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THE GAZETTE, EMPORIA, KANSAS
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Friday, July 24, 2026
2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS
23RD ANNUAL EMPORIA GAZETTE READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS The votes have been counted, and the results are in. The Emporia Gazette is proud to present the winners of the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, celebrating the businesses, organizations and individuals our readers say stand above the rest. Each year, thousands of votes are cast by members of our community, making the Readers’ Choice Awards a true reflection of the people and places that have earned the trust, loyalty and appreciation of local residents. From favorite restaurants and retailers to outstanding health care providers, service professionals and community destinations, the winners represent the very best our area has to offer. This year’s winners were selected through online voting by Gazette readers from Lyon County and surrounding communities, including Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Morris and Osage counties. The Readers’ Choice Awards recognize excellence across dozens of categories spanning food and drink,
shopping, goods and services, health care, professional services and more. Every vote reflects a positive experience and a recommendation from someone in our community. Beyond recognizing outstanding businesses, the awards also encourage friendly competition, inspire exceptional customer service and highlight the many reasons Emporia and the surrounding area are such great places to live, work, shop and dine. They also offer readers an opportunity to discover a new favorite business or revisit a longtime community staple. Each winner receives official recognition as a 2026 Emporia Gazette Readers’ Choice Award winner and may proudly display that honor throughout the coming year. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners, finalists and nominees. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and support the local businesses and professionals that make our communities thrive.
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS B E S T A S I A N R E S TA U R A N T
BEST BURGER
Mizumi
J's Carryout
BEST BAR AND GRILL R E S TA U R A N T
627 Event Space 627 Commercial St Emporia KS 66801 620-208-7627 OWNERS: Ashley Kopecky & Carlos Ramos WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Building strong relationships with our customers, supporting local schools, nonprofits, & community events, and serving the best food and coldest drinks! B E S T B A R B E C U E R E S TA U R A N T
BobbyD's Merchant Street BBQ 607 Merchant St Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-1990 bobbydsbbq.com OWNERS: Chris and Ashley Walker WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Premium meats slow smoked daily for the freshest BBQ. Also, our amazing staff who have decades of experience and who make sure every customer receives the very best service. . BEST BRE AKFAST
Commercial Street Diner
27 Commercial St WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
It is our wonderful customers from Emporia and the surrounding areas, who remain a vital part of our business. I also want to recognize our dedicated staff for their hard work in preparing great food and providing exceptional service. Most importantly, I am thankful for the unwavering support of my family and friends. Thank you to everyone who continues to support us here at J's Carryout. BEST COFFEE
Homegrown Coffey 620-803-2613 www.homegrowncoffey.com OWNER: Hatti Wright WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
All of our loyal followers are really the true secret to our success! Being a mobile business, if people aren’t following, sharing, and paying attention no one would ever know where to find us. All the delicious coffee in the world doesn’t matter if no one can find us. So thank you to everyone who takes the time out of their day to tell a friend, like a post on social media, or share the schedule. We wouldn’t be here without you!
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST DONUTS
Daylight Donuts BEST FOOD TRUCK
The Daily Station Carry Out: (620) 333-0109 Catering (Call or Text): (857) 701-2030 Facebook: The Daily Station OWNERS: Robin Figueroa & Lidia Raquel de Figueroa WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
ers’ Choice winner for both Best Food Truck and Best Catering is an incredible honor. These awards inspire us to continue raising the bar and providing exceptional food, memorable catering experiences, and outstanding service to every guest. BEST FRIED CHICKEN
Olpe Chicken House B E S T M E X I C A N R E S TA U R A N T
Our success is built on serving every El Lorito customer like family. We are committed to fresh, high-quality food, genuine hospitality, consistency, and hard work evB E S T P I Z Z A R E S TA U R A N T ery single day. We are incredibly grateful to our loyal customers, our dediGambino's Pizza cated team, and the Emporia community for believing in us throughout our 1003 Industrial Road 620-343-9114 journey—from an award-winning food www.gambinospizza.com truck to The Daily Station restaurant. Being recognized as the 2026 Read- OWNERS: Brad & Amy Richardson
MANAGER(S): Dylan Anderson, Logan An- KS 66801 (3rd Floor of the Kress Buildderson, Nick Ponce ing) WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? OWNERS: Cecil Lane, Bryan Whitmore, GREAT Products made/served By a Glenda Redding WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? GREAT staff!
