Shop Local 2017

INSIDE

WINTER 2017

Merry & Bright Holiday lighting contest begins

Battle of the Trees

Real vs. Fake

History of the Holidays

A look at the past

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Table of Contents

Inside WINTER

8

2017

8 Stop & Shop at Mom & Pop Small Business Saturday impacts the local economy in many ways

12 History of the Holiday

A look into the past of downtown shopping

20

20 Merry & Bright

Emporians light the skies with festive decorations

26 Holiday Gift Guide Suggestions for anyone on your gift list

36

32 Battle of the Trees Real vs. Fake

36 Sweets & Treats Holiday baking recipes

42

42 Emporia Holiday Events 44 Chase County Holiday Events

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Editor’s Note

Editor and Publisher Chris and Ashley Walker Magazine Director Laci Rusco Art Director Kelsey Barker Design & Production Picante Creative Writers Regina Murphy Mary Ann Redeker Jessie Wagoner Photography Zach Hacker Dave Leiker Regina Murphy Copy Editors Zach Hacker Ashley Walker Marketing Victor Acosta Cassi Ellis-Olinger Ronda Henery Tayler Lyons Leann Sanchez Advertisement Design Margie McHaley Dan Ferrell Phillip Miller Katie Potter Online Facebook.com/emporialiving More information 517 Merchant Street Emporia, KS 66801 620-342-4800

Christmas season is here, and it’s time to start finding those perfect gifts.

What better time than now to introduce to our readers the newest magazine in the Emporia Living family, Shop Local!

We all know how impactful it can be when we shift a portion of our spending from national chains and the Internet to locally-owned businesses and services, especially this time of year.

Every dollar spent here in the Emporia area has a multiplier effect that allows our community to thrive and grow.

Shop Local is aimed at just that! Providing a platform for local businesses and services to showcase what they have to offer local consumers and to encourage our readers to start here for holiday — and everyday — shopping needs!

It’s easy to take for granted all that Emporia offers. From great restaurants to unique shops, and from quality goods and services to an engaging arts and entertainment culture, we have so much to enjoy and be proud of. But a town like Emporia doesn’t just happen.

It takes people who work hard and sacrifice much. Just ask any business featured in Shop Local. No doubt they have stories to tell about what it takes to not only survive, but thrive. It also takes local consumers who choose to spend their dollars locally first. Any Emporia business owner would agree that without local support it would be impossible to stay in business.

So we hope as the holiday shopping season begins, our readers would not only enjoy all Emporia has to offer this time of year — because there is so much! — but also make a commitment to support our town by shopping here first! Eat their food. Buy their products. Use their services. It makes a difference!

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Chris and Ashley Walker

Winter 2017 • 5

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Winter 2017 • 7

STOP & SHOP AT

MOM &POP

Small Business Saturday impacts the local economy in many ways

By Mary Ann Redeker

8 • SHOP LOCAL

E

mporians will have the opportunity to support downtown businesses Nov. 25 on Small Business Saturday.

First observed in the United States on Nov. 27, 2010, Small Business Saturday is a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which features big box retail and e-commerce stores, respectively. By contrast, Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers to visit brick and mortar businesses, or the “Mom and Pop stores,” which are small and local.

Jim Koch, owner of Second Love at 706 Commercial St., said the day was important because it draws attention to

those small merchants on main street.

“I feel that, more and more, our small businesses are fading away,” he said. “With businesses like Amazon and Walmart and the internet, people tend to forget about us. Small Business Saturday is wonderful for our small stores and helps bring attention to our business and what we have to offer.

“We will have lots of sales on Small Business Saturday. We try to find ways to thank our customers for their business by offering some type of special.

We noticed an increase in our sales last year on Small Business Saturday, so it’s been great. The more people we can get downtown, the better.”

Lane Hollern, owner of L & L Pets at 621 Commercial St., said he is also planning specials for his pet store on Nov. 25.

“It’s a nice, busy day for us and it’s great that people come to support small downtown merchants,” he said. “We’ve been in business for 35 years, and we’re lucky to have such loyal customers.

It means a lot to us that people have shopped with us over the years.”

Hollern said the Small Business Saturday celebration has continued to grow since its inception.

“We really noticed a larger influx of people coming into shop that day in the past couple years,” he said. “We do run

Winter 2017 • 9

those together as a gift. Another of our baskets includes our Southern Pecan Coffee that we only have available during the holidays that we pair with Sweet Granada Caramel Pecan Clusters, which is the gift basket that always sells out the fastest.”

sales that day, but for many, they come in just to show their support for us, and that is great. You always hear about the big businesses marking things down and some of us small businesses can’t compete with that.

“We do have so many other things that the big stores don’t offer; we offer service with a personal touch. There was a lady who came in recently for a new collar. I helped her find one, fit it and put it on her dog for her. She was really thankful. We don’t just take their money, we really try to help our customers and have conversations with them.”

