On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications, along with Advisory Council chair Tom Graham share details of the upcoming Street Dance scheduled for June 17.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff shares the benefits of Chamber Checks as graduation gifts. Transcript: EDITORS NOTE: Transcripts are provided by an automated service and are not verified for accuracy.   James Bell  It's graduation season and that means graduation gifts, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff says chamber checks are an excellent option. She joins us to talk about that and more on this episode of the Post Podcast. First thing I got to know how the golf tournament go last week.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Oh James. Oh, it was wonderful. So everyone knows we had plenty of rain last week. So that the Greens even the fairways were they're not watered. They were beautiful and green. A disappointment might be the the ball to get bounced further ahead when he hit it. So that might have been a Debbie Downer. But a golfers were so happy. It was an absolutely beautiful day. I had fun telling people when they commented about what a beautiful day it was that I said it was their chamber hard at work for them. No, gotta take off we can get but no, it was a beautiful day. Absolutely beautiful day. We had 36 teams join us. And that was great. So that was two teams per hole. And they all seem to have a really good time. Spirits were high. I think people were so excited. For one, maybe they were ready for a break from the rain, which I will never complain about rain.   James Bell  Yeah, you weren't. But sometimes you just got to I know what he did. And we need it. We need it. But oh my gosh, it brings it down. Oh, I'm ready for some stuff.  Ialso remember though, Dan and I were very young in our marriage. And we lived in Lincoln, Kansas. And I remember that summer, ranchers were having to haul their cattle off to someplace else other states, because there was no rain. So there wasn't enough grass for their, their cattle. So ever since then. I mean, I was a farm girl, I realized how important rain was. But that that really sent a signal to me that we should never complain about the rain. I don't know how well I would fare in another dirty 30s. James, I'll be     fair enough.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yeah. No, it was absolutely a beautiful day. weather wise, the sun was out. golfers were happy. The patio party went over? Well, the online auction did great. And we had three lucky winners, who I still haven't found out who they are.   James Bell  They know they know they've got the prize.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yes. And they're they're picked up. So no, that was great. I actually had to leave the event a little bit early to get down to Wichita to listen to my son grandson playing his first piano recital. So the only reason is that yeah, yes. So it was a great tournament, I would know more about the tournament. But Mariah and I are manning the office. This week, Sarah's in Washington, DC with the western Kansas delegation, talking to our political regime out there and trying to make a difference for this part of the country. And so we're really excited about that for her to represent us. But yesterday morning early, we got in the First Order was for about $5,000 in chamber checks. Wow. Our largest denomination is 20 fives, so you can check. And then we got another order for $2,700 in chamber checks. So we ended up doing chamber checks for most of the day. And that that subject just didn't come up. So yeah, and we were excited to get that order.   James Bell  I was gonna say that's a good problem to have. I mean, although it's a lot of writing of checks.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Well, you know, those are, those are all all done, they're stamped and Oh, you just gotta like rip them apart. And well don't make it sound like it's just a simple process. James. Well, I don't know.   James Bell  The only only experience I have with chamber checks is I get them and I give them to the clerk at the store and I get my stuff. Yes, as far as my goes,   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  no, they're pre printed and numbered with our own wonderful printer here in town with Northwestern printers, and they're numbered there. But then they have to be stamped with Sarah's signature. And moralists. God bless her heart took really good care of us before she left only I don't know that she was planning on that big of order, which we are again, very happy about. But yeah, it's folding them stuffing them in the envelopes and getting them already. And I am so paranoid James, when it comes to people's money, I counted once and then I counted twice. And I counted a third time as I was stuffing envelopes. You know, gosh, we got that done. And so we have a lot of happy winners from from all the things that were going on at the time. Ultimate? That's for sure. Fantastic.   James Bell  Love to hear it. Yeah. And yeah, absolutely it was what a beautiful day. I don't think could ask for better weather.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  No, no, not at all. But you know, speaking of chamber checks, James, that's a great way to give graduation gifts, multiple checks that we prepared yesterday. Not all of them were for students a large quantity of them were. But what we need to stop and think, is that money will stay local. The one place where they can't be spent, people can't cash them into their bank account. So that money needs to stay local. And almost $8,000 A little over will stay in Haynes and help our local businesses,   James Bell  not not just once, but then again, yes, because it's cycles. Yes. And I don't reserve shared with me that number one point. I don't remember where it is, but it's in she's currently good with all that. Oh, yeah. It's like a steel trap up there. But yeah, it just keeps going and going to go on. Yeah. Helps me for weeks and months.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Oh, absolutely. And we need that here in Hays. You know, they can be spent at any chamber member and it helps them to pay payroll tax as then, you know, helps helps them pay employees and, and their, the rent on their building or any all of that. It just really helps. Plus, it's really nice. Because as as someone who's giving, you don't have to worry about getting it to the right store that they like to shop at. So you've taken that worry away. Plus, they're just fun.   James Bell  Yeah, you know what I like about him. And Sara blew my mind a while back with this number. But there's over 400 chamber businesses. Yes. So it's, I don't even know where all 400 of those businesses are. And I was counting because I couldn't come up with them. I had to drive around account. But you've got an incredible assortment of places you can spend those?   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Absolutely, absolutely. Restaurants. We probably don't want any young high school graduates to go to bars yet. But maybe college graduate could go. Yeah, but there's trash shops. There areas in town that a lot of them. The hallmark store, just there's a lot. Yeah. So there's a wide variety of what people could do, absolutely will restore options. Yeah, there's a lot. So they come in denominations of 510, and 25. So one of the orders yesterday was mainly a combination of 20, fives, and 25. And then $50 bundles, and the other one was $15. Set. So we were able to put a 10 and a five together. So and don't be afraid of those small numbers. It's just that many more times that people get to use the chamber check. Oh, now so and it works just like a check for the businesses   James Bell  or if you're not familiar with the check, because I know a lot of younger people don't really have that experience. It's just like cash. Really?   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Absolutely. Absolutely. So that's really fun. So what we would like to ask people is, if they're going to have significant orders, to please let us know, a day or two ahead. It took Ryan, I quite a bit of time to figure out that yesterday. Again, we're happy to do it. But we would rather not have you have to wait around for us as we prepare all of that. Give us a heads up and then it can be ready when you come in to get them and pay for him.   James Bell  Sure. Yeah. Easy, efficient. Love it.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  It is very easy and efficient. You know, James, today's a big day.   James Bell  I was gonna say we've got just a couple minutes left. We gotta get this in. Yeah,   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  big day today. Today's the last day that you can vote for the USD 49 infrastructure and the sales tax issue. You know, regardless of what your political views are, or what side of this coin, you're flipping on, get out and vote. That's the main thing, vote. You know, we have a lot of veterans and a lot of young men and women now fighting for our country to give us these freedoms. So take advantage of this freedom. Get out and vote. Yeah, so today's today's lot seven o'clock. I   James Bell  believe polls close today.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Is that what time it is? I voted early.   James Bell  Every day, every day. I said I told my wife told my co workers here I'm like, I'm gonna go vote today. I'm gonna get it in and get it done. And then I didn't and here we are on the day. I'm gonna get it in today, though. Oh, good. Absolutely. I always I always vote. I had the early voting to me. I like it because it's convenient. But it's one of those things that mentally at least for me, I'm like, Well, I can still do But later I can still do. I'm a procrastinator, you see?   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Well, and I in I work in a building where everyone's talking about voting early. And so that helped me this year, or usually I'm in the same boat you are. I'm going to go do it. But there always seems like something better to do. But gosh, today, James, but your voice be heard.   James Bell  Absolutely. Everybody get out there and get and the turnout already. I don't know what the number is. But I know it's been an incredible early turnout, far surpassing any of the previous bond attempts. And I think just really good turnout in election in general for for Ellis County so far. And   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  that's great. We shouldn't have that maybe this will be a start of something new. I would love that. And what by new I mean that people will start voting more often reinvigorated.   James Bell  Yes, absolutely. Yeah. Well, Rhonda, I tell you, Oh, we got to get over to news and weather. But any other last thoughts real quick before we go?   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Thanks to those who support the chamber and thanks to those who came out and played golf with us, who donated prizes who voted at the online auction all of that it was a large community working together and we sure do appreciate everything everyone does for the chamber. Thanks

On this episode of the Post Podcast president and CEO of the Hays Chamber Sarah Wasinger, along with president and CEO of the First Care Clinic share information about the upcoming Chamber Golf Tournament.   Transcript: EDITORS NOTE: Transcripts are provided by an automated service and are not verified for accuracy.   James Bell  The Hays Chamber is putting the final touches on their golf tournament set for Friday, President and CEO of the Hays chamber Sarah Wasinger, along with President and CEO of First Care Clinic, Bryan Brady, join us to talk about that and more on this episode of the Post Podcast.   Sarah Wasinger  So this week is like the week. It's golf tournament week, which also means it's our silent auction week. And we have her scare clinic who is sponsoring that silent auction this year for us. And we are so excited about that, because it helps us do a lot of nice things, including showcase all of the wonderful auction items that have been donated by our chamber member businesses, and even a few non chamber member businesses. Because this is the one event every year that we allow those folks to participate in our events as well.   James Bell  Absolutely. No, I do want to get this out of the way. You sold out on the golf tournament. Right? We have but your team's 30 teams. Oh my goodness, that's a lot to manage. But you've still got tickets for the patio party, right?   Sarah Wasinger  We do. Okay, great. Do so the cool thing about that is tickets are $25 each, it comes with a fiesta taco bar. Let me get that right. So it's literally a day after Cinco Demayo. So we thought that might be a fun play on what's going on. And then we also have a margarita that comes with that too. So you can get to enjoy a margarita out on the patio, some tacos, and have a chance to play the Plinko board. And that Plinko board will come with some great prizes too. So we have anything from T shirts to nice coffee cups to some sunglasses, you name it, you can win it.   James Bell  Very cool. Very cool. I love that. And you know, honestly, when we've talked about this a little bit, what an exciting event for the community to be able to get together and really celebrate businesses and everything else going on.   Sarah Wasinger  Exactly. So we, of course are excited to have we do have a special guest just dropped in. How are you, sir? Construction?   James Bell  You timed that perfectly? You Oh, yes. What a mess right there at that intersection? Oh, my goodness, I have to do that every day. It's terrible. How are you sir?   Bryan Brady  I'm doing great. Thanks so much for having me.   Sarah Wasinger  So Brian Brady is the president CEO at first care clinic. And as we shared, they are our sponsor for our silent auction this year. So Brian, tell us a little bit about you guys. And what you offer at first Care Clinic real quick. we'll segue into that.   Bryan Brady  Sure. So first Care Clinic is what we call a federally qualified health center. And what that means is we take care of everybody regardless of their ability to pay regardless of their insurance status. And we're really proud to do that. And grateful we can do it for the AES community.   Sarah Wasinger  And they've been a well, well trusted chamber member for quite some time now. So and Brian actually also serves on our chamber board of directors. Next year, he will be our board chair. Oh, very cool. Excited     about that, for sure.   Sarah Wasinger  So, Brian, you guys obviously are playing I think I'm a golf tournament too, right?   Bryan Brady  Yes, I've played in that. Almost every year since I've been in Hays. It's such a great event. We have a great time. And looks like we'll get to great weather tomorrow or Friday as well. Yeah, we   Sarah Wasinger  were looking at that and very excited knock on knock on wood. So one thing that is fun of note, we actually kicked off the Auction yesterday. So ours is a little unique. We start that on Monday morning at 8am. And then that online auction will run until Friday at 3pm. So we actually had the auction link that will go out today in our newsletter, but it can also be accessed online. So feel free to contact us at the Chamber if you have any issues getting onto that link.   