Festival part of a story
Editors note: Our festival guide is dedicated to the area’s farm families, who are the reason we enjoy the Potato Festival tradition. Former Belgrade News editor Michael Tucker wrote about that tradition in 2013. His still-relevant remarks are reprinted here.
My first experience with potato farming was bagging 10-pound bags of table stock into a bale.
When I didn’t do that, I made boxes. The industrial stapler had a constant, almost soothing, sound Ca-Chunk. CaChunk. One side secured. Spin on the spindle. Ca-Chunk. Ca-Chunk. Mission accomplished.
This happened over and over and over and over until it was time to plant in the spring, which seems like a really long time when you’re manning a stapler or throwing little bags of spuds into a big bag.
While the work was a tad monotonous, the silver lining rested with the people at work.
All the old guys in the grading shed had an immense
wealth of knowledge. I heard stories of the old way of farming. I heard stories of immigration. I heard tales of living through Nazi-occupied Holland. And with all those stories there was a healthy dose of humor and good-natured ribbing.
A lot of those men have passed away. Their stories and tales will carry on and I think of them often when I’m driving through the Churchill area.
More than anything else, it’s the people that gave an area a distinctive feel. There’s a shared collective frame of mind that run that bind people together.
Which is why the Manhattan area is such a special place to me. It has become part of my story.
The Potato Festival is a simple summer day where people come together to share in that story. It’s part of the tradition that defines an area.
Come down and start to write your own chapter.
Rotary Works for manhattan
If you’ve ever used the Dry Creek trail to the Gallatin River, you have reaped one of the benefits of the Manhattan Rotary Club. Under the leadership of past President Eleanor Mest, the club built the path in 2006 and has maintained it since then. The Rotary Club has enriched and beautified the town of Manhattan since its founding in 1936. When entering the town off I-90, you are greeted by the Manhattan sign, placed by Rotary and beautifully maintained at the path to the entrance of Taylor Park. Third grade students receive dictionaries from Rotary, and high school seniors are honored each month of the school year through Rotary’s Student of the Month program. Thousands of dollars have been awarded to seniors from Manhattan High School, Manhattan Christian, and Three Forks High.
At the helm of the Manhattan Rotary Club is Deb Hansen who, since 2023, has tirelessly reignited Rotary in Manhattan, attending and running meetings, growing membership, and helping organize fundraisers for the many Rotary projects.
“Rotary’s motto is Service above Self,” remarked Deb. “We’re all about building community and having fun doing it.”
Money for Rotary’s endeavors has come from a Bingo night with dinner and auction, spearheaded by Rotary member Jan Van Dyke; Trivia night; high school concessions; flamingo “Flocking”; and member dues.
“We’re excited to share that we will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of the trail in 2026, with a community celebration. Stay tuned for details,” Deb added.
New this summer will be a dunk tank fundraiser during the Manhattan Potato Festival on August 17 at Altenbrand Park. Funds from this activity will support the trail system maintenance and, between noon and 2:30 PM, a Battle of the Schools to earn money for scholarships for the three area high schools.
The Manhattan Rotary Club meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 7 AM at Harvest Moon Coffee Shoppe on Main Street in Manhattan. Call Deb Hansen, 269-501-5053, for information.
2024 Manhattan Potato Festival Map
Ed & Punky Brainard
2024 Manhattan Potato Festival Royalty
In 1968, if you had asked then Manhattan Tiger Senior Ed Brainard if he had any idea just how many young lives he would one day impact, he could not have realized that number would reach well into the thousands. While Ed and Punky may not be famous on the world-wide stage, round these parts, the Brainard Ranch is synonymous with one of the top educational agricultural programs in the country.
Of course, they don’t want you to sing their praises, in fact, one would be hard pressed to find a more humble couple. To them, they’re simply doing what they do… living life on the farm and teaching a few hundred 4th grade Montana students about agriculture each year. Every Spring, nearly 1,200 students and teachers attend the 3-day Gallatin Valley Farm Fair at the Brainard Ranch at the Dry Creek Farm Northwest of Belgrade.
For many students, this is the best school field trip of their lives, and one they’ll definitely forever remember. Growing potatoes, milking cows, shearing sheep, and irrigation are just a few things students learn about at the various educational stations, 17 in total. “Many students who’ve never lived on a farm or ranch, have no idea where milk or water comes from. Some of them just think water comes from a faucet,” Ed explained. The students are eager to learn about the water cycle and where their food comes from. Planned or unplanned, this project has become a life’s mission for the Brainards.
Of course, no Farm Fair tour would be complete without a wagon ride, barbecue lunch with all the homegrown farm
fixin’s, and “tin-can” ice cream. That’s where Punky comes in. Her special niche is helping with lunch, the task she most enjoys. In the “early years,” Punky tended to their children and other chores, kept the home front running smoothly, and fed their cattle up in the hills while Ed and their team of helpers, volunteers, and various local professional representatives, manned the fair. Once the kids were grown, she had more time to devote to the Fair. Though hard work, the Farm Fari has been a labor of love that has lasted 20 plus years.
