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Articles by Austin Hoagland
Emporia ranked most walkable city in Kansas
Emporia is a city known for several different things: gravel cycling, drinking water, and now walkability. In a list published by the website walkscore.com, Emporia was named the most walkable city in Kansas with a walk score of 45 out of 100. That score places Emporia at the top of a list of 24 cities in the Sunflower State, ahead of cities including Lawrence, Manhattan and Wichita.
Emporia ranked most walkable city in Kansas
Emporia is a city known for several different things: gravel cycling, drinking water, and now walkability. In a list published by the website walkscore.com, Emporia was named the most walkable city in Kansas with a walk score of 45 out of 100. That score places Emporia at the top of a list of 24 cities in the Sunflower State, ahead of cities including Lawrence, Manhattan and Wichita.
Four inductees to join Gravel Cycling Hall of Fame during Unbound week in Emporia
With Unbound Gravel 2026 just on the horizon, it’s easy to forget that the sport of gravel cycling began as a niche Midwestern scene of endurance riders before transforming into the global sport and culture it is today. This year’s Gravel Cycling Hall of Fame class recognizes those who helped facilitate that growth through their leadership, ingenuity and passion for gravel cycling.
HAB warning advisory issued for King Lake
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have released a public-health advisory due to the presence of blue-green algae in certain bodies of water, including one in Lyon County. According to the advisory, King Lake in Emporia is under an active warning for blue-green algae.
HAB warning advisory issued for King Lake
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have released a public-health advisory due to the presence of blue-green algae in certain bodies of water, including one in Lyon County. According to the advisory, King Lake in Emporia is under an active warning for blue-green algae.
Lyon County Commission begins 2027 budget process next week
The Lyon County Commission will begin its multiweek 2027 budget process next week as departments and organizations prepare funding requests to present to county commissioners. The budget meetings will begin Wednesday, May 27, at 8 a.m., with additional sessions scheduled for May 28, June 3-4 and June 10-11. During the six sessions, departments and organizations will present their requests to commissioners.
Severe storms, damaging winds and flood risks possible in Emporia Monday
Emporia is facing an increased risk of severe weather Monday, with a strong possibility of thunderstorms, severe winds and heavy flooding. The severe weather is expected to begin early, with a wind advisory in effect for Lyon County from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The National Weather Service (NWS) projects sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph. Unsecured small objects and tree limbs could be blown around, and isolated power outages could occur.
Emporia man enters no contest plea to reduced battery charge in child abuse case
An Emporia man originally charged with felony child abuse and misdemeanor battery has pleaded no contest to a reduced battery charge as part of a plea agreement. Thomas Gene Hinz, 34, of Emporia, was originally charged with one count of child abuse and one count of battery causing bodily harm in connection with an incident involving a child 8 years old or younger in December 2025. The allegations stem from incidents alleged to have taken place between Dec.
Emporia Recreation Commission to repay $556K in tax credits tied to lawsuit against CPA firm
The Emporia Recreation Commission will pay $556,119.73 to the IRS as part of returning funds from improperly claimed tax credits in 2020 and 2021, an issue that prompted legal action by the ERC against Wright CPA Group, the firm that assisted with preparing its taxes during those years.
Transient Guest Tax board recommends $315K in 2027 tourism funding
The Transient Guest Tax Advisory Board made its recommendations for 2027 appropriations during a meeting Tuesday, including a total of $315,000 in recommended appropriations. The Transient Guest Tax is an additional tax added to the bill for short-term stays in a taxing jurisdiction, including hotels, motels and short-term rentals. The advisory board was established to make recommendations on appropriating the funds toward organizations that promote tourism in Emporia.
Transient Guest Tax board recommends $315K in 2027 tourism funding
The Transient Guest Tax Advisory Board made its recommendations for 2027 appropriations during a meeting Tuesday, including a total of $315,000 in recommended appropriations. The Transient Guest Tax is an additional tax added to the bill for short-term stays in a taxing jurisdiction, including hotels, motels and short-term rentals. The advisory board was established to make recommendations on appropriating the funds toward organizations that promote tourism in Emporia.