Beverly Beers, manager of Granada Coffee Company at 809 Commercial St., said Small Business Saturday was the kickoff to the holiday shopping season for her and other small businesses downtown.

“We see a lot of new faces, plus our locals that day,” she said. “The day showcases what we will be offering during the holidays. The dollars spent downtown are vital to the local economy. We’ve been in business 15 years and, in the beginning, Small Business Saturday was just a bump in the road. There might be a few people who would come in back then, but now it has national attention.

Emporia Main Street also really puts the focus on helping us support the event.”

Beers said as participation in the event increases, so does the livelihood of

10 • SHOP LOCAL

“What people fail to understand is that by shopping local, you’re not just supporting that business, but you’re supporting every business that business deals with.”

Casey Woods, Emporia Main Street Director

the Mom and Pop businesses.

“What that does for a small business is that, when revenues go up, it allows us to reinvest back into our business,” she said. “Within the past two years, we were able to reinvest with new chairs, new umbrellas and equipment. The money definitely goes right back into the business and helps us stay a little bit fresher.”

Beers said she would be partnering with The Sweet Granada to offer some specialty gift baskets for customers during the holiday season.

“We offer our baskets at three different price points, and this year we will be adding a fourth,” she said. “It will be a smaller gift; cocoa from my great-grandmother’s recipe and Kim (Redeker) from The Sweet Granada will be making homemade marshmallows, so we will be packaging

Emporia Main Street Director Casey Woods said each year, he and area merchants try to do a little more to engage the community with Small Business Saturday. Last year’s Sugar Stroll was a success, so it will be brought back this year, along with other surprises.

“We don’t talk enough about the magnification effect of shopping in a locally-owned business,” he said. “Those businesses have local banks, local accountants, local attorneys, local advertisers and local support personnel. They are people who own houses here and they support the local economy in many ways. Shop online and those dollars generally never really hit our town. Shop a lot of larger chains and those dollars immediately leave town.

“What people fail to understand is that by shopping local, you’re not just supporting that business, but you’re supporting every business that business deals with. Smaller businesses have a tendency to donate a higher percentage of their gross revenues back into the community.”

Hollern said Emporia was blessed with the variety of small businesses it has downtown.

“There are a lot of people who come in and tell us they like having a nice downtown,” he said. “Once you lose your downtown — like the post office and schools — things start going downhill very quickly. The whole time I’ve been downtown, our downtown has continued to get better and better. It’s so great that people like supporting our downtown businesses, because that is really the heart and soul of the city.”

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Winter 2017 • 11

Holiday

History of the

By Jessie Wagoner

12 • SHOP LOCAL

Shopping local isn’t new for Emporians.

In fact, Emporians have a long history of shopping stores along Commercial Street to fulfill their holiday wishes.

Hainer Drug Store, which was located at 603 Commercial St., opened in 1884. The location now serves as home to Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. Shoppers could stop by Hainer Drug Store and enjoy a soda from the fountain

or “Nunnally’s Delicious Candie.” The drug store carried an assortment of gifts as well as everyday necessities.

One perk shoppers at Hainer Drug Store would find was access to a heating stove. The stove at Hainer Drug Store was encircled with tables and chairs. Shoppers could rest their tired feet and warm themselves before ventur-

Winter 2017 • 13

This photograph shows an interior view of the Hainer Drug Store located at 603 Commercial Street in Emporia, Kansas. The store started operating in 1884, and the owner was Daniel W. Hainer. A soda fountain counter and stools are visible on the left side of the picture. A man identified as Cliff E. Frost is visible standing behind the counter. Shelves and display cases filled with various items are visible on both sides of the store. Tables and chairs are visible near the center rear of the store close to the heating stove. A hanging sign advertises “Nunnally’s Delicious Candies,” and a sign on the back wall advertises Coca-Cola.

14 • SHOP LOCAL

This photograph shows an interior view of the Red X Pharmacy owned by Joseph J. Kowalski and located at 624 Commercial Street in Emporia, Kansas.

Seven people are visible in the picture. They are identified (from left to right) as: Antone Kowalski, unidentified, Leonard Crabtree, C. E. Frost, Ann Van Cleve, unidentified, and Collins Mendell. Display cases and shelves filled with items are visible along both sides of the store. A sign visible on the left side of the picture advertises a cigarette rolling kit. A display on the right side advertises gifts and Parker pens. A display of various national flags on the upper back wall of the store is partially visible behind the light fixtures.

The original Kress building decorated for Christmas.

ing on to their next destination.

Red X Pharmacy, located at 624 Commercial St., was another popular shopping destination. The pharmacy, owned by Joseph J. Kowalski, featured many unique gift options. Gifts like Parker pens and cigarette rolling kits were available for purchase, as were a large assortment of national flags.

