Exploration
Exploration is the key to a fulfilling life, sparking new experiences. These experiences lead to self-discovery, a crucial component of personal growth and well-being. Exploration profoundly enhances our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Ultimately, exploration is the essence of our existence.
For me, exploration always begins in the Little Apple. This place is a delightful mix of scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy, all right in our own backyard. Local exploration is essential for appreciating Manhattan’s culture, nature, and community. Our lovely Flint Hills offers stunning landscapes for numerous outdoor activities. The city thrives with youthful energy and fantastic events, and our unique shops, restaurants, and galleries are widely known. Embracing these experiences fosters a deeper connection to your surroundings and enhances overall well-being and community spirit.
Beyond Kansas, getting out and seeing the USA offers a wealth of new experiences. From the bustling cities on the coasts, to the rugged and serene landscapes of our beautiful National Parks, each state presents unique cultural and natural attractions. Road trips are limitless in this country, and in this issue, we’re happy to show you one of our favorite road trip destinations: Duluth, Minnesota.
Also in this issue, we explore Manhattan, of course. We venture across the Kansas River and the viaduct to the new Aggieville Brewing Company. We celebrate 30 years of the Wonder Workshop. Then, just around the river bend, we explore Blue River Traders.
At the end of the day, venturing beyond your comfort zone to experience new challenges and opportunities builds adaptability and problem-solving skills. Each new experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to your personal development and equips you with the resilience to navigate life's uncertainties. So, embrace the unknown, explore, learn, grow, and savor life's endless wonders – after all, that’s why we’re here!
Happy July!
Warm Regards,
TYLER JACKSON, PUBLISHER @MANHATTANCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2024
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
Kenny Whitis, Cooper Deters
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Nicholas Duethman, MD, Trevor Gaskill, MD, Heidi Smith, DO, Bryce Palmgren, MD, Adam Chase, MD, and James McAtee, MD
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Get your home ready to celebrate Independence Day at Blueville Nursery! 2: Thank you to Furniture Warehouse for 41 great years of business! 3: Coach Bill Snyder signs an autograph at the Bill Snyder Highway Half Marathon 4: Wyatt Thompson chats with Coach Jerome Tang at the Manhattan Catbackers Tour 5: The Little Grill’s Akeem Waite & A Bite Above’s Dirk Sparks with Willie the Wildcat 6: The annual Symphony in the Flint Hills! 7: Evelyn enjoys herself at the Symphony in the Flint Hills
KATIE RINIKER
STEVE WILLIAMS
TYLER JACKSON
TYLER JACKSON
TYLER JACKSON
JENNY BURKOWSKI
JENNY BURKOWSKI
Wildcats for No Stone Unturned Golf and Gala Weekend
Join us for the 16th Annual Wildcats for No Stone Unturned Golf & Gala weekend on July 12th-13th! The No Stone Unturned Foundation ensures children with special needs in Manhattan receive essential services. Their unique model of teambased care results in better outcomes for children and families. Enjoy golf scrambles, a gala, an auction, and a raffle. Each year, this incredible event draws 500 attendees, including former Wildcat athletes and coaches. For tickets, visit tickets.nsuf.org.
48th Kaw Valley Rodeo
Experience the thrill of the Kaw Valley Rodeo, where top cowgirls and cowboys compete in eight electrifying events like bull riding and barrel racing. On Thursday, kids 12 and under get in free with a non-perishable food donation. Enjoy themed nights: Military Appreciation on Thursday, Tough Enough to Wear Pink for breast cancer research on Friday, and the thrilling championship night on Saturday. Get your tickets at kawvalleyrodeo.com .
Sunflower SummerManhattan Passport
Sunflower Summer offers families a great way to explore our state with free admission to various museums, zoos, historical attractions, and nature centers across Kansas. Manhattan has seven locations, and there are over 200 attractions statewide. Collect stamps in your passport and win prizes! Sunflower Summer runs until August 11. Find more details at manhattancvb.org. Sunflower Summer is brought to you by Kansas Tourism, for Kansas residents.
Photography by Sigle Photography
WONDER
ARTICLE BY HEATHER HOFFMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
In 1994, Cindy and Richard Pitts founded Wonder Workshop, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing interactive learning experiences to children, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background. With Cindy’s background in museum education, and Richard’s passions for history, storytelling, and drumming, Wonder Workshop quickly became a haven for children in the Manhattan community.
