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Emporia Community Snapshot

How William Allen White’s Legacy Still Shapes Life in Emporia Today Emporia is more than just a dot on the map in the heart of Kansas, it's a place steeped in powerf

Emporia Area Insight

  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Emporia is more than just a dot on the map in the heart of Kansas, it's a place steeped in powerful history and enduring values, much of which can be traced back to the influence of William Allen White. Known as the "Sage of Emporia," White was a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, editor of the Emporia Gazette, and a nationally recognized voice for reason, reform, and civic integrity.

    White’s influence is still deeply embedded in the culture of Emporia today. His commitment to thoughtful discourse, community involvement, and small-town advocacy helped shape the spirit of public service that many Emporia residents continue to uphold. You can still feel his presence through institutions like the White Library on the Emporia State University campus and the William Allen White House State Historic Site, which preserves his legacy and shares stories of his contributions to journalism and politics.

    Emporia’s emphasis on education, civic pride, and open dialogue is a reflection of White’s ideals. Community events, local journalism, and the character of our neighborhoods often mirror the tone he set over a century ago - thoughtful, resilient, and deeply connected to people. Understanding the historical backdrop of a town like Emporia gives you a real sense of why people choose to stay, grow, and invest here. It's not just about location, it's about legacy. William Allen White left more than a name behind. He left values that still echo in our classrooms, libraries, and neighborhoods.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    There’s a small footbridge in Peter Pan Park that I always seem to end up at. It’s quiet, a little tucked away, and the perfect spot to pause and take in a peaceful moment. Just one more reason I appreciate the little things about living in Emporia.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    I don’t stop in often, but every time I do, Granada Coffee Company reminds me why people love it. The building has history, the coffee smells amazing, and there’s always a mix of students, locals, and conversations happening. It’s one of those spots that feels uniquely Emporia.
    Granada Coffee
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    Most people driving through Emporia never realize there’s a pedestrian tunnel running underneath the railroad tracks near Commercial Street. Locals who’ve lived here a while know it well—it’s the kind of shortcut students, walkers, and cyclists have used for generations to safely get from one side of town to the other without waiting on long freight trains to pass.