Commercial Street was home to many businesses throughout the 1940’s which made holiday shopping easy to accomplish locally. Morris Drug Store, Jones Hardware and Foodtown Super Market were popular stops for shoppers. Newman’s Department Store allowed Emporians to purchase men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, hats, jewelry and perfume. The department store even featured a model train to occupy children while their parents shopped.

Ireland’s Shoe Shop, Towner Home and Auto Supply, Robert’s Luggage and Shoe Repairing and Winter Furniture gave shoppers even more options for finding the perfect gift. After a morning

The Randolph House following a winter snow storm.

Winter 2017 • 15

full of shopping and exploring downtown, Good Eats Cafe was the place to stop and grab lunch with friends.

The Kress Building, which was originally located at 602 Commercial St. before relocating to its current location at 702 Commercial St., was known for holiday festiveness. A 1908 picture shows the building decorated for Christmas.

“The picture is of the original Kress Building before they relocated to the location we all know now,” Greg Jordan, executive director of the Lyon County History Center said. “Both locations were popular places to shop. It was basically a five-anddime. You could get little toys, tops, balls, things like that.”

While most Emporians now travel Commercial Street by car, foot or bicycle, many pictures of A street car on snow packed Commercial Street.

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early day Emporia show the street lined with horses and wagons.

Some pictures show snow-packed streets and street cars. Citizens could hop on the street cars and travel easily up and down Commercial Street.

Emporians have grown accustomed to the green lighted wreaths and trees which adorn the streetlights in downtown Emporia. Citizens know the holidays are drawing near when city employees begin to hang them each year. Before streetlights appeared in downtown Emporia, holiday decorations were a bit different. The city would string green garland across Commercial Street in between the buildings.

This year, as shoppers travel down Commercial Street looking for the perfect holiday gift, they are traveling in the footsteps of a long line of Emporians.

A poster depicting the nativity once hung in downtown Emporia.

Winter 2017 • 17

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Merry&

F

Bright

Christmas light enthusiasts have grown accustomed to being wowed by the Slaymaker lighting display year after year.

or Ron and Shirley Slaymaker, decorating their residence at 1123 Drury Lane has become a tradition and a labor of love.

Ron Slaymaker recalled how and when their display first originated.

“I believe we started in 1962,” he said. “That was the year we built our house out in what I call ‘the pasture.’ There were only a handful of houses and dirt roads out in what is now Country Club Heights.

“We put up three reindeer cut from plywood and stacked them on top of each other, with Santa and his

20 • SHOP LOCAL

By Mary Ann Redeker Photos by Zach Hacker

bag of toys on top of that. It was measured to reach up to the roof of our house. We didn’t have any trees back then, so you could really see it. I still have a few little pieces of that original display.”

The tradition continued to grow over the years, with the addition of new items and what Slaymaker estimates is around 25,000 lights.

“At one time, we used the big bulbs,” he said. “When the little lights came out on the inexpensive strings of 50 or 100 bulbs, we gravitated to that. Almost the whole display now is those kinds of lights and a lot of spotlights.”

The grounds of the house now contain a couple of major displays, with some of the other areas housing simple decorations.

“One major display showcases the three wise men and three shepherds, all coming down the hill to where Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus are,” Slaymaker said. “We have a large city in the background, made out of plywood. When Newman’s Department Store went out of business, we bought all of the store’s Christmas displays to use in addition to our own.

“We used to have three camels, but now only have two, as one was stolen. We have a lot

Winter 2017 • 21

of sheep, cattle and a donkey, which adds to the large display we purchased from Newman’s. On the other side, we have Santa and nine reindeer. Then we have Rudolph, who has a lightbulb in his nose and is pulling a sleigh.”

Slaymaker said about 20 years ago, his 6-month-old granddaughter passed away, so he dedicated an area in her memory.

“We added some cherubs carrying some presents and have a house in the background with a workshop,” he said.

“We’ve had some of that display stolen, so it’s not as good as it once was. At one time, I had a third area in our lower yard with a whole herd of 12 reindeer, but it was also stolen.”

The Slaymakers decided to add people to their display, but over the years, those decorations have gotten old and have deteriorated from being in the elements.

“Every summer I say I’m going to make new people but haven’t done it, so we make due with the old people,” Slaymaker said. “Sometimes the masks get brittle and we have to buy new ones, which are hard to find. Anytime we see a Halloween mask of an old person, we buy it.”

Slaymaker said creating the lighting display is a long process, but it is one he and Shirley both feel is worth doing.

22 • SHOP LOCAL

“It’s become a little overwhelming to put it up, take it down and store it,” he said. “I have had some help since I started coaching over at Chase County from the girls on my basketball team. On occasion, they have come and helped me.”

When he feels up to it, Slaymaker will still dress as Santa and mingle among the displays. If he sees children in a car passing by, he enjoys taking their Christmas wish lists.

