True Tales From The Tallgrass
Provided by the Lyon County Historical Society
Mary McKinney of rural Hartford, Kansas, appeared on a national radio show back in 1944 while attending the Republican National Convention in Chicago. On the show she related how she had discovered that better government required that she and her fellow women had to learn about legislative action in the state legislature first and then work through state and national government to accomplish action on issues they were interested in. She said, “We…each one of us… is responsible for what these representatives do, because we elect them.” Sometimes women at that time felt that they counted for too little to make it worthwhile for them to even take the trouble to vote. But Mrs. McKinney strongly urged women to make a point of meeting and knowing pre cinct committee persons in their localities. “You must determine whether these people who are your rep resentatives are the kind of people you want to rep resent you, and whether they are truly representing the wishes of the majority in your localities.” She had discovered that if you want a clean house, you have to start at the bottom – for a clean house and for a clean
government. She admitted that work was sometimes drudgery detail work, but often tremendously interesting.
While attending the Republican National Convention back in 1944, Mary McKinney revealed that the pictures in newspapers and the radio broadcasts from the convention gave the impression that the convention was all excitement and noise with wellknown people doing and saying tremendously important things. But back of
it all, the things the public never sees, is the hard work that goes on 24 hours a day. She admitted it was hot in Chicago that summer, and there were a thousand and one little political chores that kept her running from early morning until late at night. Each little detail, minor in itself, had been important in achieving the final result. Everything that had gone into achieving the final result – from the starting point of local community politics, was beginning to come to
light at the national convention. She maintained that she and other women always wanted clean and honest government, and she believed it was possible through democratic processes. She felt it was important to preserve the kind of country that the soldiers fighting overseas could be proud to come back to. She wanted them to come back to a good world, to a country that would make them feel that all their sacrifices had been well worthwhile.
Your No-Rain Check
We can help protect your grazing or haying acres against a lack of rainfall with Pasture, Rangeland and Forage (PRF) coverage. Give us a call to learn more about this federal crop insurance program and to discuss your options before the December 1 sign-up deadline.
Dieker
As 2025 comes to a close, please consider a charitable gift to the
HONOR FLIGHT
Honor Flight recognizes American Veterans for their sacrifices and achievements by flying them to Washington, D.C. to see memorials built to honor their service to our nation at NO cost to them. The purpose of Honor Flight is also to establish connections between teenagers and World War II, Korean, and Vietnam Veterans that allow both generations a better understanding and appreciation for each other. Veteran applications are available online at www.usd252.org.
Dec 22, 2025
EMPORIA SENIOR CENTER UPCOMING EVENTS
603 E. 12th Ave
• Bingo is Tuesday, 7-9 p.m.; and Saturday, 4-6 p.m. - Volunteers are needed
• Every Friday is Brain Break Fridays from 10:0012:00. For more information, call the center at the number above.
• Hermes Footcare every Thursday. Call 316-2604110 for an appointment.
• Lunch - Monday, Wednesday and Fridays - 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Adults are $5 with kids under five eating free. Cash only. Menu is on Facebook.
• Please call the senior center to reserve your meal.
• Coffee and Chat, every Monday at 9:00
• Art with Carol, 2nd Thursday, 10 a.m.
• Flint Hills Country Jam (Live Music), third Sunday of every month, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Community Causes
COUNTRY BREAKFAST
Lebo American Legion Post 323 will hold a Country Breakfast on Saturday, December 6, 7-9 a.m. Menu includes biscuits and gravy, pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage links, coffee, milk and orange juice. A freewill donation will be accepted.
SOUP LUNCHEON
There will be a Soup Luncheon on Sunday, December 7, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hartford Community Center. The menu includes potato soup, gumbo, chili and vegetable soup, dessert and drink for a freewill donation. The proceeds from the luncheon will go to USD 252 Honor Flight. The next honor flight is April 2026.
ALUMINUM CAN DRIVE
The North Lyon County Veterans Memorial Project, Inc. is collecting aluminum cans. Cans must be in a bag and dropped off at the North Lyon County Veterans Memorial Site, Bushong, in the caged area.
BREAKFAST IN MILLER
The Miller United Methodist men will hold their monthly breakfast on Saturday, December 6 from 7-10 a.m.
The menu includes biscuits and gravy, pancakes or waffles, sausage, eggs, cinnamon rolls, coffee and juice. Donation will be accepted. Carry out is available.