    It’s not fancy—concrete walls, graffiti, a little damp in spring—but it’s practical, quirky, and pure Emporia. It’s one of those spots that gives the town character. Ask someone who grew up here, and chances are they have a story about the tunnel: riding bikes through it, taking prom photos nearby, or just using it as a cool hideout on a hot day.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Only in Emporia can you walk into the library and cheer on a worm like it’s a hometown hero. The Worm Races at the Emporia Public Library are quirky, fun, and totally unforgettable—especially for kids. It’s just one of the many reasons I love this town: we know how to have a little fun while keeping things community-centered and creative.
    Emporia Library - Worm Races
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    The Emporia Public Library is one of my favorite spots in town. It’s more than just books—it’s where people gather, kids explore, and quiet moments actually exist. Whether I’m picking up a new read, using a study room, or just enjoying the calm, it’s a place that always feels welcoming. It’s a gem in the heart of Emporia.
    Emporia Library
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    As a parent and local agent, I’m always looking for ways to keep kids engaged during the summer and Emporia State University makes it easy. Their summer camps offer something for just about every interest, from science and music to sports and leadership. It’s one of those resources that not enough people talk about, but once you discover it, you realize how lucky we are to have a university that pours so much into local youth. I’ve seen firsthand how these camps give kids confidence, independence, and a chance to connect with others who share their passions. Whether your child wants to explore the arts, improve their athletic skills, or try something totally new, ESU has built a program that feels both enriching and fun. It’s another reason I love calling Emporia home. Our community invests in its future, starting with our kids.
    ESU Summer Camps
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    Emporia, KS
    Rotary in Emporia
    As someone who lives and works in Emporia, I’ve always believed that strong communities are built through connection, service, and showing up for one another. That’s why being involved with the Emporia Rotary Club means so much to me. This isn’t just a group of professionals, it’s a network of people who care deeply about making a real, local impact. Whether it’s through scholarships for students, international aid projects, or helping support Emporia Main Street and local nonprofits, Rotary quietly strengthens the fabric of this town. Weekly meetings are filled with stories, service updates, and the kind of honest conversations that remind you how invested people are in this place we all call home. Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” feels especially true here in Emporia. I see it reflected in how neighbors help each other, how businesses collaborate, and how often people volunteer their time without asking for anything in return. It’s an honor to be part of a group that believes in leaving things better than we found them right here in our own backyard.
    Rotary Club of Emporia
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    There’s something about a rainy day in Emporia that just makes you slow down. and honestly, I’ve come to appreciate it. Whether I’m out driving to a showing or working from home, the sound of rain tapping on the windows and the soft gray skies over the Flint Hills feel like a gentle pause in the usual pace of life. Locals know rain means different things here. For some, it’s a chance to catch up on indoor chores. For farmers, it’s a hopeful forecast. We watch the creeks rise, check the fields, and make sure the sump pumps are doing their job. And if you’re lucky, you’ll spot deer moving quietly across the pastures or hear the frogs singing again by nightfall. Emporia doesn’t stop when it rains, we just shift gears. Coffee shops stay busier a little longer, front porches become quiet retreats, and conversations tend to linger. Rainy days here don’t feel gloomy, they feel grounded, like a reminder to rest, reflect, and stay connected to the land and the people around you.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Every May, I make sure to head downtown for the Flatland Cruisers Car Show. It’s one of Emporia’s best traditions. The 800 block of Commercial Street fills up with classic cars, great food, music, and some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. I especially love the Hot Wheels races at 1 p.m. They’re always a crowd favorite! Events like this are what make Emporia feel like home.
    Emporia Flatland Cruisers
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Every spring, Emporia fills with energy, grit, and a little bit of dust for La Grind Gravel Races, and for me, it’s more than just an event on the calendar - it’s a family tradition. My daughter and son-in-law ride La Grind every year, and watching them train, show up, and push themselves out on those Flint Hills roads is something I look forward to with so much pride. Whether they’re tackling the two-day stage race or choosing a one-day challenge, I know how much heart and commitment it takes, not just to ride, but to support a cause. La Grind benefits Handlebars of Hope, a nonprofit that brings resources and hope to cyclists both locally and globally. Every dollar raised through registration, every turn of the pedals, supports something meaningful beyond the finish line. It’s moments like these that remind me what Emporia is really about: hard work, connection, and showing up for each other. Whether you're a rider, a volunteer, or a cheering face along the route, La Grind is a reminder that when this community comes together, incredible things happen.
    High Gear
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    Over the past two decades, Emporia has quietly earned a national reputation in a very unique way: through disc golf. What started as a recreational hobby here has grown into something much bigger shaping local events, tourism, and even the town’s rhythm during tournament season. Emporia is home to some of the most celebrated disc golf courses in the country, including Peter Pan Park and the Emporia Country Club course. Every spring, players from all over the nation, and even internationally, arrive for tournaments like the Dynamic Discs Open, filling local hotels, restaurants, and shops. During these times, the city takes on a special energy: fields are carefully groomed, signs welcome players, and spectators line the courses to watch the throws.

    But for locals, disc golf isn’t just a tournament event, it’s part of everyday life. It’s common to see families, college students, and longtime residents alike playing casual rounds at one of the many public courses scattered throughout town. For many, it's a weekend ritual or an after-work way to wind down. Courses blend seamlessly into Emporia’s park system, offering green space that stays active year-round. In Emporia, disc golf isn’t just a sport. Iit’s a piece of the community’s character. It represents connection, accessibility, and local pride. Whether you're competing in a professional event or just tossing a few drives on a Sunday afternoon, disc golf reflects something bigger about life in Emporia: it’s active, welcoming, and always rooted in the outdoors.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    The Granada Theatre stands as one of Emporia’s most beloved landmarks, not just for its beautiful architecture, but for the way it continues to bring people together. Originally built in the 1920s, this historic downtown venue has evolved from a grand movie palace into a vibrant cultural space that remains central to community life. Walking into the Granada is like stepping into a storybook. The restored Spanish Colonial Revival details, ornate interior, and classic marquee give it timeless character. But it’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about the atmosphere. There’s something special about sitting in the same seats generations before have occupied, watching live performances, concerts, or community events unfold on the same stage.

    The theatre is more than just a piece of history. It’s an active part of Emporia’s identity. Local organizations use it for fundraisers, schools perform their annual productions here, and major regional acts make stops on its stage. It brings in energy and foot traffic to the heart of downtown, supporting nearby shops and restaurants while giving residents and visitors a place to connect through shared experiences. Whether it’s a comedy night, a local talent show, or a holiday film screening, the Granada has a way of making each event feel like a big moment in a small town. It’s one of those places where memories are made - first dates, standing ovations, childhood performances - all wrapped in that unforgettable blend of elegance and community spirit. Emporia has grown and changed over the decades, but the Granada Theatre remains a constant reminder of the city’s appreciation for culture, creativity, and connection.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Emporia is nestled at the edge of one of the most ecologically significant regions in the United States: the Flint Hills. This stretch of tallgrass prairie, which extends across eastern Kansas, is one of the last remaining examples of its kind in the world. Known for its rolling terrain, flint rock outcroppings, and wide-open views, the Flint Hills are not only scenic, they’re deeply rooted in Kansas heritage. The landscape is defined by native grasses that have remained largely untouched for centuries. This preservation has allowed the ecosystem to thrive, offering a glimpse into what much of the Midwest once looked like. The unique combination of limestone and flint beneath the surface makes the land unsuitable for plowing, which is precisely what preserved the native prairie grasses that now define the region.