The core mission of the organization is to promote education through hands-on activities that inspire learning, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster creativity. The heart of the organization is its Children’s Museum, located at 506 S 4th St, a vibrant space full of hands-on exhibits and activities for children and their families.
At its outset, the cornerstone of the organization’s offerings was its after school program. Designed for students in kindergarten to 5th grade, this program offers learning experiences that spark each child’s curiosity and imagination. “We really tailor the experiences based on feedback from the kids,” says Cindy.
Over the years, the organization has expanded its offerings to include a variety of programs including the Think BIG Summer Camp, Discovery Days, Pre-K STEAM, and Wonder Teens. The Think BIG summer camp provides engaging learning experiences for students in K-5th grade. Campers participate in science experiments, arts and humanities activities, playtime, and special field trips. In the Pre-K STEAM program, kids enjoy activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Each day features different themes, including agriculture, animal science, and chemistry. The organization also provides scholarships for memberships and various programs, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder any child’s opportunity to participate.
Celebrating Three Decades of Wonder Workshop
One of Wonder Workshop’s standout programs is the Wonder Teens Museum Apprenticeship Program (MAP). This program is designed for youth in grades 6-12, who have often grown up going to its programs from a young age. Participants work closely with staff members, develop curriculum ideas, and engage in creative projects. For example, the Wonder Teens in MAP were instrumental in creating the “Finding Frida Kahlo” exhibit, managing everything from the initial concept to building the exhibit. After completing 135 hours of volunteer service, participants become paid teen mentors, assisting facilitators and serving as role models for younger children. This program provides participants with valuable life skills and work experience.
Wonder Workshop co-founder Richard Pitts passed away in May 2020 after a long battle with cancer. Known for his vibrant personality and his lively drum circles, Richard led tours of the Underground Railroad, providing deep knowledge of Kansas’s abolitionist history. Richard was also featured in the documentary “Dawn of Day” about Wabaunsee County’s role in the fight against slavery. As the longtime public face of Wonder Workshop, Richard could hardly go anywhere in Manhattan without seeing current or former Wonder Workshop kids and their families.
Cindy Pitts, with the support of her energetic staff and board, continues to drive the organization’s mission forward, focusing on incorporating community leaders and artists into the programs. Her efforts ensure that Wonder Workshop remains a dynamic and inclusive space for all children.
Many staff and board members, including Board President Lauren Farwell, have had the meaningful experience of seeing their own children participate in Wonder Workshop programs, just as they did when they were young. “I actually hosted my son Easton’s birthday party at [the Wonder Workshop Children’s Museum]. A lot of people don’t realize you can host birthday parties there,” Lauren shares. While her son’s party featured a reptile theme, the most popular birthday theme is kinetic slime.
On July 13, 2024, the organization will celebrate its 30th anniversary at Blue Earth Plaza. This milestone event will feature a bounce house, food truck, snow cones, Story Hour, face painting, bubbles, a fire truck, and the ever-popular pickles on a stick. The event is free to the public, with participants encouraged to donate $30 for the 30th anniversary.
This celebration is a reflection of Wonder Workshop’s impact over the past three decades. From summer camps filled with hiking, s’mores, and tadpole hunting to themed monthly activities and pre-K programs, Wonder Workshop has continually provided a space where kids can learn, explore, and have fun.
As Wonder Workshop looks to the future, the organization remains committed to its mission of providing engaging, educational activities for children. With Cindy Pitts at the helm, Wonder Workshop will continue to inspire and educate future generations.
Join us 10 am - 2 pm on July 13, 2024 at Blue Earth Plaza for Wonder Workshop’s 30th Anniversary Party! The event is free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to donate $30. www.wonderworkshop.org
“WE REALLY TAILOR THE EXPERIENCES BASED ON FEEDBACK FROM THE KIDS.”
-CINDY PITTS
HOME BREWED IN THE LITTLE APPLE
ARTICLE BY COOPER DEETERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE
SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
After becoming a home brewer at age 21, Ryan Emley followed his dream of brewing beer at on a professional level. His journey took him to Colorado Springs, but his vision truly came to life when he and his wife Amber opened Aggieville Brewing Company in 2024.
