Emporia: The Heart of Kansas Hospitality

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problum]
• Thank youThanks
  [than-ks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [good/how 'bout yuh]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
• I don't understandI don't get ya
  [I don't get yuh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the men-yoo, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
  [I'd like to set-tul up, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poorly]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna get...
  [I wanna get]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
• How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [that's too pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya bring the price down?
  [can ya bring the price down]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
• Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tomor-rah]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the]
• What's the address?What's the street?
  [what's the street]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [can ya point it out (on the map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

Emporia was founded in 1857 by a group of settlers from Lawrence, Kansas. The town was named after ancient Carthage's marketplace, Emporium, symbolizing its founders' hope for it to become a prosperous center of commerce. The town quickly established itself as a significant hub in the region, thanks to its strategic location between the Neosho and Cottonwood Rivers.

Emporia State University, originally founded as the Kansas State Normal School in 1863, is one of the oldest public institutions of higher learning in Kansas. The university has grown and evolved over the years, playing a crucial role in the educational development of the state and contributing significantly to the cultural and intellectual life of Emporia.

William Allen White, a renowned journalist and influential figure in American history, purchased the Emporia Gazette in 1895. His editorials and writings brought national attention to Emporia and had a profound impact on American political and social discourse. The Gazette remains a vital part of Emporia's cultural fabric.

Emporia is recognized as the founding city of Veterans Day. In 1953, local shoe cobbler Alvin J. King proposed that Armistice Day be expanded to honor all veterans. With the support of U.S. Representative Ed Rees, Emporia's proposal was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954, establishing Veterans Day as a national holiday.

The Great Flood of 1951 had a devastating impact on Emporia, submerging significant portions of the town and causing widespread destruction. The floodwaters from the Cottonwood and Neosho Rivers led to extensive damage, but the community's resilience and determination were evident in the rebuilding efforts that followed this natural disaster.

Emporia is home to the National Teachers Hall of Fame, established in 1989. The Hall of Fame recognizes and honors exceptional career teachers, celebrating their contributions to education. Its presence in Emporia underscores the city's long-standing commitment to educational excellence.

During the Civil Rights Movement, Emporia played a part in the broader struggle for equality. The city saw local activism and integration efforts in schools and public facilities, reflecting the nationwide push for civil rights and social justice. This period marked a significant chapter in Emporia's ongoing journey toward inclusivity and equality.

Emporia is located in the Flint Hills region of Kansas. The nearest major airport is Kansas City International Airport (MCI), approximately 130 miles to the northeast. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Emporia. Alternatively, Amtrak offers rail service to Emporia from various cities, and Greyhound buses also service the area.

Emporia is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. The city also has a public bus system, Emporia Public Transit, which offers convenient routes around town. For those looking to explore the surrounding Flint Hills, renting a car is advisable.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It is always good to carry some cash for smaller vendors and emergencies.

Emporia is generally a safe city, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Emporia has a well-equipped police department and medical facilities, including Newman Regional Health hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and weather-appropriately. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers if needed. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don't forget to tip your servers, as it is customary in the U.S.

To experience Emporia like a local, visit the Emporia Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the William Allen White House for a glimpse into the city's history. Engage with locals at the coffee shops and diners, as they are often eager to share stories and offer recommendations. Don't miss the annual Emporia State University Homecoming Parade and the Glass Blown Open disc golf tournament, both of which are local favorites.