“It’s been a growing process for 55 years, and I’m not opposed to still adding something,” he said. “Shirley is a good idea person. We used to drive around and look at other displays to get ideas. After Christmas, we stock up at the sales and do pick up things at garage sales. We love to do it just for the fact that it keeps us off the streets and out of trouble.”

Slaymaker said he and Shirley have enjoyed bringing the joy of Christmas to others through their display.

“A lot of people ask why we continue to do this,” he said. “Shirley has always

christmas decoration CONTEST

been very involved in the process but recently suffered a stroke. I can still see the joy it gives her. The greatest joy is the people who drive by and the comments we get throughout the year.

“I live by a motto that if you help enough people get what they want, then you get what you want. If we can help other people find some joy, then we’re getting joy.”

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Proud of your Christmas Light Display? Enter now to have a chance to win cash and prizes.

The contest will run through the Christmas season. Once your displays are complete, go to ourtowncontests.com and enter to win.

All entries will be entered in the contest both in the paper and online — our readers will vote! Top winners will receive cash and prizes so enter now.

•

Entries must be received by December 19, 2017

•

Voting ends December 25, 2017

•

Winner will be announced December 30, 2017

Winter 2017 • 23

Guide

Holiday Gift Searching for the best gifts this

holiday season doesn’t have to be a challenge. There is no need to log on to your computer or travel out of town.

Emporia businesses are ready to meet your gift giving needs. Gifts for men, women, children and even pets are closer than you think.

Women

By Jessie Wagoner

Gifts for

Shopping for the women in your life is no challenge in Emporia. Jewelry, clothing, shoes and home accessories abound. The top gifts for women this year include: Chacos or Birkenstocks from Brown’s Shoe Fit Co. (see ad page 7) C.C. Beanie’s, texting gloves, leggings and scarves from Studio 50•4 (see ad page 18)

Diamond earrings from Kari’s (see ad page 35) Gift certificates to Little Red Rooster (see ad page 19) Sweaters from Glik’s (see ad page 4) Booties from Sole Mates (see ad page 19) 26 • SHOP LOCAL

Glik’s

Brown’s Shoe Fit Co.

Studio 50•4

Sole Mates

ter

Little Red Roos

Winter 2017 • 27

Men

Gifts for

Everyone says men are hard to shop for, but the statement isn’t true in Emporia. When it comes to gifts for men, there are a multitude of options.

Top gifts for men include: Hooey hats, hunting supplies and tools at Bluestem Farm & Ranch Supply (see ad page 31) Knives from M & M Military (see ad page 19)

King Liquor

A gift certificate to Cliff’s Super Service (see ad page 4) Recruit baskets from Dynamic Discs (see ad page 38) Holiday drink mixes from King LIquor (see ad page 7)

Bluestem Farm &

M & M Military

Dynamic Discs

28 • SHOP LOCAL

Cliff’s Super Service

Ranch Supply

Gifts for

Children

It doesn’t matter if your children are into the newest technology or the newest sport, you can find gifts to cover all your bases in Emporia.

Top gifts for children include: Starter disc sets from Dynamic Discs (see ad page 38)

Waters

TrueValu

e

Puzzles, wooden toys and remote helicopters from Waters TrueValue (see ad page 2) A sweet treat from Sweet Granada (see ad pages 19, 38) Bluetooth gloves from Waters TrueValue (see ad page 2)

Dynamic

Discs

John Deere Big Farm toy tractor and trailer set from PrairieLand Partners (see ad page 31)

PrairieLand Partners

Pets

Sweet Granada

Gifts for

Don’t forget your four-legged family members — they want to celebrate the holidays with you.

The top gifts for pets are: Cat and dog toys from L & L Pets (see ad page 39) Bones and treats from Bluestem (see ad page 31) Food and water dishes from Waters TrueValue (see ad page 2)

L & L Pets Winter 2017 • 29

Stuffers Stocking

While opening presents is fun, there is a special excitement brought on only by Christmas stockings. Make sure your stocking stuffer game is on point with these top stocking stuffers: Socks from Koch Gifts, Second Love (see ad page 7) A small box of chocolates from Sweet Granada (see ad pages 19, 38)

Gifts

Dish towels from Waters TrueValue (see ad page 2)

Second Love Koch Gifts

Koch Gifts, Second Love

Extra

A small bottle of liquor from King Liquor (see ad page 7) 50/50 water bottle from Dynamic Discs (see ad page 38)

It never hurts to have a few extra gifts on hand. You don’t want to forget to gift your friendly neighbor, the amazing daycare provider or your devoted secretary. Gifts everyone will love include:

Fanestil Meat

Gift basket from Sweet Granada (see ad pages 19, 38) Gift certificate to Williams Automotive (see ad page 39) Meat and cheese or a gift certificate to Fanestil Meat (see ad page 24/25) Main Street gift certificates (see ad page 3) Williams Automotive 30 • SHOP LOCAL

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BATTLE of the TREES B Y J E S S I E WA G O N E R

The debate which has raged for years continues: Which is better, a live Christmas tree or an artificial tree?

