Three Wise Investments
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and overlook the value of investing in yourself, your relationships, and the community you call home. However, prioritizing these three areas is essential for personal fulfillment, stronger connections, and a thriving environment—especially in a town as unique as the Little Apple.
Personal growth is the foundation of a fulfilling life. Through consistently improving mental and physical well-being, learning new skills, and staying curious, investing in yourself promotes continuous growth. At the end of the day, we should all strive to be the best versions of ourselves.
With K-State in our backyard and resources like the Manhattan Public Library and UFM, Manhattan provides ample opportunities for lifelong learning. This town offers fantastic opportunities for professional networking and personal enrichment. Attending workshops, taking classes, joining the Manhattan Chamber, or simply reading books regularly can sharpen your skills and keep you competitive in an evolving job market.
Taking care your health is just as important. Whether you’re exploring our many beautiful trails, hiking the Konza Prairie, or joining a gym like Maximum Performance, prioritizing wellness boosts energy and resilience. By dedicating time to self-improvement, you set yourself up for success and inspire those around you.
Life is more meaningful when shared with others. Whether with family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors, strong relationships offer emotional support and enhance overall well-being. In Manhattan, there are countless ways to connect and build relationships. Grabbing tacos with friends at Lucha or cheering on the Cats with thousands of fellow fans are two of my favorites. Hosting business coffee meetings at Radina’s or attending some of the city’s endless events also creates opportunities to strengthen bonds. Plus, volunteering for community projects is a great way to give back—Manhattan is home to many incredible nonprofit organizations that would appreciate your helping hand. Investing in relationships foster meaningful connections that create a sense of belonging.
A thriving community benefits everyone, and investing in your town helps shape its future. Supporting local businesses, participating in civic initiatives, and engaging in community events make Manhattan a better place to live. By investing in yourself, your relationships, and your community, you not only improve your own life but also contribute to a stronger, more vibrant Manhattan. Prioritize growth, connection, and community involvement, and watch how it transforms your life and those around you.
Happy April!
Warm Regards,
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Tyler Jackson | tyler.jackson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Heather Hoffman | heather.hoffman@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Tim Sigle | siglephoto@gmail.com
MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Cooper Deters | cdet112@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Cooper Deters, Kenny Whitis
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
TYLER JACKSON, PUBLISHER
Manhattan’s
Manhattan’s
city scene
1: Riley County Humane Society at the 2nd Annual Non-Profit Happy Hour 2: Live music at Arrow Cocktail Lounge on Thursday evenings. 3: Saxophonist JahVelle Rhone at the 2025 Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills Gala & Awards 4: Another beautiful day on one of Manhattan’s beautiful trails 5: Rob Wild (American Family Insurance) with marketing specialist, Shayla Olson, at the Manhattan Home Show 6: The Lazy Wayne Band Performs at RC McGraw’s 7: The Manhattan Public Library Book Sale Preview Night for MLA members was a big success!
HEATHER HOFFMAN
HEATHER HOFFMAN
HEATHER HOFFMAN
Grow Green Match Day
Bookmark growgreenmanhattan.com and set calendar reminder for Tuesday, April 22! On this day, your donation to any participating non-profit organizations made through Grow Green Match Day will be matched at 50%. There will be a live event Colony Square Atrium 7am - 6pm. Donate via the website or by check (postmarked on/before 4/23/25) to GMCF, P.O. Box 1127, Manhattan, KS 66505. For a list of participating organizations and more information, visit growgreenmanhattan.com.
Aggieville Showdown
Head to the Riley County Fairgrounds and Aggieville April 4-5 for a unique experience featuring a cattle show, western fashion showcase, Boot Hill Distillery Garden, and live music from the Lazy Wayne Band. 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 $7,500. aggievilleshowdown.com
Get ready for Pool Season at Energy CenterManhattan Pool!
With spring in full bloom, summer is just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to make sure your pool is ready for the season. Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, Energy Center-Manhattan Pool offers expert service using top-quality BioGuard chemicals — whether you prefer salt, biguanide, or traditional chlorine. Keep your water crystal clear and your summer worry-free with Energy Center-Manhattan Pool’s trusted care. 528 Pillsbury Dr.
Thank you, Blue River Traders! Welcome, Blue River Rustic
After over a decade in Manhattan, Blue River Traders is transforming into Blue River Rustic and relocating to Riley, Kansas. Embracing a new direction, the shop will focus on rustic home décor, handcrafted goods, and timeless furnishings. While Manhattan will miss this beloved store, loyal customers can still enjoy its charm just a short drive away. The owners are excited for this fresh start and grateful for the continued support from the community.