Emporia man enters no contest plea to reduced battery charge in child abuse case
An Emporia man originally charged with felony child abuse and misdemeanor battery has pleaded no contest to a reduced battery charge as part of a plea agreement. Thomas Gene Hinz, 34, of Emporia, was originally charged with one count of child abuse and one count of battery causing bodily harm in connection with an incident involving a child 8 years old or younger in December 2025. The allegations stem from incidents alleged to have taken place between Dec.
Emporia Recreation Commission to repay $556K in tax credits tied to lawsuit against CPA firm
The Emporia Recreation Commission will pay $556,119.73 to the IRS as part of returning funds from improperly claimed tax credits in 2020 and 2021, an issue that prompted legal action by the ERC against Wright CPA Group, the firm that assisted with preparing its taxes during those years.
Severe storms, damaging winds and flood risks possible in Emporia Monday
Emporia is facing an increased risk of severe weather Monday, with a strong possibility of thunderstorms, severe winds and heavy flooding. The severe weather is expected to begin early, with a wind advisory in effect for Lyon County from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The National Weather Service (NWS) projects sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph. Unsecured small objects and tree limbs could be blown around, and isolated power outages could occur.
United Way exceeds campaign goal, honors community support at annual celebration
This year's annual United Way of the Flint Hills celebration was defined by a leadership transition, including a tearful goodbye, gestures of appreciation toward the various organizations and businesses that contributed to United Way's goals, and the surpassing of this year's fundraising goal.
Ulta Beauty celebrates grand opening with ribbon-cutting in Emporia
Ulta Beauty celebrated its recent opening in Emporia with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning. Ulta, the largest specialized beauty retailer in the United States, soft-opened May 8 before officially celebrating its grand opening Friday. The store sells a variety of beauty products, including cosmetics, skincare, hair care and fragrances. Previously, the nearest store was located 48 miles away in Topeka.
Legacy of leadership: Bill Barnes bids farewell to Emporia after decades of service
A small group gathered at Newman Regional Health on Tuesday, all hanging on the words of one man as he reflected on his life, achievements, and legacy. Anyone in Emporia may know the name Bill Barnes. He has, indeed, spent decades living in the community, getting to know residents over the years. The thing that separates Barnes, however, is that you could gather a group of ten people together who know him for different reasons.
Corson focuses campaign on affordability, Medicaid expansion and education in governor’s race
Corson focuses campaign on affordability, Medicaid expansion and education in governor’s race Kansas Sen. Ethan Corson says his campaign for governor is centered on affordability, Medicaid expansion and public education as he works to build a statewide coalition ahead of the 2026 election. During a recent interview, Corson said voters across Kansas are looking for “younger, fresher leadership” and someone who understands the financial pressures facing working families.
Ulta Beauty celebrates grand opening with ribbon-cutting in Emporia
Ulta Beauty celebrated its recent opening in Emporia with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning. Ulta, the largest specialized beauty retailer in the United States, soft-opened May 8 before officially celebrating its grand opening Friday. The store sells a variety of beauty products, including cosmetics, skincare, hair care and fragrances. Previously, the nearest store was located 48 miles away in Topeka.
Legacy of leadership: Bill Barnes bids farewell to Emporia after decades of service
A small group gathered at Newman Regional Health on Tuesday, all hanging on the words of one man as he reflected on his life, achievements, and legacy. Anyone in Emporia may know the name Bill Barnes. He has, indeed, spent decades living in the community, getting to know residents over the years. The thing that separates Barnes, however, is that you could gather a group of ten people together who know him for different reasons.