The Farm Fair started in 2004-2005 when then John Deere Dealership owner Duane Burkenpas, heard about the fair, which was originally held in Hamilton, MT. Duane wanted to bring the Fair to the Gallatin Valley to teach students here about farm life. Duane approached Ed and Punky, and as they say, the rest is history. They moved some equipment to make room, set up some tents and the Farm Fair was established! The Fair has grown exponentially since those early days, with over 200 volunteers and 15 Belgrade FFA Team Leaders helping make it happen for three days every year.
While the Farm Fair hasn’t been without its challenges over the years, Ed & Punky recall far more good memories than bad, although there was one
year that “the wind came up and overturned the ice cream tent. It landed upside-down in the creek,” Ed recalled with a chuckle. When asked how long they plan to continue the Fair, they replied, “For as long as we can.” When they are no longer able to do it, it’s a sure bet family will step in.
“In choosing this year’s King and Queen, there was no question that Ed & Punky are most deserving of this honor,” stated the 2024 SpudFest Committee. In addition to hosting the Gallatin Farm Fair for 20 plus years, Ed served on the Manhattan School Board for over 33 years, and the pair have served the Manhattan/Churchill communities in countless other capacities. Ed and Punky also hold a place of honor in the Montana Hall of Fame for Outstanding Ranchers in Montana.
When asked what being named Potato Festival King & Queen means to them, the Brainards humbly stated “It’s an honor. It’s very nice to be recognized.” Even more special to them is the fact that “Many of the kids who come to the farm as students, come back again as helpers, and again as parents of their own 4th graders who now visit the Farm Fair.” Their love for farming, their contribution to ag education, and their love for the kids will live on for many years to come, and we have a feeling the Farm Fair will as well. Congratulations, Punky & Ed! SpudFest is honored to have you represent the 38th Annual Manhattan Potato Festival, and the community we all love! Following their Royal Reign, they look forward to Ed’s annual Tiger Class of 1968 “reunion picnic,” held each year following Potato Fest.
Chuck and Carol Feddes
to Preside as 38th Annual Manhattan Potato Festival Grand Marshals
The Feddes name is instantly recognizable in the Gallatin Valley’s Ranching/Farming Community. We’re beyond honored to name Chuck and Carol Feddes as Grand Marshal’s of the 38th Annual Manhattan Potato Festival!
Chuck hails from a long line of ranchers. In 1925, Chuck’s grandfather relocated the Feddes family’s ranching operation from Canada to Montana, where they settled in the Gallatin Valley. The multi-generational operation is currently managed by Chuck Feddes and son Jake. Nestled between Churchill and Manhattan, they currently raise purebred registered Red Angus. When not on the ranch tending to the cattle, you might also find them at their retail business, Feddes Family Meats in Amsterdam.
Chuck and Carol are beloved life-long members of the Manhattan/ Churchill/Amsterdam community. Chuck’s cowboy “hat” is not the only one he has worn. A basketball coach at Manhattan for years, Chuck positively influenced his players, instilling in them his hard work ethic and “get ‘er done” attitude. (GO TIGERS!)
Like many other farm/ranch wives and mothers, Carol plays an equally important part in their success story, working alongside Chuck and supporting their life’s dreams. If you ask Carol, she could have chosen no better lifestyle in which to raise their family than that of the ranching life. Carol and Chuck feel blessed to watch the calves and the crops grow, while instilling the family values life ranch has provided to their grandchildren. Their faith and hard work are a testament to their success.
Together, Chuck and Carol work with neighboring angus breeders to market their angus herds. In 2013, they were awarded the National Red Angus Breeder of the Year Award and were recognized as the Gallatin Chamber Ag Committee’s 2023 Outstanding Farmer/Rancher. In their spare time, they’re very active members of the Gallatin County Beef
Producers, the Association of Gallatin Agricultural Irrigators, Gallatin County Farm Bureau, Montana Stockgrowers Association, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
“Chuck and Carol are just good people,” one friend commented. “They’re constantly helping others, whether it’s hosting community fundraisers for Special Olympics or someone else in need, feeding the MSU Football players, or simply putting someone to work who needs a helping hand. One friend commented, “The world needs more people like Chuck and Carol.” We concur! “There are many unsung heroes in the world who go over and above to ‘pay it forward’. They do so without shouting from the rooftops or seeking accolades. Carol and Chuck are those often-silent helpers. The world’s a better place thanks to folks like them.”
One would be hard pressed to find a couple as active in the ag world as Chuck and Carol Feddes. The Manhattan Potato Festival is proud to honor them as “Exspudition 2024” Festival Grand Marshals. After all, what are potatoes without the meat?! From farm to table, thanks for all you do in the ranching/farming industry, and in our community. A well-deserved Congratulations!