James Bell  Very cool. And what what an amazing assortment of items during that auction   Sarah Wasinger  over $13,000. And we're actually getting closer to $14,000 as we speak and shut up. Ah, we're adding a few things here at the last minute. Love it.   James Bell  We're talking about some of the things I'm looking at the list and I figured you would   Sarah Wasinger  come to my office because it looks like the auction actually blew up in there. And it's very fun. We have a plethora of gift certificates from our chamber member restaurants and obviously some good eat options there. So you have to feed your family. So you might as well go online and check. Check those out for sure. Absolutely. One of the other things that we're really excited about is we got a ridiculous amount of coolers this year. And they're also interesting in their own right so we have a couple of Gatorade slash KJ hot coolers, and those were donated by Pepsi Cola. I've got a fully stocked Coleman cooler that is full of neat swag items from five broadband 60 cord Polaris Northstar cooler that was donated by BLS motorsports. And then we've also got some tools, speakers, adult food, beverage and food baskets. So those are really neat because you can kind of buy those. Maybe Mother's Day gifts. Think of Mother's Day.   James Bell  Is that coming up soon? It's I'm just kidding.   Sarah Wasinger  Well, the nice thing about our auction is of course we bring all of our items to Smoky Hill Country Club, because many of our golfers do bid on those. And so whether you come to the chamber office throughout this week to look at those items through noon on Thursday or if Do you want to come down to Smoky Hill Country Club and peruse those? You sure can. But you can pick up the items after we close the auction at three o'clock. So you would have them technically in plenty of time to celebrate Mother's Day. Very cool. We have some unique experiences this time around as well. And we were very excited. President and Mason fhsu has provided a dinner for for at her home. We also have for fhsu All sport general admission tickets for the 2020 to 2023 football and basketball seasons. A couple of new ones that we are offering from the chamber this year include our 2023 chamber banquet dessert sponsor. And you might be asking, what is that Sara? Well, you get two tickets to attend the event. We're going to put you in the program, you'll get plenty of advertising leading up to the event and after the event. And what that sponsorship does is allow the chamber to help offset the costs of the dessert at the event.   James Bell  So neat idea.   Sarah Wasinger  I love it. Yeah. So Rhonda came up with that one. So it was a   James Bell  Rhonda. That was a little bit sooner.   Sarah Wasinger  That's It's amazing Sandra kudos. And then we're also going to have a couple of tickets that are VIP tickets actually for the 2022 Wild West fest. So very exciting for that. And then another unique item that we're offering for next year is going to be our 2023 Plinko patio party cocktail sponsor. We've gotten a lot of good feedback already that folks are excited to have a cocktail out on the patio with their meal on Friday. And so we're going to of course, as well give that opportunity that will come with a couple of tickets to attend next year's event. Awesome. Brian, are there any items that you plan on bidding on?   Bryan Brady  I haven't looked through the auction yet. But don't tell my wife there's an auction.   Sarah Wasinger  Okay. I'm gonna just Facebook message earlier that   James Bell  sounds like you just found your next Plinko patio pot party cocktail sponsor right there.   Sarah Wasinger  We also have a couple of other awesome items, we have some men's and women's Oakley sunglasses that are donated by EMI specialists associated and Hatton Montero family eyecare has also donated a pair of designer glasses that are Kate young brand. And then you can also bid on different items that are related golf like haste municipal golf course has a round of four for golf. So just want to make sure that people go online, we have some pictures uploaded. And we do have descriptions of each of the items there. I'm starting bids are open, of course right now. And then we have, you can set a max bid if you want. So let's just say you're not good at keeping up with stuff. You can put what you're willing to pay for it. And then as long as no one else bids more than that. You can actually technically be the winner   James Bell  meet. Yeah, I think so many groups that do the do auctions ahead to move it online. So I think everybody at this point had a little bit of experience with an online auction. But   Sarah Wasinger  I think the chamber was kind of a trailblazer in that they've been doing the online format for quite some time since the start of the tournament. So and then of course want to give a shout out to Avalon of Hayes. They are also our big sponsor for our Plinko patio party.   James Bell  Yay. Thanks to them. Yeah,   Sarah Wasinger  next Tech wireless, where would we be without them? There are the actual tournament sponsors so grateful for everything that they do to help us and put on a successful event. And then a final shout out to our ambassador team. And they've gone above and beyond and helping us get some prizes for the raffle for the auction and all those other cool things.   James Bell  Very cool really takes a village to put this thing together. Huh, it does. So   Sarah Wasinger  we've been planning this event since probably February. And I think everyone's ready for a good afternoon to relax and enjoy the day. It's here. It's here it is here.   James Bell  Alrighty, well, we've got just about a minute or so left any other events going on. And this is probably taking the bulk of your week up. But I would imagine get ready for this.   Sarah Wasinger  So for the remainder of this week until noon on Thursday, we are still celebrating childcare provider Appreciation Week. And so we still have probably about 25 appreciation backs and a handout. So if you didn't make it down yesterday, please feel free to stop by our office. If you're a childcare provider. Obviously you're offering care during the day and you can't get away feel free to send someone on your behalf to get your care package for you. We also have leadership pays tomorrow at 830 at the Welcome Center. We'll be celebrating in the carpentry house at NCQA Technical College on Thursday at 10am. Our H yp networking and Engagement Committee will actually meet at 1205 at the Welcome Center on Thursday. And then of course Friday is Game On work around the country clubs so we won't be in the office the office will be closed

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with vice president of marketing and communication Mariah Leglighter, share information about the search for the Chamber's next administrative assistant.   Transcript: EDITORS NOTE: Transcripts are provided by an automated service and are not verified for accuracy.   James Bell  The Hays chamber is on the hunt for their next administrative assistant from the chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with Vice President of Marketing and Communications Mariah Legleiter stops by to talk to us about that and more on this episode of the Post Podcast.   Sarah Wasinger  Our dear friend Marlis Fletcher, she's our current administrative assistant is taking a position at a chamber member location. So we are actually in the process of looking for a new administrative assistant.   James Bell  Okay, well, I mean, okay, well, this is great. She's amazing. And it says over here, and you guys, there's no replacing her?   Sarah Wasinger  Well, you know, they say everyone's replaceable, she just holds a very special place in our heart. She's literally the glue of our office. And she's that first point of contact when people come visit us at the chamber. So definitely will be difficult to replace her. But we feel like we have a pretty fun team. I mean, I'll say that I brought Mariah so she could actually validate if   James Bell  you're the boss to say like, yeah, we have a great time at work. Everybody loves me.   Sarah Wasinger  I can I paid Mariah extra, she'll say nice things.   Mariah Legleiter  It has been, it has been fantastic. Um, the last, what, five months, six months has been just, it's gone by incredibly fast. I've learned so many new things. And I've just gotten to dip my toes in a lot of different aspects of the community. And I've gotten to talk to a lot of different people and learn new things. And it's just been really fantastic. And, you know, working with Sarah, and working with Rhonda and working with Marlise has just been fantastic, too. I mean, they're fun. I don't think I've had a day that I haven't laughed, probably for half the day. I mean, it's it. Yeah, it's a great environment. And it has been fantastic.   James Bell  Very cool. You know, and I got to imagine much like kind of my job here. It's one of those positions that it changes everyday, it's a little different.   Sarah Wasinger  Yes. If you don't like what you're doing just sneeze and you'll be doing something different. Yes. That's for sure. Yeah,   Mariah Legleiter  I would like to say it changes by the day, but sometimes it's by the minute.   Sarah Wasinger  Wow. But we get to work with a lot of wonderful people, I think the biggest thing that I wanted to communicate about this position is we are in a very special place in our community that we get to impact a lot of different things by the work that we do. And so it's not just how you get paid by the benefits. But I think internally, the paycheck that you get to sign right at the end of the day for doing things like addressing child care, helping get the school bond passed, all those different things, the work that we get to do on a daily basis, supporting our local businesses, advocating on their behalf, really desperately your bucket.   James Bell  So yeah, and I think you know, especially for young folks, when I say young, I'm thinking younger than us, we're Sarah, we're about same age, Mariah is clearly younger than   Sarah Wasinger  obviously, she has less wrinkles.   James Bell  But for younger folks, it's a lot of it's about that it's about the difference you can make in the community paychecks are great, and everybody you know, at the end of the day, has to make money to live. But you know that that sense of belonging that the ability to make a difference is tremendous.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. So I just wanted to kind of point that out. Um, you know, we did talk about Marlis being the glue for our team. And that's very much true, I'm just kind of wanted to give a glimpse as to what maybe the average day looks like. So obviously, you're the first point of contact when coming into the office. Um, she Marlise currently does a wonderful job answering the phones. So this person would help be that first point of contact, we have chamber checks, of course, and this position would kind of manage that program, and assist in doing the bulk of processing those orders for folks, when they come in. We do have a software called chamber master. It's kind of our database that we use to track our Chamber members, excuse me, I've got a frog in my throat this morning, that they would be taught how to utilize that system to kind of keep track of different events and things of that nature. Obviously, we're very event driven at the Chamber, because about 45% of our total budget comes from the income that we earn from those events. So they would definitely help us assist and organize and coordinate those things that we have going on. Whether it be an appreciation and appreciation the banquet, so and then of course our regular events that we have to like chamber chats, ribbon cutting and some membership lunches, they'll help get those things on the calendar for us and make sure that we're not overlooking any important details.   Mariah Legleiter  Yeah, we, um, you know, working working at the Chamber has been really fun. And being able to work with Marla. She's been really organized and really great. And I feel like that's also something that that's really important to this role is just being really organized and being able to keep us kind of organized and help With our calendars and just kind of do those, those things for us and keep us on our toes as well,   Sarah Wasinger  yeah, someone who's an effective communicator and fearful of a fast paced work environment would definitely probably thrive in this position. So,   James Bell  and correct me if I'm wrong, too. But we have we, as I've watched the you fill positions like Moriah, here over the last few years, the job is kind of also tailored to the individual, right? Because it's a small team, there's only the four of you folks down there. So it kind of builds around that skill set that they might bring in, right?   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely, we definitely want to make sure that people are fulfilling their purpose. I'm at the chamber. So we had this defined set of job descriptions. But if there's a passion that someone brings to the table that maybe we haven't considered or done before, and they're going to be a part of that team, they're going to be given the opportunity to give feedback to help really guide and mold the purpose of our direction going forward. Okay, cool.   James Bell  Well, we got to probably talk about some of the specifics here, because it is pretty, some pretty good list of benefits that come with this job.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. So some of my favorite things are, you know, we pay full coverage for a single person's insurance. So that definitely is a strong benefit right now, because the cost of health care is significant. And we also have the 3% retirement contribution match. And one of my favorite things is a flexible work schedule. Mariah, you're a young mama, do you want to talk a little bit about that.   Mariah Legleiter  So we actually open at 730 Every morning, but I can't drop off my kid at school until 730. So they've been really, really great about working around that schedule. I'm able to drop Olivia off and then go straight to work. And I mean, it's been seamless, like it's just worked out really, really well. And yeah, we, anytime Olivia Has anything at school, or if there's something in the community that we need to go do, as long as you know, we're communicating with each other. And that comes back to that good communication. As long as we're doing that, then we make it work. And it's very flexible. It's been really fun.   