Ryan and Amber were high school sweethearts at Manhattan High School, beginning their relationship in 2007. “We started dating sophomore year,” Ryan says. “Both of us went to K-State. I joined Phi Delta Theta, and she ended up right next door at Sigma Kappa, so it worked out perfectly for us.”
Though both attended K-State, Amber completed her four-year degree, whereas Ryan left after two years in financial planning.
After college, Ryan’s passion for home brewing became all-consuming. “After I got into home brewing, it really became my passion. I knew I wanted to get into the industry,” he explains. This passion led him to work at Tallgrass Tap House and then move to Colorado Springs, where he was involved in three brewery overhauls and one brewery construction within just four years.
“THIS PLACE REALLY IS A DREAM COME TRUE.” -RYAN EMLEY
When Ryan and Amber decided to pursue the brewery, they knew where they wanted it: Manhattan, Kansas, “This is where I grew up, and the same with my wife’s family. We wanted to raise our family here,” Ryan says. “Manhattan is such a transient community between the college kids, their parents, the locals, and even the military. To me, Manhattan is the perfect demographic.”
The brewery location holds a special significance to Ryan & Amber – it belonged to Amber’s parents, Russ and Ilene Briggs. From 1983 - 2003, it was the first home
of Briggs Auto. Starting out there as a small, used car lot, Briggs Auto has now expanded to 12 locations throughout Kansas. “Where our brewing room is now was actually the mechanics bay,” Ryan says. “Russ and Ilene’s offices were where our kitchen is, and it’s just cool for us to have that history.”
Aggieville Brewing Company opened in January 2024, offering an exceptional selection of food and 18 beers on tap, though the inclusion of the food almost didn’t come to fruition. “A restaurant was
kind of a must for us, which is probably why it took us so long to pull the trigger on this,” Ryan explains. “We ended up going to the Famous Dave’s estate sale, looking to potentially buy a smoker, and we got it for well below what they normally go for. We thought to ourselves, why not?”
The food they serve reflects the Emley’s commitment to avoiding industrial seed oils. The restaurant primarily uses butter and olive oil, as everything is made from scratch, and beef tallow is used for frying. “We didn’t want anything pre-made or frozen,” he says. “We didn’t want just regular ‘bar food’ – we felt Manhattan deserved better.”
For Ryan, the most important aspect of Aggieville Brewing Company is ensuring that customers are happy and comfortable with what they’re getting. “We like to have a range of everything,” he says. “But we also understand that we need to be approachable to our demographic here. There are a lot of blue-collar workers and college kids who don’t like craft beer or have never had a craft beer, so we want to have a lot of approachable beers.”
With summer in full swing and the beer garden open, Ryan plans to start hosting events and concerts. The seating capacity inside is 72, and the outside can accommodate 188. Ryan’s goal is to host an “Oktoberfest-like event” and a Fourth of July party, inviting other brewers to join and offering people the chance to try new things.
For more information, see aggievillebeer.com
Discover Duluth
ARTICLE BY TYLER JACKSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TYLER JACKSON & PROVIDED
When searching for a spot to beat the Kansas heat this summer, head ten hours north to the Great Lakes and the beautiful city of Duluth, Minnesota! Perched high atop a hill overlooking Lake Superior, Duluth graces the northern shore at the westernmost tip of the world’s largest freshwater lake. Known as the Zenith City of the Unsalted Seas, Duluth offers a vast array of breathtaking vistas, outdoor activities, world-class attractions, and, of course, plenty of water.
Arriving on Interstate 35, the first landmark is Spirit Mountain. Averaging 90 inches of snowfall annually, this ski hill transforms in winter, but come summer, it’s the home of Minnesota’s best lift-access mountain biking. As you approach the city, you’ll pass the mouth of the St. Louis River flowing into St. Louis Bay and Duluth-Superior Harbor, revealing an endless view of the sparkling blue waters of Lake Superior.
Aerial Lift Bridge
Explore Lake Superior’s beauty, vibrant waterfront, historic sites, and outdoor adventures in Minnesota’s charming port city.