FAIR GAME HUNTING GUIDE 2024
SIZES & PRICES
Taters & Tigers
“Top” SpudFest
Taters and Tigers, a relationship formed out of necessity, has quickly become a time-honored SpudFest Tradition. The year was 2022. Our beloved Manhattan Senior Center found themselves in need of a little help. If they were going to sell baked potatoes at the Potato Festival that year, they would need a few helping hands to bake, serve and sell the spuds. That’s where the Tigers came in. SpudFest organizers, together with Yellowstone Alliance Adventures, worked together to provide the potatoes that year, while Senior Center Director, Roseanne Kruse, devised a plan to recruit some special volunteers for the big day.
These were no regular volunteers. These volunteers had “star power”. Enter the Manhattan Tigers Football Team! Save the day they did! People packed the little corner building in downtown Manhattan to overflowing. Festival-goers who didn’t even necessarily want baked potatoes, came for the spuds, just to see the football players in action. When we say this team TOPS Potato Fest, we mean that, literally. The baked taters are topped with all the tater fixin’s... for one amazing cause.
The SpudFest Baked Potato Fundraiser is one of the Senior Center’s biggest money makers each year. Seniors, together with a few community volunteers have resumed baking the spuds themselves on site, which greatly helps their profit margin.
2024 marks the Senior Center’s 50th Anniversary.
The center proudly serves delicious, nutritious meals to Manhattan area seniors. The Senior meal program, both on-site and Meals on Wheels, provides healthy, nutritious meals, helping to improve seniors’ mental health by reducing isolation, lowering depression, and eliminating food insecurity stress. The program also serves to help provide access to other supportive resources for seniors.
Residents age 65 and older make up 18% of Manhattan’s population, which is 1.4 times higher than the rest of Gallatin County. Manhattan seniors 60 years of age and older equal 26% of the population. The poverty rate for seniors age 65 and over is 25%
which is more than double the rate for seniors across Montana (10%). 1 in 14 adults age 60 and older is food insecure.
In looking at these stats, one can deduce that our Senior Center is a pretty important place. The work they do in our community is invaluable. As the Senior Center completes ongoing physical and business operations upgrades, they continue to focus on cultivating a thriving senior community in Manhattan.
The Senior Center’s mission is to provide meals, physical, educational, and volunteer opportunities to foster a sense of purpose, community and independence for Manhattan area seniors.
Supporting the SpudFest Senior Center Baked Potato Fundraiser is one small way you can help support their mission. Stop by the Senior Center after the Potato Festival Parade. The MHS Football Team will be topping those taters again this year and serving them up until they’re sold out! Hot dogs with all of the fixings will also be available for $8 each. All money raised this year will go towards activities and programs starting this Fall.
For more information, please contact the Senior Center:
Phone: 406-284-6501;
Email: manhattanseniorcenter@gmail.com www.manhattan-mt-senior-center.org
Facebook: Manhattan Senior Center
Senior Center Volunteers prep potatoes to be baked for their annual SpudFest Baked Potato Fundraiser
MHS Tigers Football Team members serving at
2023 Potato Festival.
Spudfest to include golf challenge
SEAN BATURA Belgrade News
This year’s Aug. 17 potato festival will include a whiffer golf hole-in-one contest hosted by a new business in town, Outta Bounds Golf.
The game will be near the car show at Altenbrand Park, and $1 gets someone two tries at the hole-in-one. All proceeds go to Kim Sinnema, who is suffering from an aggressive form of Parkinson’s disease called corticobasal ganglionic degeneration. All participants in the hole-in-one challenge will receive half-price passes to a new local nine-hole whiffer golf course that features oversized clubs, balls and holes. Winners of the challenge will receive free passes to the whiffer course, which is one of several golf games and other activities offered by Outta Bounds Golf.
Outta Bounds Golf opened in July at 6640 West Dry Creek Road and features a driving range where people can hit balls from covered hangout areas – 22 10x12 bays equipped with tables where people can enjoy food and drinks. Downrange at various distances are large, colorful flat targets that are responsive – when a golf ball strikes them, their metal surfaces give off a pinging noise. Barrell targets are placed at 30 yards, and if someone hits those, they get a free drink at Bridger Brewing, which has locations in Three Forks and Bozeman.
The driving range targets simulate the size of golf greens. Real golf balls are used, and the activity is designed to be highly entertaining as well as help people improve their golf swing.
“My boys are teachers and coaches and know golf really well -- they are more than happy to show people how to hold the club and give tips,” said coowner Corey VanDyke.
Her children, Nathan and Zach, had been teaching PE at the same charter school in Nevada when the family began seriously considering opening the driving range. Their dad, Scott, had been ruminating on the idea for a hybrid Topgolf/driving range business since the 1990s. During the COVID-19 pandemic, golf was one of the few outdoor businesses that remained open, and the family noticed various golfing facilities becoming more popular since then.
“So we pulled the trigger,” Nathan said.
The prospect of having her family – including grandkids – all together in Manhattan was a big incentive to open the business, Corey indicated.