Sarah Wasinger  Work life balance is a very important thing that I always want to provide for my team. Because I feel that the more that you can take advantage of enjoying your family, the better position that you are to be effective at work. So that's definitely something that we've tried to champion over the past couple of years. Another thing that is wonderful too, speaking of family time is our paid holidays off. We have New Year's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day after Thanksgiving. So if you want to shop local, you can do. And then hint hint, wink wink there. And then also Christmas Eve New Year's Day, we actually get that full kind of week and a half off, and from our chamber board of directors. So we also accrue sick leave on a regular basis. And after six months of consecutive employment, you earn one week of paid time off. And after one year, you get two weeks of paid time off. And then of course every year after that, I think five years you get to move up. But that's definitely something wonderful just so you can have that work life balance. Like I said, it's really nice to be able to enjoy the time away with your family, and then be refreshed and come back ready to work.   Mariah Legleiter  And I know that you know, talking about the week off, um, that was super, super helpful for us. Because then you only had to find one week while the kids are out of school for Christmas break. You only had to find one week of childcare versus two weeks of childcare or we can you know, two and a half weeks. And it just made everything run so much smoother. Oh, I bet yeah.   James Bell  One thing we hear it's Oh,   Sarah Wasinger  yeah, we're working on an issue. The biggest thing I would take away though, too, that surprised me I think the most about this job is really the friendships that you make, and the connections that you make that are truly lasting. And I've met some of the most wonderful people that I've ever met in my entire life just by working at the chamber. And so getting to work side by side with people who are like minded and want to make a difference in our community has been so empowering and just a blessing really,   James Bell  very cool. Now, before we run out of time, we should probably tell people, you know, if they're interested how they can apply for the position.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. Thank you for nice segue there, James. So they can call the chamber office that 785-628-8201 If they want to ask specific questions, we would request that folks who are interested that they email, Hey, CeCe at Hayes chamber.com with a resume and a cover letter. And then we're asking for at least three references, not reference letters, we would be happy to call and get the references from those folks over the phone. But yeah, the information can be found on our chamber website at Hayes chamber.com/news-announcements. Very   James Bell  cool. And while you're there, check out all the events you guys got going on this week because you do have a lot going on, right?   Mariah Legleiter  Oh, yeah, we do. So tomorrow, April 27. At 4:30pm There's an H yp MDC meeting at defiance the downtown location on Thursday, April 28 at noon, the is going to be a ribbon cutting for the Kiwanis Club at the Welcome Center. If you RSVP to Sarah at Hayes chamber.com There is going to be a lunch served for that one, but we need a headcount to let everybody know or to know how much food to make. Also on Thursday at 5:30pm, the H yp is having an X yp event at Siena's massage, education and retail at 106 West wealth. Alyssa Owens is going to be talking about self care. Friday, April 29. At 9am. There's going to be a chamber chat for the TMP Marian ace auction at 1701 hole Street,   Sarah Wasinger  and that is one of their biggest fundraisers for the year and talking about the importance of quality schools and the facilities that we have a wonderful opportunity to support them and all the good work that they do to educate our area's children. Absolutely.   Mariah Legleiter  Yeah. And after the chamber chat on Friday, April 29. Well, during the chamber chat at 930 will have the Dale Carnegie self awareness, insights on personal leadership and workshop at the Rose Garden banquet hall and catering 2350 East eighth and Friday, April 29. At noon, we will have our monthly membership luncheon at the Rose Garden banquet hall and catering at 2350 East eighth.   Sarah Wasinger  And one final plug tomorrow is administrative professional state. So if you have an administrative professional like our Marlis Marlis if you're listening we love you and thank you. Please make sure that you thank them for everything that they do to support your organization your business

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber, president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with vice president of marketing and communications, Mariah Leglighter stop by to talk about the importance of shopping local. Transcript: EDITORS NOTE: Transcripts are provided by an automated service and are not verified for accuracy.   James Bell  Choosing to shop local can have a significant impact on the local economy. From the Hays Chamber, president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with vice president of marketing and communications, MariahLeglighter stopped by to talk about that and more on this episode of the Post Podcast.   Sarah Wasinger  It's been a while since we've really focused our message on the radio of shop local. And I think you hit the nail on the head, there are so many big events coming up Mother's Day is just around the corner this weekend as well. Or no, sorry, three weeks from now.   James Bell  I don't know why you're looking at me, I have no idea.   Sarah Wasinger  I'm thinking about the golf tournament. And that golf tournament, Friday leads into Mother's Day weekend. So I'm already there. I'm at the time, but too much. But no. So we've got a lot of important and fun things coming up. And our business community does so much to support, whether it be our local schools, our sports teams, our arts programs, and things of that nature. And so just a good reminder to slow down. Um, instead of pushing, instead of going online and clicking a cart online, we want you to go push a cart somewhere in Hays somewhere in Ellis County, where that tax base that you're paying for your goods that you're purchasing actually goes back to reinvest into your community, our roads, our schools, our infrastructure, things that help us have good quality of life here.   James Bell  Yeah, you know, and I, there's been a couple of situations real recently with myself, where I've realized that things that I were buying online, you can find locally, and, yes, slightly more expensive, um, but it's just so like, not even enough to really make it a consideration. But I found that it you know, it feels better, because you're out there. And you, you know, when you when you lay down that $10 bill for whatever it is, it's supporting the local community.   Sarah Wasinger  While there was a statistic back in 2017. That said, for every dollar that is spent in haste, it reads circulates an average of seven times. So think about the power of $1. And how many dollars we spend on a daily basis, we have to talk a little bit too about our cost of gas right now. Right? So for people that are considering shopping out of town, because they just want to go someplace else, you have to add the cost of your gas in your time into that trip, as well. And when you look at the cost savings that you could have by just staying here in Hays, um, it really adds up very quickly.   James Bell  Yeah. And for those that are in those towns that scattered around here in Hays, I know Hayes's your your deal, but you know, think like Ellis Victoria, those little small businesses there, same kind of deal. And this was, especially in the Victoria, you were at that meeting where we heard that, you know, they really want to support the community, it's a vocal and, you know, almost tangible desire there in the community to keep that money locally.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. So I think the more we reinvest in ourselves, the more we help ourselves. So I'm just thinking about those businesses again, that, you know, I was surprised, we looked everywhere in town for a couple of items for the chamber A few weeks ago. And finally, I just said, You know what, we can't find it here right now. But let's just see if they can order. So sometimes, maybe you don't actually see the item on the shelf, but give that business owner an opportunity to share with them what you're looking for nine times out of 10, they're going to be able to find something for you and probably get it in just as quick as if he would buy something from the evil word amazon online. So when I hear people talking about Amazon, I just want to beat my head against the wall, because Amazon is not investing in our schools, they're not supporting local initiatives, and making our community a special place to live work in place. So please, please, please keep that in mind as you are making your purchasing decisions this spring.   James Bell  Yeah, absolutely. You know, and I think to about, you know, in the, in the historical kind of nature of shop local, you know, at least in my head, I still think about supporting those local business owners, you know, the main street businesses and not going to those chain stores. But even when you if you have to make the decision between going to a chain box store here in Hays, and going to Amazon, the chain box stores still better in terms of supporting the community.   Sarah Wasinger  They are, you know, they, Mariah, I think you have some, you know, we've been talking a little bit about this, and the actual chamber office, you know, Walmart, I think this was two years ago, give a very wonderful donation to the ark Park. You know, it's not just the mom paws, it's everybody that comes together in our community to make a big difference. So we don't discriminate between smaller big businesses at the chamber. We support them and love them all, that they're local. And we're our job is to make sure that people keep that in mind when they purchase.   Mariah Legleiter  Absolutely. And like you said, I mean, that was something that kind of surprised me is that you can go in and if you can't find something that you're looking for, you know, just talk to the owners and usually they can get you what you're looking for just as kind of a deterrent to go to evil Amazon.   Sarah Wasinger  And we talk about it too, you know, just planning in advance. I think our society has become very good about instant gratification. And delayed gratification can be something you can do with as long as you're planning ahead. So, um, just make sure that if you're looking for birthday presents, like we talked about this wedding presents, graduation, Mother's Day, all those things you know, just put Ain't ahead and you can make sure that you're supporting your community while taking care of the people you love all at the same time.   James Bell  Absolutely, you know, and a great way to do that we've talked about this before, but the chamber checks, get that and whether or not you're using them, or giving them as a gift that ensures that that money is going to be used locally.   Sarah Wasinger  Well, if you're like me, and your mom and dad literally, like buy everything they need themselves, and don't give you the opportunity to buy them something for them, just to say thank you, um, chamber checks, do you make a great option because they can be spent at almost 500 locations, you know, across Ellis County. And, you know, that's a great way to make sure that that money is staying local chamber checks can't be used and other communities. So that's really the big benefit. They spend like cash, and they don't expire. So you can take them in at any time and go ahead and use them to purchase whatever you want. So and the nice thing is, is, you know, because they have that choice, and that flexibility, the sky is really the limit. And you know, whether they want to go out to eat at one of our wonderful restaurants, that's a chamber member, or just do some shopping or maybe get gas or groceries. They're all options.   James Bell  Very cool. You know, and I like that too. Because it's, it's one of those things, you know, when I think about gift cards, right? Gift cards are can be so handy, but also so annoying. Because if it's something that's not local, you got to think about it. Like I'm trying to think of a restaurant that is not in haste schlocky Sovran slide forgot a gift card to schlocky is it to remember to take that with me all the time. Or remember that I'm going to be stopping in schlocky wallum in Salina later this afternoon. So I should grab that gift card. But a chamber check, you choose it anywhere. Exactly. And for the experiences, I love that, you know, it's not just the shopping, it's the you know, doing things as well, you could use those for   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. So just a friendly reminder, chamber texts do come and 510 and $25 increments. And if folks do want to make any orders for their upcoming gifts and things of that nature, if they can just give us a call at 785-628-8201. We'll go ahead and get those orders ready for you. That way we can make sure that they're I'm ready to pick up when you come by the office. Oh, quick and easy love. Very easy. Yes. And we do also include a brochure. We tried to have our brochure be as up to date as possible. But the best way to figure out and which businesses do take chamber checks is usually by visiting our website, Hayes chamber.com. And clicking on our membership directory.   Mariah Legleiter  I just updated that shop local brochure. So it'll be updated for about three days about how long that lasts. So what's a good thing though, that   James Bell  means businesses are coming? Joining up? Yes,   Mariah Legleiter  absolutely.   James Bell  Well, guys, we want to get into this too. There is there's a lot going on. Now. There's always a lot going on down the chamber, but this week, especially Holy smokes.   Mariah Legleiter  We were just talking about that on the way here. Today. We actually today, Tuesday, April 19 at 10am. We have a ribbon cutting at my town media. They are a new member at 1105 East 30th Street Suite. See I've heard that's on the north side of the building. Tuesday, April 19. At noon, we have the H yp connection lunch at thirsties venue Wednesday, April 20 at 8:30am. We'll have the leadership Hayes group at the Welcome Center. Thursday, April 21 at 8am. We'll have the downtown dialog Friday, April 22. At 9am. We will have our regular chamber chat over the USD 489 Bond opportunity at Rockwell Administration Center 323 West 12th Street, and on Friday, April 22. At noon, we will have our monthly Ambassador luncheon at the Rose Garden banquet hall   Sarah Wasinger  and a few quick clarifications. We will have Joseph Glassman, he is the president CEO at Glassman Corporation, he will be our guest speaker for the hrrp lunch today. And the downtown dialogue event of course is sponsored by the downtown Hayes Development Corporation. And they always had that event down in the basement at breathe coffee house. So um, it's a great opportunity for us to get to sit down with the downtown business owners. And one final point of note is today is a big day. And for people who have possibly been paying attention to the USD 49 upcoming bond election today is voter registration deadline. So if you have not already verified if you're registered to vote, you can go to 489 bond.com There's a link to verify that you're registered.   James Bell  Very cool. And it's not hard to get registered, just sit down to the county chamber or the county whatever that what's the building the administration's county administration center, yes. And get yourself registered if you're not even for this election or for the next one.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. And a friendly reminder to folks to that this week and next week and they can still purchase raffle tickets in our Avalon of Hayes and CO patio party tickets that are in conjunction with our golf tournaments. So always a lot going on and as always make sure that you check out his chamber.com/events for all of our upcoming them and that's what we have

