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Goods & Services
Shopping
Food & Drink
Best in the Business
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THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
15TH ANNUAL EMPORIA GAZETTE READERS CHOICE AWARDS The votes have been tabulated and the results are in. The winners of The Gazette’s fifteenth annual Readers Choice awards have been selected according to what Gazette readers have chosen as their favorites. The Readers Choice results acknowledge specific people and businesses — as chosen by the community— who are great at what they do, and show it. The results are based solely on the opinions of customers, and the survey reflects service they’ve received or experienced with the specific people or businesses. Readers voted for what they viewed as the “best” in four areas: Goods and Services, Shopping, Food and Drink and Best in the Business. The votes, which were tallied by The Gazette staff, are from Gazette readers in Lyon County as well as from Chase, Morris, Greenwood, Osage and Coffey counties.
The winners for each listing receive a certificate of recognition and can advertise themselves throughout the year as “Emporia Gazette Readers Choice Winners” in their specific category. The survey creates competition and incentives for businesses and residents to go beyond their expectations and become favorites in the hearts of many residents. It is used to get the community and surrounding areas involved in recognizing businesses, organizations, events and people who make this area a better place to live, work and play. It may also introduce you to a “best” that you never tried before. The Gazette congratulates all the winners in this year’s edition of Readers Choice Awards.
2018
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July 21 and 22, 2018
s u g n i t o v r Thank you fo
H S A W R A C BEST
s ’ G Mr. s ocation
Three L
Car Wash
Car Wash
Car Wash
Car Wash
1901 W. 6th Avenue
(across from Long John Silvers)
Car Wash
101 S. Commercial St. (across from Casey’s)
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Car Wash
Car Wash
Car Wash
Car Wash
2015
2016
2017
2018
716 E. 12th Avenue (next to Do B’s)
Thank you for choosing Emporia Presbyterian Manor as the #1 Retirement Community in the area At Emporia Presbyterian Manor, we understand the best care lives up to the highest standard — yours. We've been helping families find the retirement lifestyle they deserve for more than 33 years. How can we help you?
Providing quality senior services guided by Christian values
Call Crytal Stock at 620-343-2613 to stop by for lunch and see why Presbyterian Manor was chosen as the reader's choice.
2300 INDUSTRIAL ROAD EMPORIA, KS 66801 WWW.PRESBYTERIANMANORS.ORG
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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July 21 and 22, 2018
2018 READERS CHOICE WINNERS BEST GOODS & SERVICES B E S T A D U LT C A R E FA C I L I T Y
Emporia Presbyterian Manor
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND SALES:
Crystal Stock
Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America Inc. FOUNDED: 1985 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Emporia Presbyterian
Manor has served Lon Country since 1986 with independent and assisted living, nursing home care, Alzheimer’s care and short-term rehabilitation. We are a not for profit organization with a mission, “To provide quality senior services guided by Christian Values.” ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
continue to change and make updates in our building and to our policies to ensure we continue to meet the changing needs of seniors in the Emporia community. We continue to remain coachable and understand that being the best does not mean continuing to do the same things over and over again but it means adapting and
reevaluating as the need arises to ensure we continue to provide the best quality of care within our community. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Our staff keeps the mission at the forefront of what they do on a daily basis within our community. They use two lenses at work with one being Christian values and the other being quality service. Our strong leadership team in place provides support, communicates effectively and ensures we fulfill our mission and commitment to our residents at the end of each day. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are a 5-star rated community by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and on the U.S. News and World Report list of best nursing homes, but this recognition is special. Being on the Emporia Gazette’s Best of Emporia list means that the people we serve recognize the quality of care we provide.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: This is Emporia Presbyterian
Manor’s seventh time to win this category.
B E ST A PA RT M E N T C O M P L E X
Four Seasons Apartments CORPORATE MANAGER SPECIALIST:
Alisha Hammond OWNER: Rich Management, LLC FOUNDED: 1969 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Our motto is comfortable living for all seasons. Nestled in northwest Emporia next to the beautiful and fun Jones Park, we aoffer studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments with spacious floor plans. Current amenities include: covered parking, three salt water pools, all electric, 24 hour maintenance (emergency), quiet hours, and more exciting amenities on their way! ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Extensive remodeling projects (including 3 spacious penthouses), 3 saltwater pools, change in management in May 2017 (Rich Management, LLC) and exciting new amenities coming soon. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Great residents who love to share where they call home, close proximity to the beautiful Jones Park, quiet and private atmosphere, and our friendly experienced staff. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Thank you Emporia! We feel honored that our community chose us to receive this award. Love is in the details, and we are grateful to our residents for the appreciation in the services we provide.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Flexible leasing terms always
offered contact us at 620-3437172 or online at fourseasons@ richmgt.com. Check our our new website too at fourseasonskansas. com.
BEST AUCTION SERVICE
Flint Hills Auction Service Gail & Pauleen Hancock FOUNDED: June 1979 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
We offer a full line auction service helping people make transitions in their lives. Our auctions include complete liquidation of estates, businesses, downsizing from home to retirement living & specialty auctions ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS IN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS: Seven
years ago we purchased Bluestem Hall so that we could offer year round services in a climate controlled atmosphere. We have held over 200 auctions in this facility helping over 400 families in a transitional time of their lives. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Our secret to success is the last word of our name-Service given with integrity and honesty. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We feel honored and thankful in receiving this award from the support of our customers and friends.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We thank the Lord for the
good health & strength He has given us to help people and fro a great staff that has worked with us. Testimonial from client: It is my pleasure to express how pleased I was with the procedures followed by Gail & Pauleen in handling my auction and the organization of
July 21 and 22, 2018
it. The success of the auction was amazing. TESTIMONIAL: Having worked with Gail both as a seller and buyer, I found him and Pauleen to be friendly and efficient. They work hard to set up a clean and organized auction, displaying the items for sale in the best way possible. When I helped set up items that I bought for them to sell, they made me feel like family. Gail has many buyers who follow his auctions and appreciate his honesty and integrity. TESTIMONIAL: It has been my good fortune to be involved and work with Flint Hills Auction for nearly six years now. I have watched Gail and Pauleen provide the best service possible though their hard work, knowledge and experience. They go the extra mile to reach out and find the best possible buyers for their customers. Flint Hills Auction held an auction for my family and we couldn’t have been happier with the results. It was better than we expected. Gail and Pauleen have created an atmosphere of friendship and fun and their auctions and have many, many return customers to show for that. If you haven’t been to one of their auctions you are truly missing out. It’s a great time. B E S T A U T O B O D Y S H O P/ MECHANICAL AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE
Floyd’s Inc John and Ruth Wheeler FOUNDED: 1968 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Floyd’s Inc. offers
full-line auto body repair and painting, mechanical repair and maintenance, brakes, mufflers, and exhaust systems.