Outta Bounds Golf owners and staff gather at the driving range on July 19 in Manhattan.
Outta Bounds Golf in Manhattan also offers several activities such as a nine-hole whiffer golf course that features oversized clubs, balls and holes.
“So, my boys came home, and it’s been a blast,” she said. “They’ve done fabulous, they’ve had a lot of great ideas, and are working their butts off.”
The family began bringing their vision to life on the 15-acre parcel in April, working 18-hour days, Corey said. Scott’s grandfather had owned the property since the 1970s and used it to graze cattle.
“As we started building it, we started getting feedback,” Corey said July 19. “So, it’s been a good two weeks, people have been really nice.”
The family has already hosted one corporate event, where about 70 pizzas were served.
Brick oven pizza is made in a bus on site and is delivered – along with hot dogs and drinks -- to tables by “caddies.” Using QR codes at the tables, guests can quickly place food/drink orders.
The business has beer and wine license to be able to serve alcoholic beverages seven days a week but is just waiting on the final go-ahead from DEQ.
The property also includes a 5,000-square-foot area called Mulligan Meadows that people can rent for two to four hours. It has covered picnic tables, mini golf, cornhole, connect four and other yard games.
The family’s new business has created 10 new jobs – a mixture of full-time and part-time positions. Most staff members are from Manhattan, Corey said.
“My staff, they went with the bumps, they went on the fly and made decisions – they’re all so great and good,” she said.
The pizza makers – local girls -- like the fast pace and are clearly proud of their work, Corey added. A few boys are in charge of washing and bagging golf balls at least once a day.
Outta Bounds Golf will also connect guests with Larry Azure, who can offer golf instruction and also can build clubs and measure people for clubs.
From 4-9 p.m. Tuesdays, the business holds Play for a Purpose, whereby
20% of bay rental fees will be donated to local organizations. The Play for a Purpose recipient organizations this season include:
Aug. 6 – Love INC
Aug. 13 – Belgrade Community Coalition
Aug. 20 – Bozeman Health Foundation
Aug. 27 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country
Sept. 3 – Family Promise of Gallatin County
Sept. 10 – Manhattan Rotary Club – Manhattan Trail
Sept. 17 – Manhattan PTO
Sept. 24 – Cowboy Heaven Miniature Horse Safe Haven
Oct. 1 – Tiny Tails K-9 Rescue
More information about the business’ pricing, menu, and services can be found at https://outtaboundsgolfmontana.com/.
Belgrade resident Travis Herbanek takes a swing on the driving range at Outta Bounds Golf in Manhattan on July 19.
The driving range was busy July 19 at Outta Bounds Golf in Manhattan.
New martial arts-themed Coffee Shop open during potato festival
SEAN BATURA
Belgrade News
Across Main Street from the vendor fair, spudfestgoers can get refreshing summer drinks and coffee-based beverages at Bushido Mountain Coffee House.
The coffee shop, established in February, will serve its unique brand of martialarts-themed drinks and other beverages during the Aug. 17 potato festival. The shop, owned by Jason Cruz, operates out of the old Auto Inn and roasts its own beans.
Cruz, of Bozeman, also runs a dojo next door and has been practicing martial arts his whole life, having become highly proficient in Okinawan karate, jiu-jitsu, and kali. He’s also been an MMA coach.
“We approach our coffee with mind, heart, and respect – that’s our slogan,” Cruz said. “Anytime I have a customer or anytime we train with others in martial arts, we give those three qualities – we give our mind, our heart, and respect. So we don’t want to speak a negative word when we’re making coffee or when we’re training.”
Cruz’s jiu-jitsu master is the famous Rickson Gracie, a retired MMA fighter and author of “Breathe: A Life in Flow.” Gracie also acted in the 2008 movie, “The Incredible Hulk” -- he played an aikido instructor -- and has been in other films. Gracie’s father was one of the founders of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and he’s appeared on the Joe Rogan Podcast.
“They taught me to always train with the best no matter how far you have to try to go,” Cruz said. “I started as a striker, then I learned jiu-jitsu because you have to know jiu-jitsu nowadays, or you’re not a complete martial artist. So I sought out the best.”
Some of Cruz’s original beverages sold at Bushido Mountain include the Arm Bar, The Guru, and the Guillotine – named after martial arts moves. His newest creation is the Michelangelo, a refreshing summer beverage made with matcha, mango juice, and Sunkist.
Like with many disciplines, one key to crafting the perfect beverage is by making sure all the various elements are in balance, which calls for practice – lots of repetition, according to Derek Ozawa, a Bozeman resident who works at both the coffee
shop and the dojo. Wielding a sword properly requires a level of precision achieved by repeating the movement “so many times that your blade is unmatched,” he said. “Same with coffee – the more reps you do, the better you’ll be at it,” Ozawa said. He then quoted Bruce Lee: “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”
One of Cruz’s children, 10-year-old Rhys, will be selling ice cream at the potato festival. Rhys has been making it the old-fashioned way, by hand – he “dances and shakes it in a jar,” his father said – but he’ll have a proper mixer by the time the potato festival starts.