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and administrative assistant, Marlis Fletcher stop by to share information about upcoming Dale Carnegie training sessions.   Transcript: EDITORS NOTE: Transcripts are provided by an automated service and are not verified for accuracy.   James Bell  The Hays Chamber has a couple of Dale Carnegie leadership training sessions coming up in the near future administrative assistant Marlas Fletcher as well as vice president of membership, Rhonda Meyerhoff stops by to talk to us about that and more on this episode of the post podcast.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Marla's has taken the session. So she's still currently smart. I'm not.   James Bell  Well, you're getting in on this round. Right?   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  I am very cool. Yes.   Marlis Fletcher  Yeah. You're excited about it? Yeah.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yeah. I'm very excited about it.   James Bell  Yeah. And I know, this is one of, you know, Sarah is the president and CEO down there. She loves Dale Carnegie's, she's always talking about these things.   Marlis Fletcher  Yeah, it's a great, great experience. And we've actually got two different workshops coming up. The first one's April 29, from 930 to 1130. It's the same day as our membership lunch. So you can sign up for this. It's self awareness, insights on personal leadership. And then right after that you can, and it's $50 for Chamber members and 60 for non members. So anybody can come. And right after that, you can come to our membership lunch, so it's same place just starts at noon. So you're right there, and you can hit both. Both things at one stop. Yeah, convenient. But they do. This is just a one day one. And I've never been to like a one day one. But you know, this one is you're going to be able to learn techniques to enhance your self awareness. So any training that Dale Carnegie, Carnegie puts on is good. But I'm especially excited to be able to go to this one.   James Bell  Yeah, because I think we've talked about the the longer training sessions, a bit of a one day event, because I think about like the time commitment involved in in taking a long session. You know, maybe not everybody has that. But I think everybody could carve out an afternoon. Well, it's   Marlis Fletcher  930 to 1130. Morning, you know, it's the morning and then yeah,   James Bell  don't show up in the afternoon, because you will you will miss the event.   Marlis Fletcher  You will. But yeah, that's pretty cool. Yeah. So then after that, we're having the June 7 14th and 21st. It's Tuesdays for three consecutive weeks, we're having the full Dale Carnegie training. For non Chamber members, the cost is $1,995. But you get a 15% discount if you're a chamber member. So it is from 830 to five, each of those days, they do break an hour for lunch on your own. And this is the one I took. And I really, really enjoyed it. I learned a lot about me, I learned a lot about how to deal with people. You do get three books. And I have them in front of me. And one is How to Win Friends and Influence People   James Bell  the classic right? That's the one that started it all.   Marlis Fletcher  It says over 30 million copies sold. But I bet you it's probably more than that   James Bell  it does the cover looks and not say it's an old book, but the cover looks like an older version. So I bet it's considerably higher than that now,   Marlis Fletcher  I bet it is too. And then How to Stop Worrying and start living. And who wouldn't want that? Yeah,   James Bell  I was just gonna say like, maybe looking to borrow that one.   Marlis Fletcher  This one, Sarah. Sure. And then the quick and easy way to effective speaking.   James Bell  Ah, very cool. I could use that one as well, I think here on the radio. Oh, you do pretty good. But   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  yeah, it's been really interesting, though. Because people that have taken it just, I mean, they go back to it and go back to go back to in their workplace and their personal life. Right?   Marlis Fletcher  That's right. Like, I actually have somebody in my life who had taken that does not live in Hayes. But they took it from the same. He took it from the same people. And he has a very good job. And he claims that he got his job because he had the Dale Carnegie training while he went through his interview well, so   James Bell  yeah, it's gonna be the kind of stuff that, you know, I haven't been involved. But I imagine that the stuff that is discussed and talked about and it's actionable, it's, it's not and I think maybe people will balk at the price, because it is a hefty price tag it is but what you're gonna get out of it, you're gonna build us in any job for the rest of your life.   Marlis Fletcher  Oh, personal and professional. So, you know, each each session each each of his chapters you he has different principles. And like the first principle that you're going to learn if you read How to Win friends and influence people is don't criticize, condemn or complain. And you know, that's a pretty good life lesson there itself. So it gives you it gives you it'll give you instances where different things have happened and how this person handled it or should have handled it in the book. And it's it's just a really interesting learning experience. Yeah.   James Bell  And getting in it's actionable content, right. It's not, you know, it's not like a lecture on how to be leaders. or do leadership? Well, it's stuff you can take and actually use   Marlis Fletcher  apply, apply. That's before   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  you, you know, one thing on here that I'm really anxious to apply. I'm getting it that wonderful age where people's names sometimes elude me. But that's actually that doesn't   James Bell  happen to everybody all the time, because I was gonna say, the listeners here on the show can tell you, every once in a while I forget the news guy's name like I see him every day.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Well, one of the things that you'll work on is the process to recall names and facts. And I'm really, I'm happy about that. Because I've told friends, if we go somewhere, and I don't introduce it, it's because I can't remember the other person's name. You know, it's just yeah. So that is for sure. actionable. It's so embarrassing. When you can't recall someone's name.   James Bell  But better. I mean, and in your world, though, how many people do you interact with an average? I mean, you're just all over the place. And there's so many people you want to you want to remember every name, but sometimes it's   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  one of those individuals isn't important. Personal. Absolutely. They deserve to be called by the right of the right name. Yes, yeah. So yeah, that's three days,   Marlis Fletcher  it is three days, June 7 14th, and 21st. And it's really all day 830 to five.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  there last year, there was a group that came up from Dodge City, Kansas.   Marlis Fletcher  There were they all worked at a it wasn't a feedlot, but it was something cattle related. Yeah. And they were fun. We had a lot of fun with them. Very cool.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  You know, yeah. And you talk about actionable items. You know, just strengthening relationships. We all think we might be good at that. But sometimes you used to do something so well that you forgot to do it anymore. And I don't know if that makes sense. But I'm old enough that, you know, things that you used to do, you just kind of let slip off the radar, because something else came in and took its place. Sure. Um, so that'll be that'll be good to look at that. And, you know, just all the different things that I saw Marlis grow a lot. In taking this.   Marlis Fletcher  It does, it gives you a lot of confidence, you know, to speak to a person that you don't know, or in public, it just gives you a lot of confidence. I felt like this has confidence, competence and enthusiasm. But I really felt like the competent. The confidence was the big one for me.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yeah, you know, and James, yeah, a price tag, not cheap. But for, for our own Chamber members. You know, we surveyed them, that was still yet when Tammy was at the chamber. And one of the things that our businesses wanted is, they wanted to be able to provide training for their employees, but not have to send them to salon to which taught Kansas City to Denver. And so that's part of the reason why they brought Dale Carnegie here. So what I would like to share with our local individuals, yeah, there's a price tag, but you're gonna get to save on gasoline, your hotel, you're gonna get to save even more time, because you would spend time traveling to these locations. So that's more time out of the office. So there's actually a lot of good reasons why to take it here. Why to take it local, and put some money into your people. Surveys will show too, that employees really respect a business more and their employer more if they feel like they're valued, and that they have put some money back into the person, aside from their wages, invested time and skills. Yeah, absolutely.   James Bell  And, you know, and talk about a time when when keeping and retaining people is paramount. I mean, everybody is looking for help. And right now, if you're losing employees, you've got problems.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Absolutely. You know, and if you want to look at succession planning, maybe you're in that middle age group, and you're kind of thinking that someday, you'd like to retire, maybe it's your own business, maybe you're at the top and CEO or president or whatever, or some other position. What a great way to start grooming the next person coming in. By having them do some of this training, and actually preparing them to take on leadership within your within your company or your business. You'll not only gain from this succession planning, but you'll gain during the time that they're there supporting you while you're still there.   James Bell  Absolutely. You know, and I will say this I have spoken to I don't know how many over the years people that have been through these training classes and I've never heard anyone say my I didn't feel like it was worth it. They everybody that comes out of this has has just nothing but positive to say,   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  well, and I'm excited to get to take it because when they do the Dale Carnegie quotes, I might be able to do one too.   James Bell  Oh. So you know, we've we've run out of time, we should tell everybody like how if somebody is interested in participating in one of these sessions, where do they do?   Marlis Fletcher  So you can call us at the chamber, and we'll give you the information, the phone number is 6288201. And we'll we'll send you the the sheet on it. We can email it to you.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yeah, we'll send you a registration link to and, and get you going. We'll help you through the process. If there's questions, we'll do the best we can.   Marlis Fletcher  And we have it in our newsletters. We've had it in like the last two newsletters, I think so.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yeah. And those newsletters that our listeners want to know, all of our newsletters are actually online. If they go to Hayes chamber.com Go to News and Events tab at the top, go click to the right. And there's a section that's newsletters. So James, they could look in the March newsletter or the April newsletter, either one and learn more about both of these subjects that are coming up. Individuals maybe don't receive the newsletter.   James Bell  Sure. Yeah. And you know, like and that online interface is so slick. i We still have we always have the paper version floating around. But I love the online. And plus, you can always reference it no matter where you are. You're on your phone, you're at your desk, you're at home, you can just click over there and get all the information you need.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  Yes, exactly. And it's easy for us to share.   James Bell  Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. Well, all right, guys. We got just about a minute or so left, what else you guys got going on this week.   Rhonda Meyerhoff, vice president of membership  All righty. We are going to be having a ribbon cutting already at 10 o'clock this morning. We are going to celebrate, there's been a turf project out at Hayes rec on their their sports complex fields on the northeast quad. And we're going to be doing a ribbon cutting. We believe that's going to make a huge change and then being able to have teams in every weekend, spending money in haste and helping the economy but yeah, we're gonna celebrate with haste wreck on that with at the bagel, Schmidt sports complex. And then on tomorrow is going to be Mental Health First Aid training. And that is the free of them. But they do want to know if you're going to be there that so if you'd like to attend that call the chamber. And that event is from eight to five tomorrow, and it's going to be a brief space. And there's also on Thursday, then H yp advisory council meeting at the Welcome Center that starts at 515 April 14. Also, you know, James, one of our big projects that we're working on that I think will be ours forever, and we're happy about that is childcare and so it's going to be in Victoria, and it's the prospective and current childcare provider meeting. And that will be from 630 to 730 at the ELMS conference room 613 grant terrace. And then I want you all to know, we are very blessed Friday the chamber team has off. They don't have us work on Good Friday. So we get to have that day off and and go into work Friday things with our church family. So that's what's going on this week.  