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
serving the state of Kansas since 1901. We are proud of our rich frequently update our equipment history and our deep connection in both shops to keep up with the to Emporia. This last year we changing needs of the automotive made a considerable investment industry. We continue to use eco- in our 8th & Merchant Street friendly waterborne base coat bank. Through the years, this paint on all our collision repairs. building was added onto as we THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We grew and needed more space. have a strong commitment to This created many inefficiencies customer service and a tradition and structural issues. It was of providing quality repairs at a important for us to keep out fair price. bank downtown in the heart of Emporia. A change was needed HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE for not only the integrity of the READERS: It feels awesome to structure, but more importantly, know that our community ESB needed a new physical supports us! This is our 50th year environment as we are changing providing automotive collision from traditional banking to “the and mechanical repair and bank of the future.” maintenance for Emporia and the Our commercial drive-up lanes surrounding communities. needed to be relocated adjacent ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE to the retail drive-up lanes, TO ADD: Floyds Inc. is Emporia a long time undergrad water grown, family owned, and table issue required a hydrology committed to providing excellent study and corrective work to automotive service for our resolve, departmental adjacencies customers, Thank you, Gazette and locations needed to be Readers! determined, and structural issues stemming from the multiple additions over the years needed BEST BANK to be corrected. THe basement ESB Financial was able to e waterproofed, the roof was repaired, integrated OWNERS: The Wayman Family lighting was installed, and our PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES structural inefficiencies were OFFERED: ESB Financial is a resolved. We replaced our “teller bank and much more. We offer line” with cash recycler pods financial services for businesses where our Personal Bankers can and individuals to help people achieve their dreams. In addition freely move around the lobby to help our clients. to deposit accounts and loans, We designed our bank to feel we offer financial planning, modern, but did not want to investment services, wealth lose our sense of heritage. We management and trust services. certainly honor our tradition but ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS we are not stuck in the past. So OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: ESB we incorporated historical photos Financial is a fourth-generation, family-owned bank that has been and artifacts into the modern ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
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design. We love the bright colors of nature and wanted the inside of the building to feel connected to the Flint Hills. Photographs from Casey Wilson cover large sections of the walls, and the applied window film on the glass office walls was shaped so that it feels as if you are walking through the hills as you stroll down the hallway. ESB’s menu of deposit accounts, KASASA, gives clients the power to choose how they want to bank. ESB’s Spirited 50 free checking account features travel opportunities and fun events. We continue to invest heavily in technology and data security. We have expanded our KASASA accounts to offer KASASA Cash Back and KASASA Protect, Card Valet for mobile banking protection, website with responsive design and ADAcompatibility featuring the Flint Hills, brought MoneyIsland™ to the schools in the Flint Hills to teach kids financial literacy and currently changing our youth savings account to ESB’s Super Hero Savings account. Our mortgage center offers our clients a choice to have their loans services locally. ESB… Effective Solutions for Business… offers complete financial assistance for businesses. This year we created Treasury Management position to work exclusively with our business clients, with retirement plans and insurance. ESB’s Trust Center continues to help with wealth management and estate planning services. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Team ESB: Briahna Beckman, Steve
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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July 21 and 22, 2018
All American Carpet Cleaning 620 • 343 • 3700
Owner - Doug Guion
Thank You for Your Vote! Community means everything. That’s why we’re proud to be here to help life go right
TM
Thank You for voting us
Best Insurance Agency
Vicki Burnett, Agent 411 W 6th Avenue Emporia, KS 66801 Bus: 620-342-2727
1601492
Euler Insurance Agency Inc Pete Euler, Agent 920 Commercial Emporia, KS 66801 Bus: 620-342-6272
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
Bell, Tori Berard, Craig Black, Michael Black, Kim Botkin, Jessica Carr, Jared Carroll, Carol Coffman, Ben Cuellar, Joshua Dale, Julie Delong, Marcela Diaz, Mary Eastman, Brett Engle, Anita Ford, Brogy Giesen, Brenda Gordon, Dena Hale, Fred Harder, Kaylanna Heyn, Daniela Jensen, Emily Johnson, Dylan Kelsheimer, Emily Kirby, Michael LeClear, Jonathan Lewis, Kim LoPorto, Sara Manderscheid, Jon Moffitt, Kim Parks, Kathy Patton, Erica Peres-Hernandez, Eric Porter, Mary Rangel-Bell, Lori Ranger, Jean Runge, Amy Salyers, Brittany Sandstrom, Chelsea Schierling, Gavin Schmidt, Jacqueline Schmidt, Larie Schoap, Shawna Schroeder, Leslie Seeley, Ted Sintler, Karen Sommers, Grant Swanson, Brad Tajchman, Judy Thurston, Marco Velazquez, Meredith Wagner, Jim Wayman, Jennifer Wells, Ashley Williams, Monica Wullschleger. ESB’s Board of Directors: Dolly Anderson, Kent Glasscock, Chuck Grimwood, Howard Gunkel, Kent Heermann, Jeff Longbine, Rebecca Robinson, Karen Sommers, Jim Wayman. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are extremely honored to receive this recognition for fifteen consecutive years. It is wonderful to know that our clients appreciate the individual attention that we provide. It is a tribute to our team members
who work hard every day helping our clients achieve their dreams. Thank you Emporia! ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: ESB Financial
is privileged to sponsor community development and local events to improve our quality of life in Emporia. BEST BARBER SHOP
Hair-Krafters OWNER: Mark
Kraft FOUNDED: 1995 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: We are a barbershop
offering a wide range of services including haircuts, beard/facial hair trims, shampoos, and hair care products. We also have two cosmetologists as part of our business which allows us to provide services for the whole family. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS IN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS: We
have added two new experienced barbers, Carlos Peraza and Richard Stone. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Our great clients that we enjoy knowing as friends and building relationships with them.
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We feel honored and
privileged to be recognized by our customers. BEST BEAUTY SALON
Alter Image Salon Brittany Partridge & Mindy Engle FOUNDED: Feb 2012 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
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We are a salon of Kevin Murphy, Redken, and Pulp Riot colors and we take pride in being able to get our clients and products that are the best for their hair! OFFERED:
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
We are in the process currently of some changes, inside and out of our building, from small projects to decor! THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We listen to our clients, fully and with heart. It’s about you guys! OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are so honored to receive this award. It helps us stay focused to keep doing the best we can! ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
We thank everyone for taking time out to vote. Small businesses appreciate the feedback! TO ADD:
BEST CAR WASH
Mr. G’s Carwash OWNERS: Danny
& Betty Giefer
FOUNDED: 1980 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Touch-less Automatics at all 3 locations. Self service carwash and vacuums.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: Credit
cards are accepted in all self service bays as well as all of the automatic locations. Air Sham is located at all of our locations. Huge discounts available on Automatic Carwashes with customer loyalty purchases. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Great customer service and our wonderful customers that have
allowed Mr. G’s to serve them for the past 30 years. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We are very happy &
excited for receiving this for the 8th year in a row. We take pride in the amount of time & effort we put forth to make Mr. G’s the Reader’s Choice. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: This is a family business
with both our son & daughter & spouses involved in the business. We have lived in Emporia since the 1970’s and owned car washes in Emporia since 1980. BEST CARPET CLEANING C O M PA N Y
All American Carpet Cleaning OWNER: Doug Guion HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
I appreciate the recognition from all of my loyal customers. I take pride in my work and never rush, taking my time and ensuring customer satisfaction each and every time. BEST CELL PHONE
Verizon wireless Interview was not available by publication deadline. BEST CHILD CARE FACILITY
Emporia Child Care ADMINISTRATOR: Deb
Crowl
FOUNDED: 1971 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Full day, year round child care
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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for children 2 weeks old to six years old. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Emporia Child Care is raising money to complete the 2nd level for our preschool children. When this project is completed all our programs will be under one roof. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: The Center’s number one priority is the social, emotional, cognitive and physical well being of all our members: children, teachers, staff, parents, and families. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
The Board of Directors and Staff at Emporia Child Care are proud and thankful for the “Best Child Care Facility” award. Thank you!
BEST CONSTRUCTION C O M PA N Y
Mitchell-Markowitz, LLC Interview was not available by publication deadline. BEST CONVENIENCE STORE
Casey’s General Store Interview was not available by publication deadline. BEST ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Gerald Schumann Electric Mike Schumann, Dan Schumann, David Schumann, and Gaye Harden FOUNDED: June 15,1975 OWNERS:
2005
Thank you for voting our business best plumbing company for 14 years! We appreciate you allowing us to 'treat your home like it's our own'!
821 Commercial St. • Emporia, KS (620) 342-2122
July 21 and 22, 2018
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Electrical services
and contracting, pier hole digging, hi reach and line trucks. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We rely on our faith, and practice the golden rule.
We’ve been in business 120 years and know how to take care of our customers.
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We are very pleased to
have the support f the Emporia ares community. ANYTHING ELSE YOU the people we serve and humbled WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank you Gazette for doing a good job by this recognition. of supporting and promoting ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO Emporia businesses. ADD: Thanks Emporia and the surrounding area, we appreciate you. BEST FUNERAL HOME HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We are grateful for all
Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home
BEST FLORIST
Riverside Garden, Inc OWNER: Vickie
Triemar FOUNDED: January 1980 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Full service florist,
custom silk bouquets, weddings, Gold Nugget Custom Jewelry, garden center and tropical greenhouse.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
OWNER/PRESIDENT: FOUNDED:
1928
Mike Turnbull
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Funeral services, memorial services, monuments, pre-need planning. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Our caring staff, who provides compassionate services to the amazing people we serve.
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We are both honored
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ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Through the tremendous
amount of support we receive from our area, our firm has been dedicated to giving back to our community in many ways. We truly appreciate our local families, and would like to express our sincere gratitude. BEST HEARING AID PROVIDER
OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Midwest Beltone continues to expand in KS. In June, 2018, Beltone opened a new office in Manhattan, KS, just less than a year after opening in Leavenworth, KS. Midwest Beltone currently own & operates 12 offices in the state of KS.
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Midwest Belton DIRECTOR OF MARKETING: Jessica
White
Brad McMillin FOUNDED: 1986 OWNERS:
Providing great patient care continuously. Offering the latest technology in hearing instruments. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are ecstatic to learn that this community thinks so highly of us. THere’s a great responsibility that goes along with this award, and we are up for the challenge.
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Beltone Hearing
Instruments, Hearing Aid Service & Repair ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
Thank You for voting for us as the Best Electrical Contractor!
Expanding our fine jewelry and store. Offering unique containers humbled to again be recognized of bedding plants and succulent by our friends in Emporia and gardens. the surrounding area.
Best Florist 2018 Thank you, Emporia!
Our staff and customers are the best! Please visit our jewelry department.
Riverside Garden
Visit us on www.riversidegarden.com
607 Rural 342-5457
Electrical Contractor • Residential • Service Calls • Commercial • Aerial Reach • Pier Hole Digging • Industrial
601 W. 6th Ave. 620-342-2176
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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B E S T H E AT I N G A N D A I R C O M PA N Y
Modern Air Bob Burenheide FOUNDED: 1964 PRESIDENT:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Furnaces, air
conditioners, humidifiers, energy recovery ventilation boilers, chillers. Residential and commercial equipment replacement. Residential, commercial and industrial service, new homes, refrigerators for walk in freezers, coolers, and ice machines.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: A
change of ownership, but no significant changes. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: No real secret. I have a lot of good, knowledgeable experience out in the field that are out there in the elements heat and cold to take care of the customer. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: I am humbled but yet
and once again the guys out in the field are the ones face to face with our customers in the extreme heat and cold. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO
I am greatly appreciative of the Modern Air team.
July 21 and 22, 2018
Vicki Burnett, Pete Euler, Meredith Patterson, Isabel Lopez, Kimberly Russell, Taylor Euler BEST INSURANCE AGENCY and Karen Gonzalez-Hernandez! State Farm Insurance Agency Our team genuinely cares about our policyholders and are FOUNDED: 1922 here to help life go right. Our PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES professional, licensed, dedicated OFFERED: State Farm insures team strives to offer the best more cars and homes than service and products, whether any other insurer in the U.S., it be insuring your first home, and also offers life and health helping with your retirement or insurance, coverage for renters, being there when you need us boats, motorcycles, and business most, at the time of a claim. owners, annuities, mutual funds, HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING and banking & loan products. THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE State Farm also offers a variety of READERS: We love the community discounts – talk with us to find we serve, and love what we do. out more. We are so grateful to receive ADD:
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
continually evaluate how we can best serve our customers. Our newly redesigned State Farm Mobile app allows you to view a copy of your insurance card, submit a claim, access your State Farm bank account, contact your agent, and more. Our Drive Safe & Save app provides opportunities for further discounts on auto insurance, and the Steer Clear app helps young drivers develop good habits while also offering a discount.