For one Emporia family, the debate occurs in their own home each holiday season. Jesse and Erica Murphy’s showdown over which tree is best has led to each side pulling out all the stops to have the Christmas tree of their dreams. esse Murphy is fan of artificial trees. He enjoys the ease of unpacking the tree, putting it together and delicately separating the branches which have been smooshed in a box for the previous year. He loathes the needles and regular watering a live tree requires.

“You have to water them so much and the needles are everywhere,” Jesse Murphy said. “My artificial tree is just waiting in the basement. You take it out and fluff it up.”

His commitment to artificial trees can only be matched by his wife Erica’s passion for live Christmas trees. She cherishes the visit to the tree farm and picking the perfect tree each year. The smell of a real tree is one she remembers from childhood with

32 • SHOP LOCAL

fondness. Those pesky needles which drive her husband insane are just a small price to pay for the joy a live tree brings each year.

“I’m passionate about having a real tree,” Erica Murphy said. “I like going out and finding the right one. You get the whole experience, having hot cocoa and being with the family. And the smell. I love how they smell.”

Each year, usually during Thanksgiving, the couple begins their banter over which tree will make an appearance in their home. With each year, the stakes are raised as they each try to have their way. Last year, the couple even attempted to pull other family members into the debate, hoping a little extra pressure on their side would sway a decision in their favor.

Real

• The experience of cutting down a real tree • The smell • Can be recycled

Fake

• Easy to store

• Can be reused for many years • No care needed

• Carries on a tradition

Winter 2017 • 33

“I have even talked to his mom because he listens to his mom,” Erica said. “Trying to convince him through his mother to get a Christmas tree.”

Ultimately, a nap cost Jesse the battle last year. He fell asleep in the car while Erica drove the family home from Thanksgiving festivities in Missouri.

While he dozed in the passenger seat, his wife stealthly changed the settings in the GPS and made a beeline for the closest tree farm.

“He had fallen asleep in the car, so I Googled the directions on my phone,” Erica said. “So, I pull up and just start going.

He tried to stay in the car, but ended up coming along and I got my Christmas tree. I pick my battles, but I want my Christmas tree. I’m passionate about it.”

Erica still basks in the glow of her big win in the tree battle, but Jesse readily confesses the whole family wins whether they have a live tree or an 34 • SHOP LOCAL

artificial tree. The most important part to both Jesse and Erica is developing a family tradition to share with their children, Liam and CoCo. “I want the kids to have a good memory and traditions,” Jesse said. “I remember decorating the artificial tree with my grandma and she remembers cutting down the tree with her family. The most important thing for me is the kids remember both of us were involved and doing things with them and they’re making memories with both of us.”

Celia Goering, president of the Kansas Christmas Tree Growers Association, said tradition is what motivates many of the families who visit Christmas tree farms throughout Kansas each year. She and her husband, Glen Goering, have been growing and selling trees at Pine Lake Christmas

Tree Farm since the 1980’s. Each year, they see new customers, but many families return year after year to carry on family traditions.

“The experience is what is so meaningful to people,” Goering said.

“The experience of going to a tree farm, the hay rack ride out to the fields, coming back to the barn and having hot chocolate or hot cider in a nice warm barn. The experience is what people want.”

While some believe artificial trees are better for the environment, Goering said it can take years for an artificial tree to break down once it is disposed of.

Though live trees only last one season, they can be recycled in a number of ways — mulch for flower beds, disposed of in a pond or lake for a fish habitat or, as the Murphy’s do it, can be used for a bonfire in the yard. Each year, as trees are sold from tree farms, the same amount of trees are replanted so a fresh crop of trees is always growing.

“It takes a fake tree up to a 1,000 years to re-enter the natural system of things,” Goering said. “You can recycle a real tree very easily.”

Though Jesse is still partial to artificial trees, he has learned over the years some tricks to make having a live tree a little easier. He said going to a tree farm is the way to go and discourages just cutting a tree down yourself. At the tree farm, they can shape the tree and ensure it is the right size for the house.

“If you are going to have a real tree, the tree farm is the way to go,” Jesse said.

“They shape it and make it look really good. They shake it all out so there are no bird nests or little creatures living in it. And buy the packet of tree food they sell. It’s worth it. It does help keep the tree from drying out so you don’t have as many needles.”

There are pros and cons to both artificial and real trees. However, the best tree will always be your tree.

“It doesn’t matter either way,” Jesse said. “As long as the kids are happy and you are doing something as a family, either tree works.”

Winter 2017 • 35

Sweets & Treats Ah, the holidays!

Such a great time to share with friends and family, baking and taking, wining and dining.

There is absolutely no need to travel far to find everything you need for these five wonderful holiday treats.

BY REGINA MURPHY

36 • SHOP LOCAL

Betty Boylan is no longer with us, but I still have her wonderful, aptly-named sugar cookie recipe.