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger and High Plains Mental Health outreach, education and marketing manager James Gerstner discuss an upcoming mental health first aid training session in Hays.

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Nex Tech Wireless director of sales & customer development Alicia Tripler share information about the upcoming chamber golf tournament.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher stop by to talk about the upcoming Chamber Golf Tournament.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and ambassador LaVonne Giess stop by to talk about the upcoming Stepping Out day.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with intern Reece Leiker, shares ways the chamber works to connect the community.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger talk about internships with the chamber's Fort Hays State University, Dane G. Hansen Foundation intern Avary Huff. Transcript James Bell  Internships can be valuable for both businesses and students. Hayes chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with their Fort Hays State University, Dane G. Hansen, intern Avary Huff stopped by to talk to us a little bit about internships and Avery's experience that the Hays Chamber on this episode of the post podcast.   Sarah Wasinger  Oh, you had a pretty unique place that you came from before you join our chamber. Do you want to talk a little bit about your experience last semester before we jump into some other things?   Avary Huff  Sure, Sara. So last semester, I was actually studying abroad in Spain. Wow. I was there from the end of August to the middle of January. And I really got to learn about tourism in Spain since that is my major. I was really putting it into that real word world perspective, and also working on my Spanish. So had a blast over there.   James Bell  I mentioned it's hard to not have a good time hanging out in Europe.   Sarah Wasinger  Yeah, absolutely. A lot of good fish. I wouldn't call the fried sardines. Good fish. But we talked a little bit about that. Like, what was the weirdest thing she ate the definitely the best food over there.   James Bell  I think you may have been going to the wrong restaurants, just fried sardines. But that's very cool. That's very cool. Um, so yeah, you're over here at the chamber. Now, what does an intern do at the chamber.   Avary Huff  So I've only been there for a couple of weeks now. But I've been helping with all the events that have been going on, and just really getting out into the community, whatever's on the calendar for the day, I'm there to help and figure out how I can be best assistance in the office as well.   Sarah Wasinger  So for in another thing that we did, because it's kind of the beginning of the year. So obviously, our board financial reports are approved a month delayed. So Avery even got to experience creating the month by month budget report with me this last week to Yes, we did was very exciting.   Avary Huff  Um, it wasn't the most exciting event I've worked on. But it was definitely a learning experience.   Sarah Wasinger  But we tried to give Avery the opportunity to really witness the gamut of what goes on at the chamber. So obviously, yes, events are a very big part of what we do to feature businesses, but really giving her some ability. The big part of her job will actually start here very soon, because we're going to start preparing for our golf tournament, which is our biggest fundraiser of the year. And that might be a good segue to the question that we were just talking about in the car. What was one of the things that surprised you the most about your last couple of weeks at the chamber?   Avary Huff  Um, there are two things. So the first thing that surprised me is that most of the Chamber's budget does come from dues. So based on dues from members joining, that's how we're able to host events throughout the year, and then also the fast paced environment that happens at the chamber. I don't think I didn't realize that I wouldn't just be working in an office all day. You're really getting out into the community. There's always something going on 24/7   James Bell  Absolutely it sir about that all the time. You guys are always always out in the community almost every day. There's an event that you guys are at, or asmuch running around us.   Sarah Wasinger  I do you think I'd be you know, like a slice for life goals right there. So I just need to go see one of my members to workout.   James Bell  And we've got some new, we've got some new workout options coming up from what I understand as well do we do I'm sure that I'm well, I'm not sure. But I'm imagine that those new ones are going to be Chamber members as well. We have a meeting with them. Okay. Well, now I've jinxed it.   Sarah Wasinger  We'll talk about that when it happens. There you go, there you go. But one of the things that is very important to you that I think a lot of people don't, maybe they have some trepidation for being in a business that has a intern, it doesn't really take a lot of energy, the biggest thing is to make sure you're incorporating them into the day to day, give them a variety of ways that they can be involved. And I think so many times people are like, well, maybe I just don't have time to bring that person along. But Avery, I think has some information to share just based on her experience so far, but this is not your first internship.   James Bell  Is that right?   Avary Huff  No, it's my third. Okay. Wow.   Sarah Wasinger  So why do you recommend internships to students and businesses.   Avary Huff  Um, for students, I would definitely recommend internships because it's a lot different from the knowledge you're learning in the classroom, you actually get to go out and apply it and see how it might not be exactly the same as what you have learned from your professors. So you really just get that real world application of those topics. And you get to learn all those skills to make you more marketable as a student looking for jobs once you graduate. So that's really exciting for this internship opportunity. And then as for the business side of things, I would recommend internships for businesses, because not only are you investing in members of your community, and growing their skill sets, but you're also getting another extra helping hand so they'll help increase your employee productivity throughout the day. And then you really just get to have a fresh new perspective on things because interns are usually students, so they're exposed to different things. They're not in the workforce. So they have different outlooks on things and can definitely bring new ideas to your business.   James Bell  Yeah, and you know what, over the years, I've had some different roles where I've worked with interns, and one of the things that just to speak to that a little bit, one of the things I love is when they bring in like the latest in, because you're in the classroom, you're hearing the latest in academic research in your field, whatever the field might be, and you're now able to bring that directly to a business owner. I mean, that's a resource that they probably don't have time for otherwise.   Avary Huff  Exactly. Exactly. It's a fresh perspective. And it's a real asset, because they are learning that information. It's fresh on top of their mind, and they're able to apply it at your business.   Sarah Wasinger  And specifically speaking about the Dane G. Hanson program, I think that a lot of people forget how affordable it is for the business. It's a $500 investment for about 240 hours. Yeah, 240 hours. So I mean, if you do the math, I mean, I think James is trying to do the math.   James Bell  I came up with a four nine or something, I couldn't do the math, talk either. But no, that that is that's an incredible amount of help and support, you can get $400 That's a pretty good price. And you know, it's a win win. I you know, I mean, I love the Win Win Win situations. And this sounds like exactly.   Sarah Wasinger  And I do have to speak to the fact that when we interview, so each business gets the opportunity to interview, you know, anywhere between four to five students. And each of the students that we interviewed as a chamber staff, we were just blown away from so I mean, you're talking about, you know, the cream of the crop when you're looking at the Dean Johansen interns. So you're getting someone who's already essentially pre vetted by Fort Hays, they know the caliber of the students that are putting into that program. And so it is, you know, kind of like hiring that hidden gem, because you're getting that opportunity to have that fresh perspective that Avery was talking about. But also just, you know, some extra hands on the ground. Yeah. And what better way to give back to a student who might want to find a job in Hays because they love it so much, you know, so it, it can help us build our workforce.   James Bell  Exactly. You know, that I was gonna say that was one of the topics that was discussed last night was keep retaining people here. And what a great way to do it. You know, I imagine like if we got somebody here at Eagle radio, and they they enjoy the position, and then a position is open, like, if that's an obvious choice, and then we know we're not losing them to Denver or Kansas City or salon or wherever.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely.   James Bell  Very cool. Well, you know, I just I'm curious, is it just college kids that come through Fort Hays for this program, they don't look for any the high school. So it's it's a imagine you have to be at least a second year college kid to be able to apply? Apply them.   Avary Huff  Right. So the internships are open to all the Fort Hays students. I'm not sure if you're able to do it your first year, maybe the second semester of your first year. But other than that they're open for all the students to apply for.   Sarah Wasinger  And we do also have a haste High School intern Reese liker that we have at the Chamber currently right now too. So I know there are high school opportunities for students. And I think those are usually reserved for seniors as well, since they have a more flexible schedule. But um, yeah, definitely. If you're a business and you have questions, we would be happy to answer those for you. And I know I'm Career Services at Fort Hays State University, obviously would welcome phone calls to learn more about the program.   James Bell  Very cool. Very cool. Well, before we run out of time, sir, we probably should talk about the events going on this week, because you've got a number of things going on. Again, as usual,   Sarah Wasinger  We do. So, our HYP Advisory Council retreat will be this week, Thursday at 5:15pm at the Welcome Center. And Friday, we are very excited. Speaking of Fort Hays State University, our chamber chat will be the tiger gear on Friday, that will be at 9am. At Professor sandwich shop and more, we do have it under good authority that they're going to be drawing for some sweet Tiger gear that day. So you might want to wear your Tiger Gear to that one, as well as just maybe be ready to get a new cool new shirt or something.   James Bell  I love Tiger gear.  I need you not to     Sarah Wasinger  We bleed black and gold. Exactly. It's I mean, it might be scary in the medical professions. You know,   James Bell  There's such a vital part of the community and what a cool program to help that, you know, connection.   Sarah Wasinger  Absolutely. And we would be remiss to not remind a few people that chamber checks are always on sale at the chamber. And Valentine's Day is just around the corner. So if you don't know the right gift to get your sweetheart, they can be spent at nearly 500 locations in Ellis counties. So it's not a bad idea. Yeah,   James Bell  There's some beautiful spots downtown. Well, there'd be the spots all over Ross County. But yeah,   Sarah Wasinger  restaurants   James Bell  When I'm let them pick the gift that they want. That's right, I found that that is usually just the easiest thing to do.   Sarah Wasinger  Stay out of the doghouse by a chamber check. or multiple again, another win win win. That's my man. And then the only other thing we really wanted to share was congratulations to our USD 489 School Board for their approval of the bond issue to be put on the ballot in May, our chamber is actually going to be hosting two different opportunities this month specifically, to give folks the opportunity to learn more about what will be included in the bond issue. So superintendent Ron Wilson will actually speak to our HIV connection lunch group on February 15, at noon at thirsties. HIV members if you have not signed up for that lunch yet, please do so today if possible, and then February membership lunch will be February 25 at Rose Garden banquet hall and catering and that was sponsored by Golden Belt Bank and he'll be speaking at noon as well. So definitely make sure that you come ready to learn and he'll be able to ask questions or answer questions.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Hays Public Library communications coordinator Callie Kolacny share information about the upcoming Legislative Coffee sessions in Hays.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with Imagine Ellis County committee member Ryan Benton share information about an upcoming town hall.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger introduces the new vice president of marketing and communications, Mariah Leglighter.

