Shop Emporia first if you want more

There’s a catchy jingle I keep hearing on the radio each morning as I get ready for classes. Many Emporia listeners have heard the same jingle for quite a while now, reminding us to “shop Emporia first.” Why? “It just makes sense.”

Maybe the commercial is a bit assuming as far as what may or may not make sense to me, but I really do see a lot of potential for developing business in Emporia. For instance, many students pack up and head home for the weekends. Some have called Emporia State a “laundry basket campus,” for the students packing their laundry to head home for the weekends and holidays.

There seems to be a catch 22 about shopping in Emporia. Many feel that there is not as much variety as our neighboring cities, yet if we do not support our community with business, new businesses have a harder time opening. We will never see a wider variety of business if we do not support what is here.

I can understand some of the cynicism about supporting local businesses because they don’t offer the same things as some places in larger cities. I have lived in some pretty metropolitan locations, including Las Vegas.

When I arrived in Emporia, I thought that my only options for decent service and merchandise were the big box stores or online shopping. However, as my years in Emporia have added up, I have found that the local stores and restaurants offer top-notch service and merchandise.

For instance, I am very picky about my food. I love fresh ingredients, and I love to spend time in my own kitchen. I would much rather prepare something for myself than have somebody else do it.

When I moved to Emporia, I almost refused to support any of the big chain restaurants. I thought that these were the only places that Emporia really had to offer me.

As I got to know more of the local scene, I really opened up to the possibilities of local places. Emporia has some fantastic Mexican food. One of our local Chinese restaurants is my favorite of anywhere I’ve tried. However, my main indulgence is a small bakery and sandwich shop downtown where I eat at least once a week.

I also opened up to local vendors and events, especially within the last year. The Golden Dragon Acrobats at the Granada Theater was one of the most amazing shows I’ve ever seen. The theater itself is gorgeous as well, and its multi-million dollar renovation has brought a classic era theater back to life in meticulous detail.

As if the local scene weren’t enough, the Union Activities Council has brought some outstanding comedians, speakers, musicians and events to Emporia. Emporia State remains a key ingredient in this town’s success and appeal.

Emporia has many attractions, businesses and acts that can’t be found anywhere else. With more support from the local community and students, our town’s attractions can only grow more plentiful and more amazing. I suppose that, all things considered, it does make sense to abide by “Emporia first.” There is a wealth of unique experiences here, and there are many more waiting if we show our support for this community.