BEST STEAK
Rolling Hills Bar and Grill BEST SUB SANDWICH SHOP
Planet Sub BEST WINGS
Do B’s BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM
Lane Whitmore, LLC 702 Commercial St, Suite 3A Emporia,
Our clients and our staff! We have a wide variety of clients across a diverse set of industries – and we strive to be proactive and think “outside the box” to implement the right strategies to meet their needs. Our staff handles tax returns and tax planning, payroll, sales tax, bookkeeping and financial statements, and we feel they are some of the most knowledgeable in the industry – always willing to go above and beyond. B E S T A PA RT M E N T COMPLEX
Ashley Estates
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST AUCTION SERVICE
J & D Auction Service A U TO B O DY R E PA I R S H O P
Floyd's Inc 1221 Industrial Rd, Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-7713, www.floydsinc.com, Facebook: Floyd’s Inc OWNER: Ruth Wheeler WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
There is no secret to our success— it has always been our customers, our dedicated team, and the incredible community we are proud to serve. For the past 58 years, our community has trusted us with their vehicles. We are incredibly grateful to our loyal customers who continue to choose us and recommend us to their family and friends. We are also blessed with an exceptional team of skilled technicians and staff whose dedication, craftsmanship, and integrity make this recognition possible. This year is especially meaningful to our family. After the loss of my husband, John Wheeler, last year, the support we received was overwhelming. Your continued trust has allowed us to honor his legacy by continuing to provide the same quality service he believed in every day. Receiving the Readers' Choice Award is an honor, and we know it reflects the loyalty of an amazing community.
Thank you for your votes, your trust, and for allowing us to serve you for the past 58 years. We are truly honored and look forward to continuing to serve you. BANK
ESB Financial Banking, Investments, Trust, Mortgage 801 Merchant St | 1111 Industrial Rd 620-342-3454 www.esbfinancial.com 224 E Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502 785-539-3553 OWNERS: The Wayman Family WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
It all comes down to Team ESB— past, present, and future. For 125 years, we’ve built our legacy on more than just financial services—we’ve built it on people, relationships, and a deep-rooted commitment to our communities. Every team member at ESB carries forward a tradition of excellence, integrity, and service that began in 1901. As we celebrate our 125th anniversary in 2026, we’re not just celebrating the years—we’re honoring the generations of team members and clients who made this recognition possible.Thank you for trusting us to be your Best Bank in Emporia! We’re proud to serve you—and we’re just getting started.Here’s to the next 125!
BARBER SHOP
Hair Krafters
and wants at the forefront of everything that we do. B E ST C A R WA S H
BEAUTY SALON
Mr G's Carwashes
Melissa's Chop Shop
2032 W 6th Ave 1901 W 6th Ave 716 E 12th Ave 620-208-9274 mrgs-express.com OWNERS: Betty Giefer and Family WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
BEST CAR DEALERSHIP – N E W, U S E D , O I L C H A N G E SERVICE
Longbine Auto Plaza 3012 W Highway 50, Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-2744 www.longbineauto.com, Facebook: Longbine Auto Plaza WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
A big thank you to our customers and your readers for this award. The secret to our success always comes back to an experienced, well trained staff who keeps the customer’s needs
We are honored to be nominated Best of the Flint Hills for 17 years in a row and we couldn’t have done it without our amazing customers. At Mr. G’s Car Wash, we combine the best car wash technology in the industry with the values of a family-owned business: quality, care, and a commitment to our community. Thank you for your continued trust and support. It’s our privilege to serve you year after year! – The Mr. G’s Car Wash Team
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST CARPET CLEANING C O M PA N Y
Emporia Carpet Cleaning 620-340-8090 OWNERS: Devin & Xochitl Carlson WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Hard work & knowledge.
B E S T C AT E R E R
Daily Station BEST CHILD CARE FACILIT Y
Emporia Community Day Care Center Inc (Emporia Child Care) 1320 C of E Drive, Emporia 620-342-3060 WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Love, Kindness, Patience and a Great Staff!