Thank You
for voting us Best Funeral Home for the fifteenth year. Serving the Emporia Area Since 1928
Roberts-Blue-Barnett
J. Michael Turnbull, Owner 605 State Street Trust and Tradition 620-342-2134 Staffed 24 hours a day for your convenience.
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
this recognition. It is an honor to have State Farm voted best insurance agency by our community. Thank you!
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank you so much for
allowing us to serve you! We appreciate the confidence you have us.
BEST INTERNET PROVIDER/ TELEVISION PROVIDER
ValuNet Fiber Kala Maxfield OWNER: Rick Tidwell, Stormy Supiran, Bob Agler, Steve Sauder FOUNDED: 2011 MARKETING:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Emporia’s only ALL
Fiber Optic Internet, phone and HDTV.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
are nearing the completion of out Fiber Optic Buildout. We
You k n a Th ting o V r fo ver a h S Jesse at
Auto Mechanic
2018
BEST AUTO MECHANIC We are honored to be serving Emporia's loyal customers for 80 years
Be sure your car is Summer Vacation Ready AUTO REPAIR • WRECKER SERVICE • TIRES & BATTERIES
115 EAST 5TH • EMPORIA, KANSAS 66801 www.cliffssuperservice.com
Office: 620-342-0525 • Toll Free: 1-888-715-0525 • Cellular: 620-344-0525
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
currently have about 90% of the city built out. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We pride ourselves on our local customer care and employees. Out network is all Fiber so it allows us to provide the fastest and most reliable service in Emporia! Our employees always go above and beyond to provide the best possible customer care and service! HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We feel honored and
thankful to our customers and the community for the continued support. BEST INVESTMENT C O M PA N Y
Edward Jones, Jon Geitz
Due to policies of Edward Jones Jon Geitz was not able to submit information. B E ST L AW N M A I N T E N A N C E
Scheller’s Lawn & Maintenance Mike Scheller FOUNDED: 1986 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: We offer total lawn
care which includes weed control & fertilization, insect control, lawn sprinkler maintenance and repair, and mowing.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: Not
really, however, we are constantly upgrading our equipment and trying new things. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Since
we are a service business, our employees are the reason we are successful. We try to treat every property like it is our own. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Very honored. It feels good to be recognized for our hard work.
BEST NEW CAR DEALERSHIP
Clint Bowyer Autoplex Steve Vaughn OWNERS: Clint Bowyer, Dawson Grimsley, Stuart Ray, and Sean Tarbell FOUNDED: March 18, 2013 GENERAL MANAGER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
We are a full line Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram dealer along with Toyota. We service all makes and models no matter what make they
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are. We also do auto detailing in case your vehicle is a little dirty from vacation. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
have remodeled the dealership to better serve our customers. We have increased the number of cars we keep in stock to try and meet everyone’s needs. There is no way to have everything, but we can generally get it in a couple of days. We increased the size of our service department so we can get customers in when they want in instead of having to make them wait. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Our secret to success is our customers. We try to make everyone happy and do the right thing. Without our customers, there is no need
July 21 and 22, 2018
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for us. We have to help them in a professional manner or they will go somewhere else. The better we take care of our customers, the better chance they will tell their friends and family to come see us as well. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are excited and honored to have received this award. With it being voted on by the local readers, it makes me feel that we are doing a good job. It will only make us work harder to try and repeat next year.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We want to continue to do
a great job and grow as Emporia grows. We thank everyone that voted and look forward to assisting everyone with their automotive needs. BEST OVERALL CUSTOMER SERVICE
Do-B’s Daryn Bontrager & Leslie Lloyd FOUNDED: March 9, 2011 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Gourmet burgers, mouthwatering cheesesteaks, po-boy sandwiches, an assortment of
fresh, organic salads, wings, tacos, jambalaya, soups made from scratch, homemade desserts, housemade dressings and sauces, an extensive gluten-free menu, breakfast on Saturdays and corporate and social event catering. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
We continue to strive to make our establishment one that feels like home; a comfortable, unpretentious, inviting environment where our guests can gather with friends and family and enjoy a great meal. In the interim, we have tried to expand seating on the back patio and are looking to make kitchen improvements that would help expedite food orders more quickly. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We attribute our success to an everevolving “BIG” vision and a passion for service. With that comes, a whole lot of flexibility. (And a sense of humor never hurts.) Most importantly, we have been blessed to work with an incredibly talented and supportive staff that have been key in helping to create a culture rich in vision, creativity and value. Our families have been
instrumental in providing their love and support to persevere and we feel very fortunate to live in a supportive community like Emporia.
OWNER: Darren
FOUNDED: 1987 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: We offer termite control,
regularly-scheduled service for residential and commercial customers and monthly service for restaurants. We provide service as needed fro bedbugs, roaches fleas, and rodents.
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are honored and humbled to receive the reward for best overall customer service. We pride ourselves on great food and a family atmosphere but our ultimate goal is making certain every one of our guests knows our appreciation and their value. We can’t say enough about our guests and our community.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
have added technicians as well as office staff to be able to provide service in a timely manner. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: It’s not one individual. It’s a team effort. Our motto is “We Aim to Please,” and that is what we try to do. If a customer isn’t happy, then we’ll be back to remedy the situation. Customer service is extremely important and our
BEST PEST CONTROL SERVICE
Flint Hills Termite & Pest Control, Inc.
Thank You
FOR VOTING US
“BEST PLACE TO EXERCISE ”
THANK YOU
to our loyal customers for this tremendous honor!
Flint Hills Termite & Pest Control, Inc. 620-342-3320 • E M PORIA
Biggs
620-342-2348
WWW.EMPORIAFITNESS.COM
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
dedicated staff strives to make sure each and every customer is well taken care of. Truthfully, if it were not for the Lord and my wife, this company would not exist. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
I’m very appreciative to the readers for this honor. It means a lot to me. It is also very humbling to receive this recognition. It makes me want to try even harder to satisfy all of our longtime customers as well as our new and future customers.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: I am our family’s third
generation in pest control. We have a very humble background. They were all hard-working people and I know they would say, “Good job, Darren. Don’t get big-headed and keep getting better.”
is my first year as a full time photographer before this I was a school counselor. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Ecstatic and thankful for people who voted for me! BEST PLACE TO EXERCISE
Emporia Fitness Jessica Schumann OWNER: Greg Bachman FOUNDED: 1998 MANAGER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
A facility full of cardiovascular and strength equipment. Multiple group exercise classes. A smoothie bar full of healthy choices for members and nonmembers. Personal trainers. Free fitness and nutritional challenges for our members. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
regularly modify our groups exercise classes to address the wants of our members. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: It is no secret, we have a family oriented facility where people of all ages and fitness levels are welcome. Great customer service.
Thomas Felts
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
BEST PHARMACY
Haag Pharmacy Interview was not available by publication deadline.
Thomas Felts Photography OWNER: Thomas Felts FOUNDED: March 2015 BUSINESS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Professional photography services which include weddings, senior photos, family sessions, maternities, newborns, pets, events and more! ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: This
I appreciate the recognition from your readers as we strive to provide a service to enhance the quality of living in the Emporia area. B E ST P L U M B I N G C O M PA N Y
Plumbing by Spellman’s OFFICE MANAGER: Angela
Wilson OWNERS: Lenny and Jason Spellman
FOUNDED: 1978 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Plumbing maintenance,
repairs, remodels and new construction for residential and commercial customers. This includes everything from repairing leaky faucets, repairing and replacing water heaters, water and drain re-piping within the home; to repairing, replacing and installing main sewer or water lines and septic systems. We also have three technicians certified to install and repair water softener systems, reverse osmosis systems and back flow preventers. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
are constantly striving to make changes and adjustments that will improve the services that we provide to our customers. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Our managerial staff and employees are what drive Plumbing by Spellman. They uphold the values of our company, and care about the customers. They all take pride in the work that they complete, and the work ethic of our current crew is beyond compare. We truly appreciate every person on our team! HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are as humbled this year, as we were the first year that we received the award. All of our customers are important to our company, and our employees. We want to thank every person who has allowed us to provide services to them. We look forward to serving everyone in the future, and will continue to provide the excellent service that
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they deserve! ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We wish everyone a blessed,
safe and healthy upcoming year! Thank you for continuing to allow us to “treat your home like it’s our own”. B E S T S TA F F I N G A G E N C Y
The Arnold Group BRANCH MANAGER: Carolyn
Risley
Jill Staats FOUNDED: Emporia Office 1994 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: HR Consulting,
Professional Placement, Developmental Training, Safety Consulting, and Staffing ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Application process is 100% electronic as well as a mobile app. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Exceptional customer service and treating people how you want to be treated. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We are thrilled!
BEST STORAGE FACILITY
Kelley’s U-Stor-It Julia & Greg Giger FOUNDED: Purchased 1997 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Storage ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: Some
new roofing and concrete.