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH
Trinity Lutheran Church, Burlington invites you to join them for worship on Sundays at 9 a.m. with Bible Study and Sunday School following at 10:30 a.m. They are located at 902 Kennedy Street in Burlington. Their phone number is 620-364-2283. Additional information can be found at https://www. tlcburlingtonks.org.
BABY CLOSET
DINING • ARTS ENTERTAINMENT
BINGO IN BURLINGTON
Join in on the bingo fun every second Wednesday of each month at the Rock Creek Country Club, 304 North 16th. Doors open at 5 p.m. Early bird starts at 6:30 p.m. Regular Bingo begins at 7 p.m. Concessions and bar service available. Floyd Lewis Foundation
FRIDAY $12.50
Brisket served with your choice of 2 sides.
SATURDAY $8.75
Ham & turkey sandwich with a cup of soup.
SUNDAY
Wings all day! $1.25 each!
*Buffalo “BBQ “Teriyaki “
Garlic Parm
The Baby Closet at the First Congregational Church, 326 W. 12th Ave., Emporia, will be open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and every Thursday from 3 to 5:30 p.m. They serve infants through 5 years old. All items are free. Items may include the following as supplies permit. Diapers,wipes, five clothing articles, two miscellaneous items, one large item and two essential pantry items.
Donations will be accepted. You may call 620-3426854 if you have questions.
FOOD PANTRIES
EMPORIA
The First Christian Church food pantry at 1702 W. 15th Ave. is open the last Monday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m or until food is gone. Enter on the west side of the building.
The First United Methodist Church Food Pantry, 823 Merchant, is open each Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. You are allowed to pick up food once a month.
LEBO
The Lebo Community Food Pantry located behind the Lebo Baptist Church is open Mondays 5-7 p.m., Thursdays 9-11 a.m., and the first Saturday of the month from 10 a.m.-noon.
This is open to residents of 66856 and 66868.
The Emporia Public Library will be closed November 27 and 28 in observance of Thanksgiving. Join the EPL for a Winter Craft Monday - Friday at 9 a.m.
EMPORIA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION’S MORGAN WILKIE FUND GRANTS AWARDS
The Morgan Wilkie Fund, a component fund with the Emporia Community Foundation (ECF) recently awarded grants to CrossWinds Counseling and Wellness and USD 252 Southern Lyon County.
The grants were made possible because of the generosity of Clara Wilkie Sharpe who created the fund at the Emporia Community Foundation in memory of her parents and late husband. Her dream was to help provide care for children in Emporia and Lyon County as well as give assistance to the elderly and women.
She understood the needs of her community and took action to ensure
that
“Leaving a legacy gift in memory of a loved one is not only meaningful to the family giving the gift, but it touches the hearts of those who are helped, so the impact is felt long after
grant to complete updates to the Sauder Family Center Playground including replacing the existing surface with durable, low-maintenance turf to meet new Kansas Department of Health and Environment safety standards.
“The playground plays a huge role in our therapeutic services for children,” said CrossWinds Development Manager Jacque Wellnitz. “We are
grateful to the Emporia Community Foundation and the Morgan Wilkie Fund and appreciate their help in keeping the space accessible and safe for years to come.”
Besides helping CrossWinds, the Morgan Wilkie Fund also gave a grant of $1,500 to USD 252 Southern Lyon. Aubrey Arnold and Darrah Pearson, USD 252 Staff Nurses praised the Morgan Wilkie Committee stating, “We extend our sincere gratitude for the generous support in providing funding for food, hygiene products, and essential nursing supplies. Ensuring that students’ basic needs are met is vital to promoting their health, well-being, and success in the classroom.”
For more information about the Morgan Wilke Fund or other grant opportunities, go to https://www.emporiacf.org. or call (620) 342-9304.
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA
REMEMBER the Fallen. . . HONOR those who Serve. . . TEACH our children the value of Freedom.
On December 13, at 11 a.m., Wreaths Across America will be at Maplewood Memorial Lawn cemetery to Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud.
If you would like to sponsor a wreath go to https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/social/KSMMLC-Ma plewoodMemorialLawncemetery?S id=176734|0|0|5, scroll down and click the red “Sponsor” button. Or, if you would like to volunteer to participate in the wreath laying ceremony, please click the “Volunteer” button next to the group you would like to sponsor. The deadline to sponsor a wreath is December 1.
RED CROSS NEEDS YOUR BLOOD DONATIONS
The need for blood is constant and only volunteer donors can fulfill that need for patients in our community. Nationwide, someone needs a unit of blood every 2 to 3 seconds and most of us will need blood in our lifetime.