BEST CHURCH
First United Methodist
tanica Floral & Design OWNER: Liz Shafer WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We focus on quality over quantity and believe every arrangement should feel intentional. From sourcing exceptional blooms, including many from local growers, to creating artistic, personal designs, we put care into every detail. Pairing that with genuine customer service has helped us build meaningful reWe have an amazing group of volun- lationships within our community, and teers and staff that help accomplish our we’re incredibly grateful for the support mission to Connect, Grow, Love, and we’ve received. Serve our community and beyond. BEST FUNERAL HOME BEST CONSTRUCTION C O M PA N Y Roberts-Blue-Barnett 823 Merchant Emporia, KS 620-342-6186 front.office@fumchurch.org www.fumchurch.org, FB: Emporia First United Methodist Church PASTORS: Reverends Ross Baker and Amanda Baker WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
MexUS Precast BEST FLORIST
Botanica Floral & Design 502 Commercial St., Suite 101 Emporia, KS 66801 (620) 412-7394 www.botanicafloralks.com Facebook: Bo-
Funeral Home
605 State St, Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-2134 www.robertsblue.com OWNER: William G. Pike WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Trust and Tradition and an amazing crew that carries on the Honor and a Privilege for the family that we serve. Thank You!
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1221 Industrial Rd. Emporia, KS 620-342-7713
Thank You for Voting Us Best Auto Body Shop and for Supporting Us for 58 Years in Business!
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS B E S T H E AT I N G A N D A I R C O M PA N Y
Modern Air BEST INSURANCE AGENCY
Matt Harmon- Integrity Insurance Agency BEST INTERNET PROVIDER
Sparklight 2914 W Hwy 50 Suite A, Emporia KS 66801 620-208-5000 www.sparklight.com/locations/emporiaks OWNERS: It's a company owned office. It's opened and operated by Sparklight WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
At Sparklight, our success starts with a simple commitment: keeping our customers and communities con-
nected to what matters most. We invest in reliable, fiber-powered technology that helps families work, learn, stream, and stay connected, but technology alone isn't enough. What truly sets us apart is our people. Our associates live and work in the communities we serve, providing local, neighborly service and support. In Emporia, we've invested more than $3 million in our network over the past three years, while also supporting local schools, nonprofit organizations, and community initiatives through grants, volunteerism, and partnerships. We believe success comes from earning trust every day—by delivering reliable service, supporting our customers when they need us, and giving back to the communities we call home. We're honored that the readers of The Emporia Gazette chose Sparklight as their #1 Internet Provider, and we're grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Emporia.
B E S T I N V E S T M E N T C O M PA N Y
B E S T PA I N T I N G P RO V I D E R
ESB Financial-Fred Harder
Lawson Painting, Inc.
B EST L AW N M A I N T E N A N C E
Chris's Mow-N-Go (620)757-5306 Facebook: Chris's Mow-N-Go WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Work hard, be honest and always put the customers first. BEST MECHANICAL AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE
Mel’s Auto BEST OIL CHANGE PROVIDER
Longbine Auto Plaza
902 Sunrise Dr, Emporia, KS 66801 620-794-3694 Facebook: Lawson Painting, Inc. OWNERS: Brian and Misty Lawson WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Brian.
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Emporia — we are once again honored. Voted #1 Internet Provider
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in the Emporia Gazette Readers’ Choice Awards • 13 Years Running
Thank you, Emporia,
Your trust means everything to us. We’re proud to provide the fast, reliable internet and local service our neighbors count on every day.
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Scan to visit Sparklight.com or call 620.208.5000 Local office: 2914 US-50, Emporia ver-a-Print_Ads_Emporia_Gazette_Readers’_Choice_Awards-26-(9.75x10)
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST PEST CONTROL SERVICE
Flint Hills Termite & Pest Control, Inc 703 Prairie St, Emporia 620-342-3320 FlintHillsPest.com OWNER: Darren Biggs WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We may not drive the prettiest trucks, but we provide quality service at affordable prices. Termite control is one of our specialties! B E S T P L U M B I N G C O M PA N Y
1st Choice Plumbing 704 Industrial Road Emporia, Ks 66801 WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Lord’s Lambs Preschool
1st Choice Plumbing would like to work hard to be your 1st Choice. Thank 1348 Trailridge Rd Emporia, Ks 66801 620-342-4669 thank everyone who has supported you. -The Team at 1st Choice Plumbing lordslambspreschool.com Facebook: and trusted us to help them with their B E S T P R E S C H O O L Lord’s Lambs Preschool plumbing needs. 1st Choice Plumbing WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR knows there are other plumbing choices out there, and we will continue to Lord’s Lambs Preschool SUCCESS?