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about the upcoming Chamber Awards Banquet.

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares details about a recently awarded leadership grant.   Transcript   James Bell  A recent grant to the Hays Chamber will help strengthen leadership in the area president and CEO Sarah Wasinger stops by to talk to us about that and more on this episode of the Post Podcast.   Sarah Wasinger  I don't know if you've heard but the chamber was awarded a leadership transformation grant from the Kansas Leadership Center.   James Bell  Oh, very cool. No, I hadn't heard about this. I don't know anything about this. What is it again.   Sarah Wasinger  So it's a leadership Transformation Grant, the Kansas Leadership Center is based out of Wichita, Kansas. And part of their focus is working with community partnerships to really expand leadership principles and concepts across the state of Kansas. And last year, our chamber was successful in receiving 46 spots for from them. And we're very close to utilizing all those spots up this year. And the grant that we wrote for 2022, however, we wrote a grant for 50 spots, and we were awarded those spots, which is very exciting. Nice. So leadership Haze is actually something that many of our listeners might be familiar with. It's a leadership program that was started by the Chamber, the Hays area, Chamber of Commerce, then, um, to really just help businesses and organizations help their folks that are maybe at the beginning of their careers in the middle or, you know, even the seasoned pros, bringing folks together to talk about leadership concepts, how we work together as a community to address issues, or needs, or just in general to kind of strengthen ourselves and better ourselves. One of the things that our leadership, hey, students go through is step one of the KLC process. And that is your leadership edge. And that's a two day course. And normally yours, we actually take the students to Wichita, Kansas for that, that because of COVID. Last year, we did that virtually. But we're excited for this year, because they're going to let us go back to Wichita and take them in person, again, awesome, they'll have a blended approach. So there might be some folks who still feel more comfortable doing things virtually. And that's okay. But we're very excited to have that in person capacity. Again, I can very much tell you that being an alumni of the leadership Hayes class, that the in person experiences I felt to be pushed me outside of my comfort zone a little bit more. And I was probably able to get a little bit more out of my experience with it.   James Bell  Well, sure. I mean, because it's human nature, I think you get uncomfortable and you've got the screen and all you got to do is close it or shut the camera off. And but if you're in the room is hard to you can't scrunch down enough to not get called on sometimes, right,   Sarah Wasinger  I'm not going to hide underneath that chair. But the exciting thing about this is we are actually in the window right now for folks to turn in applications. So I was just actually talking to Joe in the lobby. And this is really significant, because some of these trainings are actually worth $800. Wow. And so we're actually offering them to folks who fill out the grant application form for free, I'm really the only investment that they would actually have outside of of course, their time. And there is a workbook and a guide book that are used in conjunction with the course nicely enough, those workbooks and guide books are the same for all three steps of the KLC path. And so you really had that investment only one time. But December 15 is kind of the deadline that we're hoping folks will fill out those applications. So we've got a little over two weeks now. And it's a very simple application, we're just going to ask a little bit of information from you, kind of what you would hope to gain from the leadership course and why you're wanting to apply for it. And then as long as we have enough spots, we'll grant everybody their application. But if we have a certain amount of spots, we'll of course, look at different things like, you know, maybe putting a cap on a number of people per employer, or things of that nature. And we might also look at a few things to, you know, with this person, I'm taking this leadership course, perhaps set our community up to be a little bit stronger based on what they're doing. And you know, the different organizations that they're a part of. So that will all be taken into consideration. Our hope, then, is to actually have all those spots kind of identified and communicated back out with folks by the end of this year. And then I'm really we're gonna give everybody the opportunity to register for their courses by June 30. Our hope is that if we have them registered by that point in time, if anyone changes their mind and says, Hey, I applied for this, but my schedule has changed. I don't think I'll be able to take a course between now and then that gives us time as a chamber to make sure that we're utilizing all this 50 spots.   James Bell  Very cool. thought of everything. Oh, I get so organized down there at the chamber.   Sarah Wasinger  Oh, well, we try. Except for emails not coming through. We'll work on that.   James Bell  Well, that's probably our system. That's yeah. But very cool. Very cool. Well, um, so, you know, for now, is there a like a website? Or do you have more information on your website for this, if people want check it a little bit more detail?   Sarah Wasinger  We do so they can go to Hayes chamber.com. And then our news and announcements page, we've got our resources on the right hand side of that page. And there's a 2022 leadership transformation grant application. And for those folks who also kind of pay attention to our emails and get our news blasts, we'll be sending that out as well as another attachment in our December newsletter. So a couple of different reminders Coming out folks this way, and I do believe will anticipate doing a Facebook post to just to kind of give people another step to apply for that. But yeah, so they arranged like I said, between 408 $100. So it's significant value. And quite frankly, I feel like anytime you have a chance to better yourself, you should do it. A few of the things I did want to talk about is kind of the core concepts and leadership principles that KLC has. So they define leadership as an activity and not a position. And they share that anyone can lead anytime, anywhere, it starts with you and must engage others, and your purpose must be clear. And last, and probably most important, it's risky. So Leadership isn't always easy. And so we have to make sure that we are able to exhibit great patience and understanding with others. So I think those are all different concepts that I struggle with and try to improve on every day. And I'd imagine if I had those considerations and things I need a benefit from, and could improve on that others would, too. And so that's really kind of the why behind why we applied for the grant. And our hope is to continue to apply for the leadership Transformation Grant, year after year. So we can keep moving forward that leadership needle in our community, and give as many businesses and organizations exposure to those leadership concepts as possible.   James Bell  Very cool. Yeah. And you know, I don't know if you want to talk a little bit about this. But I think for a lot of people, when you when you hear that term leadership, you think about the old traditional style boss, you know, the coming down the mountain, somebody's telling you what to do. And that's not necessarily the entire experience and leadership. It's it can be at any level, it can be a, you know, an on any size of project, right.   Sarah Wasinger  Yeah, that's more management actually versus leadership. And there's going to be some great debate and discussion through the courses on that as well. Yeah, well, they're needed just at different times in different places.   James Bell  Yeah, exactly. Love it. All right. Well, Sarah, what else? Well, I think we got to talk about this. The childcare survey is out now. Ready, ready for people to take it? I've seen a couple different places that where you can get to that, right.   Sarah Wasinger  Yes. So thank you so much for bringing that up. Yes, we are working with the childcare task force of Ellis County and have constructed a survey that takes no more than 10 minutes, this survey essentially is going to help that task force to be able to collect data that really gives us a good vantage point as to what needs access for childcare in our community, how many spots we need, how many more providers we need, and then that committee will really assess, you know, how do we support the people who are currently providing childcare? And what things must we do to possibly incentivize others to do childcare because we, of course, have people looking for childcare every day. And we know that there's a lot of waiting lists going on. So the survey is important for people to understand, you don't just have to be a parent to take it, you could be a grandparent, you could be an employer, you know, you're going to know the needs of your staff. And if they're not coming to work, because they don't have daycare lined up, obviously, you can express that, you know, you know that this is needed in your community. So the more people we can get to fill that survey out the better snapshot we get, and we'll be able to start then applying for grant funds, which we can use to help incentivize and start identifying and addressing this issue in our community. So it's also critical, I will have that conversation window open through the end of December. So folks can actually go to our Facebook page to find a QR code. If they have a cell phone, they can scan that. Or there's our direct link on that, too.   James Bell  So funny story, I actually went and took your survey yesterday. Oh, thank you. And yeah, you're welcome. I was trying to figure out how I was going to scan the QR code with my phone because I'm on my phone. And I'm like, huh, and then I saw the link. I took me a minute, but they're both both way ways are right there in handy. It just yeah, you got to be smarter than me, I guess, to be able to get there quickly.   Sarah Wasinger  Well, you know, we wanted it to be as readily accessible as possible, which is why we gave folks both options. But yes, thank you for bringing that up as well. And again, our goal is to have about 1000 survey responses if we can, obviously we have about 20,000 people in Ellis County. So we know that there's going to be a need for us to collect data for the whole entire county, not just Hayes, because there are folks coming over from LSE and Victoria getting daycare spots served on here and Hayes and vice versa. We know we have some families that are going out of town to for sure.   James Bell  So everybody if you're hearing this, take a few minutes go find that survey and do it. It's really not a big deal. I think you say 10 minutes I think I did mine in five it's it's quick and easy. It's nothing. No no long form kind of questions. It's just put it that but the having that data is so vital for the green