United Way exceeds campaign goal, honors community support at annual celebration
This year’s annual United Way of the Flint Hills celebration was defined by a leadership transition, including a tearful goodbye, gestures of appreciation toward the various organizations and businesses that contributed to United Way’s goals, and the surpassing of this year’s fundraising goal.
Oklahoma motorcyclist injured after colliding with deer on K-130
An Oklahoma man was transported to Newman Regional Health as a result of an injury accident that took place on K-130 Wednesday morning. According to a release from the Lyon County Sheriff's Office, Cole Duncan, a 30-year-old man from Oklahoma, was driving a Yamaha XVS65 motorcycle through the 1600 Block of K-130 when a deer came into the path of the vehicle, resulting in a collision.
Process to bring new Burger King to Emporia continues to move forward
Construction of the new Burger King restaurant on 12th Avenue in Emporia has taken another step forward. According to the latest information released by the city of Emporia, Genesh Real Estate LLC - the company that franchises 51 Burger King locations across Kansas and Missouri, including the Emporia location on 18th Avenue - has obtained a building permit for construction of the new restaurant at 1215 E. 12th Ave.
Commercial Street to reopen Thursday
The city of Emporia has announced plans to reopen Commercial Street at the 10th Avenue intersection following weeks of repairs stemming from a collapsed storm sewer. According to the city, the road will reopen on Thursday, May 14, during afternoon hours. Damage to the road was first discovered March 29, when an Emporia police officer noticed a sinkhole while driving through the area.
McCray makes first appearance in Emporia stabbing case Original
An Emporia woman accused of stabbing a man in northeast Emporia made her first appearance in court Tuesday. Makayla McCray, 24, of Emporia, was arrested the evening of Friday, May 8, in connection with the May 6 stabbing of 31-year-old Shakir Williams, who suffered a laceration to his back and was transported to Newman Regional Health before later being transferred to another hospital for additional treatment.
Commercial Street to reopen Thursday
The city of Emporia has announced plans to reopen Commercial Street at the 10th Avenue intersection following weeks of repairs stemming from a collapsed storm sewer. According to the city, the road will reopen on Thursday, May 14, during afternoon hours. Damage to the road was first discovered March 29, when an Emporia police officer noticed a sinkhole while driving through the area.
Oklahoma motorcyclist injured after colliding with deer on K-130
An Oklahoma man was transported to Newman Regional Health as a result of an injury accident that took place on K-130 Wednesday morning. According to a release from the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Cole Duncan, a 30-year-old man from Oklahoma, was driving a Yamaha XVS65 motorcycle through the 1600 Block of K-130 when a deer came into the path of the vehicle, resulting in a collision.
Process to bring new Burger King to Emporia continues to move forward
Construction of the new Burger King restaurant on 12th Avenue in Emporia has taken another step forward. According to the latest information released by the city of Emporia, Genesh Real Estate LLC — the company that franchises 51 Burger King locations across Kansas and Missouri, including the Emporia location on 18th Avenue — has obtained a building permit for construction of the new restaurant at 1215 E. 12th Ave.
Jury trial dates set for Emporia man accused of trying to hit partner with vehicle
Dates have been set for a jury trial in the case of an Emporia man accused of attempting to run over his domestic partner with a vehicle. Seth Giroux, 25, of Emporia, appeared Thursday before the Lyon County District Court for a pretrial conference.
Lt. Governor Toland says Emporia is positioned for economic development opportunities despite recent setbacks
As Emporia and Lyon County continue to manage manufacturing losses and uncertainty surrounding local economic development leadership, Kansas Lt. Gov. and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said Monday that Emporia is uniquely positioned to attract new industry. “There’s a lot of expansions happening at the moment in different sectors, and so we think Emporia is well aligned to be able to get some meaningful wins,” he said.
Jury trial dates set for Emporia man accused of trying to hit partner with vehicle
Dates have been set for a jury trial in the case of an Emporia man accused of attempting to run over his domestic partner with a vehicle. Seth Giroux, 25, of Emporia, appeared Thursday before the Lyon County District Court for a pretrial conference.