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We are not the newest. We are not the fanciest. We try to provide friendly, personal service. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We are very pleased
be recognized.
to
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We have worked with many
great people over the years. We appreciate our long term renters and our repeat customers. B E S T R A D I O S TAT I O N
KVOE KVOE AM 1400-96.9 FM, Country 101.7 & Mix 104.9 OWNER : Sauder Family LLC FOUNDED: February 1986 BUSINESS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: The KVOE AM 1400-
96.9 FM, Country 101.7 FM and KVOE.com Live and Local Morning Show airs from 6am - 9am Monday through Friday. Local news, Local weather, Local Sports, Local talk and a generous amount of promoting Local events and activities. If your group or organization has an event coming up let us know and we will get it on the air and on our website…(Better yet, join us On the Air!). If it’s happening in and around the Emporia area we want to make sure you hear about it on KVOE and read it on KVOE.com or our Facebook page. We live in a great community and we are proud to be a small part of it.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
KVOE has a new website and we have added free mobile streaming apps for all of our stations. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
An Amazing Morning Crew… Chuck Samples (news)... Greg Rahe (sports) These guys flat
out bring it everyday. They have ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank you to everyone, true talents and very dedicated especially our customers over hard workers who care about the community. We strive daily the years, we appreciate your trust in us. to inform, entertain and have fun in a Live and Local way. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: Super Fantastic!
Thanks to the Gazette readers for the votes and to our listeners for tuning in. The Emporia area is a great place to call home. B E S T R E A L E S TAT E F I R M
EK Real Estate OWNERS: Jeff Williams, Jeff Kitselman, Aaron Sewell, Jan Utech FOUNDED: 1965 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: We are a full service
real estate office. We handle home sales, multifamily, cabins & lakehomes, land, and commercial listings and sales.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
added the former local Remax agents to our Emporia office. We also added an office in Lyndon with experienced agents. We are now even stronger with agents who specialize in all of your real estate needs. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Taking care of and truly caring about our customers. It is always an honor to help someone buy their home, new business location, or purchase land. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We feel blessed to serve
a community that we love and call home ourselves. We are extremely grateful.
B E S T TA N N I N G S A L O N
Midas Touch Golden Tans Amy Ringler OWNERS: Darell & Lea Ringler FOUNDED: April 2002 MANAGER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Recently, The Midas
Touch has expanded its offering substantially! In addition to a full-service tanning salon, featuring 4 levels of UV tanning, and spray tanning, The Midas Touch also provides red light/ collagen therapy, far-infrared sauna, body-slimming, and yoga. In addition to these services, there are many products available for our community. Skin care and sun care products, teeth whitening, apparel, yoga mats, athletic wear, and bodyslimming products are all offered at the salon and yoga studio.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: The
addition of our far-infrared sauna, the FitBurn, has been exciting! Unlike traditional saunas, FitBurn’s technology penetrates muscle tissue to reduce heavy metal toxins, lactic acid, and decrease inflammation of the joints. It also features a virtual instructor with built-in hot yoga and core exercises that can be done during a client’s session. LIPO-FIT is our new Liposuction alternative. With this body-slimming treatment, clients lose 3 inches per month-
July 21 and 22, 2018
guaranteed! Our yoga studio, Theta Yoga, provides Emporian’s a place to come to relax, unwind, stretch, and strengthen. Yoga classes are offered throughout the week and are available for all levels! THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We like to have fun at work! In our office we have a poster that reads “When you love what you do- It Shows!” This is a mantra of sorts for us and reminds us to share a fun, inviting, and relaxing experience with our clients. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: Humbled and honored!
Thank you, Gazette Readers, for voting for us! We believe that when you feel great, you look even better. For the last 16 years, we have been honored to provide multiple ways to look and feel your best. We promise to continue to strive to exceed your expectations. BEST TIRE STORE
Mel’s Tire D.J. & Alison Eidman, Joe Dreier, Allen Mize, Todd Preisner FOUNDED: June 2002 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Tires, wheels, brakes,
struts, alignment, front-end work, A/C service, engine diagnostics and repair, and the best services on the road and farm. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Due to the best crew around and are able to provide priceless service to our customers. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We have the best customers and feel honored to receive this award again. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We’d like to thank our
customers. Without you, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. BEST THRIF T STORE
Goodwill Industries of Kansas, Inc. EMPORIA STORE MANAGER: Julie
Woodruff
VP OF MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT:
Molly Fox OWNERS: As a nonprofit organization, we are owned by the community FOUNDED: Goodwill Industries of Kansas was founded December 1957; the Emporia store opened October 2009 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Goodwill’s inventory
is always changing. Since we sell items which are donated, you never know what you will find. Goodwill sells clothing, shoes, handbags, books, videos and music, housewares, jewelry and
much more! People are often surprised at the quality of our items, especially dress clothes. Our shoppers are often looking for work uniform items such as white pants and tops to work at the bakery and scrubs. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Physically speaking, we’ve recently added a new lighted awning to the exterior and new paint inside the store. Operationally speaking, we have worked state-wide to be more productive on processing donations to get them to the sales floor faster. In addition, processes have been put in place to better sort and display jewelry, for example, among other things. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We work really hard on providing great customer service. We love our customers and want to continue to offer them a clean and organized store to shop! It’s important to us that they WANT to shop here. We are told daily at how nice our store is and we are proud to continue to hear this. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We love being a part of
this community and are always
Thank You
32 years in business
Crown ViC Auto SAleS 6th & rurAl — 620-342-8098
to all of our customers and the community for receiving Best Used Car Dealership and Best Car Salesperson again. It has been a pleasure serving Emporia and the surrounding communities for 32 years.
grateful to the Emporia Gazette readers for voting for us. The communities donations and heir patronage is what keeps us going. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: When you donate
and shop at Goodwill, we are able to provide education and employment through a variety of programs including ESL, GED completion, job training and advocacy for adults with disabilities. The dollars earned in stores are used to cover the cost of these programs, along with fundraising and special events. Goodwill believes in providing purpose, pride and dignity through the power of work. Look for Goodwill at Emporia Main Street and Chamber events this year!
Page 15
BEST USED CAR DEALERSHIP
Crown Vic Auto Sales OWNERS: Larry & Carol Magsum
FOUNDED: August 1, 1986 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Cars, trucks, sport utilities - late model, low miles, with factory warranty - also trade ins with much lower prices. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: No, just
trying to fill orders - make, model, color, price range, etc. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: No secret, just hard work and finding the right vehicle for our customers. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Great, doesn’t seem like we are doing that good of a job filling most orders, prices are high, low mile vehicles are scarce.
Thank You
for voting us Best Tire Store!
TIRE STORE
2018
“Service Is Not Expensive - It’s Priceless”
MEL’S TIRE
915 Graham St. (620) 342-8473
M-F 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Sat 7:30 am - Noon
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Yes, Carol and I agreed that
this would be our last year to get a license to do this. August 1st will be 32 years that we have had our business. And we want to thank everyone for their continued support and trust. It means alot. V V V
BEST SHOPPING BEST ANTIQUE STORE
Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall OWNERS: Shirley
& Ron
Slaymaker FOUNDED: October 2003 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Poehler
Mercantile Antique Mall sells antiques, collectibles, unique and unusual items.We also offer layaway service and rent non-climate controlled storage units. Poehler is the home of the ESU Athletic Museum. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: The Slaymaker family has collected, picked, restored, and resold for generations. The family trait of having an eye for a great discovery continues today. Whether your passion is fine antiques or primitives, the options are endless at Poehler. We would also like to thank the staff for their hard work
July 21 and 22, 2018
in helping to create a positive shopping experience for everyone. In addition, Poehler would like to thank our Dealers and Consignors for bringing in new items on a weekly basis.
BEST CARPET & FLOOR STORE
Carpet & More Inc. OWNER & PRESIDENT: Brian FOUNDED: 1986
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
We are pleased about receiving this award and are so appreciative to our customers for selecting us so many years in a row!
READERS:
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
We will continue to work hard at providing the service our customers want and deserve. Stay connected with Poehler through Facebook, Instagram and www. poehlerantiquemall.wixsite. com/emporia. TO ADD:
Kelley
Carpet, sheet vinyl, prefinished hardwood, luxury vinyl tile and plank, ceramic tile and installation of these products. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Updates to samples to keep color lines and products fresh and up to date. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Consistency, we always put quality first and know the rest will work out from there. And we have great installers with years of experience. We are a family
Thank you for once again voting Ek Real Estate “Best of the Flint Hills.” EMPORIA’S #1 REAl EStAtE AgEncy
Visit ekhomes.com RESidEntial • CommERCial land • PRoPERty managEmEnt
620-342-3366 1201 W. 6th • Emporia, KS eksellsemporia@gmail.com
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
owned and employees are family. We want to sell products that will last and look good and have the best installation possible. We like having happy customers. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS
quality of service and product. Dailey is from Olpe, KS. The other person will be announced soon. We are excited to keep the business family owned and operated here in Emporia.
AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
It’s very nice to be recognized for making our customers happy and since I’m close retiring it feels like all our hard work has been worthwhile. It’s always nice to know people appreciate our work and dedication to our community. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
I’m transitioning the business to Daily Jensen and another local person over the next few years. We are transitioning slowly so the business continues with the same TO ADD:
B E S T C L O T H I N G A P PA R E L S H O P
Maurices Melissa Ashlaw OWNERS: Ascena Brands FOUNDED: 11/24/1975 STORE LEADER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
We provide all women and girls with fashion and inspiration for living confidently every day. Our stylists are very knowledgeable of the products and fashions we offer. Most importantly we carry sizes 2 -24 and are confident
Page 17
our stye experts can help each body type and every woman feel beautiful. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Denim, Denim, Denim! In the last year we have updated fits and added so many different varieties and styles to offer our customers. We look forward to sharing even more denim updates in the months to come. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Hands down our personalized service. We feel so thankful to be part of the Emporia Community and be a source of fashion and inspiration to the women of Emporia and surrounding areas.