Once within the city limits, first-time visitors to Duluth naturally gravitate to Canal Park. Dubbed Duluth’s Playground, Canal Park features dozens of centuries-old brick buildings that have been transformed into charming shops, boutiques, restaurants, and breweries. Situated directly on the lake, Canal Park is anchored by Duluth’s most iconic landmark, the Aerial Lift Bridge. This bridge connects Duluth to Minnesota Point (locally known as Park Point), the world’s longest freshwater sand spit. Built in 1905, the 390-foot bridge can be raised to its full 135 feet in about a minute to allow ship traffic to pass between the harbor and the lake. Few experiences are more exhilarating than standing under the Aerial Lift Bridge as a 1,000-foot cargo ship passes just a few feet away.
CONTINUED >
What To See!
• Great Lakes Aquarium: Explore animals and habitats from the Great Lakes basin and other freshwater ecosystems, including the Amazon River. glaquarium.com
• William A. Irvin Museum: Tour the inside of an impressive 610-foot-long lake freighter ship. decc.org/william-a-irvin
• North Shore Scenic Railroad: Enjoy a rail excursion along the picturesque north shore of Lake Superior. duluthtrains.com
• Vista Fleet: Explore Duluth Harbor and Lake Superior on a narrated sightseeing tour with options for lunch, dinner, or family fun cruises. vistafleet.com
• Minnesota Whitewater Rafting: Get wild with a professionally guided raft tour down the St Louis River! minnesotawhitewater.com
• Grandma’s Saloon & Grill: Experience the Canal Park tradition (since 1976!) and host of the world-famous Grandma’s Marathon. grandmasrestaurants.com
Split Rock Lighthouse
Overlooking Duluth
Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, Duluth’s unique charm and welcoming community make it unforgettable.
Once you’ve had your fill of ship watching, the rest of the city awaits exploration. Duluth’s vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and world-class museums add cultural richness to your visit. The Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center and the Glensheen Mansion are just two of Duluth’s unique museums. The former honors the history of shipping across the Great Lakes, while the latter is a 12-acre estate with a 20,000-square-foot, 39-room mansion.
Beyond the attractions within Duluth, the city is the gateway to the North Shore of Lake Superior. Following Highway 61 into Minnesota’s Arrowhead Region , you’ll discover treasures along the 170-mile North Shore Scenic Drive to the Canadian border, featuring landmarks such as Split Rock Lighthouse, the Palisade Head cliffs, and Gooseberry Falls. Cruise through charming towns like Two Harbors, Lutsen, Grand Marais, and Grand Portage, each offering its own deep-woods charm. Additionally, from Duluth, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) and Voyageurs National Park are just a stone’s throw away.
Duluth, Minnesota, is a must-visit destination for its stunning natural beauty and diverse, limitless attractions. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, Duluth’s unique charm and welcoming community make it unforgettable. When you visit, you’ll truly be amazed that you’re still in the Midwest!
Canal Park.
Photo by Tyler Jackson
The MV Paul R. Tregurtha passes under the Aerial Lift Bridge.
Photo by Tyler Jackson
Medterra Pets
Flowing with Local Flavor: Discover the Treasures of Blue River Traders
Just Around The River Bend
ARTICLE BY KENNY WHITIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM SIGLE | SIGLE PHOTOGRAPHY
Exploring Blue River Traders is a journey into a world of unique, handcrafted items. This charming store in east Manhattan offers an array of artisanal goods that reflect the rich, Western heritage of Kansas, and the creative spirit of the Flint Hills region.
The story of Blue River Traders begins with Manhattan native Ron Feldkamp and his wife, Marilyn. In the late 80s, Ron was crafting rustic, handmade furniture and wholesaling it from Kansas to the Mexico border. When the opportunity for a storefront arose, they opened their first store, The Front Porch, in the Manhattan Town Center in 2004. Nearly a decade later, Blue River Traders was born at the corner of Marlatt and Tuttle Creek Blvd in 2013. Then a year ago, the store moved to its current, 4,000-square-foot location in the McCall Triangle at 925 Enoch Ln.