Gas prices in Lyon County surpass $4 amid national increase, global market concerns
Fuel prices in Lyon County continue to rise as oil prices surge, with no real indication of when local residents can expect relief at the pump. According to AAA, the average gas price in Lyon County has risen to $4.063 as of May 8, a $1.278 increase from the same time last year and a $0.975 increase since March. AAA reports that the national average gas price increased by 25 cents per gallon in two consecutive weeks, with the average price in Kansas seeing even larger increases.
Rocky Ford Bridge repairs expected to delay opening until July
The opening of the new Rocky Ford Bridge is expected to be pushed back to July after sections of the deck were found to be too thin, requiring repairs that have delayed construction. Issues with the bridge began during a deck pour in early April, when contractors poured concrete onto the superstructure of the bridge to create the driving surface. Several days after the process was completed, rebar that was intended to sit 2.5 inches below the surface was found visible through the concrete.
Emporia weighs costly future of aging water treatment plant
Emporia City Commissioners heard daunting projections about the future of the city’s water treatment plant during their meeting Wednesday, with rehabilitation or replacement costs ranging from roughly $72 million to $135 million and officials warning that a lack of action could lead to increased boil water advisories or, in the worst-case scenario, service disruptions.
Sheriff’s Office warns of impersonation scam targeting Lyon County residents
The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office recently sent a message via its Facebook page notifying Lyon County residents of a new scam. According to the post, an individual is calling residents and identifying himself as “Michael Hurst,” claiming to be both a corporal and a captain with the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office says the scammer is using this tactic to request personal identifying information from residents and warns that it does not employ a person with this name.
State drops felony counts in Caldwell case
An Emporia man who allegedly fled police after a domestic incident has had certain charges against him dismissed by the state. Leon Caldwell, 29, of Emporia, originally faced two counts of misdemeanor domestic battery, felony aggravated assault, misdemeanor criminal damage to property and felony fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer in connection with an alleged incident April 12.
Storms bring 50+ mph wind gusts, brief heavy rain to Emporia area
Emporia may continue seeing rain and stronger winds into Tuesday after severe storms brought hail, heavy precipitation and strong winds throughout Monday night and Tuesday morning. According to the National Weather Service, rain began falling in Emporia at approximately 12:25 a.m. Tuesday. By 12:53 a.m., a quarter inch of precipitation had already accumulated in the area.
Texas man sentenced to probation in fatal Turnpike crash near Emporia
A Texas man was sentenced to 36 months of probation with a 34-month underlying prison sentence after his involvement in a crash that killed a motorcyclist on the Kansas Turnpike near Emporia in Lyon County. On May 12, 2025, Richard Schroeder, 60, of St. Joseph, Missouri, was heading north on the Kansas Turnpike in Lyon County.
Emporia food drive aims to exceed last year’s 6,000-pound total
The annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive, organized by local mail carriers in partnership with the Salvation Army, is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, offering Emporia residents a chance to contribute to a communitywide effort to exceed last year’s total. Emporia residents will receive cards, and potentially bags, in their mailboxes sometime this week.
Emporia man enters no contest plea in child exploitation case
An Emporia man accused of sexually exploiting a child has pleaded no contest and faces a potential maximum sentence of 247 months in prison and a $300,000 fine. A pretrial conference for Nicholas Rodriguez, 30, of Emporia, was held Friday at the Lyon County District Court. Rodriguez was originally charged with two counts of felony sexual exploitation of a child and 14 counts of misdemeanor violation of a protective order.
Emporia woman pleads no contest in meth distribution, pursuit case
An Emporia woman arrested following an alleged vehicle pursuit and crash in February has pleaded no contest to charges including unlawful distribution of methamphetamine and fleeing a police officer, among others. Mariel Martin, 40, of Emporia, appeared before District Court Judge Laura Miser on Friday for what was originally scheduled as a pretrial conference. According to the Emporia Police Department, an officer attempted a traffic stop shortly after 4 p.m. Feb.