We feel so fortunate to work for an amazing company and be able to be a part of this wonderful community, serving and inspiring beautiful women daily. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We
would just like to thank our customers again - they truly inspire us to be better and make sure each customer gets an unforgettable experience in our store. Also feel free to call the store at any time to set up a FREE personal styling session. And follow us on Facebook - The Style Experts of Emporia to keep upto-date on sales. BEST FURNITURE STORE
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are so humbled and gracious.
Guion’s Showcase OWNERS: Mike
& Marie Guion
Proudly providing service to Emporia and the surrounding areas since 1961
u k Yo n a h T g oTin for V esT us “B se Chine T ran resTau 5 for 1 e CuTiV e s n Co !” Years
Lunch & Dinner Specials Carry Out & Delivery Available OPEN: Mon-Thur 11a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Fri-Sat 11a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
2002 W. 6th Ave. • Emporia • 620-342-4888
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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FOUNDED:
October 1991
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
Furniture, Bedding, Appliances, Home Accents OFFERED:
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
an eye on us!!
Keep
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Great people!... from staff, to customers, to the whole Lyon County area! HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We
are so blessed to be a part of this wonderful community filled with kind and supportive people! ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank
you!!
BEST GIFT SHOP
Little Red Rooster Interview was not available by publication deadline. B E ST G RO C E RY STO R E
Dillons OWNERS:
Kroger Co.
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Dillons
is a full service grocery store offering the
best of the best. Fresh meat, garden fresh produce and great customer-friendly service, are just a few of our MANY amenities that we have to offer here. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
At Dillons, our team of associates strive to make our customers’ shopping experiences more convenient to save both time and money. Our associates are connected with the community and treat every customer as if they were family. Our prices are more competitive than ever and we’re offering extra savings to stretch every dollar. We reward our loyal customers with fuel rewards, digital coupons and fresh values on our weekly specials and much more. At Dillons, our customers receive the complete package - friendly service from associates ready to help with any need, more values, great selection of the freshest foods and improved conveniences. OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
We believe the recognition of Reader’s Choice is most certainly a reflection of
July 21 and 22, 2018
our outstanding teams in Emporia. They share a passion in providing the freshest quality products to our great customers and take pride in strengthening a connection to their community. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: Dillons
is truly honored to once again, receive the “Reader’s Choice” in Emporia. We could not be more proud of the enthusiasm and excitement our managers and associates bring to Dillons every day, in serving our customers. We are grateful to know our customers place their trust in us, to provide the very best for their families. We are absolutely thrilled! BEST HARDWARE STORE
Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply, Inc. COO: Beth
Benton OWNERS: Ann & Kenny Bruner FOUNDED: 1961 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
Hardware, Farm and Ranch, Tools, Paint, Plumbing,
OFFERED:
Electrical, Sporting Goods, Lawn and Garden, Automotive, Pet Food and Supplies, Clothing, Toys, Housewares and Giftware. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS IN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS: We
continually try to bring in new and unique products, while still providing your everyday essentials. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Our goal is to provide excellent customer service. We have some of the most dedicated and hardworking employees around. We appreciate all the loyalty our customers have shown us through the years. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
Honored! We are privileged to serve such a great community!
READERS:
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Lee
and Marjorie Nelson founded Bluestem in 1961. Lee passed away in 2017 after a long, full life, filled with countless good memories including many made here at Bluestem. We are so thankful, through everyone’s support, that we can continue the family business and keep his legacy alive.
Thank You for voting us
Best Lumber Yard
We appreciate our customers and their years of loyalty. lumber 825 E. 6th • Emporia • 620-342-0218 www.markiilumber.com
July 21 and 22, 2018
Page 19
B E ST J E W E L RY STO R E
Kari’s Diamond Interview was not available by publication deadline. BEST LIQUOR STORE
Liquor Locker MANAGER: Alan
Nuessen OWNER: Lisa Scheve FOUNDED: November 2016 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: BEER,
SPIRITS.
WINE AND
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: Our
goal is to continue to bring a wider selection to our store. We enjoy hearing suggestions from our customers and do our best to listen to their requests.
How
We have had wine and spirit tastings and have received positive feedback on these events. As we meet new wine vendors we are working with them and are expanding our choices. We are continuing to enhance our local craft beer as well. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Liquor Locker has been located north of the fairgrounds for years. Serving this side of Emporia with our friendly staff. We enjoy getting to know our customers and catching up with them while they are shopping. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
It is an honor and we are very grateful to be recognized with this award.
READERS:
! s i t i t e e sw
S U P P LY S T O R E
Very proud and we would like to thank Emporians for their support.
Mark II Lumber
BEST SHOE STORE
BEST LUMBER
OWNER: Stan Grimwood, Luke
Schnakenberg, Aaron Trelc FOUNDED: 1968 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
OFFERED: Mark II is a full service
lumberyard with a large selection of dimensional lumber and plywoods. Mark II also offers engineered trusses, custom cabinets, siding, Andersen Windows, and Masonite Doors.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Updated kitchen showroom. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Great customer service. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Brown’s Shoe Fit, Co. STORE MANAGER: Aaron Otto FOUNDED: 1953
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Shoes, boots, handbags, arch supports, footwear, accessories and more. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Customer service and the support from our awesome community. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Very honored to be chosen. I want to thank our customer for all their support. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We will keep striving to give
Thank you for voting us Best Bakery/ Desserts! 803 Commercial Emporia, KS 620-342-9600 www.sweetgranada.com
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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great customer service and to offer the best quality footwear in the area. We strive to bring the latest in new footwear technology as well. V V V
BEST FOOD & DRINK B E S T B A K E R Y/ D E S S E R T S
The Sweet Granada Kim Redeker FOUNDED: November 2004 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
The Sweet Granada is a specialty sweets shop featuring more than 200 handmade gourmet chocolates and home of PopChoc. Located in the heart of Emporia’s arts and entertainment district next to the historic Granada Theatre, it is known for its unique and fun shopping becoming a popular regional destination.
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: The
we are now open 7 days a week. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: One of the most important things has been putting together a creative, energetic, hard working team that is dedicated to The Sweet Granada mission of creating a fun, whimsical and unique experience for all our customers.
Sweet Granada recently partnered with local baker Haley Brinkman of Market Macarons to add locally made french macarons to their selection of handmade confections. Secondly, we just launched our new website that gives customers the option to order online. Also new this year,
We are extremely excited about this award from Gazette readers. It’s a real honor to be recognized as the best in our category when people have so many wonderful shopping choices in Emporia. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank you to all of our the readers who voted for the Sweet Granada. We are proud to have been a part of your Sugar Highs and Smiles Since 2004 and look
July 21 and 22, 2018
forward to many more sweet years in downtown Emporia. BEST BAR/NIGHT CLUB
Mulready’s Pub OWNER:
Rick Becker FOUNDED: 2013 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: The
finest beers and mixed drinks on the planet… and whiskey… enough to saturate the county! ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Always evolving. Many house infusions, house made syrups and juices. The succulents.... Good God! So many succulents! THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Tiffany… she made me say this… help… call my family,
THANK YOU TO OUR CUSTOMERS!
We appreciate your votes and your continued business!
Voted Reader’s Choice Best Liquor Store 2018!
2716 W. 12th St. • Emporia • 620.343.7414
July 21 and 22, 2018
don’t show her this… the pain!!! HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: My
customers are the best… nuff said!!
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Yeah, what’s the deal with dinosaurs? Were they truly giants, or were there a bunch of them in a giant dinosaur suit!
Page 21
We are proud to be a part of the Emporia community and leave a positive experience for out-oftown guests. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: We
continue to look forward to serving our customers, who deserve recognition for this award as much as we do.
BEST BARBECUE
Bobby D’s Merchant St BBQ OWNER: Bobby
Doudican FOUNDED: November 26, 2001 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Locally
owned and operated BBQ restaurant and catering services. ANY RECENT CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE PAST
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
We owe everything to the dedication and hard work of our management team and staff. Their commitment to providing the best guest experience is something they all take very seriously. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
BEST BUFFET
It is truly and honor to have been voted Best Buffet by the Gazette Readers. We are blessed to be part of such a wonderful community. READERS:
Pizza Ranch of Emporia Rich & Linda Avery FOUNDED: Dec. 29, 2008 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
On our buffet we offer a large salad bar, our famous ‘Countrys Best Chicken’ with all the fixins such as mashed potatoes/gravy, vegetables, biscuit, variety of pizzas, bread sticks, dessert & fruit pizzas, soft serve ice cream and we also include the drink.
OFFERED:
COUPLE YEARS: A constantly evolving menu and specials list while maintaining long-time local favorites.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
This year we have added the Quality food and service at reasonable prices. But really, it is option for a Stuffed Crust on our medium & large pizzas. our loyal customers! Giving the guest 4 unique crusts HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE to choose from. We have also READERS: Humbled and honored. added a new Chocolate Cactus
Thanks to all of those who give us the honor of serving them for over 30 years. Your loyalty is greatly appreciated. We will keep our efforts up to bring you excellent quality and service.
Bread Dessert Pizza for the chocolate lover.
HAMBURGER
2018
(620) 342-5780 27 Commercial • Emporia
BEST BURGER
J’s Carryout OWNERS:
Pearson
Jay, Jean and Justin
FOUNDED:
1987
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Hamburgers,
fries, onion rings, salads, coneys, drinks and a variety of other sandwiches. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: The customers always come first. Great food and service and the best staff. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: Very grateful and a big thanks to our customers for 30 years of loyalty.
