MANHATTAN, Kan. — Manhattan Parks and Recreation has announced several developments including a charitable fundraising partnership, a federal grant award for robotic lawn equipment, and the upcoming opening of its seasonal ice rink.

Goolsby's Restaurant Partnership Raises Funds for Parks

Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation has partnered with Goolsby's restaurant for a "Cheers for a Cause" fundraising campaign running Sept. 11-25. The restaurant will donate 10% of all profits made through its kiosk between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily to the foundation.

"What an easy way to take it easy and give back to the MPRF!" the foundation said in a social media post, encouraging residents to visit during the designated hours.

Department Receives Energy Conservation Grant

The department announced it has been awarded an Energy and Conservation Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The federal funding will allow the purchase of 23 additional robotic mowers for parks and green spaces.

The automated mowers, which are already in use at Anneberg Park, are expected to reduce fuel consumption, lower maintenance and contract costs, and improve mowing efficiency across the city's park system.

Court Schedule and Ice Rink Opening

The department has released its court schedule for Sept. 15-21 at Anthony and Eisenhower Recreation Centers and Douglass Activity Center. Officials aim to keep at least one court open for public use each week, with times marked in blue on published schedules indicating public availability.

Looking ahead to fall activities, the department teased the opening of its seasonal ice rink with Halloween-themed promotional materials stating "Join Us If You Dare" and announcing an "Ice Rink Opening Day" scheduled for Oct. 31.

Reservations for recreational facilities are updated daily, and residents are encouraged to check the department's website calendar at www.mhkprd.com for current availability.

The Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation supports the city's parks and recreation programs through fundraising and community partnerships.

Court availability is color-coded: white indicates open courts, blue shows times reserved for public use, and purple, green and red indicate booked sessions. Gray represents outside operating hours. Reservations are updated daily, so check our website calendar for a up to date calendar for each center at www.mhkprd.com.