It’s so fun to decorate cookies with kids, neighbors, church friends — you name it. This dough freezes very well; make plenty and plan some cookie parties.

World’s Best Sugar Cookies

Pioneer Bluffs, the site of the historic Rogler homestead north of Matfield Green, put out a cookbook this year.

Among the many wonderful recipes collected from Shirley Letourneau Rogler is this chocolate treat. Pick up the cookbook from Pioneer Bluffs at 695 KS-177, Matfield Green, or arrange to have one mailed by contacting 620-753-3484 or pioneerbluffs.org.

Pioneer Bluffs Pecan Brownie Brittle

Betty Boylan

Shirley Letourneau Rogler

1 cup powdered sugar 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup butter, softened 2 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup cooking oil 5 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons soda 1 teaspoon cream of tartar ½ teaspoon salt

2 ounces chocolate, 65% cacao 1/3 cup butter 1 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup unbleached, all-purpose flour 2 Tablespoons cocoa powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 cup pecans, chopped 1/2 cup miniature chocolate chips 1/4 teaspoon salt a baking 1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line coat with ly light and r pape nt hme sheet with parc y. spra non-stick owave safe bowl 2. Place chocolate and butter in a micr ed, stirring melt until and heat in 30-second busts . between each cycle powder and 3. Once melted, stir in sugar, espresso . aside set ct; extra vanilla salt and baking 4. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, soda; set aside. on medium-high un5. Place eggs in a mixer bowl and beat should resemble ure Mixt tes. minu 4 – 3 til frothy, about mixture and well-lathered shampoo. Add in chocolate beat in flour and low to beat until combined. Turn mixer d. mixture until just combine sheet, using an 6. Spread batter onto prepared baking y as possible. thinl as ure mixt ad spre to la offset spatu top. on Sprinkle pecans and chocolate chips Remove from oven 7. Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes. pan. and allow to cool in the in an airtight 8. Break up brittle with hands and store container. s, remove the pan 9. If you want to have uniform, cut piece rred size. to at 20 minutes and use a knife to score prefe Remove, tes. minu five er anoth Return pan to oven to bake s. mark d score the along apart cool and then break

1. Sift together the last four ingredients and set aside.

2. Cream the two sugars and the butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat together the eggs and vanilla.

3. Mix the beaten eggs with the creamed sugars and butter. Add the oil and flour mixture, alternating between each, a little at a time, mixing until a dough forms.

4. Chill the dough two or three hours. Roll dough into small balls, dip in a shallow dish of sugar and press flat into a circle. Now they can be frozen for future use.

5. Betty didn’t specify, but I would put a little square of freezer, wax or parchment paper between each disc before freezing. To cook, allow the dough to come to room temperature and bake.

6. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicon baking mat and bake for six minutes.

Watch the cookies because they brown quickly.

7. Remove, cool and serve. Consider icing them to look like pumpkins for Thanksgiving or ornaments for Christmas.

Winter 2017 • 37

THANK YOU

W I S H I N G

YO U

A N D

YO U R S

For your support in 2017, and look forward to being your disc golf shop in 2018!

To show our appreciation, present this coupon for

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601 Cross St. | Burlington, KS | 620-364-2117 www.lifecarecenterofburlington.com

912 Commercial St | Emporia, KS | 620-208-DISC (3472) | www.dynamicdiscs.com

Sweeten the Season

with

Gift Baskets• Stocking Stuffers• Party Trays• Unique Gifts 803 Commercial St. • Emporia 620-342-9600 • sweetgranada.com 38 • SHOP LOCAL

WE SHIP • Holiday Hours: Mon. - Sat. 10-8 • Sun. 11-4

Mary Stauffer submitted a lovely holiday cake recipe when I was preparing the “Best of Murphy’s Menu” cookbook (2005). I believe we have a few copies left for sale, along with Food of the Flint Hills.

Pumpkin Crunch Cake Mary Stauffer 1 package reduced-fat yellow cake mix, divided 2 eggs 1 2/3 cup canned pumpkin pie mix 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1/3 cup flaked coconut ¼ cup chopped nuts 3 Tablespoons margarine, softened 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees 2. Combine 3 cups of the cake mix, eggs, pumpkin pie mix and pie spice in a large bowl. Beat on low speed until moistened, then beat on medium for two minutes.

3. Pour into a greased 13-by-9-inch baking pan.

4. Combine remaining cake mix, coconut and nuts in a small bowl. Cut in softened margarine with a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly.

Sprinkle over batter.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 – 35 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack, cut into squares and serve with whipped cream.

Lily wants everyone to remember your pets for the holidays!

Serving the Emporia Community for 35 Years

L&L Pets

621 Commercial | Emporia | 620-343-3398 | Open 7 days a week Winter 2017 • 39

1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle, add the butter, sugar and orange zest and beat until smooth, 5 to 8 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, dry ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Whisk to blend. Set aside.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, molasses and lemon juice.