BEST ASIAN CUISINE
Shanghai Frank & Emelina Liou FOUNDED: June 1996 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Chinese
cuisine: Beijing
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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style, Hunan style, and Szechuan style. Coke products. Dine-In , Carry-Out and Delivery. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: The friendly and relaxing atmosphere as well as the excellent food and service. We are always working hard on keeping the place clean. Freshness, cleanliness, and good service are our main goals. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
It is an honor to be voted as the best Chinese Cuisine for fourteen years in a row. Your support is our best motivation. As always, we will strive to serve the best Chinese food. If you think we should do better on any aspect, please let us know. Your support is key to keeping our business going and to do better.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank
you, Emporia! We promise to serve you our best. BEST COFFEE
Granada Coffee Company Beverly Beers OWNER: Rocky Slaymaker FOUNDED: November 25, 2002 MANAGER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
The Granada Coffee Company offers a wide variety of specialty coffee and tea drinks, an assortment of muffins, and a light lunch. We also enjoy catering local events, create gift baskets, and offer awesome retail options. OFFERED:
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Our CUSTOMERS, our
DY N A M I C N A I L S & S PA 2917 U.S . 50 • (620) 342-6245 (NAIL)
The Nicest Nail Salon in Emporia
Nail TechNiciaN
Just For You!
2018
With full-time licensed nail technicians and the highest quality services in the Emporia area, our nail salon is your ONLY choice for total foot and hand care. We pride ourselves with the quality of work we perform so that you leave looking and feeling incredibly special. Visit our nail salon today to start setting new trends with your girlfriends, fashioning our latest designs in tips and color on both fingernails and feet.
Dao Nguyen Walk-Ins Welcome! Gift Certificates Available
Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-7:00pm W W W. DY N A MICN AIL S PA .COM
July 21 and 22, 2018
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
STAFF, and our BEANS! In addition, the Granada Coffee Company had always focused on and will continue to focus on our customer service, quality products, a warm and clean environment, and drink consistency. The dedication of our staff is undeniable. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are so excited to receive this award. It validates our hard work and commitment to providing an excellent experience for our customers!
FOUNDED: October
2007
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Sinfully
good cinnamon rolls, fresh every morning! Awesome seasonal soups and salads, deli sandwiches and paninis served on our homemade bread as well as homemade desserts! THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We do our best to keep our food quality as high as possible and our service friendly. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: Thank
you so much for ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO choosing me again this year! I ADD: Please come in and visit with am very grateful to have so many us! Our atmosphere encourages loyal customers that allow me to warmth, companionship, and continue doing what I love for a conversation; not to mention living. the great coffee! Snuggle up in our comfy chairs or eat BEST FRIED CHICKEN lunch and the table… either way, you are guaranteed to Olpe Chicken House enjoy yourself ! Stay connected OWNERS: Larry & Charlotte Coble with GCC through Facebook, FOUNDED: May 1, 1958 Twitter, Instagram, or www. PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES granadacoffeecompany.com. OFFERED: We are known for our famous fried chicken. Other BEST DELI/SANDWICH SHOP popular items are our homemade Chicken Fried Steaks, Hand Amanda’s Bakery and Cafe Breaded Chicken Strips, Breaded OWNER: Amanda Mallon Pork Chops, Catfish Filets and
We thank all our friends and customers for voting us Best Deli/Sandwich Shop in Reader’s Choice! Freshly Made • Sandwiches • Salads • Baked • Sinfully Goods Delicious Cinnamon • Breads Rolls • Sides Tues-Fri: 7am-3pm • Sat: 9am-2pm • Sun & Mon: Closed 702 Commercial St., Suite 1F/G • Emporia • 620-340-0620
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our homemade Colossal Onion Rings. All of our potatoes are made from scratch and our salad is cut fresh daily. We also serve homemade cream pies and mashed potatoes which are available on Fridays and Saturdays until we run out.
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We designed a new menu in the past year. It includes more chef salad options that are going over extremely well in this hot weather.
Once again we are truly blessed and proud to have received this award for the 16th year. It makes us strive each year to live up to our reputation. We want to thank all of our Gazette Readers who voted for us as well as all of our loyal customers and friends.
IN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS:
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
We work hard at preparing and serving great food to our customers. Everyone plays their part to ensure we meet our customers expectations. Having management on duty is very
important while watching over our staff and the needs of our customers. We want to provide the best products available to keep our customers coming back. Our catering business adds to our success as well.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Yes,
for those who use the internet, it serves as a great tool to help businesses grow, but in some cases, it can hurt
3000 W. 18th AVE Emporia, KS 66801 (620) 343-8646
Thank you! We appreciate your vote.
15% OFF Carry Out Order code 51415 Expires August 15, 2018 *Not valid with any other offer*
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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a business when unauthorized sites post false information, such as incorrect business hours and menu items. There are some Chicken House websites that we have not created and have no control over. However, there is an official Olpe Chicken House Facebook page that we created and control if you would like to learn more about our business. Also, be sure and look at the WIBW “Fork in the Road” segment to see how we prepare for a busy day at the restaurant. In addition to serving our customers at the restaurant and through our catering business, we have a banquet room available for wedding rehearsals, receptions, parties,
family reunions, etc. It can also be rented to host land auctions or other events. Keep in mind the land auctions can be held at the Chicken House, but we aren’t going anywhere! We recently celebrated another milestone, our 60th year in business! We look forward to the next milestone in ten years and many more beyond that! We invite you to come see us as our doors are open Mondays – Thursdays, 11:00 am – 8 pm, and 11:00 am - 9 :00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. B E S T L AT I N O C U I S I N E
Casa Ramos Juan Carlos Ramos FOUNDED: September 1st, 2004 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: We
offer authentic and delicious Mexican food, refreshing signature drinks along with a fun and friendly atmosphere. We also serenade our birthday customers with our special song. We love making our customers have a great time.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: This
year we haven’t made any changes to the building, however we are constantly trying to improve our appearance, especially in the front area of the restaurant. We want our customers to feel like they are walking into a Mexican town when they enter our establishment. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: There
July 21 and 22, 2018
really isn’t a secret! We just treat our people like family and build great relationships with them while satisfying their taste buds with delicious food. I would say the main reason to our success is all the support and love we receive from our community. They motivate us to keep trying our best to stay THE BEST. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: Like
always, we feel BLESSED, and HONORED! We are so proud to be an important part of the Emporia Community and we owe it all to its people. We will continue to thrive and give our best service to you all.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: It
is awesome to see
Tuesday thru Sunday • 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. Closed on Mondays
VOTED BEST BREAKFAST 8 YEARS IN A ROW Dine In • Carry Out Call Ahead
343-9866
614 Commercial St.
We are on Cloud 9! Thank you to all our New and Loyal customers. Tuesday thru Sunday • 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. Closed on Mondays
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
how much we have grown as an establishment and all the positive things that have taken place over the years. We have seen families grow, and friendships be built. We see people out in the community come together and socialize mainly on Friday nights! So cool to witness. They start their weekend off at Casa Ramos! Friday nights have become the “Fun Night” at Casa Ramos. BEST PIZZA BEST STEAK
Radius Brewing Company Justin Bays, Jeremy Johns, Chad Swift FOUNDED: April 24, 2014 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
Located at 610 Merchant in beautiful downtown Emporia, KS, Radius Brewing Company is a full-service restaurant as well as the town’s first brewery since prohibition. The regular menu includes artisan-style appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and soups as well as wood-fired brick-oven pizzas. After 5pm the Chef ’s OFFERED:
Menu, which rotates weekly, is available. It typically features fresh seafood, steaks, pastas, and creative appetizers. All of this is complemented with our own line of craft beers which are brewed right in the middle of the dining room. A full bar featuring creative cocktails is also available for those who haven’t found the right beer yet! ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Having only been open for 4 years, we are still very much in a stage of constant change with the intention of improving Radius. Whether that is crafting new beers, changing up our menu, or just trying to improve our processes to streamline service and make everyone’s visit to Radius that much more enjoyable...it’s all part of an ongoing process. Through the addition of our enclosed back patio, Radius has grown from a 76 seat restaurant to a 114 seat restaurant and now gives us the ability to host private events. We have added different specialty menus and specials
Catering & Private Dining OPEN: Mon - Thur: 11am - 8pm Fri & Sat: 11am to 9pm 8 East Highway 99 • Olpe, KS 66865 620-475-3386
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
Winning an award like this is incredible! The fact that there were enough people in the Emporia area willing to take the time to write Radius in and push us over the top in not only one category, but two, is a great feeling. We love being a part of this community and are extremely humbled by the support that we have received since our concept took flight in 2014. I truly cannot say enough about about how great everyone is here and how proud we are to be a part of Emporia!
READERS:
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO
Just another huge Thank You to the community and to those who took the time to vote for us! And it really goes beyond. We are thankful for each person that has visited Radius, whether it’s a regular thing or only once. For all of those who take the time to visit our social media pages and like, share, or follow things that we post. For those that come up to us just to say hi. And for those that take the time to let us know how we are doing by reaching out to us through one forum or another. ADD:
gouRMet Roast Coffee • Kona MoCha • Caffe MoCha • oRegon Chai •
COFFEE
Caffe latte
809 Commerical • 620-342-4001
Thank you for voting us
2018
• white ChoColate MoCha
Best Coffee
Hours:
Monday-Friday: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sunday: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. www.granadacoffeecompany.com
15 years in a row! ReadeRs’ ChoiCe awaRd • Best Coffee 2004 - 2018
• CappuCCino • deCaf vanilla latte • full leaf loose tea
Thank you for voting Olpe Chicken House Best Fried Chicken!