Here is a list of upcoming Blood Drives:
• December 13 - Flinthills Mall South Entrance from 12 – 6 p.m.
• December 17 – Emporia Arts Council
your
by Tuesday, December 9.
Name of Church
Address of Church
Daytime Phone Number
You can email schedule to shank@emporia.com, call 620-208-8888, fax 620-342-8108 or send to 109 W. 6th Ave., Emporia, KS 66801.
from 12 – 6 pm
• December 23, Newman Regional Health, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• December 30, Flinthills Mall, 1 - 6 p.m.
Please help by making your appointment today at www.redcrossblood.org or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App on the App Store, Google Play or text BLOODAPP to 90999. With the app you can schedule appointments, view your blood type and results of your mini-physical, and track your donations.
2025 CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS!
Christmas Tree Lighting
Join the Neosho Rapids Parks Committee in the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 30 at the Neosho Rapids Community Center. Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies beginning at 6 p.m. Then the lighting of the Christmas Tree at 6:30 p.m.
Angel Tree
The Hartford Food Pantry helps families in need by purchasing Christmas presents for families in the USD 252 school district, Reading and Jacobs Creek area. You can pick up some ornaments (which have gifts that need to be purchased) off the tree at the Christmas Tree Lighting on November 30, at Hartford State Bank, or at Hartford High School. Please help families have a nice Christmas. The gift and ornament can be returned to Hartford High School by December 12. Gifts do not need to be wrapped.
Holiday Decorating Contest
The Neosho Rapids Lions Club will sponsor a Holiday Decorating Contest. Decorate your property within
the Neosho Rapids City Limits for a chance to win one of two gift cards. Judging will be December 14, 6 p.m.
Santa And Bingo
Visit with Santa from 2-3 p.m. and then play some bingo starting at 3 p.m on Saturday, December 6 at the Neosho Rapids Community Center, 238 N Main St. This event is sponsored by the Neosho Rapids Community Projects.
Christmarket Art Show
Christmarket Art will be held in the St. Andrew’s Parish Hall, 828 Commercial St., Emporia, on Friday, December 5 from 5 - 8 p.m. as part of the First Friday and Saturday, December 6 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Ten local artists will showcase ceramics, woodcarving, paintings, drawings, and fabric art. Inspired by the traditional Christmarkets found throughout Europe and the United States - where artists set up small huts in town squares for the holiday season - our Christmarket offers the same festive spirit in the comfort of a warm indoor space.
Go meet the artists and enjoy their wonderful work! Cookies will be available for purchase as a fundraiser for Radical Life, and Gourmet Dog Bis -
cuits will be sold in a beautifully decorated, giftready bag.
Emporia Christmas Parade
The Christmas Parade Committee of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau 47th annual community Christmas Parade will be held downtown on Tuesday, December 2, 7 p.m. This year’s theme is Country Christmas.
Thanksgiving Meal
The Emporia Church of Christ will hold their annual free community Thanksgiving meal on November 27, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 502 W. 12th Ave., Emporia. They will serve the traditional holiday meal with all the trimmings. Carryout meals are available. For more information, call 620-342-3999.
Holiday Craft Fair
The American Legion Auxiliary will hold a Holiday Craft Fair on Saturday, December 6, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 2921 W 12th Ave., Emporia. They will have craft vendors, treats and lunch.
VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! Wishing
Thanksgiving 2025
There will be no residential trash or recycling service on Thursday, November 27, 2025, in observance of Thanksgiving. Commercial, residential trash and (EAST SIDE) recycling service normally picked up on Thursday will be picked up on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Friday service will be picked up as normal.
Residents are asked to please have polycarts out by 6:00 a.m. on pick up days as areas may be picked up earlier than usual. There will be no roll-off service on Thursday, November 27 or Friday, November 28, 2025. The City of Emporia/Lyon County Transfer Station and Recycling Center will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28, 2025. Normal hours of operation will resume on Saturday, November 29, 2025..
SIMPLE JOYS AND HEALTHY TRADITIONS FOR THE HOLIDAYS
By Melody Garcia, Family & Community Wellness Agent
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year— full of family, friends, and delicious food. It can also be a busy season that brings stress or even sadness. Between traditions, gatherings, and expectations, it’s easy to feel pulled in many directions. Taking time to reflect on what truly matters for your well-being can help you enjoy this time more fully. Traditions play an important role during the holidays. For some families, that might mean baking cookies, decorating, singing favorite songs, or reading a story by the fire. For others, traditions are about giving back—helping a neighbor, sharing a meal, or volunteering in the community. Traditions don’t need to be big
or costly. Often, it’s the simple things—playing a board game, taking a winter walk, or sipping hot cocoa together—that become the memories children and adults cherish most.