    Emporia’s location provides easy access to this incredible natural environment, along with a cultural connection to it. Events, educational programs, and community conversations often reflect the importance of the land and its conservation. Local ranchers, historians, and environmental stewards all play a role in keeping the Flint Hills story alive. Whether driving along the scenic byways, attending a prairie burn demonstration, or simply watching the sunset over the horizon, it’s easy to feel the significance of this land. Emporia remains an integral part of that story, a place where tradition, ecology, and open spaces still matter.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Emporia, KS experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, offering residents a true taste of all four seasons. The warmest months, from late May to mid-September, bring average daily highs above 80°F, making summer a great time to enjoy outdoor activities. July tends to be the hottest month, with an average high of around 90°F. Winters are generally cold, with the cold season lasting from late November to late February. During this time, daily highs average below 50°F, and January is the coldest month, often seeing lows around 22°F and highs near 42°F. Snowfall can occur but is typically moderate, making winter manageable without the extreme conditions seen in other parts of the Midwest. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, with comfortable weather for those who prefer neither the heat of summer nor the chill of winter. These seasons are often considered the best times of the year, with pleasant temperatures and changing landscapes that highlight the natural beauty of the area. Understanding Emporia’s climate can be helpful, as it influences everything from home maintenance to outdoor living and recreational opportunities. Whether you're drawn to warm summer days or crisp autumn mornings, Emporia offers a little bit of everything throughout the year.
    Weather Spark
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    The City of Emporia offers a real-time alert system through CivicReady, providing important notifications about public safety, weather alerts, street closures, sanitation updates, and other critical community information. Residents can stay informed by signing up for alerts via text, email, or phone call, ensuring they receive timely updates relevant to their area. The MyAlerts mobile app is also available for those who prefer to access notifications on their smartphones. Just one more way our town shows its residents that it cares about them!
    City of Emporia - Alerts and Notifications
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    Emporia, where the water is as refreshing as the community itself! Did you know that Emporia has been recognized for having the Best-Tasting Municipal Tap Water in the World—not just once, but two years in a row? This means clean, high-quality water straight from your tap, a rarity in many places today. Beyond great water, Emporia offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, rich with outdoor recreation, thriving local businesses, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're raising a family, starting a business, or looking for a peaceful place to call home, you can feel confident knowing that Emporia prioritizes sustainability, health, and quality of life.
    KSNT News Article
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    Emporia, KS, is home to a diverse and thriving economy, driven by major employers across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and food production. Companies such as Simmons Pet Food, Hostess Brands, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Hopkins Manufacturing, and Fanestil Meats provide significant employment opportunities, contributing to the city’s economic stability. Emporia State University and Newman Regional Health further strengthen the workforce by offering jobs in education, research, and healthcare. Additionally, businesses like EVCO Wholesale Food Corporation and other local manufacturers support both regional and national markets, reinforcing Emporia’s role as a key economic hub in Kansas. The city's strong employment base creates a stable and growing community, attracting both residents and businesses. With a balanced mix of industrial, commercial, and service-sector jobs, Emporia continues to evolve while maintaining its small-town appeal. The presence of these major employers not only sustains economic growth but also fosters a high quality of life, making Emporia a desirable place to live and work.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Haag Pharmacy, a cornerstone of the Emporia community since 1885, is set to transition ownership to Community Healthcare Collective Inc. on March 1, 2025. The pharmacy will be rebranded as Newman Community Rx, reflecting its new affiliation with Newman Regional Health despite the change in ownership and name, the dedicated team of pharmacists and staff will remain, ensuring continuity of care for their patients Newman Community Rx will continue to offer traditional pharmacy services and will specialize in areas such as medication synchronization, compounding, medication therapy management, hormone replacement therapy, compliance packaging, immunizations, and their exclusive N+Addition line of nutritional supplements. This transition underscores a commitment to maintaining and enhancing healthcare services within the Emporia community.
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    Brain Break Fridays at the Emporia Senior Center provide a much-needed opportunity for caregivers to enjoy a moment of respite. Every Friday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, caregivers can bring their loved ones to the center, where they will be well cared for in a safe and welcoming environment. This program, offered on January 17, 2025, and every Friday, allows caregivers to recharge and take a little time for themselves, knowing their loved ones are in good hands. It’s just one more way Emporia demonstrates its commitment to taking care of its community, offering support and resources to those who give so much to others.
  • Tenisha Baylor
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    Emporia’s Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) is a valuable opportunity for property owners to enhance their investments while benefiting from significant property tax rebates. The program supports new construction, renovations, and improvements, providing tailored incentives based on property type. Single-family homeowners can receive a 95% rebate for seven years, followed by 50% for three years. Multi-family properties qualify for a 95% rebate for five years, then 50% for an additional five years. Commercial properties are eligible for rebates starting at 80% for three years, with adjustments over the next seven years. Historic properties enjoy a full 100% rebate for ten years.