Page 25
to the rotation such as our Weekday Happy Hour, Sunday Brunch, and Monday Pizza and Pint Night. We have grown from roughly 20 employees to nearly 50 employees. And we aren’t done yet! Look for some more enhancements to happen in the near future! THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Learn, adapt, evolve. We understand that constant learning and being able to adapt in an ever changing business landscape are requisites for success. The day that you stop learning is the day that you start to fail. We also understand that we are far from perfect and are receptive to constructive criticism, ideas, and suggestions from those that surround us and use those to make Radius better. Through teamwork, openminded thought, a lot of help from our amazing employees, and a ton of support from our loved ones and the community, we have been able to maintain solid business operations in a challenging field.
Muffins • Many CReative flavoRings • CRoissant sandwiChes •
July 21 and 22, 2018
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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Thank you all for helping us make Radius Brewing Company what it is! BEST BRE AKFAST
Commercial Street Diner Dave & Janet Laird FOUNDED: June 22, 2010 OWNERS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Home cooked meals prepared to the customers taste, cooked fresh and to their specifications. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Good food, fair prices and fabulous customer service! HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
We are so pleased. This is an honor! We hope to live up to the expectations that come along with this award. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank
you to our customers!
BEST ICE CREAM
Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Store Interview was not available by publication deadline. V V V
BEST IN THE BUSINESS
BUSINESS: Wright
CPA Group PA
FOUNDED: 1972 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Income
tax preparation/ planning, Bookkeeping, Payroll, consulting Trust & Estate tax preparation/planning, Agreed Upon Procedures
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
continue to develop the S.T.A.R. (Sharing Talents And Resources) program. Through the S.T.A.R. program we offer our CPA services to selected churches, non-profits and deserving individuals for free as a way to give back to our community. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Great clients, many of whom become our dear friends, and a talented and dedicated staff. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
I am humbled and honored to receive this award. I appreciate all who voted for me. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
We try to provide accounting and tax services with honesty and integrity as a way to honor God. We treat clients work as if it is our own. We feel it’s very important to explain tax and accounting information to our clients so they can understand all aspects of their situation.
TO ADD:
BEST AUTO MECHANIC B E S T AC C O U N TA N T
Timothy Wright, CPA PRESIDENT: Timothy
Wright
Jesse Shaver Cliff ’s Super Service OWNER: Jesse Shaver BUSINESS:
July 21 and 22, 2018
FOUNDED: 1938
- I started with the customers, who trust us, my business in 1964. Cliff ’s started family and my employees. in 1938. Great Grandpa started his own blacksmith shop in 1890 BEST CAR SALESMAN (the transportation of the day). Larry Magsam, Crown Vic So really our family has been working on transportation in Auto Emporia for 128 years. OWNERS: Larry & Carol Magsum PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES FOUNDED: August 1, 1986 OFFERED: Complete automotive maintenance, driveability concerns on newer and older automobiles and light trucks. We meet or exceed O.E. specs.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
Numerous updates in technology and equipment. ASE recertification and training. This is ongoing every day. We have added the latest in diagnostic equipment like the Snap-On Verus Suite. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: High degree of integrity. We take pride in our quality of service. We keep safety in mind as well as your pocketbook. We have a family tradition in super service. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
I am very honored to receive the award for Best Auto Mechanic. I have to give credit to my dad, grandpa and great grandpa; they started this business with super service in mind. I hope they are looking down with pride. A special thank you to my customers and employees who have made this business a success. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: I
owe my success to my loyal
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED:
Cars, trucks, sport utilities - late model, low miles, with factory warranty - also trade ins with much lower prices. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: No, just
trying to fill orders - make, model, color, price range, etc. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: No secret, just hard work and finding the right vehicle for our customers. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Great, doesn’t seem like we are doing that good of a job filling most orders, prices are high, low mile vehicles are scarce. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Yes, Carol and I agreed that
this would be our last year to get a license to do this. August 1st will be 32 years that we have had our business. And we want to thank everyone for their continued support and trust. It means alot. BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Chris Owens Interview was not available by publication deadline. BEST CHURCH
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
Interview was not available by publication deadline. BEST DENTIST
Michelle E. Malone, DDS BUSINESS: Bennett
Dental Group/
Malone Dental FOUNDED: 1969/2016
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Family
Dentistry
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
We have been working on transitioning from Bennett Dental Group to Malone Dental. Aside from tragically losing Dr. Benton Bennett, we still have the same awesome staff. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
People! We have a great staff and we all treat each other and or patients with friendship and respect. We treat our patients like we would want to be treated We try to go above and beyond what is expected from their dental office. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Honored! Emporia has a lot of great dentists, and I feel honored to be chosen as a favorite! ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: I
would just like to thank all of our patients who come here and trust their smile with us. BEST EYE DOCTOR
Dr. David Miller BUSINESS: Miller
Eye Care OWNER: Dr. David Miller FOUNDED: 1972 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
OFFERED: Complete
eye health care and optical services. Eye health examinations and treatment of eye diseases. Optical services including glasses and contact lenses. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
We continually update services and equipment as new technology is introduced. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We have a very talented, experiences and dedicated staff. We try to treat all of our patients the way we would like our families to be cared for. OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
I am very humbled and appreciative. I would like to thank all of our patients for trusting us for their eye care.
READERS:
BEST HAIR STYLIST
decor!
OFFERED: Multiple
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Passion, honesty, sometimes too much, I’m sure! And I truly care for every client, not just their hair but themselves. I listen to what they really need and do all I can to give them hair to work with their lifestyle. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
I am so flattered and honored. It makes it feel like the hard work and time I put in during the year pays off ! There are so many great stylists in this town that to receive The Best is just priceless!
Alter Image Salon OWNERS: Brittany Partridge & Mindy Engle FOUNDED: Feb 2012 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
I’ve really upgraded my color & product line to a luxury line called Kevin Murphy to offer an out of the box, customizable color experience and better products for continued hair care. We offer most services to men, women, and kiddos! OFFERED:
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
are in the process currently of some changes on and in our building, from small projects to
line insurance agent specializing in personal and commercial insurance from an inventory. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
expanded office staff.
everyone who took the time to vote for their favorite in any category, Thank You! Small town businesses really appreciate your committed support!
Keeping things simple. Keeping things focused on client. Doing what’s best for the need. Honesty. Integrity. Openness. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
It’s the best. If you are in business why not try to be the best at it. BEST LANDLORD
ADD: For
BEST INSURANCE AGENT
Pete Euler BUSINESS: State
Agency
Farm Insurance
OWNER: Pete
Euler FOUNDED: January 1984 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
MILLER
eyecare 2504 W. 15th Ave. Emporia 620-342-7054
I’ve
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO
Brittany Partridge BUSINESS:
Page 27
Cory Haag Cory Haag, Carrie HaagKueser, Harry Haag, Andrew Haag BUSINESS: Haag Management, Inc. OWNERS: Cory and Harry Haag FOUNDED: 1991 NAMES:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Property Management. Apartments, Condos, Townhomes & Lofts in the Emporia Area. emporiarentals. com
Dr. Miller and the Staff would like to Thank You for voting us Best Eye Care.
millereyecarellc.com
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
FOUNDED: August
OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
SNS Dipping Powder Nails, Pink & White, Solar Nails, Glitter Nails & Tips, Designer Tips, Acrylic Nails, Seashell Nails, Gel Manicures, NuSkin Products Available, Organic Product Pedicures & Manicures, Gel Pedicures, SIGNATURE Pedicures, Kids Pedicures, Manicures, Safe-T-Nails Waterless Manicures and Nail Art. Full Body Waxing Services and Paraffin Wax for hands and feet. Let us make your hands and feet DYNAMIC!
TO ADD:
The Roosevelt Plaza & Legacy & Legacy Lofts in Downtown Emporia. Recent projects include: Logan Lofts, Chelsea Plaza & Lofts, Granada Plaza & Lofts, Granada Plaza & Lofts, Kellogg Plaza & Lofts, Ashley Estates, Ashley II, The Lofts at Kirkland Court & Haag Pharmacy. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: Treat people the way we would want to be treated. Provide a secure, clean and well maintained environment, a place people are proud to call home. Our employees work hard everyday to service our customers.