If your to-do list feels overwhelming, it may be time to re-evaluate. Do you genuinely enjoy all the activities you take on? Does your family? Sometimes simplifying can help everyone focus more on what brings true joy.
Many holidays focus on food, making it easy to overindulge. Turkey, pies, cookies, and eggnog are part of the season, but they can be high in fat, sugar, and sodium. While enjoyable in the moment, too much can leave us sluggish and disrupt healthy habits. The good news is that there are simple ways to stay balanced during the holidays. You don’t have to skip your favorite foods, but moderation is key. Choose a few favorites and savor them slowly. Starting the day with a healthy breakfast like oatmeal and fruit helps balance later meals. For gatherings, bring nutrient-dense options such as a colorful veggie tray with Greek yogurt dip.
Christmas TREES
Cold weather can make it tempting to stay indoors, but adding movement to your day, like a short walk to see lights or a family game, helps keep everyone active and energized. The season’s demands can also leave you drained. Remember that generosity includes caring for yourself. It’s okay to say no if you need rest. Quiet moments of gratitude and reflection can help you reset and model healthy coping for children.
As the year draws to a close, this season also invites us to look ahead.
The New Year offers a fresh start—a chance to set new goals, strengthen family bonds, and try new activities together. Families might begin a new tradition for the year ahead, such as cooking one meal together each week, planning a family night, or spending more time outdoors.
Even small changes can bring lasting benefits for health, happiness, and connection. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, another tradition, or simply enjoying a quiet winter moment, may your home be filled with warmth and laughter. And may the coming New Year bring fresh opportunities, meaningful memories, and plenty of joy. Wishing you a safe, healthy, and truly joyful holiday season.
• 12 ounces chicken, cooked and diced (1 ½ cups) (consider rotisserie or canned)
• ½ cup vinaigrette dressing
• ½ cup dried cranberries (or cherries)
• ⅛ cup almonds, sliced
• 1 head of lettuce, chopped
Directions
1. Wash hands with soap and water.
2. Toss chicken, cranberries, and almonds with dressing.
3. Serve on a mound of chopped Romaine or spinach.
Basic Vinaigrette
Makes: about 6 servings Ingredients
• 6 tablespoons vegetable oil (olive, canola, avocado, or cooking oil of choice)
• 4 tablespoons vinegar (cider, balsamic, or red wine vinegar)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon mustard (yellow, Dijon, or brown mustard)
Directions
1. Wash hands with soap and water.
2. Mix all ingredients together.
3. Serve.
Variations:
Sweet Vinaigrette (add ¼ teaspoon sugar)
Italian Vinaigrette (add 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes)
CRANBERRY AND CHICKEN SALAD
Makes: 4 servings | Cost per serving: ≈ $1.50 Ingredients
Honey Mustard Vinaigrette (add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons honey)
*Children under the age of one should not consume honey.
Recipes from MyPlate.gov
Breakfast With Santa
Take your holiday photo with Santa, Mrs. Claus on Saturday, December 6, 9-11 a.m. at the Little Theater at White Auditorium. The staff from the Emporia Public Library will dish up a continental breakfast, fun and live holiday music. Each child that attends will receive a free book. Whether this is a regular tradition or your first time at this event, they would love to see you.
Burlington Christmas Parade
“Gingerbread Lane ” is this year’s theme for the Burlington Lighted Christmas Parade on December 6 at 6 p.m. Santa will stop at Hornet Games, 306 Neosho St., after the parade to visit with the children.
Entry forms are available at 313 Neosho, Burlington or contact Ronda Gilbert at (620) 364-6043.
Americus Parade
“Golden Lights & Icy Nights” is the theme of the Americus Parade on Saturday, December 6. Line up for the parade begins at 6:15 p.m. at the corner of Main and Walnut. The parade starts at 7 p.m. Entry forms are located at the Americus City Office or Project Playscape Facebook Event Page. After the parade, join Santa Claus at the fire station for cookies. Donate nonperishable food items for local food banks or books for lending library at the event.
For more information, email projectplayscape4community@gmail.com.
Christmas in the Park
Enjoy a morning of activities in Gridley on Saturday, December 13. Enjoy breakfast by Liberty 4-H Club from 8:3010 a.m. at the community building. A freewill donation will be accepted. Enjoy a Christmas story at 9:45 a.m. Santa will arrive at 10 a.m.