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MANHATTAN CITY LIFESTYLE
MUSEUM OF ART + LIGHT
MANHATTAN’S NEWEST MUSEUM IS PROVING THAT INVESTING IN THE ARTS PAYS DIVIDENDS
ARTICLE BY HEATHER HOFFMAN
Opened in November 2024, the Museum of Art + Light is Manhattan’s latest investment in local arts and culture. Co-founded by longtime art collectors Tracey and Robert DeBruyn, Ronald Bowman, and Stanley E. Zukowfsky, who saw an opportunity to share their extensive collections, it integrates digital and immersive art into the traditional museum experience. “We didn’t want to be like any other museum,” says Erin
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Dragotto, the museum’s executive director, who brings 20 years of experience in the field. “We are the first museum to truly combine immersive, digital, and fine art under one roof.”
The museum’s impact on Manhattan extends far beyond its walls. With an initial $24 million investment and a continuing effort to raise $20 million for its endowment, the museum reflects both a public and private investment in the arts. “Manhattan has a lot to offer, but we have to think about what keeps people here,” Erin explains. “The job might bring them, but arts and culture make them stay.”
Art’s economic impact is undeniable. According to the American Alliance of Museums, cultural travelers spend 60% more than leisure travelers. The Museum of Art + Light is already contributing to this trend. “We’ve noticed visitors coming in from Kansas City and beyond— people who might not have stopped in Manhattan otherwise,” Erin says. “When they come, they’re dining at our restaurants, staying in our hotels, and engaging with the community.”
Spanning 21,000 square feet across two spaces, the museum’s design is striking. The immersive space features 38-foot ceilings, repurposing an old
“THIS ISN’T A COPY-ANDPASTE EXHIBIT. IT’S A BESPOKE EXPERIENCE.”
Sears & Roebuck building with curved walls designed for digital projection.
“We sourced over 300 high-resolution images from museums worldwide and created an original immersive experience,” Erin shares. “This isn’t a copy-andpaste exhibit. It’s a bespoke experience.”
The museum also pays tribute to classical art while embracing emerging digital work. “You’ll see Renoir in the fine arts space, but also in the immersive gallery,” Erin says. “It’s a way of demonstrating that digital artists today stand on the shoulders of past masters.”
The museum’s immersive galleries are powered by 108 high-end Epson projectors, creating a stunning digital landscape. “We modeled ourselves after the Atelier des Lumières in Paris,” Erin explains. “We wanted to push the boundaries of what an art museum could be in the 21st century.”
Beyond its impressive exhibits, the museum is committed to supporting new and local artists. “We’re working with emerging artists to explore what’s happening in digital code and immersive media,” Erin says. “We want to elevate
Cafe Azul
the voices of new talent alongside established names.”
The founders’ collection, which includes works by Picasso, Chagall, and Miro, coexists with contemporary and digital artists in a way that challenges the traditional boundaries of museum curation.
The museum has exciting new exhibitions on the horizon. A major upcoming feature includes a dual exhibit with Dean Mitchell, a fine art painter, and Des Lucrece, a digital artist. “On the surface, their work seems very different,” Erin explains, “but their backstories share striking similarities. This exhibit will tell a deeply personal story through both their art forms.” Another upcoming highlight is Crafting Sanctuaries, an exhibition in partnership with the Art Bridges Foundation, exploring the Black migration of the South through artistic storytelling.
For those eager to visit, the museum offers an immersive experience unlike any other in the Midwest. As the museum continues to grow, it shows the power of investment in the arts. “This is just the beginning,” Erin says. “We’re redefining what a museum can be, and we’re excited to see where this journey takes us.”
LIFELONG LEARNING
ARTICLE BY HEATHER HOFFMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
FROM WORKSHOPS TO DIGITAL COURSES, THE MANHATTAN PUBLIC LIBRARY AND UFM MAKE LEARNING ACCESSIBLE TO ALL
“Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death.” This quote, attributed to Albert Einstein, captures the essence of lifelong learning. While Manhattan is best known as the home of Kansas State University, the opportunities to learn and grow extend far beyond campus. UFM Community Learning Center and the Manhattan Public Library offer a diverse range of programs that enable residents to expand their knowledge, develop new skills, and connect with fellow learners.