31, 2010
July 21 and 22, 2018
OFFERED:
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: We
have added more technicians, SNS Dipping Powder the HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS NEWEST technology utilizing AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: much less toxic chemicals We are very grateful to be recognized by the Gazette readers and Safe-T-Nails Waterless Manicures, Organic Manicures as the “Best of the Flint Hills.” We will continue to work hard to & Pedicures using NuSkin products. offer area residents the highest THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: We levels of rentals and service. are focused on our customer’s Emporia and the surrounding needs by offering a friendly, area is a great place to live and work. We greatly enjoy being part comfortable and relaxing of the community and providing environment. We continue to bring the latest products, quality rentals in the Emporia styles fashion and services Area. in the industry to Emporia. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE Always focusing on continuing TO ADD: Emporia is growing and education in industry experiencing exiting times. It is developments. great to see the Community work HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING together to grow Emporia. THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE BEST NAIL TECHNICIAN
Dao Nguyen BUSINESS: Dynamic
Nails & Spa OWNER: Dao Nguyen
READERS: We
are all very proud and feel honored by this prestigious award and we want to thank all of our clients for nominating Dao. We are very proud of her and excited to be a
part of her team. We are grateful to our clients for their loyalty and our continued success. Thank you very much.
tell their horrific stories during a forensic interview, without triggering re-traumatization, by employing a team approach to oversee each case to the end; that end being prosecution. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
BEST NONPROFIT
SOS, Inc. COMMUNITY RELATIONS COORDINATOR: FOUNDED:
1976
Taumi Boyce
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
SOS provides necessary intervention to protect the victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse and neglect. SOS also serves victims of stalking and human trafficking; crimes that are proven harbingers of physical and sexual abuse. Our organization partners with local service providers and utilizes community resources to ensure clients receive the highest level of advocacy possible, while protecting each client’s right to confidentiality. SOS provides Crisis Services for outreach intervention, court and medical advocacy, prevention education and awareness, and emergency safe shelter. SOS CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) serves as the voice for children in the court system. Whereas the SOS Child Visitation and Exchange Center provides a safe, family friendly environment for children to have visits with their non-custodial parent, the SOS Child Advocacy Center provides a means for abused children to OFFERED:
SOS’ newest program “SOS Safe Bar’ is working with local bars to help them know what to do when they witness alarming behaviors in their establishment. The goal of Safe Bar Alliance is to collaborate with bars to keep their staff and customers safe from predatory behavior, sexual harassment and sexual assault. SOS has created a network of “SOS Safe Place” locations within the community to help victims safely reach out to our organization for help. SOS provides services to men and other underserved populations, including the elderly and disabled. To better reach and involve the male demographic SOS created “SOS Strong”, or a team of up-standing men in our community to help raise awareness, support and funds for our services. We have also increased our efforts to educate the public about domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse and neglect, and human trafficking. Due to the growing prevalence of our outreach programs, SOS has witnessed a steady increase in services provided. No, we’re not suggesting more abuse has transpired because of our prevention efforts, rather more people now understand OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
what constitutes abuse and neglect and therefore are more aggressively reporting such occurrences. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Continuing to have a community that supports us no matter what we need; assisting with fundraisers, donating items needed for victims, and volunteering their time. Without this caring community, and our amazing staff, SOS would not have become what it is today; a multi-faceted human services organization that serves six counties and provided 14,447 services to our communities in 2017. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: We
are very humbled by this award and immensely grateful for the opportunity to educate more people about our organization, those diverse services designed to ensure their safety, through this recognition. The more people who are familiar with and trust SOS, the more victims we can ultimately protect and help recover from the lingering trauma of domestic violence and sexual assault, child abuse and neglect.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Everyone
at SOS would like to thank the Gazette for its steady efforts to help SOS educate, advocate for and protect those local communities we so diligently aim to serve. Without your positive support, graciously allotted time and resources, our organization would not be the same. Thank you.
BEST OVERNIGHT AC C O M O DAT I O N S
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Northwest GENERAL MANAGER:
Kelli Mai
AHIP FOUNDED: December 2013 OWNER:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: The
hotel offers a hot complimentary breakfast featuring our Cinnabon cinnamon rolls and pancakes. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Emporia Hotel features 68 guestrooms and suites with microwaves, refrigerator, hair dryers, iron and ironing boards, along with free high-speed internet access throughout the hotel. Get energized in our fitness center with state of the art equipment and unwind in our indoor pool. A business center and meeting room are also available to meet your business needs.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
The Holiday Inn Express brand introduced the next generation of the Express Start breakfast for all hotels in the United States and Canada. This holistic solution includes updated graphics, new breakfast equipment and food presentation, requirements around 24/7 coffee, specified disposable serveware and utensils, brand-strengthening partnerships, and a new backof-house combi oven that allows us to go from precooked to fresh product.
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The secret to our success is Employee satisfaction. Management strives to create a well-balanced work environment for our staff. When our team is satisfied and happy then that translates into a great place for our guests to stay.
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
Receiving this award is a Big Deal, nothing is better than being recognized by family and friends!!! BEST PERSONAL TRAINER
Kelsey Camien Nava Yoga, LLC OWNER: Kelsey Camien, RYT 200 FOUNDED: January 2017 BUSINESS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Personal
training, private yoga instruction and drop in yoga classes.
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: I
have regularly invested in new exercise equipment, but I also offer to bring my services to the client’s home, if applicable. My business is in the process of rebranding; to better emphasize overall fitness and encourage home workouts with little equipment needed to make an impact. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: I strive to make my clients feel comfortable to workout and capable of pushing themselves by accommodating to their goals, needs and abilities. I
Thank you
for voting us Best Overnight Accommodations in Emporia!
3007 W. 18th Ave. • Emporia 620-343-1111
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
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continue learning so I can bring new knowledge to each session, keeping it interesting and the body guessing. My success is measured by each clients increase in confidence, strength and overall wellness. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
I feel extremely honored! It has been a pleasure to work with every person, business and organization in the community that I have, so thank you!
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
Although I am making a life transition, Emporia is my hometown. It will always be a special place to me and I have many fond memories of my first 18 months in business. Be on
TO ADD:
Thank
the lookout for online personal training and yoga videos with my website coming soon! BEST PHYSICIAN
Bryce Heitman, DO Family Medicine Physician
July 21 and 22, 2018
practice in Family Medicine has grown to four Family Physicians with one Nurse Practitioner as well as another Physician Assistant over the last 5 years. They have brought a wealth of experience and knowledge that is refreshing.
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: I
love what I do! I appreciate the ability to see a whole family for their medical needs and develop relationships and trust with them over time. This is what I believe to be the secret of primary care and especially
BUSINESS: Newman
Regional Health Medical Partners FOUNDED: 2013 PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Currently
I am employed as a full-service Family Physician specializing in the full spectrum of medical care from newborn, pediatric, OB, adult and geriatric care. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS: Our
Newman Regional Health Medical Partners is very proud to announce Dr. Heitman's recognition as Best Physician in Emporia. Dr. Heitman would like to thank the community for their votes and continued support. He is honored to have been chosen and thankful for his amazing patients and families that he has the privilege of working with each and every day.
1301 W. 12th Ave., Suite 301 • Emporia, KS • (620) 343-2376 www.newmanrh.org
you for voTing us
BesT LandLord! 1020 Commercial St. Suite A, Emporia 620-343-6633 www.emporiarentals.com
July 21 and 22, 2018
Family Medicine. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS:
This award is both an honor to be selected as well as a humbling experience that several patients took the time to recognize the work that myself and our clinic staff do. I am extremely grateful and appreciative. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Nobody
can do this alone. I have an excellent clinic administrator with Lynn Doeden, RN, MSN as well as some very superb nursing staff of Darcy Darbro, LPN and Julie Lockmiller, LPN and even Cody Scheck who is a CNA that we recently added to our group who is doing well. They make what I do every day possible! BEST RADIO PERSONALITY
Ron Thomas, KVOE BUSINESS:
FM
KVOE AM 1400-96.9
GENERAL MANAGER: Ron
Thomas OWNERS: Sauder Family LLC FOUNDED: KVOE went on air in January of 1939. We are now in our 79th year of Live and Local service. PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES OFFERED: Local
THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
Live and Local programming is heard on AM 1400 and 96.9 FM and read (and heard) on our website kvoe.com. Our local content is streamed on kvoe. com and on our free mobile app with instant updates on Facebook and Twitter. The KVOE textline has become a popular way for us to engage with our listeners. ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
The KVOE website has been redesigned providing a fresh look and easier navigation. More Local programming is frequently added. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
We could not do what we do without a tremendous staff that is involved with the community and dedicated to providing Live and Local information to the Emporia area and getting results for our outstanding advertisers. KVOE has the world’s best listeners, and we are extremely fortunate to have Local ownership that believes in serving the community in a Live and Local way. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE
FOUNDED:
1965
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
I handle home sales, mulitfamily, cabins & lakehomes, land, and commercial listings and sales. OFFERED:
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to make Emporia a better place year after year. My customers make my job fun even with the hard work and challenges that we face in every home sale. Thank you!
ANY CHANGES OR IMPROVEMENTS
We have expanded adding the local Remax agents and local broker Aaron Sewell to the EK Team. We have put a huge emphasis on providing the best customer service and treating others as we would treat ourselves. OVER THE LAST COUPLE YEARS:
THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS:
Hard work, dedication to my customers & clients, changing with the market as technology continues to change the real estate world and treating my customers as if they are family. HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: I
am very honored & humbled to win this award for the 6th year in a row. It truly is a humbling experience. I love all of my past & present customers. ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD: Thank
you to the Emporia Community for working hard
BEST VETERINARIAN
Floyd K. Dorsey, DVM Dorsey Animal Clinic OWNER: Floyd K. Dorsey FOUNDED: September 1, 1983 BUSINESS:
PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES
Veterinary medical and surgery practice. Grooming and boarding as well. THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS: I have great long term employees who help me run the business and keep me working. We all love animals and seek to keep them healthy and pain free. OFFERED:
HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT RECEIVING THIS AWARD FROM THE GAZETTE READERS: I
humbled.
feel very blessed and
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE
Having a pet is good for your mental and physical health. TO ADD:
READERS: This is very rewarding, and we are honored. From all of us at KVOE...Thank You!
and national news, Local weather (including B E S T R E A LTO R Live severe weather coverage), Local sports including K-U and Jeff Kitselman KC Royals, Local entertainment, BUSINESS: EK Real Estate results advertising and we are OWNERS: Jeff Williams, Jeff extremely proud of the public Kitselman, Aaron Sewell, Jan Utech service we provide. All of our
We look forward to serving you and your loved ones! Dorsey Animal Clinic • 2909 W. 12th Ave. • Emporia • 620-342-1221
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THE EMPORIA GAZETTE
July 21 and 22, 2018
Thank You Emporia for Voting ESB the BEST BANK 2018 Readers' Choice Awards
8th & Merchant • 12th & Industrial 620-342-3454 www.esbfinancial.com