Recognize your loved one during the holiday season by purchasing a Hand In Hand Hospice “Remembrance Ornament”
With a donation of $20 your Loved One will be remembered with a LED Frost & Sparkle Angel Glass Ornament
Please place your order by December 8, 2025
Ornaments can be picked up on or after December 17, 2025 at the Hospice office (Please note, the Hospice office will close at Noon on 12/24 through 12/25).
Please note our new location!
1000 Lincoln St • Emporia, KS 66801 Office hours 8:00am — 4:30pm
All proceeds go to Hand In Hand Hospice to support terminally ill patients and their families
Breakfast With Santa
Main Street Mommas is sponsoring Breakfast with Santa from 8 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 6 at the Sauder Center in Madison. Breakfast includes pancakes, eggs and sausage. A freewill offering will be accepted. Get a photo with Santa and then a fun holiday craft with the library.
Neighborhood Toy Drive
The 42nd annual Neighborhood Toy Drive will be held on December 13, 6-9 p.m. at 2308 DeLane Dr, Emporia. The neighborhood of DeLane Dr., Darlene Way, Diane Ave., and Hillcrest will accept unwrapped gifts and monetary donations. These donations will be given to SOS and The Salvation Army.
Supper with Santa
North Lyon County Fire District #2 firefighters will have Supper with Santa on Friday, December 12, 5-8 p.m. at the Allen American Legion Post 389. Santa will arrive at 6:30 p.m. They will serve walking taco and dessert for a freewill donation. Proceeds from the supper will go for new gear and equipment.
Arvonia Christmas Candlelight Service
Special to the Flint Hills Shopper
Join us in Arvonia, Kansas for our Christmas Candlelight Service on Sunday, December 14th at 5 p.m. in the Calvinistic Methodist Church, 32413 S. Arvonia Rd.
Arvonia is a historic community located 4 miles north of Lebo, just west of Hoch Road on West 325th St. Established as a Welsh community in 1869, Arvonia and its historic buildings have been lovingly restored by the Arvonia Historic Preservation Society.
Pastor Phil Wade, from Rome, Georgia will conduct the service. We are blessed to have him share a message with us for a second year. Liza Vielcheva will provide special music on the cello for our church service. Linda Lane will accompany our Christmas hymns. We hope you can join us as we kick off the Christmas season with a service to honor the birth of our Savior. The acoustics in the church are amazing and will put the Christmas spirit in your soul.
A reception will follow the service in the Arvonia Township Hall. Warm Welsh cakes, tea and coffee will be some of the offerings. Beautiful background music will be provided by Abigail Triemer Worley.
•
We will be collecting... with tags attached in original packaging non-toxic latex-free odor-free crayons and coloring books games, card games, and puzzles.
clothes (with tags)
We won't be collecting... are gently used are gift-wrapped contain latex or toxins have been stored or displayed for any length of time are religious, or speci c to religious holidays
DECEMBER 2ND
Olpe High School
During the Rossville basketball game
All proceeds go to Children's Mercy Hospital
Any sort of gun toy, swords, bow and arrows, or knife toys.
Here Comes Santa!
Allen - December 12, 6:30pm, Allen American Legion Post 389
Americus - December 6, after the parade at the Fire Station
Cottonwood Falls - November 29, 4-5:30pm, Chase County Courthouse. Enter on the east side of the courthouse.
Emporia - Breakfast with Santa - December 6, 9am, Little Theater at WLW Auditorium. Sponsored by Emporia Public Library
Gridley - Christmas in the Park, December 14, 8:30 - 10am Storytime begins at 9:45 with Santa arriving at 10am
Hartford - Cookies with Santa - December 7, Hartford Community Center
Lebo - December 13, 10am - noon, Lebo Senior Center. Children visiting Santa may bring toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.) or a nice used or new toy to leave with Santa or a monetary donation. The Masonic Lodge will give the items to families and their children served by SOS in our area.
Madison - December 6, 8- 10am Breakfast with SantaMadison Sauder Center, 110 South First.
Neosho Rapids - December 6, 2-3pm, Neosho Rapids Community Center, 238 N. Main St.
Olpe - December 13, 2-4pm, location Knights of Columbus Hall, 212 Iowa St. Crafts for Kids sponsored by Fellowship Meals.
By Riley Pate, Club Reporter
The monthly meeting of the Rinker 4H club was held on October 20th.The meeting was called to order by President Kelsey McCoy. Roll call was what is your favorite candy. We had 30 members and 2 leaders present. Jennifer Bacon presented the Treasurers report. Sam Hauff shared information about the gavel and what the different count of taps meant. New officers were presented and we had our new officer ceremony. This was
4H NEWS
RINKER 4-H CLUB
our Halloween party. All members came in costumes. Thank you to our Halloween committee for games and fun.