Founded in the 1960s as part of the Free University Movement, UFM Community Learning Center was built on the idea that education should be accessible to everyone, free from the rigid power structures of traditional universities. That mission continues today, with UFM offering courses tailored to the needs of the community. Dr. Aliah Mestrovich Seay, UFM executive director, describes the organization as a bridge between Kansas State University and the greater Manhattan area. “We are living examples of bringing resources to the community. We are K-State. We are Manhattan. We are the state of Kansas,” she says.
Each semester, UFM provides more than 200 courses in areas such as cooking, technical skills, and foreign languages to support lifelong learning and personal development. The courses are led by community members who share their expertise and passion. Dr. Mestrovich Seay emphasizes that anyone has the potential to teach or learn at UFM. She believes that people sometimes underestimate the impact they can have when they share knowledge with others. “Anyone that has the opportunity to teach or learn there. You don’t have to be an expert to teach,” she shares.
The organization also focuses on serving specific populations. For adults over 50, the Lifetime Learning Program offers courses on memory, mental health, and cognitive well-being. Currently
hosted at Meadowlark, this program supports lifelong mental engagement. UFM supports veterans by providing a no-cost wellness class. Those enrolled in VA Eastern Kansas who complete the course receive a $200 scholarship to apply toward any UFM community enrichment classes. Additionally, UFM helps job seekers and career changers build practical skills through its workforce development programs, including construction certification courses.
Just a mile and a half down the road, the Manhattan Public Library provides another venue to pursue lifelong learning. While the library is traditionally associated with books and research materials, its resources extend to digital tools and learning platforms.
Through the library, residents can access certain online learning platforms for free, including LinkedIn Learning, Mango Languages, and Learning Express. LinkedIn Learning provides professional development courses on business, technology, and creative skills. Mango Languages is an interactive language-learning app that helps users practice pronunciation. Learning Express offers free courses and practice tests for standardized exams such as the GED and MCAT. For those who need hands-on tech support, Wandean Rivers, the library’s Tech Trainer, provides free one-on-one appointments to help patrons with everything from basic computer skills to more advanced technical training.
In addition to digital learning, the library hosts workshops and programs for adults. DIY Nights focused on arts and crafts are especially popular and consistently fill up due to high demand. AI workshops, held in partnership with K-State librarians, help folks understand the current artificial intelligence landscape. Financial literacy workshops offer guidance on budgeting, investing, and money management.
For patrons unable to visit the library in person, the Homebound Program delivers books directly to those with mobility challenges. Participants can request books based on their favorite genres and authors, so they stay connected to the joy of reading.
Community outreach is also a core part of the library’s mission. Science Fest, an annual event taking place on April 26, features STEM activities for all ages. The Enjoy and Share program places donated books in locations such as Be Able, the MHK airport, and the Manhattan Breadbasket.
Savannah Winkler, Adult Services Librarian, highlights that lifelong learning looks different for everyone. “For some, it means improving skills in technology or business. Others may focus on connecting with people through group activities or book discussions. Some may simply want the chance to enjoy new books,” she explains. The library’s diverse resources allow all residents to find a way to continue learning in a way that is meaningful to them.
Both UFM and the Manhattan Public Library provide opportunities for growth at every stage of life. Through hands-on workshops, community enrichment courses, digital learning platforms, or outreach programs, these local organizations enable Manhattanites to develop new skills and pursue their interests. If you’re looking to explore new learning opportunities, consider browsing UFM’s upcoming course offerings or visiting the Manhattan Public Library to see what resources or classes spark your interest!
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Don’t wait for a major plumbing disaster - schedule your sewer line jetting today! We can also provide you with a camera inspection of your sewer line once it is cleaned! Call us at 785-539-9700 to book a service.
ARTICLE BY COOPER DETERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
INVEST IN Your Body
INTERVIEW WITH KELLY MOEGE FROM LITTLE APPLE MASSAGE
Kelly Moege grew up in western North Carolina before moving to Alaska, where she met her husband. The couple married in 2012, and, fulfilling her husband’s longtime desire to return to his home state of Kansas, they eventually relocated. Kelly earned her certification in massage therapy at Wellspring School of Allied Health in Lawrence, Kansas. Kelly also contributes to the wellness community by assisting at Chapter 5 Yoga and the Healing House. Owning her own business had always been a goal, and in 2017, she conceived the idea for Little Apple Massage. However, she chose to prioritize staying home with her first child until she started kindergarten. When the timing was right, she took the leap and made her vision a reality.