Rhys also knows martial arts. He’s also quite good at the game Connect 4, which is available to play at the coffee shop.
“He’s the master at this – he challenges people as they come in,” Ozawa said.
More about Bushido Mountain Coffee House can be found at https://www.bushidomountain.com/.
Auto Inn Pizza, which is in the same building as Bushido Mountain, will offer beer and wine during the potato festival.
Derek Ozawa cuts a burrito at Bushido Mountain Coffee House in Manhattan on July 24.
Bushido Mountain Coffee House has a cozy upstairs area with a nice view of Main Street in Manhattan.
Ramona Levi and her niece roast coffee at Bushido Mountain Coffee House on July 24.
A new martial arts-themed coffee shop is open in downtown Manhattan: Bushido Mountain Coffee House.
Jim Oriet Memorial 5K
The 4th Annual Jim Oriet Memorial 5K will take place on Saturday, Aug. 17, during the 38th Annual Manhattan Potato Festival. This event is proudly hosted by the Oriet family, Jim’s wife Barb Oriet, his daughter, Erin Hutchings, & his son Jase Oriet.
For complete details and signup, please visit the Jim Oriet Memorial 5K Facebook Page, and/or Google Website. This year’s 5K Run/Walk will mirror last year’s route. Entry fee includes a t-shrt. All run proceeds benefit the Jim Oriet Memorial Education Scholarship Program.
The Jim Oriet Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Jim Oriet, a belived, life-long teacher, who taught and coached at Manhattan Public Schools from 1984 to 2019.
Jim loved the Potato Festival and rarely missed a year, always enjoying SpudFest activities, especially the run. Throughout his teaching/coaching career Mr. Oriet always made fitness fun for his students.
The scholarship program and the 5K Fun Run exist to honor and preserve Jim’s spirit, passion for teaching, enthusiasm, and love for his students and athletes. This scholarship is open to any senior graduating from Manhattan High School pursuing a degree in education.
PHOTO BY: AMY ROSS
Jim Oriet Memorial 5K kickoff at Manhattan Elementary School.
JIM ORIET
PHOTO BY: ERIN WELLS
Erin Hutchings & Jase Oriet pictured with Jim’s photo
Serving up SpudFest Smiles at Sheri’s
World Famous Bloody Mary Bar
If you’ve attended the Manhattan Potato Festival for any number of years, you’re probably familiar with Sheri’s “World Famous Bloody Mary Bar” at the Broken Arrow Bar and Casino. Some argue that Sheri just may make the best Bloody Mary they’ve EVER had.
The Broken Arrow Bar & Casino is practically a household name in Manhattan. Since the bar opened in 2009, Sheri has seen and experienced her share of ups and downs, including a flood, an earthquake, and a covid pandemic. So goes the life of a business owner. For the most part, Sheri takes things with a grain of salt, and on any given day, she’ll probably tell you she’s seen more ups than downs. Just like on the tv show Cheers, at the Broken Arrow, if you’re a Manhattan local, everybody knows your name.
In June of 2024 the Broken Arrow got a “facelift” of sorts, when Montana native Aaron Mackley officially signed on as Sheri’s business partner. A frequent Broken Arrow patron before jumping on board, Aaron brings new to life to the popular Manhattan hangout. Having grown up in the bar business, bar ownership comes naturally to Aaron. His parents, Bob & Julie Mackley owned the Hub in Belgrade for 16 years until they sold it in 2007. When he’s not bartending, you can find Aaron dilligently working at his “other” job... as a veterinarian at Headwaters Veterinary Clinic in Three Forks. In his spare time, Aaron enjoys playing golf, and snowmobiling.
Not only has the Broken Arrow been a good friend to the Potato Festival through the years, Sid and Sheri Langehough, together with the GIFTS Program, launched the Manhattan Potato Festival Scholarship Program in 2022, when the volunteer organization that now spearheads SpudFest took the helm. In the past 3 years,
the Manhattan Potato Festival has awarded $5,000 to local students with agriculture backgrounds who wish to pursue higher education, or ag related vocations following high school, a cause that’s still very near and dear to Sid and Sheri’s hearts.
When not tending to the busy demands of bar ownership, Sheri and her husband Sid enjoy golfing and spending time with their grandkids. Having been born and raised in the Gallatin Valley, the Potato Festival has a deeper meaning to Sheri. When asked what she enjoys most about living and working in Manhattan, Sheri smiled and cheerfully replied, “I enjoy people!”
Every year, Sheri starts gearing up for Potato Fest months ahead of time, lining up extra staff and stocking up on ingredients for her crowd-pleasing Bloody Mary Bar, marvelous mimosas, delectable margaritas and more. But that’s not all! Locals can always count on a good time Saturday night when the party continues with a live band.