Our leaders Cindy and Jenny reminded club members and parents that
enrollment is open and to please get enrolled. Officer training is Monday November 3rd at 7:00. New officers and all club members are encouraged to attend. The club voted to be in the Christmas Parade and to ring bells for The Salvation Army. The club also voted to make a donation to Wreaths Across America.
Our next meeting will be at Camp Alexander on November 17th at 6:00. This will be our club achievement night. also recognized members for their record books
HAPPY HARVESTERS 4-H
By Colter Corpening, Club Reporter
4-Hers at St. Joseph's for Mass
Happy Harvester’s 4-H Club celebrated 4-H Sunday on November 16th, 2025 at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Here, various club members took part in the mass by volunteering to take part in different aspects of the church service. Following mass, the monthly meeting of the Happy Harvesters 4-H club was called to order by the president, Kinley Heins at the Knight’s of Columbus Hall. The flag salute and the 4-H pledge were led by Braylie Burenheide and Destiny Cole. The roll call was answered by “What time do you go to bed on school nights?” New members who joined the club included Hope Miller and Clair Mclvain. Makenna Hoelting led the club in the parliamentarian presentation about how to make a motion. Kade Whitmore gave the treasurer’s report. Club leader, Ashley Windle, discussed various upcoming events to put on the calendar for 4-H members. She also recognized members for their record books last month, as well as club officers who earned purple for their record keeping. She mentioned that individuals could start signing up to ring the Salvation Army bell as a community service project next month. Before the meeting was adjourned, 4-Hers were reminded of the next meeting in December which will include a Christmas party as well as leave raking at the Olpe Plaza. The meeting was adjourned.
last month, as well as club officers who earned purple for their record keeping. She mentioned that individuals could start signing up to ring the Salvation Army bell as a community service project next month.
Before the meeting was adjourned, 4-Hers were reminded of the next meeting in December which will include a Christmas party as well as leave raking at the Olpe Plaza. The meeting was adjourned.
ABATE of KANSAS DISTRICT #12
Promoting Awareness of ABATE of KANSAS, INC.
PHOTO BY ASHLEY WINDLE
12TH ANNUAL GREATER EMPORIA AREA MATCH DAY
The Emporia Community Foundation (ECF) hosted their 12th Annual Greater Emporia Area Match Day event on Monday, November 17th. Online donations began pouring in at midnight on Monday with in person traffic starting as early as 8:30 a.m.
For fun throughout the day the ECF had a “Spin the Wheel,” game. All agencies receiving donations during that hour were listed on the wheel and the winner received $100 in prize money to be added to their Match Day total. Other activities included, the “Mid-Morning Stretch,” “Afternoon Teatime,” “Help Them Rise,” among others. A total of $2,100 in prize money was
given out to 20 nonprofit agencies.
The Wrap Up Party was well attended with nearly forty attendees who enjoyed the festivities including food and drinks. The Growing Up Giving results were announced with an additional $2,700 going to 24 agencies. The money came from generous sponsors so elementary aged children could participate and learn about charitable giving. 27 classrooms from seven schools took part in the program.
The day turned out to be a great success and now that the ECF had a moment to catch their breath, Linda Kehres-Schmidt, Executive Director, wanted to pause and say thank you.
“We are deeply grateful for
GIFT CARDS
the incredible generosity of our community. To all the donors, please know your gifts make a real difference and we are fortunate to have your support. To the matching donors, prize and event sponsors, thank you, we simply could not do this work without you.
To the volunteers who donated their precious time, we value you! To our amazing Match Day organizations… YOU are what makes the Greater Emporia Area such a wonderful place to live and work. Thank you to every single person who makes Match Day possible! We appreciate all of you.”
Although the Match Day event is a lot of work, it’s a unique way to celebrate the good. It’s about coming together to support the community. From preserving the stories, buildings, archives, and history of the Flint Hills to supporting groups that enrich our quality of life— caring for our animals, our youth, our families, our health, and ourselves— each organization plays a vital role. From arts and culture to health and humanity, this is why Match Day is important. “Your support helps these incredible nonprofits grow, sustain their missions, and continue improving lives in our community,” said Kehres-Schmidt. “Thank you for an unforgettable Greater Emporia Area Match Day event!”