From the moment you first step inside Blue River Traders, you’re greeted by an overwhelming sense of home. There’s an eclectic mix of handmade woodwork, home décor, jewelry, textiles, yard art, and Vietnamese pottery. The store’s rustic-yetcozy ambiance invites you to take your time meandering through the shelves. Browse through treasures like intricately designed earrings, beautifully glazed ceramic bowls, handwoven crafts and candles.
A standout feature of Blue River Traders is their custom furniture process. They can tailor nearly any furniture piece to your specifications—beds, credenzas, bookcases, cabinets, tables, desks, and even saddle racks. The process involves selecting your preferred lumber type, size, finish, and colors.
Whether you’re a townie, or just passing through, a visit to Blue River Traders is a delightful way to experience the creativity and craftsmanship of the Little Apple. It’s a place where every item has a story, and every purchase is as unique as Manhattan itself—making it a truly special destination.
Dr. David Wichman, MD
Dr. Aveekshit Tripathi, MD
Ethel Akongnui
JULY 4TH
Wamego Independence Day Celebration
Wamego, KS | 6:00 PM
Celebrate the 4th of July in Wamego with a spectacular lineup of events! Start your day with a visit to the Wamego Area Veterans Memorial in City Park. Head to Main Street for the Independence Day Parade, featuring floats, marching bands, and classic cars. Cap off the night with an awe-inspiring fireworks show, ranked #1 in Kansas. For more details, visit visitwamego.com/july4th
JULY 13TH
Little Apple Paddle
Linear Trail Head boat ramp (E. Hwy 24), Manhattan, KS | 9:00 AM
Join Manhattan Parks & Rec for a 10-mile, family-friendly paddle down the Kansas River! Departing at 9am and arriving in St. George around 12pm, this adventure includes at least one stop along the way. Kayaks are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Life jackets are required. For more information, visit mhkprd.com/239/Little-Apple-Paddle
JULY 18TH
Plein Air on Poyntz
Downtown Manhattan | 4:00 PM
Head to July's Third Thursday event for a painting contest from 4-7pm! Artists will create their pieces outdoors using traditional mediums, while passersby can enjoy watching these artistic visions come to life. Register at downtownmhkart.com/pleinair for just $10 for a chance to win a $500 prize and have your artwork displayed by Downtown Manhattan. Don't miss this artistic experience!
JULY 25TH-29TH
Riley County Fair
Riley County Fairgrounds in Cico Park
The Riley County Fair is a vibrant celebration of community and agriculture. It brings together residents and visitors alike for carnival rides, 4-H exhibits, lively entertainment, and decadent treats. See more information at rileycountyfair.com
JULY 27TH
K-State Gardens Annual Iris Sale
K-State Gardens, 1500 Denison Ave, Manhattan | 8:00 AM
The K-State Gardens Annual Iris Sale, sponsored by the Flint Hills Iris Society, will be held from 8am-12pm—or until they sell out! There are hundreds of locally grown varieties of beautiful iris to choose from. Proceeds benefit the K-State Gardens. (Cash or check only.) www.flinthillsirissociety.com
JULY 28TH
The Church Ladies - Unsupervised!
Prairiewood Retreat & Preserve, 1484 Wildcat Creek Rd, Manhattan, KS | 5:00 PM
The Church Ladies are returning to the Blue Sage Barn! This beloved acoustic trio performs bluegrass, country, folk, gospel, and rock. Arrive early to explore the scenic trails, and then join us for an enchanting hour and a half of music. A $10 suggested donation at the door supports the musicians.
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DONATIONS SUMMER DONATIONS SUMMER
While school is out for the summer of 2024, the Educator of the Month award is going to look a little different. Instead of choosing an educator to award, The Fridge will be making donations to the USD 383 FIT Closet!
The USD 383 FIT Closet & Clothing Exchange assists McKinney-Vento qualified/FIT students enrolled in the USD 383 school district by providing what they need to successfully integrate into school as well as find success in their educational journey. This assistance comes in the form of (but is not limited to) school supplies and school-appropriate clothing.
After 41 years of serving the furniture needs of the Little Apple and the surrounding area, we have made the decision to close our doors forever. Our family would like to thank the community and the many customers who have supported us over the years that made our existence possible. My wife and I look forward to traveling the country and visiting the many destinations our customers have told us about over the years.
Thank you, Manhattan.
Sincerely,
Steve & Ann Williams