“Exspudition 2024” festival goers will enjoy daily drink specials and courtyard seating throughout the day, on Saturday. Be sure to stop in Saturday evening following the day’s festivities and dance the night away to live music by the Disruptors. The Bloody Mary Bar kicks off on Saturday at 8:00 AM, with live music starting Saturday night at 7:30 pm. We can’t promise you’ll have a good time... we can promise you’ll have a GREAT time! and this one thing’s for sure... you can always count on service with a smile at Sheri and Aaron’s place!
Broken Arrow’s Aaron Mackley and Sheri Langehough.
The Manhattan Potato Festival
Would Like To Thank The Following Sponsors!
Return of the Treble Makers
The Treble Makers are back! SpudFest’s favorite trio will perform from 12:30-3:00 PM at the 406 Built Car in Altenbrand Park (Manhattan School) located at Broadway & Fulton Streets in Manhattan. Per Festival road closure detours, Altenbrand Park can also be accessed from W Dry Creek Road.
The Treble Makers (Kate Bryan, Alice Alan & Ray Erickson) promise fun, family friendly 3-part harmony, yodeling and fiddle music with an old-timey Country/Americana feel. Their songs will make you smile and celebrate in true Potato Festival fashion! Always a crowd favorite, in addition to vocals, instrumentation features guitar, upright bass, fiddle, and maybe even a little banjolele (Ukelele Banjo) just to keep things interesting!
Treble Makers (Kate Bryan, Alice Alan & Ray Erickson) performing at the 2023 Built 406/Potato Festival Car Show
Civil Air Patrol Provides Ground Support
2023 was a banner year for the Potato Festival. The festival saw more festival-goers, a bigger parade, and record vendor participation. Ever growing, a community festival like SpudFest, with many moving parts requires the assistance of many. We’re blessed to live in a community where folks always come together to help each other out.
We’re particularly grateful for the support of our local law enforcement agencies, the Army National Guard, and many other entities who come alongside to offer support. One such team is the Gallatin Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol Unit. This group of outstanding young men and women reached out to us last year, not only to participate in the parade, but to assist in any way that they could. They provided support setting up and
tearing down barricades and assisting with traffic control. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude. They will return this year to provide support. Be sure
Civil Air Patrol Gallatin Composite Squadron assist local law enforcement officers and MT4 Security team with traffic control at the 2023 Manhattan Potato Festival.
to stop by their booth to say hello at this year’s Festival and thank them for all they do in our communities. We’re honored to call them friends of the Manhattan Potato Festival.
Chartered in 1967, Gallatin Composite Squadron is a unit consisting of both cadet and senior members. Located in Gallatin Valley, this squadron has had the opportunity to work in some of the harshest and most breathtaking areas in the country, now under the command of Captain Austin Troth.
Civil Air Patrol’s emergency services program is growing and becoming more active each day, forming relationships with the local Sheriff’s search and rescue posse, local COAD, and our local community. Ground Teams and Air Crews are the current focus as they are the most obvious needs to our community. The new Civil Air Patrol drone program is up and coming, our unit plans to train for and perform missions to support the Sheriffs office.
Volunteer service has always been at the forefront of CAP’s activities, performing service to local communities by assisting in the operation of activities such as the Manhattan Potato Festival, Huffing for Stuffing, the President’s Plunge, and more.
CAP cadet programs have always been highly active and at the front of their activities. Cadets learn valuable leadership, communication, and life lessons to help them grow into adult community members. These young adults learn the importance of CAP’s core values, integrity, volunteer service, excellence, and respect. Senior members assist in this development and
oversee the education and training the cadets receive.
Civil Air Patrol was founded Dec. 1, 1941, by a group of aviation enthusiasts and private pilots who wanted to donate their time and aircraft to protect the nation’s coastlines during World War II and to perform other critical civil defense missions. Civil Air Patrol, the longtime all-volunteer U.S. Air Force auxiliary, is the newest member of the Air Force’s Total Force, which consists of regular Air Force, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, along with Air Force retired military and civilian employees.
CAP, in its Total Force role, operates a fleet of 550 aircraft and performs about 90 percent of continental U.S. inland search and rescue missions as tasked by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center and is credited by the AFRCC with saving an average of 78 lives annually. Civil Air Patrol’s 56,000 members nationwide also perform homeland security, disaster relief and drug interdiction missions at the request of federal, state and local agencies. Its members additionally play a leading role in aerospace education and serve as mentors to more than 24,000 young people currently participating in the CAP cadet program.
Performing missions for America for the past 75 years, CAP received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014 in honor of the heroic efforts of its World War II veterans. CAP also participates in Wreaths Across America, an initiative to remember, honor and teach about the sacrifices of U.S. military veterans. Visit www.capvolunteernow.com for more information.
Yoga Schedule
Manhattan is
Hometown-Proud of
Olympic Marksman
Ivan Roe!