Baby Closet of Emporia, KS;
The ECF invites the public out to the Check Presentation Event on December 2nd at the Flint Hills Mall, live on KVOE, for the announcement of the funds raised in support of the following participating agencies: Arvonia Historic Preservation Society;
Camp Alexander; Chase County Care & Compassion, Inc. (C4 Food Pantry); Chase County Historical Society Inc.; Chase County Old School Development District; Choose How You Respond (in Memory of Dr. Bryan Douglas); Emporia Area Habitat for Humanity; Emporia First Friday Art Walk; Emporia Municipal Band;
Energize Lebo; FEAS dba Flint Hills Animal Advocates; Food for Students; Friends of the Emporia Public Library; Friends of the Lyon County History Center; FUMC School Supply Project; Good Way Gardens; Hispanics of Today and Tomorrow; Kansas Spanish Speakers; Lyon County Crime Stoppers; Lyon County Honor Flight (USD 252); Main Street Mommas; Matfield
Green Works; Newman Regional Health Volunteers; NLC Youth Association; Pink Gravel Fund; Pioneer Bluffs; Project Playscape; Red Rocks: William Allen White Community Partnership, Inc.; Southwick House; Street Cats Club; Strong City Preservation Alliance; Team Schnak Strong Fund; Vernon H. Buck VFW Post 7957 and Wade Barrett Memorial Fund.
LYON COUNTY REPUBLICANS
Lyon County Republican Precinct Annual Christmas Party, will be held at the Lyon County Annex, 1st Floor Conference Room, 402 N. Commercial, Emporia, Kansas at 6:30 p.m.on December 9. Please bring a holiday snack to share. Come enjoy delicious treats and entertainment. Followed by our fundraiser drawing.
EMPORIA LIONS CLUB
The Emporia Lions Club will meet Wednesday, December 3 at the Emporia Senior Center at noon. The cost of the meal is $5.
Members will have an opportunity to draw for $100 for Random Acts Of Kindness.
Lions will have an opportunity to sign up for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Bell Ringing on the afternoon of Decem -
ber 13 at Walmart and Bluestem.
Emporia Lions Club is a volunteer service organization dedicated to serving people. If you’re interested in joining the club, email them at emporialions@ gmail.com. The Emporia Lions Club can be found on Facebook. The club has a PowerPoint about Lions they would be happy to share with anyone wanting more information.
AMERICAN LEGION
The American Legion Post 5, 2911 W. 12th Ave., Emporia, will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 25, 6:30 p.m.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP
Being a caregiver for a loved one can be emotionally and physi -
cally exhausting. Coffey Health System now offers a special program to help caregivers maintain perspective, step away for a while, and share their experiences with others who understand. Coffey Health System’s Mental Health Therapist Amy Osner will lead a Caregiver Support Group on the third Wednesday of each month at The Meadows in Burlington. There is no charge for participation. Respite care and activities will be available, if needed. Sessions begin at 6 p.m. at The Meadows, 1201 Martindale St. in Burlington. If you have questions about the program, call (620) 3644556.
Osner is an experienced group therapy leader. She is a credentialed Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor.
VETERANS’ AFFAIR
Effective December 1, 2025, Jamie Potter, Service Representative for the Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs, will have a new schedule. She will visit the Morris County Courthouse in Council Grove on the sec -
ond Tuesday of February, April June, August, October and December. She will visit Burlington the 2nd Thursday and Eureka the 3rd Thursday of January, March, May, July, September and November. She will be in Eureka and Council Grove from 1-3:30 p.m. She will be in Burlington from 2-3:30 p.m.
She will do Chase County and Lyon County residents by appointment only.
Please call (620) 3423347 in advance to ensure all information is readily available so all veterans, widows and dependents can receive better assistance.
SENIOR MEALS
Neosho Rapids and Hartford Senior meals are delivered Monday through Friday beginning at noon. If you are 60 or older, a $4 donation is appreciated; meal is $7 for those under 60. For reservations or cancellations in Neosho Rapids call (620) 342-8232.
Olpe Senior Friendship meals are served on Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. at the Knights Hall. If you are 60 or older, a $4 donation is appreciat-
ed; meal is $7 for those under 60. The second Monday of each month is the birthday dinner and games celebrating the birthdays of the month. For reservations or cancellations in Olpe call 620-475-3384 between 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
North Lyon County Senior meals are available in Allen for grab and go or home delivery. Meals are available Monday through Friday and must be ordered by 11 a.m. the previous day by calling 620-528-3414. If you are 60 or older, a $4 donation is appreciated, meal is $7 for those under 60. Call for more information.