4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

This recipe has been in my family for a long time. The smell will send friends and family running for the warmth of the kitchen. A note about good cookie baking: Halfway through, I always rotate the tray in the oven so the cookies bake evenly on all sides.

This recipe is no exception.

Gingerbread Cookies Alex Guarnaschelli The foundation: 1 1/2 sticks lightly salted butter, softened 1 2/3 cups sugar 1 orange, zested The dry ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus 1/2 cup additional for rolling, if needed 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon ground dry ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt The wet ingredients: 2 eggs 1/2 cup dark molasses 1 lemon, juiced Easy Orange Frosting, recipe follows Easy Orange Frosting: 1 cup powdered sugar Finely grated zest of 1 orange 1 to 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice 1/2 teaspoon orange liqueur 1/4 teaspoon light corn syrup

40 • SHOP LOCAL

5. When the butter and sugar are integrated, lower the speed of the mixer and add the dry ingredients. Add the egg mixture and when blended, remove the bowl from the machine.

Divide the cookie dough in half. Press the first half of the dough in between 2 sheets of waxed paper or plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes. Repeat with the second half. This step will make it easier to finish rolling out the dough when it has chilled. It will also mean you only have half of the dough getting warm as you roll it.

6. Lightly flour a flat surface. Use a floured rolling pin to gently roll the first half of the dough about 1/2-inch thick. Lightly flour the cookie cutter(s) and cut the shapes, making as few scraps as possible. Use a metal spatula to gently transfer them, cookie by cookie, (the cookies should be similar size) to a baking sheet. Repeat with the other half of the dough and transfer them to another baking sheet. A note about crowding the tray(s): these particular cookies can spread a little. Leave room between the cookies. Better to use 3 baking sheets with fewer cookies than to crowd them on 2 trays. Bake until brown around the edges, 8 to 10 minutes.

Got scraps? Form the scraps into a ball, press it flat and chill in the refrigerator. These cookies may be a little more “tough” because the dough will have been worked a little more than the others.

Why not have a little frosting on your gingerbread?

Easy Orange Frosting: 1. In a medium bowl add all of the ingredients and whisk together to combine. If too thick in consistency, add a touch more orange juice or water to thin out.

2. Use a pastry bag fitted with a star tip to pipe the frosting between 2 of the gingerbread cookies.

Press the 2 cookies halves gently together.

Erin Kauffman of Emporia has been offering her baked goods online for all to enjoy. She readily shared her favorite pumpkin bread recipe. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, afternoon tea and gifting.

Pumpkin Bread Erin Kauffman 4 eggs, beaten 3 cups sugar 1 (15-ounce) can pure pumpkin puree 1 cup oil 1/2 cup water 4 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1. Combine eggs and sugar; mix well. Add pumpkin, oil and water. Blend thoroughly.

2. Combine dry ingredients first, then add to pumpkin mixture. Mix well.

3. Prepare two 9-by-5-inch loaf pans by greasing, flouring and lining bottom of pans with parchment paper.

4. Put batter in pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 - 70 minutes, checking for doneness at 60 minutes by inserting knife down through center of loaf. If knife does not come out clean, continue baking in 5 - 10 minute intervals until knife comes out clean.

5. Remove from oven, and turn loaves upside down on wire racks. Bread will slip out of pans.

Remove parchment paper and carefully turn loaf right side up.

6. After cooling completely, wrap in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or cut loaf in half and place in zip-close bag. Store in refrigerator.

Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc 2101 W. 6th Avenue, Emporia, KS 66801

Wishes team members and the Emporia area a safe and happy holiday season!

For Job Opportunities visit: www.KansasWorks.com or www.TysonFoodsCareers.com Tyson is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, gender, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sexual orientation, disability or veteran status.

Winter 2017 • 41

Emporia Holiday

events

November

November 21, 5 p.m.

HAPPY HOLIDAZE David Traylor Zoo Enjoy celebrating the beginning of the holiday season with the lighting of Emporia’s own David Traylor Zoo.

November 23, 7:30 a.m.

TURKEY DAY DASH Walnut Elementary School The Turkey Day Dash 5k run/ walk begins and ends at Walnut Elementary school on Thanksgiving Day. What better way to start the Thanksgiving Holiday than knowing you have already burned off those dessert calories?

November 25, all day

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY and SUGAR STROLL Emporia and surrounding communities Support the local economy and shop local. For more information visit, www.emporiamainstreet. com

November 25, all day

CHASE COUNTY COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Chase County Events take place throughout the county including the annual Homes Tour and famous Silent Auction. There will be horse-drawn wagon rides and the lighting of the Historic Courthouse by Santa!

December 3, 3 p.m.

November 28, 8 a.m.

