hays chamber of commerce
hays chamber of commerce
Monday Jan 24, 2022
Hays group seeks community feedback about future of Ellis Co.
Monday Jan 24, 2022
Monday Jan 24, 2022
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.
Wednesday Jan 05, 2022
New VP hits the ground running at the Hays Chamber
Wednesday Jan 05, 2022
Wednesday Jan 05, 2022
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.
Wednesday Dec 22, 2021
Annual Chamber Award Banquet nomination open now
Wednesday Dec 22, 2021
Wednesday Dec 22, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about the upcoming Chamber Awards Banquet.
Saturday Dec 04, 2021
Hays Chamber awarded leadership grant
Saturday Dec 04, 2021
Saturday Dec 04, 2021
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
Tuesday Nov 23, 2021
Chamber Cheques help keep gifts local
Tuesday Nov 23, 2021
Tuesday Nov 23, 2021
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.
Monday Nov 15, 2021
Hays Chamber working to find solutions to lack of child care in Ellis County
Monday Nov 15, 2021
Monday Nov 15, 2021
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.
Tuesday Nov 02, 2021
Showcase offers opportunity to explore local businesses
Tuesday Nov 02, 2021
Tuesday Nov 02, 2021
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.
Tuesday Oct 12, 2021
Hays Young Professionals helps connect business community
Tuesday Oct 12, 2021
Tuesday Oct 12, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher along with Hays Young Professionals member Natalie Ellis talk about the HYP group and more.
Tuesday Oct 05, 2021
Hays Chamber celebrates new members
Tuesday Oct 05, 2021
Tuesday Oct 05, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares updates from the chamber.
Tuesday Sep 21, 2021
Hays Chamber‘s latest Business Showcase ends Friday
Tuesday Sep 21, 2021
Tuesday Sep 21, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with Brian Ruder from the Brian Ruder Insurance Agency share information about the ongoing Business Showcase Challenge.
Tuesday Sep 14, 2021
Hays Chamber‘s Business Showcase Challenge continues
Tuesday Sep 14, 2021
Tuesday Sep 14, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with the Fort Hays State University Victor E. Tiger Apparel & Gift Co. manager Courtney Victora share information about the ongoing Business Showcase Challenge.
Tuesday Sep 07, 2021
Hays Chamber prepares for Ag Appreciation event
Tuesday Sep 07, 2021
Tuesday Sep 07, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about their upcoming Ag Appreciation event with Astra Bank market president Bryan Vonfeldt.
Tuesday Aug 31, 2021
Hays Chamber‘s next business showcase begins Friday
Tuesday Aug 31, 2021
Tuesday Aug 31, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with optometrist, Nicholas Mondero from Family Eye Care share details about the upcoming Business Showcase Challenge.
Tuesday Aug 24, 2021
Hays Chamber to celebrate educators with upcoming event
Tuesday Aug 24, 2021
Tuesday Aug 24, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about their upcoming Educators Appreciation event, along with Nex-Tech director of customer engagement, Dustin Schlaefli.
Tuesday Aug 17, 2021
Hays Chamber shows area educators appreciation during annual event
Tuesday Aug 17, 2021
Tuesday Aug 17, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about the upcoming Educators Appreciation event.
Tuesday Aug 10, 2021
Preparations underway for Chamber's Education Appreciation event
Tuesday Aug 10, 2021
Tuesday Aug 10, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger, along with Rose Garden Banquet Hall and Catering owner Kim Barnes, share details about the upcoming Education Appreciation event.
Tuesday Aug 03, 2021
Preparations underway for the next Hays Chamber Business Showcase
Tuesday Aug 03, 2021
Tuesday Aug 03, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares information about their upcoming Business Showcase, along with premier sponsor, Premier Business Management owner Wendy Armbruster.
Tuesday Jul 27, 2021
Hays Chamber welcomes new members
Tuesday Jul 27, 2021
Tuesday Jul 27, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares updates from the chamber.
Tuesday Jul 20, 2021
Hays Chamber continues to develop health insurance offering
Tuesday Jul 20, 2021
Tuesday Jul 20, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger shares the latest from the Hays Chamber.
Tuesday Jul 13, 2021
Hays Chamber seeking business showcase locations
Tuesday Jul 13, 2021
Tuesday Jul 13, 2021
On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber vice president of membership, Rhonda Meyerhoff shares information about the next Business Showcase.