Homecare and Hospice, and Shepherd's Crossing. The half-marathon route will take you through historic Poyntz Avenue, past City Park, through Aggieville, and the K-State campus, and finishes on the field of the Bill Snyder Family Stadium! billsnyderhighwayhalf.com

MAY 25TH

Opening of Manhattan Water Parks

Manhattan, KS | 1:00 PM

Dive into fun this summer at the Manhattan Water Parks! Head to the Splash Parks at City Park and Blue Earth Plaza to cool off on hot days. Enjoy a variety of attractions, including a lazy river at City Park, climbing walls at CiCo Park, and family-friendly slides at Northview. Manhattan Parks & Rec offers swim lessons for all ages.

“I can’t imagine a teacher that loves her