CANDY CANE FUN RUN Emporia Recreation Center This is a 2k fun run/walk sponsored by the Emporia Recreation Center as part of Move Emporia.

November 28, 6:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS PARADE Commercial Street The 40th annual Christmas parade brought to you by the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau. The parade begins at 4th and Commercial, moving North to 12th Avenue.

November 29, 7:30 p.m.

EMPORIA STATE UNIVERSITY PERCUSSION CONCERT Albert Taylor Hall

November 30, 5-8 p.m.

DOWNTOWN CARRIAGE RIDES For more information visit, www. emporiamainstreet.com

December

December 1, 7:30 p.m.

EMPORIA UNIVERSITY WIND ENSEMBLE CONCERT Albert Taylor Hall

December 2, 7:30 p.m.

EMPORIA UNIVERSITY CHAMBER ORCHESTRA CONCERT Heath Recital Hall

December 2, 7:30-10:30 a.m.

RED STOCKING BREAKFAST Pizza Ranch Signature fundraising event benefitting local children and families

December 2, 9 -11 a.m.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Emporia Public Library

December 3, 2 - 4 p.m.

WHITE CHRISTMAS AT RED ROCKS Red Rocks - William Allen White House State Historic Site Refreshments and live music celebrating Christmas at Red Rocks 42 • SHOP LOCAL

EMPORIA CHORALE CONCERT First United Methodist Church

December 7, 4 p.m.

EMPORIA STATE UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY FLUTE CHOIR William Allen White Library

December 7, 5-8 p.m.

DOWNTOWN CARRIAGE RIDES For more information visit, www.emporiamainstreet.com

December 10, 3 p.m.

EMPORIA MUNICIPAL BAND Emporia Granada Theatre

December 12, 4 p.m. & 7 p.m.

RETRO MOVIE NIGHT “ELF” B&B Theatres Flinthills Mall

December 14, 5-8 p.m.

DOWNTOWN CARRIAGE RIDES For more information visit, www.emporiamainstreet.com

December 14, 8 p.m.

MIDNIGHT MADNESS Downtown Emporia

December 16, 10 a.m.

EMPORIA STATE UNIVERSITY WINTER COMMENCEMENT White Auditorium

December 16, 8 p.m.

LEANN RIMES CHRISTMAS CONCERT Emporia Granada Theatre “Today is Christmas” Tour 2017

December 19, 4 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.

RETRO MOVIE NIGHT “WHITE CHRISTMAS” B&B Theatres Flinthills Mall

December 20, 6:30 p.m.

FLINT HILLS TECHNICAL COLLEGE WINTER GRADUATION

December 20 & 21, 7:30 p.m.

SEASONAL CELEBRATION William Lindsay White Auditorium Vocal and instrumental holiday music from around the world performed by grades six to twelve.

December 21, 5-8 p.m.

DOWNTOWN CARRIAGE RIDES For more information visit, www.emporiamainstreet.com

Chase County Holiday

events

(All dates subject to change.

For a complete list visit www.chasecountychamber.org or contact the source.)

Every Friday, 7:30 p.m.

Emma Chase Friday Night Music in Cottonwood Falls

November 24, 6:00pm-8:00 p.m.

Strong City Seasonal Express at the Strong City Depot

November 25

November

Chase County Country Christmas County-Wide

November 25

December

Every Monday, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Mindful Movement Yoga Class at the Symphony in the Flint Hills Gallery, Cottonwood Falls

Every Friday, 7:30 p.m.

Emma Chase Friday Night Music in Cottonwood Falls

December 2

Christmas Ball (TBA)

Trail Ride at the Flying W Ranch

Every Monday, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

November 25, 12:00-4:00 p.m.

Mindful Movement Yoga Class at the Symphony in the Flint Hills Gallery, Cottonwood Falls

Good Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Strong City

December 2, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Spring Hill Ranch Candlelight Tour at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Strong City

December 16, 5:30 p.m.

THISTLE

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‘ H O M E ’

H ome Andrea Kennedy Matfield Green, KS

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SHOP LOCAL. EAT LOCAL. SPEND LOCAL. ENJOY LOCAL.

c h a s e c o u n t y c h a m b e r. o r g 44 • SHOP LOCAL

Offering more medical specialties and convenience than ever.

24/7 Emergency Department 24/7 Cardiovascular Cath Lab Cardiology Cardiopulmonary Orthopedics Sports Medicine Surgery (In-patient and out-patient) Intensive Care Unit Diabetes Program Wound Care Inpatient Rehab Unit Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Pharmacy Full Lab Air Ambulance Radiology Services Nuclear Medicine Women’s Services Breast Center - Digital Obstetrics/Gynecology Labor/Delivery Newborn Nursery Pediatrics Medical Equipment Hospice Family Medicine Sleep Lab Express Care

Look for our newly expanded Emergency Department coming in 2018!

NEWMAN REGIONAL HEALTH | For Your Whole Life.

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