    To participate, property improvements must meet a minimum investment of $5,000 for single-family homes or $10,000 for multi-family and commercial properties. Applications must be submitted within 30 days of receiving a building permit and require a $25 non-refundable fee. This program offers an excellent way to increase property value, reduce tax burdens, and contribute to the revitalization of Emporia’s vibrant community.
    Neighborhood Revitalization Program
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    The Emporia Arts Center will feature the captivating work of felt artist Jen Schermerhorn in an exhibition running from February 7 to March 1, 2025. A special artist reception will be held on February 7 from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, offering a chance to meet the artist and learn about her creative process.

    Schermerhorn’s needle-felted sculptures explore women’s roles in society, showcasing intricate details and dynamic movement. A self-taught artist inspired by the Kansas prairie and her family’s flock of sheep, her work has been exhibited nationwide. This free exhibition at the Trusler Gallery provides an enriching cultural experience for the community.
    Jen Schermerhorn – Artist Reception
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    The Viewing Emporia exhibition at the Emporia Arts Center beautifully blends history and modern perspectives. Featuring historic photographs from the Lyon County History Center alongside contemporary works by local photographers, this exhibit captures Emporia’s transformation over time. On display from January 10 through February 1, the exhibit is free to the public and includes an artist reception on January 10 from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This is a unique opportunity to explore Emporia’s past and present through art while engaging with the talented photographers behind the lens.
    Viewing Emporia – Artist Reception
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    The Emporia First Friday Art Walk is a lively monthly event in Downtown Emporia, held on the first Friday of each month from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Local businesses host artists who showcase their work in pop-up or longer-term displays. Attendees can explore art, interact with artists, and enjoy downtown while collecting stamps on event passports to win prizes. The event promotes local culture by connecting artists with the community, supporting many in transitioning to professional careers. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a fun evening out, the Emporia First Friday Art Walk offers something for everyone. Look forward to seeing you there!
    Emporia First Friday Art Walk
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    Dynamic Discs is a go-to spot for disc golf lovers, offering a wide range of high-quality discs and gear for all levels. Whether you're just starting or you're a seasoned player, they provide everything from custom discs to essential accessories. They have amazing personal service, with great deals on starter kits and resources for players looking to up their game. Their rewards program also adds value, showing appreciation for loyal customers is always great!
    Dynamic Discs

Emporia, KS

How William Allen White’s Legacy Still Shapes Life in Emporia Today

Quote
Emporia is more than just a dot on the map in the heart of Kansas, it's a place steeped in powerful history and enduring values, much of which can be traced back to the influence of William Allen White. Known as the "Sage of Emporia," White was a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, editor of the Emporia Gazette, and a nationally recognized voice for reason, reform, and civic integrity.

White’s influence is still deeply embedded in the culture of Emporia today. His commitment to thoughtful discourse, community involvement, and small-town advocacy helped shape the spirit of public service that many Emporia residents continue to uphold. You can still feel his presence through institutions like the White Library on the Emporia State University campus and the William Allen White House State Historic Site, which preserves his legacy and shares stories of his contributions to journalism and politics.

Emporia’s emphasis on education, civic pride, and open dialogue is a reflection of White’s ideals. Community events, local journalism, and the character of our neighborhoods often mirror the tone he set over a century ago - thoughtful, resilient, and deeply connected to people. Understanding the historical backdrop of a town like Emporia gives you a real sense of why people choose to stay, grow, and invest here. It's not just about location, it's about legacy. William Allen White left more than a name behind. He left values that still echo in our classrooms, libraries, and neighborhoods.

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Tenisha Baylor
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