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The historic Emporia Gazette building is preparing to reopen its doors, only this time it will welcome people in as the Gazette Collective, a modern mixed-use space. Rick and Colleen Mitchell of Mitchell-Markowitz Construction purchased the building in 2022 and have worked to preserve its charm while breathing new life...
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Opens in Emporia, Bringing Conferencing and Large-Scale Accommodation
Feb 24 2026Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott recently soft-opened in Emporia, Kansas, bringing a hotel attached to a conference center to the region for the first time in 15 years. While there are multiple hotels in Emporia, this is the only one with a conference center directly attached, making it easier...
If you want to start a company in 2026, visit Emporia Main Street to get the tools you need to build your business plan, apply for loans, and network with potential customers and vendors. Emporia Main Street works with entrepreneurs at all levels of development, from residents forming their ideas...
Residents and business owners across Emporia have access to one of the best community banks in the region. Lyon County State Bank (LCSB) has been a staple of the area since 1913 and continues to serve customers with the same care as it did 112 years ago.“Our staff is made...
Vektek is a global leader in hydraulic and pneumatic clamping devices based in Emporia. Since 1986, the company has worked with automotive manufacturers, agricultural equipment producers, and other firms worldwide to improve their operations. Not only is Vektek a trusted firm by its clients, but it was also named Kansas...
Residents and visitors traveling through Emporia, Kansas, can refuel at Gravel City Roasters at 715 Commercial Street. Joe Corn has owned the coffee shop since 2023, but has enjoyed making delicious drinks and treats there since 2010.“As a business owner, this town has been really good to me,” says Corn...
Hetlinger Helps Disabled Emporians Find Work
Jul 29 2025Hetlinger Developmental Services Helps Emporians With Disabilities Find Meaningful WorkPeople with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) can find a sense of community and work opportunities through Hetlinger Developmental Services. The organization offers employment support and day services to help people who would otherwise have difficulty finding a job.“We know that...
The Emporia Regional Development Association Hires Jorgenson Pace to Assist With CEO Search
Jul 2 2025The Emporia Regional Development Association (RDA) is using the executive search firm Jorgenson Pace to hire its next President and CEO. The firm is currently reviewing a large pool of candidates and will narrow the options to a few top contenders. The RDA hopes to name its new CEO by...
The David Traylor Zoo of Emporia is a staple for local families and one of the best places to spend your time as a visitor. It is home to nearly 300 animals across 67 species, each exhibited in natural habitats that provide immersive experiences for visitors. This zoo allows Emporia...
Families in Emporia, Kansas, can choose a local assisted living facility for their loved ones who need long-term care, memory care, or respite services. Sunflower Care Homes has room for 12 residents and ensures that at least two employees are on site at all times.“I am very proud of the...
Seven out of nine schools in the Emporia Public Schools district have been nominated as Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools. These schools are “recognized for their excellence in creating safe and welcoming environments where students are relationally connected and eager to learn.” The nominations reflect the entire district's efforts...
Newman Regional Health Serves 42,000 Patients as One of the Largest Employers in Emporia
Mar 11 2025Newman Regional Health has supported the Emporia region for more than a century. Since 1922, this not-for-profit hospital has been owned by the residents of Lyon County and has strived to provide quality rural care to the people of Kansas. Today, Newman is a powerhouse in the region, with investments...
There is a housing shortage across the United States, and Emporia, Kansas, isn’t exempt from the crunch. According to the Bookings Institute, the American housing market is short 4.9 million units as of 2023. Not only does this make finding a house more challenging, but it also drives up home...
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Communications Solutions, LLC (CSLLC) will expand its operations to Emporia, Kansas, creating 250 new jobs.
“Our partnership with CSLCC, which will create 250 new jobs in Emporia, is a testament to our state’s talented workforce and strong economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said...
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development announced that the agency is awarding $4 million in cooperative agreements to 17 organizations under its Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge program.
RPIC provides planning support, technical assistance, and training to encourage placemaking activities in rural communities. Funds can be used to help...
Demolition on Renewable Energy Groups’ partially constructed biodiesel facility may begin soon.
During the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas Board of Directors’ monthly meeting Friday, President Kent Heerman announced that demolition of the facility in southeast Emporia may begin as soon as Tuesday, weather permitting. An exact...
Kent Heermann announced his intention to retire as the president of the Emporia Regional Development Association during a meeting of the board Friday morning.
Heermann will remain in the role he has held for more than 27 years until the first quarter of 2022 in order to give the...
A $6.8 million development project on a portion of the DeBauge-Krueger tract, near 18th Avenue and Graphic Arts Road, passed the first round of approval from the Regional Development Association, Friday morning.
The development would bring in a QuikTrip convenience store and development of a new access road connecting...
The Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas voted to move forward with expansion plans for a staple Emporia business Friday morning.
Dynamic Distribution — which is classified as a separate business entity from Dynamic Discs, LLC — will now set its sights toward moving into the soon-to-be-vacated Detroit...