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher and Nathan Rohr, from Rohr's Carpet Cleaning talk about Chamber Cheques.   Transcript James Bell  Chamber checks from the Hays Chamber can make an excellent gift to keep your money, local administrative assistant, Marlis Fletcher stops by to talk to us about that in more on this episode of the post podcast, and I'm got a special guest with us today. I'm excited to see him as well. I'll let you introduce your friend here. Marlis Fletcher  So this is Nathan Rohr. And he is owner of Rohr Carpet and Sales. And he's going to talk to us a little bit about what they have to offer. James Bell  Very cool, very cool. I'm excited to get into that. So, you know, we were talking a little bit before we got on air carpet cleaning, obviously is a some that I'm interested in, which is weird, but we'll talk more about that. But first, before we get there. One of the things we're gonna talk about right now a moralists is shopping local. How important is this time of year, especially in Ellis County? Marlis Fletcher  You know, our businesses depend on us to shop local, we want to thrive in this town. And so, and we want our businesses to thrive. So let's keep them around and let shop local. And a good way to do that is come to the chamber and see us and buy chamber checks. Yes. Okay. James Bell  So we're going to talk about these chamber checks. We've talked about them in the past, but in case somebody is listening, like wait a minute, I don't know what this is, I've heard the term, maybe you want to tell us a little bit about what these things actually are. Marlis Fletcher  So they look kind of like a check. They come in 45, $10 and $25 increments. They spend it any chamber member business just like a checker like cash. If you buy $199 or less, there's a $1 fee. If you buy $200 or more in chamber checks, there is a $5 fee. They come with an envelope with a wire in it to tell you a lot of the businesses where you can spend that money. So we try to make it really easy and really nice. And that way you can give a gift and you don't have to pick something out for somebody that they have to take back you can just give them the gift and they can shop local and spend keep the money in a nice James Bell  Yeah, I love that. And you know, unlike any other thing you might do if you get a gift card to a restaurant, you know, chain restaurant at one of the big stores here or if you buy some online. That's great. But I mean as a gift, but also not local this way, it's it's guaranteed to stay right here in the community. Marlis Fletcher  It's guaranteed and you're not stuck at one. Like if you go buy a gift certificate to a certain restaurant, not that that's not a great thing if it's in haste. But this you can go to like a number of businesses and spend that money. You're not tied to just one certain business. James Bell  Yeah.  I know Sarah has told me in the past how many members you guys have, but it's a lot. You know? Marlis Fletcher  It's around 500. Yeah. Okay. A little bit over 500.  James Bell  So you got some options to spend this chamber check you do. That's incredible. It blows my It blows my mind. I think the first time she told me that I was like, what? How are there even 500 businesses in Ellis County, let alone over me and Chamber members. I love it. One of those Chamber members that we're going to talk to here is is Nathan right. Nathan Rohr  Yeah, thanks for having me. James Bell  So chamber checks, like, you know, you guys would have to take them but I guess the question is like, what what would you what would you use a chamber check for it roars carpet cleaning. Nathan Rohr  So we offer a lot of services. The first thing with the holidays coming around is we're offering 10% off gift certificates. So if you want to give the gift of a clean house for any family member or friends, you can come down to our store and we can give you a gift certificate and you get 10% off. You could use a chamber check for those. We are offering air duct cleaning specials, a new service we added an epoxy specials for epoxy floors. And of course we do our carpet cleaning and carpet sales that you could use the the chamber checks on for two. James Bell  Very cool what's in it? What's an epoxy floor? Um, yeah, that far out of the trends. I don't know what that is. Nathan Rohr  Yeah, so they're pretty new. You can do a lot of different things with them. You got your flake epoxies quartz, metallic floors. They're getting very popular. You're seeing them in some of the restaurant bathrooms. We've done a few garages, a few porches. They're pretty new, and they look really really cool when they're done. So you Marlis Fletcher  Can use those indoor or outdoor?  Nathan Rohr  Yes, you just got to watch what type of epoxy you're buying them make sure that you're getting the UV resistance. The help that way it's not fading. Marlis Fletcher  So if I want to come down there and I want to look and see what different kinds of epoxy floors Do you have samples I can look at. Nathan Rohr  Yeah, so at our showroom at 722 E 7th I have a whole show room where we have it all broke down into our luxury vinyl plank flooring, our carpet sales, our epoxy flooring. And then we also have some deodorizers and different cleaners if you're wanting just a basic cleaner for your home on your carpets or hard surface flooring. James Bell  Very cool. You know and as we were talking a little bit before on air, you know what I think with your new With your basic service, your carpet cleaning service. But the time you know for most folks, you get the machine and the chemicals. And then you got to move furniture and do all that work you what you guys offer and I don't want to throw prices out there for him. But what you guys offer he, to me, it seems like almost a better deal. It's cheaper when you factor in all that other stuff to have a professional do it. And it's gonna do a better job. Oh, well, you're telling me right? Nathan Rohr  Yeah. So I always tell my customers you pay for what you get. You know, there's nothing wrong with using a Rug Doctor, but it's not gonna be a deep clean. Yeah, there's my system quick like James Bell  In between maybe like, if you're if you guys come out once a year, you do the Rug Doctor thing every six months or so. Right? Nathan Rohr  Yeah. So if you actually look into your carpet manufacturer, when you buy new carpet, it's recommended that the carpets cleaned every 12 to 24 months. So and everybody does that, right? Yes, everybody. And actually, when you buy carpet from us, we give the first carpet cleaning for free, you just have to use it within that period to help keep your manufacturer's warranty. And our carpet cleaning machines get up to 200 degrees. So compared to when you were in a rug, doctor, you're not going to get near as hot water, so you get a better sanitizing effect out of your cleaning. James Bell  If it's relatively quick to you guys, I think go into a house and you're there for a couple hours maybe? Nathan Rohr  Yeah, I mean, depending on the size of the house, it usually if it's just a few rooms, you know where something we can do in the morning compared to a whole house may take us till you know, three quarters of a day or depending on the house, it may take us all day. But if you call me I can definitely you know talk about it. The other thing is we also have fans available to rent. So if you're worried about slow drying, I do run out my turbo fans to help speed up the drying process. Marlis Fletcher  Very cool. Very good. Thank James You don't have to haul it to your house and then holla back. James Bell  Yeah, really that's that's where it comes in. You know, for for some folks. I'm sure it makes sense. And maybe some folks do like doing it. But that's really where the value comes in is the time because you're doing that on your own. Oh, my goodness. Yeah, it could. You're talking about half a day, three quarters of a day. It will take me a full weekend. Yeah, doubt. Nathan Rohr  Yep. Well, we definitely have the equipment that we're set up, you know, where we can go in and do a job, click quickly but efficiently and make sure that your carpets look great when they're done. James Bell  Very cool. Okay, well, guys, we've got just another minute or two left. I don't know any last thoughts. Marlis. Do I know I know. There's no real events going on this week because of the holiday now at the chamber.  Marlis Fletcher  So yes, and we're actually close Thursday and Friday, but we'll be back on Monday and we'll be there tomorrow too. So we'll be here today and tomorrow. We're closed Thursday and Friday and back on Monday. So come by some chamber checks.

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger speaks about the new Childcare Taskforce for Ellis County.   Transcript Sarah Wasinger  We have a very important community topic that keeps circulating. And it is so critical that we started addressing this before things get even much worse than they are already. So absolutely. Childcare.   James Bell  Childcare.   Sarah Wasinger  Yes.   James Bell  It's a problem. And we were talking right before we went on air. Oh, you provided me some numbers.   Sarah Wasinger  I did.   James Bell  Startling numbers, terrible numbers. Yes, it looks bad.   Sarah Wasinger  So in 2019, we Child Care Aware of Kansas are a chamber member, they work across the state to help connect resources to childcare providers. But also they try to connect families with childcare providers who are looking for them. And the point in time survey that they do every year is usually January 1, the last survey that they did showed that we have in 2019, the extent desired capacity meets potential demand was 64%   James Bell  Sixty-four. That's the number that blew me away. And it's right there on top. And I'm thinking oh my gosh, I don't think it's any secret that we haven't need for more daycare here in Ellis County. But I mean, that's slightly over a half the need.   Sarah Wasinger  Yes. So the other alarming fact is that we've lost 16 childcare providers since that same point in time count. And we have been meeting so the chamber in Hays, Kansas has started a Childcare Taskforce for Ellis County, we had our first meeting of the last week of October, we just had another meeting yesterday, actually. And this is just the discussion that we're having on how do we start to address the needs for childcare in our community, because we know they're vast, we're very excited, because we have a lot of different partners that we have kind of connected with. And in a short time already. So um, we have parents who are a part of that, obviously, Child Care Aware of Kansas, and they're a part of that conversation to early childhood education providers, we obviously would be remiss to not have childcare and daycare providers. So we have several folks representing them too. And then of course, our school districts need to be a part of this conversation, because obviously, they have a big role to play in the education of our kids and possibly have resources that maybe we haven't considered yet. Or if there are ways that we could partner further. We talked just before we got on air to James on legislative process and how our regulations in Kansas, are so stringent in comparison to our cohorts across the United States. And we have Barb Wasinger our representative from the 111th district has started to be a part of that conversation too, from the get go. And she's taking note, um, during these meetings and trying to very much listen to the challenges that are shared from a daycare provider standpoint. And, you know, we talked about, you know, as a childcare provider, if you have a shower in your house, obviously, you have to have a bathroom to be a childcare provider.   James Bell  You can do it hope so.   Sarah Wasinger  Yeah, you can't have things like shampoo or conditioner within five feet reach of children. And those are just some of the things that you know, you scratch your head at, well, why is that the case, you know, if you have your own kids in your home, you're not going to put the shampoo and conditioner out of reach. If you have a pet dog or a cat, you can't have the pet food on the ground for the pet to eat during the day. So these are just some things that make you scratch your head. And for our childcare providers. I can't imagine what they must be going through when they share some of their concerns on the issues that they face. And, you know, that probably adds to the fact of why people don't want to be in that industry in the first place.   James Bell  I'm sure it doesn't help. But you know what I think maybe we want to speak a little bit about this. One of the eye opening things that I've had an experience with recently is these aren't daycares are not profitable.   Sarah Wasinger  They are not.   James Bell  It's really hard to make any money. And oftentimes, the discussion goes towards we need a facility we need a building. And that's not the problem.   Sarah Wasinger  Right. So facilities are usually the easier fix to a solution. It's finding the actual people to run them. So there are two different models for childcare. There's obviously the for profit side, which you scratch your head on all day long, because if people are finding a way to make it profitable, and we need you to be a part of this conversation number one, so please come find me.   James Bell  Yeah, if you've got the solution contact Sarah. Yeah, right away.   Sarah Wasinger  Yes, but number two, there is the not for profit model. And that tends to be where most of them are aligned. Because, you know, just we're limited on the resources that we have. So, obviously, this problem isn't going anywhere. So there's the daunting question, well, where do we start? We just had a pick a point and start. So the other people that have been a part of the conversation, and we have the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Heartland Community Foundation, The Hays Area Children's Center, of course, the city of Hays and Grow, Hays are a part of it. I know Doug has some things he's working on with his seniors facility that they have going on the north side of the Hays Med campus, which they are a part of the conversation to, and then Fort Hays State University as well as some of our local nonprofits. So those are the people who we've kind of pulled together as a chamber so far to start this discussion. Um, so if you can think of anyone else who maybe isn't represented in that list, who you feel would have strong resources and good conversation to add to what we're going through right now, please, by all means, connect them with us.   