The secret to our success is the amazing staff, our students and the support from Faith Lutheran Church, our parents and our community! We are grateful for this honor!
Thank you
Thank you
once again for voting!
once again for voting us:
Five years in a row
“REALTOR® of the Year”
“Best of the Flint Hills” Emporia’s #1 Real Estate Agency
“It’s an honor to be named REALTOR® of the Year for 2026. I’m grateful for the opportunity to help buyers, sellers, and tenants throughout the Emporia area and surrounding communities. Building lasting relationships and providing exceptional service are at the heart of everything I do, and our team is committed to making every transaction as smooth and successful as possible. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent, I’d love the opportunity to help you achieve your real estate goals. I look forward to serving you and our community!”
th 1201 W. 6th AVE., Emporia KS (620) 342-3366
Justin Tabares (620) 794-4010
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS B E S T R E A L E S TAT E F I R M
REMAX EK Real Estate 1202 W 6TH AVE., Emporia KS (620) 342-3366 emporia.remaxekrealestate.com OWNERS: Aaron Sewell (Supervising Broker), Jeff Williams, Jeff Kitselman, Lacie Hamlin, Carlos Garate, and Jennifer Craft WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
communities and treating every client like family. For over 60 years, our success has come from earning trust; one home, one family, and one relationship at a time! BEST ROOFING PROVIDER
CP Roofing & Tree Service
gastorage701@gmail.com OWNER: Nelson Emery Facility Manager: Madeleine Matthews WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
BEST TOWING C O M PA N Y
Flint Hills Towing
Been in business for a long time. 423 Graham St. 620-343-2326 We have great security and we appreflinthillstowing.net ciate our customers and we are always OWNERS: Jason and Richelle Birk friendly. B E S T TA N N I N G FACILIT Y
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We are successful because of all of our loyal customers throughout the year and our amazing staff.
Since 1965, we've been committed 610 Lakeview Emporia KS The Midas Touch 620-794-4387 to serving the Emporia area with inBEST TREE SERVICE tegrity, experience, and a people-first OWNER: María Cruz 2918 US-50, Emporia, KS 66801 WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? www.midastouchtans.com @mgoldenapproach. We believe real estate is tans about more than buying and selling Consistency, quality, and always putAmerican Tree Care LLC OWNERS: Darrell & Lea Ringler homes, it's about building lasting rela- ting our customers first. WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? tionships and strengthening the comEmporia, KS S T O R A G E F A C I L I T Y 620-757-2255 Misty munities we call home! What is the secret to your success? 620.794-9787 Nathan Our trusted agents work togethFriends, Fun, & Innovations Touch. Graphic Arts Street er to guide every client through a americantreecarellccompany.com Storage Co. smooth, successful transaction while OWNERS: Misty Fowler-Fleming and NaBEST TIRE STORE than McDonald providing the knowledge, communi701 Lantern Lane P:620-343-1873, F:620-343-8554 cation, and support they deserve. We www.graphicarstreetstorage.com take pride in giving back to our local Mel's Tire
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST BIKE STORE
High Gear 520 Commercial St, Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-4977 ridehighgear.com, facebook. com/RideHighGear OWNERS: Ty and Lacie Davis WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
The secret to our success begins and ends with family. In addition to being a husband and wife duo, we also have Ty's parents (Tom and Amy), little brother (Brody) and aunt and uncle (Matt and Stephanie) all working with us on a regular basis. Without them, we truly would not be where we are. We also include the rest of the guys on our team (Shawn, Isaac and Josh) as family - these guys have shown us true sacrifice and dedication of which we are eternally grateful. The culture we have established in the shop is something we wouldn't trade for anything in the world. We are extremely blessed to have the support system that is Team High Gear to help us dedicate all of our energy to this community that we love so much.