U.S. Army Sgt. Ivan Roe, Manhattan High Class of 2014, was among two soldiers who qualified for the 50m smallbore event at the 2024 Olympic Games.
“Representing the U.S. is — it’s a dream I’ve had since I was a little kid,” Roe said in a March 17 U.S. Army news release. “So, it’s a culmination of everything I’ve been doing the last two decades. It’s a huge, huge milestone.”
Roe, who is a marksmanship instructor/competitive shooter for the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit International Rifle Team, had already qualified for the Summer Olympics in another event, 10m Air Rifle. This means he and the other Fort Moore soldier, Sgt. Sagen Maddalena, will represent the U.S. in two separate shooting events at the Paris Games.
“I definitely think that knowing I was going to the Olympics already, gave me a huge advantage over some of the other competitors, because I wasn’t competing for an all-or-nothing spot — it was actually a bonus to what I am already doing,” Roe said in the release.
Roe and Maddalena earned their Olympic berths after completing three separate trials against the top smallbore — or three-position rifle — marksmen from across the United States, according to the release. Roe won his seat on Team USA with an aggregate score of 2949.0 points — a 14-point lead that claimed the one available Olympic berth over 35 other competitors.
Maddalena, of Groveland,
California, earned her seat on the U.S. Olympic team with an aggregate score of 2960.5, which tied with civilian Mary Tucker, according to the release. The 20-point lead Maddalena and Tucker shot earned them the two available Olympic berths over 58 other competitors.
Roe shared some thoughts on his achievement in a March 21 social media post:
Four years ago I made a run for an Olympic bid and came up just short for the second quad in a row. It was heartbreaking and made me wonder if I really wanted to keep pursuing my dream and how much heartache I could take if I failed to qualify for the third time. I decided to try for one more Olympics with more priority on mental training rather than just physical. Today, four years after that emotional day, we’ve finished the Olympic Trials for Paris 2024. I have not only qualified to go, but I’ve qualified for every rifle discipline. It has been a long road full of highs and lows but one committed to the process and I’m finally seeing the results I’ve dreamed of for so long.
“I know I wouldn’t have ever made it this far if it weren’t for my family and wife to support me every step of the way.” — IVAN ROE
I know I wouldn’t have ever made it this far if it weren’t for my family and wife to support me every step of the way. Nor would I have been able to continue shooting if every coach I’ve ever had hadn’t taken a chance on an undeveloped shooter and given him the resources and support he needed to excel. For that I’m eternally grateful. I look forward to representing @usashooting and @ teamusa in Paris this summer!
U.S. Army Sergeants Ivan Roe and Sagen Maddalena qualified for the 50m Smallbore event at the 2024 Olympic Games during USA Shooting’s Smallbore Rifle/Pistol Olympic Trials-Part 3 March 17-19.
Whiffer Ball, Anyone?
Try your hand at Whiffer Ball while you’re taking in the SpudFest Car Show and kids activities in Altenbrand Park. Whiffer Ball proceeds will benefit Kim Sinnema, a special friend to many in our community. After the Festival, stop by Outta Bound Golf for more fun, food, & festivities!
Exspudition2024 Merchandise
Be sure to stop by the Potato Festival Info Booth, located at the Northeast corner of Railroad Park for all things “SpudFest”. Only 100 t-shirts were ordered this year, so be sure to get yours while they last! Shirts are $25.00 each. Shirts are available in youth sizes M-L (Heather Blue)and adult sizes XS-XXXL (Teal). Proceeds directly benefit the 2025 Manhatan Potato Festival Scholarship fund and assist with paying Festival expenses.
Spudtacularly FUN NEW Addition!
We’re excited to announce that we’ve added a fun new addition to this year’s SpudFest! What’s an EXSPUDITION without a refurbished vintage Rodeo Camper Trailer turned Photo Booth?!
Be sure to stop by the SpudFest Info Booth to purchase your photo booth tickets! For more information about having Montana
Photo Lounge at your event, visit their website at www. montanaphotolounge.com
THE PASTURE DRIVE-IN THEATER
and the Manhattan High School Class of 2025 need you! Come watch KUNG FU PANDA 4 on an 50’ screen and enjoy a family-friendly evening of fun and games!!
• 6pm!! DINNER IS SERVED!! Come hungry!
• 6pm-8pm: Lawnmower Races
• Other Events Include: Corn hole, Spike Ball, Music, Football, Frisbee Golf, & Volleyball.
• 6:00-8:00 PM: Lawnmower R aces
• Sumo Suits-challenge your friends to a friendly competition! (with waiver and extra $$)
• Concessions for the movie!
• Other Events Include: Smash Car, Conhole, Spike Ball, and Kickball
• 9:00 PM: Movie, “CARS”
• 9pm: SHOWTIME!! Movie—”KUNG FU PANDA 4”
• Concessions Available
This event is the main FUNDRAISER for Manhattan High School—CLASS OF 2025
• Event is a FUNDRAISER for Manhatt an High School CL ASS OF 2024
“GO TIGERS!”