“I really want to make a difference in people ... I really want to make them happy and change their day around.”
What made you want to start this business?
I wanted to do massage therapy since 2017 and I’ve had a few massages in my life that have been life changing. I want to be a healer and I feel like that’s an avenue I can go to help people. It’s really rewarding. I love the connections that I get to make whenever I meet people.
What results have people seen from going to massage therapy?
They really just embrace me. Everybody’s been happy so far. I do prenatal, so I have some pregnant people who come to me that don’t have swelling or any pain because they’re getting regular massages. And then some people have injuries or are recovering from surgery.
What do you think sets Little Apple Massage apart from other massage places?
It’s just me here. It’s not a big business. You always know what you’re going to get, who you’re going to see, and what to expect.
Along those same lines, what sets you apart from other massage therapists?
I really want to make a difference in people. So I’m really enthusiastic and really want to work on their knots or whatever it is they’re coming in for. I really want to make them happy and change their day around.
What would you say is the biggest impact you’ve had on somebody?
He had an accident where he broke his back and had a slew of issue that came from that. It’s been really rewarding to see him how massage has helped him over the last few months. I really enjoyed that one because he comes in and he is just like a ball of knots, like everywhere, and it sounds like he’s excited to come in. It’s been really rewarding to say, we’re gonna get those knots out and make this feel better.
What are some of the main benefits of massage therapy?
Some people it’s just like stress relief, but usually I like the pain management—more of the therapeutic approach. There are different types of massages and I like the therapeutic approach, but also like the pain relief side of it.
Arbor Day Tree Sale Week April 21-26, 2025
ROUTINE UPDATES
Pansies & Cool Season Annuals! Pottery & Spring Containers
Dr. James McAtee
Dr. Bryce Palmgren
Dr. Adam Chase
Dr. Trevor Gaskill
Dr. Heidi Smith
Dr. Nicholas Duethman
GEARING UP WITH BIKE TEK
ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE |
It’s a beautiful day, cruising along Manhattan’s Linear Trail on a Trek bicycle as the sun casts golden light through the trees. Birds chirp, the distant hum of Fort Riley Boulevard fades into nature’s embrace, and the nearby Kansas River flows peacefully toward the sea. Then suddenly—the chain snaps, and the bike jerks to a halt. Stranded miles from home, frustration sets in—until Bike Tek comes to mind. A quick call, and their friendly staff offers reassurance. Before long, the bike is in expert hands, repaired, and ready
to ride again. Thanks to Bike Tek, this cycling adventure continues without a hitch.
Since first opening in Salina in 1986, Bike Tek has had one mission: being committed to their customers. Known as one of the best bicycle shops in Kansas, Bike Tek has built a strong reputation over the decades, expanding its reach to Manhattan to cater to the growing number of cyclists in the Flint Hills region.
Bicycling is a popular activity in Manhattan, Kansas, thanks to its bike-friendly infrastructure,
scenic routes, and active cycling community. With dedicated bike lanes, trails like the Linear Trail, and a supportive cycling culture fostered by groups like Bike MHK. Cycling continues to grow in popularity, making Manhattan and the surrounding Flint Hills a welcoming place for both casual riders and serious cyclists. Knowing this, owner Shawn Jones felt Manhattan would be the perfect location for a second Bike Tek.
On December 16th of 2023, Bike Tek opened for business at 1620 Fort Riley Boulevard, in the strip mall next to 9Round Kickboxing Fitness. Offering a full-service bike shop, bike fittings, new and used bikes, plus accessories and apparel, Bike Tek has quickly rose to being Manhattan’s flagship bike shop.
services
• New and Used Bikes: from quality brands like Trek, Aventon, Electra, Salsa, and Strider, catering to all cycling needs.
• Full-Service Bike Repair Shop: as a full-service bike shop, Bike Tek offers repairs, maintenance, custom builds, and a wide range of bikes and accessories.
• Bike Fitting: providing professional, custom bike fitting to ensure comfort, performance, and efficiency for every rider’s unique needs.
• Tires: a wide selection of high-quality bike tires from Maxxis, Pirelli, and Panaracer, providing durability, performance, and reliability for all cyclists.
• Accessories: offering essential cycling accessories like Muc-Off cleaning products, Chamois Butt’r, and more to enhance comfort and performance.