Emporia State University and the Peterson Planetarium invite audiences of all ages to explore the legendary Star of Bethlehem in a special program debuting at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22.
“Star of Bethlehem: A Holiday Sky Experience” blends the story of the Magi with astronomy, history and wonder, as it explores what celestial event might have guided wise
travelers more than 2,000 years ago.
The program balances scientific and traditional perspectives to offer a rich holiday experience for families, space enthusiasts and anyone curious about the sky and astronomical events more than two millennia ago.
The one-of-a-kind program is written and presented by Peterson Planetarium director Mark Brown. Previously shown in 2019, the newly updated version is free and open to the public, premiering just days before the Thanksgiving holiday. Following the premiere, additional showings will continue throughout December.
Seating is limited and each attendee must register indi -
vidually at emporia.edu/planetarium.
All “Star of Bethlehem: A Holiday Sky Experience” showtimes:
• Saturday, Nov. 22 at 10 a.m.
• Monday, Nov. 24 at 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.
• Thursday, Dec. 4 at 4 p.m.
• Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 6 pm
• Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.
• Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. About Emporia State University Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its institute and seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business & Technology, Humanities &
Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Library and Information Management & Library and Archives, Science & Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.
ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate. For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.
PUBLIC AUCTION
Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 10am
Vehicles: 1990 GMC Sierra 1500 2wd w/camper shell 119,842miles, 2008 Toyota Highlander 117,052miles new brakes new water pump new tires loaded Vin#JTEES42A582083272 (excellent condition)
Motorcycle: 2007 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail 23,000miles (excellent condition)
Tools & Outdoor: several roll around tool boxes, power tools, wrenches, socket sets, shop stools, shop cabinets, lanterns, coolers, Orange County chopper Bicycle (new in box), pole saw, outdoor furniture, small garden tiller, Husqvarna push mower, yard art, heaters, ladders, garden hoses, gas outdoor lights, outdoor metal glider, glider/ swing w/shade, gas grill, metal trellis, flower pots, yard tools, fishing rods & reels
Antiques & Household: Hosier cabinet Elwood Indiana, vintage bottle collection, vintage cans & tea pots, stereo, CD’s, vinyl albums, records, vintage dolls, cookbook collection, lamps, crystal, glassware, end tables, blown glass, couch, chairs, recliner, lots of new bedding, linens, towel, quilts, old Fuller Brushes sign, Page Milk metal crate Coffeyville, KS 3-57, small kitchen appliances, pocket knives, lighters, costume jewelry, vase collection, samsung 32” flat screen tv, mink furs, new flatware sets, cookware, pastry supplies, original Japanese dolls, love seat, craft supplies, vacuums, like new Tepur-cloud queen bed, dressers, China sets, vintage board games, Nascar jacket, Harley Davidson coat, misc. Jackets, office supplies, desk w/chair, Musical instruments (harp), Keyboard & sound system, treadle sewing machine in stand, hat collection, Crockett spurs, old book collection, holiday decor, Maytag washer & dryer, small chest freezer, Antique Frigidiare ice box, vintage fire extinguishers, Indian paintings, other misc collectibles & household
For more information and pictures go to Kansasauctions.net or J&D Auction & Sales, LLC Facebook page.
Terms: Cash or good check accepted. Debit/Credit cards accepted with service charge. Restroom & Concessions available. All statements made day of sale take precedence over advertisements. Owners and auction company not responsible for accidents or theft. Settlement must be made day of auction. Nothing removed until settlement has been made. Seller: Schlup Trust J&D Auction & Sales, LLC Jase Hubert (620)-481-7303 • Dwayne Coble (620)-794-2061
trict #2 in creating a Community Cookbook to raise funds for their volunteer fire department. They need your help to make it a success! They are looking for your favorite recipes (family favorites, crowd-pleasers, or secret ingredients), recipes that are easy to make or perfect for feeding a group or even tips, tricks, and stories behind the recipes (optional but encouraged). Your recipe will be featured in our cookbook. All funds raised will directly support obtaining up to date safety gear. Share your culinary tal -
ent with the community and be a part of something special. Submit your recipe by November 30. Include your name and a brief description or story behind the dish (optional). Email it to lycofd2fundraiser@gmail.com or mail it to 8 E. 5th St. Allen, KS 66833. Let’s cook up some community spirit while supporting the heroes who keep them safe.
For questions, contact them at 620-344-1162 or email them at the email above.
If you would like to purchase a copy of the cookbook, let them know how many, and contact details when you send in your recipe.