• $10/person and $25/car
• Cash is best but there will also be a credit card option.
$10/person and $25/car (Donations accepted…) Cash is best. A credit card option is available.
who let the Dogs Out?
In order to comply with our insurance guidelines and for the overall enjoyment of festival-goers young and old, we respectfully request that you refrain from bringing dogs/pets to the festival, as they are not allowed, except where they are parade participants and/or actual service animals. While we understand that our pets are people too, and we apologize that this may be upsetting to some, we are required to comply with this request for the overall safety and well-being of festival attendees and of the animals themselves. Additionally, we encourage all in attendance to please familiarize yourself with the Town of Manhattan’s codes pertaining to dogs: http:// www.townofmanhattan.com/dogs
Thanks in advance for your cooperation regarding this requirement.
SpudfestTater Tot GRAND PRIX RECORD
In a historically unprecedented reprise, reigning 2-time Tater Tot Grand Prix Champion Sophie Hutchings has taken first place 2 years running. Challenged only by 2021 SpudFest Queen Karen Schutter and “the Bee,” quite frankly, Sophie hasn’t had much competition. Though we reached out to get her training pointers, Sophie was unavailable for comment at the time of this publication. (She was undoubtedly training for this year’s race.) Can she take the cup 3 years in a row? We think she can! While she didn’t qualify for the Paris Olympics in 2024, Sophie Hutchings is the young lady to keep your eye on! Good luck at Saturday’s race, Sophie!
Amanda Ahlquist Agent/Owner
AMY ROSS/SHUTTERBELUG
Sophie Hutchings nears the finish line
Churchill Equipment
“WE TRY HARDER” Belgrade
Churchill Equipment Company is happy to announce that we have taken over Valley Trailer Sales on Jackrabbit Lane. We will be offering the same great trailers and truck beds that you have come to rely on and adding Hotsy pressure washers, Grasshopper lawn mowers, and Massey Ferguson compact tractors. Churchill Equipment is priveledged to continue the tradition of supplying quality products, service, and parts.
STOP BY AND SAY HELLO!
Parts and service available for all makes of trailers. Check out our huge inventory of over 100 units on hand.
406-388-5758
5246 Jackrabbit Lane, Belgrade, MT 59714 www.churchillequipment.com
Check out our new digs… Join us for a day of fun activities, meet some of our Board and Law Enforcement Advisors and…our merchandise will be available for purchase. Come and check out our new Office Space, we hope to see you there!
125 S Broadway Street Manhattan, Unit 4
Exspudition 2024 Lego Contest
Now in it’s second year, the SpudFest Lego Contest is quickly growing in popularity. Kids & adults love this contest, because it’s something they can do at home. Creativity and construction has no boundaries, except to create something pertaining to the festval’s theme and or farm/ranch life. Kastcyears entries included a tractircwith moving parts. In it’s inaugural year, 2023, the Lego contest saw 20+ entries. Lego Creations are on display for live, in-person voting at the Potato Festival Info Booth in Rairoad Park. Be sure to stop by and see these amazing works of art!
2023 “Mega-Mash” Lego Tractor Build “Best of Show” Lego Contest Winner, created by Kade Panten of Manhattan
Gallatin’sGreatest
Organizers of the Manhattan Potato Festival are humbled and grateful to have been chosen as Gallatin’s Greatest Festival in 2023. We couldn’t do what we do without our amazing sponsors, vendors, festival-goers, volunteers, local businesses, churches and organizations, law enforcement, public works, “roadies”, the Town of Manhattan, MT Department of Transportation, and last but not least our families and friends who support us in this wonderful madness! It is said that it takes a village to throw SpudFest... wait, that’s not how the saying goes, but we like it! Thank you, Manhattan... and thank you for the repeat nominations for 2024 in the Best Festival and Best Event Categories. You really know how to make us feel special! The Manhattan/Churchill/Amsterdam community and the love of our agricultural heritage are why we keep doing what we do. Long live SpudFest!
Best Little Museum in Montana!
If we could give out our own Gallatin’s Greatest award, it would go to the Manhattan Area Museum, hands down!
If you’re in town for the Potato Festival, be sure to pay this little gem a visit! There’s practically more history in our beloved little museum than you’ll find in an entire set of encyclopedias. Among our personal favorites are the Manhattan Tigers memorabilia, and the one-of-a kind hat collection.
The museum is truly a hidden treasure, rich with local farming, ranching, and railroad history, to name a few.
The Manhattan Area Museum is open for the 2024 season. Hours. are 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Private tours are available for other hours. Text or call 410-371-3353 to schedule a visit.
Donations to the Museum are tax deductible. On behalf of the Manhattan Potato Festival, please consider supporting this very special place.
Manhattan High School yearbooks from the 1960’s.
BOBCAT FOOTBALL TICKETS GIVEAWAY
2024 SEASON
Enter to win TWO season tickets to MSU Bobcat Football! Winner announced August 26, 2024.