• Apparel: Bike Tek carries top cycling accessories including Rapha apparel, Oakley sunglasses, and more, enhancing both performance and style.
Your One-Stop Shop for Cycling in the Little Apple
Dave Colburn, Trisha Luke, Kyler Reith
With Manhattan being a fantastic place for cycling, Bike Tek provides a comprehensive range of products and services to meet the diverse needs of riders. The shop offers a selection of high-quality bicycles from renowned brands like Trek, Salsa, Aventon, and Electra. Whether customers are looking for mountain, gravel, road, or electric bikes, Bike Tek has options to suit various preferences and budgets. If a specific model isn’t available in-store, the knowledgeable staff is happy to assist with custom orders, ensuring customers find the perfect ride.
Led by Manager Kyler Reith, and supported by Trisha Luke & Dave Colburn, the staff at Bike Tek brings years of dedicated bicycle experience to the table. This trio of seasoned two-wheeled veterans understand the importance of a well-maintained bicycle. Offering repair services, part replacements, and tune-ups, their goal is to get cyclists back on the road or trail promptly, ensuring safety and optimal performance. Bike Tek stands as a cornerstone of the cycling community in the Little Apple, offering quality products, reliable services, and a commitment to fostering a vibrant cycling culture. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer, Bike Tek provides the resources and support to enhance your cycling journey.
DEEP TMS THERAPY
Deep TMS Therapy is a non-invasive treatment for depression, anxiety & OCD
3 - 4 times more effective than medication alone
Enhances Mood | Boost Neuroplasticity | Improves Focus
Provides lasting relief with minimal side effects
71% of patients had a 50% or greater reduction in depression symptoms at the Manhattan Clinic
Covered by all insurances (minus Medicaid)
SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 12TH – 13TH
Wamego Tulip Festival
Wamego City Park, Wamego, KS
Thousands of vibrant tulips will be the backdrop for this free springtime art and craft festival in Wamego City Park. Take in the kaleidoscope of colorful blooms and enjoy 200 craft vendors, beer and wine tasting, homemade ice cream, face painting, a petting zoo, and more. Stop by the century-old Schonhoff Dutch Mill to snap a fun photo! facebook.com/tulipfestivalks
APRIL 12TH
Egg-Stravaganza Photo Op & K-State Open House - Gardens Tours
K-State Gardens, 1500 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS | 9:00 AM
Experience the beauty of the Gardens! Take advantage of this special opportunity to capture an individual or family photo with the Easter Bunny amid the spring landscape. With over 8,000 tulips in full bloom — weather permitting — the setting will be picture-perfect! Enjoy guided Garden Tours led by Master Gardeners and explore the fascinating Insect Zoo during your visit.
APRIL 12TH
Prairie Paws Manhattan Gala - A Night to Remember
Manhattan Country Club, 1531 N. 10th St, Manhattan, KS | 5:30 PM
Support Prairie Paws Animal Shelter’s mission to provide care, shelter, and second chances for animals in need. The Gala will include a delicious selection of food and drinks, live entertainment, a silent auction, and heartwarming stories of rescued animals. The celebration will continue at the After Party at Manhattan Brewing Company with drinks, music, and great company!
APRIL 19TH
Sunset Zoo’s Party for the Planet
Sunset Zoo, 2333 Oak St, Manhattan, KS | 9:30 AM
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, tortoise feedings, face paintings, and shaved ice. Regular zoo admission rates will apply. sunsetzoo.com/442/Party-for-the-Planet
APRIL 26TH
4th Annual Run for the Roses 5k/1K Race
K-State Gardens, 1500 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS | 9:00 AM
Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Gardens! Winners receive a glazed purple pot featuring a rose-shaped succulent, and every participant receives a unique keepsake anniversary medal and T-shirt. The event features the K-State band and twirl team, a free face painter and ballon artist for the kids, and 10,000 tulips in bloom. k-state.edu/gardens/events/run-for-the-roses/
APRIL 26TH
The 4th Annual Kansas Science Festival
Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS | 10:00 AM
The Kansas Science Festival and Manhattan Public Library invite you to a day of exploration and discovery! Experience interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and inspiring presentations from artists, innovators, and scientists. Whether you’re a lifelong science enthusiast or just curious, this festival has something for everyone! sciencefestks.org
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Refresh your home this Spring with new tile, carpet, wood, laminate or LVP! In stock LVP on sale through July 31st.