James Bell  Yeah, very cool. I like that everybody seems to be coming together and realizing that, hey, only worked by working on this with everybody, are we going to find a way out of this solution. And we should also mention, it's not necessarily just an Ellis County problem. This is a statewide, this is a national concern, too.   Sarah Wasinger  It very much is, you know, when we talk about workforce and how we as a chamber can support workforce, we know that there are parents out there who are actually paying for childcare before they even have a child in the womb. Staggering. We also have families that are driving from Stockton to bring their kids to Hays for childcare, and then they're going back and working a full day. And then they're coming back to Hays again, to pick up their children. So this is such a huge issue for, like you said, our whole entire region, I'm so we asked ourselves the question, well, how do we get a full grasp of what's going on here. So as a committee, we've been working with Bradford Wiles from the Kansas State Research and Extension agency. And they have done community based surveys all across Kansas. And he's working with our committee to put together survey questions specific to Ellis County, the hope is that we will have those questions and that survey finalized by the end of next week. And then we would as a chamber and community, roll those out. And for folks, the biggest thing that people need to keep in mind with this survey, we know that everybody's time is precious, however, we're not going to address this issue. If we don't get some concrete data for what our true needs are as a county. With that data, then that gives us the flexibility and puts us in a position as a county to start applying for grants and things of that nature that could possibly use bees to start incentivizing childcare. So this is a huge, huge opportunity for us. And if we don't start finding ways to make the finances work for these folks, we're gonna struggle.   James Bell  Yeah. So are these going to be these surveys mailed out? Or do people need to go get them from like a website or something.   Sarah Wasinger  So we will be doing this survey digitally, we will have essentially a QR code attached. And of course, we'll do a media release. And we'll be working with you as the chamber to hopefully be doing some extra promotion for that through your guys's Hays Post. But all the agencies that I shared, will also be sharing that data in that survey across their communication channels. And then ideally, we'll have that survey wrapped up by the end of December. We know that timing, there's no great time to try to get a survey done. We know that people are busy with the holidays.   James Bell  It's busy every day. Yeah, that's be real.   Sarah Wasinger  So we're ripping off the band aid and we're just gonna get it done. And then once we had that survey data that really puts us in a good position. So Dane G. Hansen Foundation has a significant amount of funding right now available to give to communities for childcare purposes, as well as USDA. And then I believe there are still some ARPA funds that are set aside for childcare for communities. So bringing that back to our workforce, if we can start getting childcare addressed, you know, maybe that flexes some people who aren't currently in our workforce, it puts them in a position to where they can come back and work again.   James Bell  Yeah, you know, that's one thing I wanted to ask about. Because we talk about unemployment, we see you know, every business in Hays almost seems like they're hiring. But if you don't have childcare, it doesn't matter. You could offer him $50,000 A year, $100,000, $200,000. You don't have childcare, you can't take the job.   Sarah Wasinger  Moms and dads need to feel good about where they're sending their kids for childcare during the work day. So and to be fair, I just want to give a big shout out. If you are listening, and you were at home, or you are at a center and you're providing childcare, thank you for what you're doing. I don't think people really have a full appreciation of all that is required to do that. So know that we're here working on things in the scenes and behind the scenes, if you will, and we do have a Facebook group. I do want to put a little plug in there. For Tori Ruder Thank you. She provides childcare here in Ellis County. She put together a child care task force of Ellis County Facebook page. So if you want to follow this conversation, and be a part of that, from a provider standpoint, by all means go find that group on Facebook. If you aren't able to jot that down, feel free to give me a call at the Chamber office at 785-628-8201. Or email me at Sarah S-A-R-A-H at Hays Chamber dot com. And we'll start connecting you with that dialogue.   James Bell  Excellent. And you know, I think maybe it's also important to mention you provided here I've got some of the survey questions. It's nothing, it's not, you know, complicated or hard. It's just a little bit of time to get that in to help everybody out.   Sarah Wasinger  That's right.   James Bell  Excellent. Well, before we move on, or guess anything else on that topic, before we move on, we got a couple other things we want to hit on there a little bit more fun.   Sarah Wasinger  Well, I did want to just share, we do want to make sure that folks remember on that and we are going to do the survey anonymously. So know that the information that you share is not going to be broadcast with anyone, your information will be just essentially pulled together with everyone else who fills out that data survey. And then the final reporting will be what we use to apply for grants and really start assessing where we go from here.   James Bell  Okay, very good. Now, as I mentioned, a little more fun. You've got somebody new in the office. Sarah Wasinger  We do! Her name is Mariah Legleiter. James Bell  Yay! And she is taking the Vice President of Marketing and Communications job, right?   Sarah Wasinger  She is. She is hitting the ground running already. And we are so excited for her, she is going to be a dynamo. Um, we, when Scott told us he was going to move on to Fort Hays State University, sat down and looked at it as a team, you know, what is our next step for that position. So um, she brings a very, very strong communications background with her. So we're very excited for her to join. Um, she has that video experience. She enjoys doing graphics and design. And she's really very creative. So we're very excited to have her start, and just be a full part of the team. So if you see a new face around, be sure to say hello to her and welcome her to the team.  

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares details of the ongoing Business Showcase.     By JAMES BELLHays Post The latest Business Showcase Challenge is currently underway in Hays offering area residents an opportunity to explore local businesses, while at the same time offering the chance to win prizes from participating locations as well as from the Chamber. "It just started last week Friday, so from October 29, to November 19," said Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger. While this is not a new event for the chamber, she said this showcase features two premier sponsors, giving more opportunities to win prizes in time for the holidays. "We are very excited because Adams Brown, and Sunflower Bank are actually our sponsors, our premier sponsors for the events that we get to we have to this time," Wasinger said. "So we figured with it being Christmas time, it would be nice to give away more money." With the two sponsors, she said the chamber will have additional Chamber Check prizes given out. "We'll be drawing for four $100 Chamber Check prizes, and then two $50 Chamber Check prizes on November 22." Anyone interested in participating can visit any of the locations, or the Chamber office, 2700 Vine, to pick up a card that lists the participating businesses and relevant information for the showcase. "This card has all the locations listed as well as the addresses for the participating businesses, and of course, their hours of operation," Wasinger said. "So we take the guesswork out for you, you know exactly where to go and when to go." She said many of the businesses will also be offering their own prize drawings or discounts. And while the chance to win prizes or save money is important, the aim of the program is to entice area residents to explore area businesses. "So why we love Business Showcase so much is like you said there may be a business that you're not familiar with, you wouldn't normally have the opportunity to go in there or wouldn't perhaps think of that depending on what you're in the market for, for purchasing yourself or for your family," Wasinger said. "So these businesses would love to have folks come in." With the selection of participating buisnesses, she said the time required to complete the showcase is minimal. "If you have some extra time, it'll literally take you probably no more than an hour and a half to go visit all these nine different locations," Wasinger said. "And within that time, you're going to get a lot of different promotions and offerings, a chance to win extra prizes when you go to their locations, as well as just a great opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping." And the participants also offer a diverse representation of operations in the area. "So ABC Seamless, I know they're going to be having some discounts on their items in store so they are located at 1507 East 27th Street," Wasinger said. "Diamond R Jewelry is another one of our businesses this go around and they are going to be offering 20 percent off jewelry repair services through January 1 with a presentation of (the) card." "Hays Med is one that I am very excited to go to because with COVID they of course have been limited on who and how they're letting people into the hospital. But their gift shop is back up and running. So the Hays Med volunteer corner gift shop, they have such a wonderful variety of different items in there." In conjunction with the Business Showcase, they also have an open house planned on Nov. 11 and 12.  "So you can go in there and actually register for a gift card while you're doing the business showcase too," Wasinger said. "And Nex-Tech Wireless is another one. ... They're gonna have some special promotions on the Samsung S 21 and iPhone 13. And they're going to also have some in-store giveaways for participants. So they're located of course at 1101 East 43rd Street. After celebrating a special anniversary at Rohr's Carpet Cleaning recently, she said she is excited they participated in the showcase as well. "They're gonna have a lot of different sales on in-stock items and different promotions," Wasinger said. "Plus, they're doing a drawing for a mop kit that can be used to keep your house clean during the holidays. ... They're located at 722 East 7th Street." "And then Sunflower Bank, their North location.  ... So you'll visit the North Branch at 4720 Ross Avenue and they're going to be actually doing a special drawing for different branded items, as well as doing different chamber check giveaways. I think they're doing a $25 giveaway, a $20 giveaway. And customers can also get $100 if they open up their first personal checking account and get rewarded with extra perks." Thirsty's Brew Pub and Grill is also featured, in both the showcase, as well as on the chamber's Hot Deals. "They are always great about having a Hot Deal every month," Wasinger said. "And I believe this month it includes a very tasty steak with some sides. So you'll have to go check out Hayschamber.com and hit the Hot Deals and you'll be able to see that special." Rounding out the businesses is Vyve Broadband. They're going to be doing an in-store drawing for branded products valued at $50," Wasinger said. "So they're of course located at 1007 West 27th Street and are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m." "But United Way of Ellis County is also going to be joining us this go around and this is a special one because the end of the year is really such an important time for them. So they'll be doing some different raffle tickets for purchase and for their dine-out day. So visit them at 205 East 27th Street Suite 111." Once participants receive the stamp at each location, they can then return the filled-out cards to the chamber office. "You'll have to make sure that you do that by November 19," Wasinger said. "And then, of course, on Monday, November 22, we're going to be doing that chamber check drawing on via Facebook Live." For more information visit the Hays Chamber website hayschamber.com.