HOTT Cinco de Mayo Fiesta draws crowds, supports scholarships
Downtown Emporia came alive Saturday with food, music, and entertainment as people from all over the area flocked to Commercial Street to enjoy the Hispanics of Today & Tomorrow (HOTT) Cinco De Mayo Fiesta. The day's festivities included entertainment by DJ Sal Cruz and the Topeka drumline, vendors selling a diverse array of food and drinks, the brand new HOTT merch store, and the announcements of the HOTT Cinco De Mayo royalty.
Statewide candidates make pitch to Lyon County voters at Democratic forum Original
Lyon County residents had the opportunity to hear directly from candidates running for statewide office Saturday during an event hosted by the Lyon County Democratic Party at the Mary Herbert Education Center. The event featured candidates for governor, secretary of state, attorney general and the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Roger Marshall, in addition to an optional lunch and silent auction meant to raise funds for the organization.
HOTT Cinco de Mayo Fiesta draws crowds, supports scholarships
Downtown Emporia came alive Saturday with food, music, and entertainment as people from all over the area flocked to Commercial Street to enjoy the Hispanics of Today & Tomorrow (HOTT) Cinco De Mayo Fiesta. The day’s festivities included entertainment by DJ Sal Cruz and the Topeka drumline, vendors selling a diverse array of food and drinks, the brand new HOTT merch store, and the announcements of the HOTT Cinco De Mayo royalty.
Kelly vetoes property tax bill after Legislature adjourns
After a shortened session in which many members said one of their primary goals was to ensure property tax relief for constituents, the Kansas Legislature did not achieve its target for the year. Laura Kelly recently vetoed five bills, one of which was House Bill 2043, a measure that would have given Kansans significant authority to limit spending by cities and counties.
Young authors take the spotlight with Diverse Voices book launch
House of Morrow is gearing up to celebrate the release of its third Diverse Voices/Voces Diversas anthology, a collection of stories written by fifth graders attending elementary school in Emporia. This year, the program has expanded to serve both Walnut Elementary School and Logan Avenue Elementary School, bringing the number of participants to 80 students and expanding the book release to two events.
Court appoints counsel for Hartford man charged in multi-victim rape case
A Lyon County man charged with multiple counts of rape has been appointed counsel as the case moves forward in Douglas County District Court. Aaron Borger, a 44-year-old massage therapist residing in Hartford, was arrested April 8 by the Baldwin City Police Department following an investigation into an alleged incident during a massage therapy appointment at Om Grown Yoga, a business in Baldwin City.
Emporia firefighters train for swift-water rescues
With recent flooding still on the minds of many in Lyon County, members of the Emporia Fire Department have been conducting a multi-day training in swift-water rescue at Soden’s Grove this week to prepare for potential life-saving situations. These dangerous situations can include cars stuck in water or people being swept into river currents. Approximately 15 Emporia firefighters participated in the training, along with eight additional firefighters from other nearby communities.
County leaves Bushong speed limit unchanged despite widespread speeding
The Lyon County Commission decided to maintain the 30 mph speed limit on Road F (Americus Road) through Bushong after receiving several requests to raise the limit to 45 mph. Lyon County Engineer Wayne Scritchfield appeared Thursday before the commission to present findings from an evaluation of the road. The study was designed to determine how fast drivers are traveling on the road and whether an increased speed limit would affect motorists’ ability to safely make maneuvers.
Court appoints counsel for Hartford man charged in multi-victim rape case
A Lyon County man charged with multiple counts of rape has been appointed counsel as the case moves forward in Douglas County District Court. Aaron Borger, a 44-year-old massage therapist residing in Hartford, was arrested April 8 by the Baldwin City Police Department following an investigation into an alleged incident during a massage therapy appointment at Om Grown Yoga, a business in Baldwin City.
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