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST CARPET & TILE
Clark Carpet & Tile, Inc. 3302 W 6th Ave. Emporia,Ks. 66801 620-343-6883 clarkcarpetandtile.com OWNERS: Pat & Lori Clark WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We stand behind what we sell & install and give fair & honest pricing, no hidden fees. B E S T C L OT H I N G A P PA R E L SHOP
Marshall’s BEST FURNITURE STORE
Guion’s Showcase 2023 W 6th Ave 620-342-7469 www.guionsshowcase.com, www.facebook.com/guionsshowcase/
OWNERS: Mike and Marie Guion WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
It is our great pleasure to be able to serve Emporia and the Flint Hills area!
BEST GIF T SHOP
Trox Gallery & Gifts 715 Commercial 620-208-8769 troxgallery.com
OWNERS: Kristin Oberle WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We curate the most unique gifts and support local artists. We provide the best customer service around to enhance everyone's gift shopping.
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS B E ST G RO C E RY STORE
Aldi B E ST H A R DWA R E STORE
Bluestem BEST LIQUOR STORE
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Thank you to our customers. Your support, trust, and loyalty are the secret to our success. Every visit, purchase, and conversation helps us grow and improve. We truly appreciate the opportunity to serve you and thank you for being the most important part of our business. Thank you for choosing Sutherlands! B E S T P E T S U P P LY S T O R E
Liquor Locker
Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply
B E S T L U M B E R S U P P LY S T O R E
BEST RESALE SHOPS
Sutherlands
Goodwill
1700 Industrial Rd. Emporia, KS 66801 (620)343-6100 sutherlands.com/s/emporia-ks/4308 Facebook: sutherlandsemporia OWNER: Bob Sutherland
BEST SHOE STORE
Browns Shoefit Company
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS B E ST S P O RT I N G G O O D S
Dunham's Sports BEST BAR/NIGHT CLUB
Mulready's Pub
BEST DISC GOLF COURSE
Champions Landing 1801 Rural St Champslanding.com, facebook.com/ champslanding OWNER: Jeremy Rusco WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We care deeply about the experience
717 Commercial St Emporia Ks of the disc golfers who come to play this B: 620-208-2337 property and we try to have courses M: 903-520-1562 available for every skill level. OWNER/GENERAL MANAGER: Meg WorthBEST GOLF COURSE ing (she/her)
BEST COMMUNITY EVENT O R F E ST I VA L
Emporia Municipal Golf Course
Life Time UNBOUND Gravel
B E S T PA R K
www.unboundgravel.com OWNERS: Life Time WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
The Emporia Community!
Thank you for voting us
BEST in the Flint Hills!
605 State St, Emporia, KS 66801
620-342-2134
Owner: William Pike
Peter Pan Park www.emporiaks.gov, www.facebook.com/ EmporiaKS/ City of Emporia
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Brittain Chiropractic and Acupuncture
3021 Eaglecrest Dr suite B1 620-208-7550 www.brittainchiro.com www.facebook.com/share/17LC9BYwwU/ ?mibextid=wwXIfr OWNERS: Dr. Jacob Brittain & Dr. Lisa Brittain WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We love our patients and try to treat them all like family. We’ve been here now going on 12 years and we have some patients I’ve treated through pregnancy and then the babies who have now become taller than me! I love seeing them grow and they really do become like family! BEST DENTIST
Joseph Laudie Dental
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Toso Family Eye Care 827 Commercial Street, Emporia KS 620-481-0559 FB/Insta: Toso Family Eye Care www. tosofamilyeyecare.com OWNER: Caitlin Toso WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Thank you for a wonderful five years, Emporia! We try to continue to stay focused on our community's eye care needs through consistency and authenticity in our service. We work hard to provide a welcoming atmosphere and strive to offer the newest, most updated technology and products. We thank you for all you have done for us and look forward to the next five years!
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST FITNESS CENTER
Emporia Fitness 2812 W 12th ave, Emporia, KS emporiafitness.com OWNER: Greg Bachman; MANAGER: Kyle Ayer WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPIST
PT Associates of Emporia BEST PHYSICIAN
Integrity Medical @ We pride ourselves on having a Strive Wellness locally owned facility, where people can feel welcome as soon as they Dr. Amanda Ruxton walk in the door. We have an excellent staff that keeps the facility clean 2522 West 15th Avenue Emporia KS 66801 and welcomes you as when you walk 620-208-6105 in the door. We do month-to-month memberships and free cancellations Facebook : Strive Wellness Group or Dr Amanda Ruxton with no contracts. Come check us out OWNER: Dr Amanda Ruxton, DO today! BEST PHARMACY
Walmart
WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Partnering with our patients to communicate updated health and science information in a way that empowers choices and personal investment to succeed in their long term health goals.
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS B E S T A D U LT D I S A B I L I T Y CARE SERVICES
Hetlinger Developmental Services, Inc. 707 S. Commercial St. Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-1087 www.hetlinger.org NON-PROFIT RAN BY A BOARD OF DIRECTORS WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
The secret to Hetlinger's success is its unwavering commitment to putting people first. By focusing on each individual's unique abilities, providing meaningful opportunities for growth, and fostering genuine community connections, Hetlinger empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their full potential. This success is made possible through the dedication of caring staff, strong partnerships with local businesses and
supporters, and a culture that believes every person has value, purpose, and something meaningful to contribute. B E S T AT T O R N E Y
Atherton & Huth Law Office Deb Huth 415 Commercial St. Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-1277 www.athertonhuthemporia.com OWNERS: Stephen J. Atherton and Deborah A. Huth WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
We approach every case with empathy, professionalism, and efficiency. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional support and ensuring each client's needs are met with care.
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620.342.1990 bobbydsbbq.com
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST BARBER
BEST CAR SALESPERSON
Emporia Downton a Barbershop
James Sparks - Longbine
528 Merchant St Suite 6 Facebook: Emporia Downtown Barbershop 785-608-0549 OWNERS: Orlando Castillo WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
BEST ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
I would say the secret to success is Gerald Schumann Electric, Inc. consistency and passion. Always want601 W 6th Ave, Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-2176 ing to do better than yesterday. I enjoy each and every one of my clients and www.geraldschumannelectric.com I believe that's what makes it all work. OWNERS: J. Michael Schumann & Daniel My goal is to provide a positive atmo- L. Schumann sphere and comfortable space for every- WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? one that walks through the doors and Honesty & integrity. sits in my chair. Building relationships and making people feel confident when BEST FINANCIAL they leave means everything to me. I’m ADVISOR incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for me and made this award possible. Fred Harder Thank you for your continued trust in support.
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2026 READERS’ CHOICE WINNERS BEST GRAPHIC DESIGN C O M PA N Y
Coffelt Sign Co., Inc. 18 S Commercial St 620.343.6411 coffeltsigns.com OWNERS: Rick and Staci Hamman WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
“Pay Attention to the Little Details” BEST HAIR STYLIST
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
MLG Photography By Mandy Giefer
B E S T R E A LT O R
Instagram: braidedxalejandra Facebook: Braided x Alejandra Snapchat: @braidedxale OWNER: Alejandra Mitchell WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Justin Tabares - EK BEST SENIOR CARE LIVING FACILIT Y
If you want to succeed in anything, you Emporia Presbyterian have to be the one who determines your poManor tential. You have to believe in yourself even more than the people that believe in you. 2300 Industrial Road, Emporia, KS 66801
Matt Harmon Integrity Insurance Agency
Eric Hess - East Emporia Vet East Emporia Veterinary Clinic
The secret to our success is living 602 Exchange Street Emporia KS 66801 526 Oak Street Emporia 620-343-7682 our mission to provide quality senior www.facebook.com/share/1DqSFs3yn8/? eastemporiavet.com services guided by Christian values evmibextid=wwXIfr facebook.com/eevc602 ery day. Our focus is on ensuring our OWNER: Mandy Giefer OWNERS: Eric Hess and Haley DeLong WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS? residents and their families feel loved What is the secret to your success? I and cared for and are treated with digconsistently choose people over conve- nity and compassion. nience, and keep showing up even when life is a little bit chaotic. BEST VETERINARIAN
Braided X Alejandra
BEST INSURANCE AGENT
OWNER: PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®) WHAT IS THE SECRET TO YOUR SUCCESS?
620-343-2613 https://www.presbyterianmanors.org/ communities/emporia-presbyterianmanor/ https://www.facebook.com/EmporiaPresbyterianManorPMMA
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