The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is
excited to present the "Enhancing Your Customer Service" seminar led
by national speaker and customer service expert Mike Henke. 

The seminar, aimed at local
businesses and professionals, will be hosted on October 24, at the Rose Garden
Banquet Hall &amp; Catering, located at 2350 E. 8th St., from 2 to 5 p.m.

Sponsored by Heartland Credit
Union, the event will combine a social networking opportunity from 2 p.m. to 4
p.m. with the informative seminar from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The session will address the
growing expectations of customers, and offer practical strategies for
delivering top-tier customer service that enhances satisfaction and loyalty.

Seminar
Focus: Rising Customer Expectations and Empowering Employees

During the seminar, Henke will
highlight key trends in customer service, including how customer expectations
have significantly risen in recent years.

He will explore how businesses
can tailor their services to meet the unique needs of individual customers and
ensure that employees are motivated to deliver exceptional experiences.

"This seminar will help our
local businesses understand the importance of meeting and exceeding customer
expectations in today’s competitive market,” said Sarah Wasinger, President and
CEO of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas. “We are thrilled to welcome Mike Henke to
Hays. His expertise and dynamic approach will provide invaluable insights on
how to enhance customer satisfaction while empowering employees to act
independently.”

Henke’s presentation will focus
on best practices in communication, conflict resolution, and strategies for
delivering customer-first experiences. 

Attendees will leave with
actionable insights they can implement immediately to improve service quality
and customer retention.

The Chamber is offering early
bird registration for members at a discounted price of $40 per person if
registered by October 10. 

Members of the Hays Young
Professionals (HYP) and Chamber Ambassadors can attend for a special rate of
$35. Non-members are welcome to attend for $60 per person.

Registration is now open and can
be completed through the Chamber's website or by contacting the Chamber staff
directly. 

Due to high demand, attendees are
encouraged to register early to secure their spots. 

However, please note that
cancellations made within 48 hours of the event will incur a charge to cover
the costs associated with pre-submitted RSVPs.

The "Enhancing Your Customer
Service" seminar will equip businesses with tools to navigate the evolving
landscape of customer service. 

Wasinger noted that customer
service is more than just meeting basic needs — it’s about creating memorable
experiences that differentiate businesses from competitors.

“Customer service is one of the
most crucial elements for business success,” Wasinger said. “Providing
exceptional service not only keeps customers coming back, but also turns them
into advocates for your brand. This seminar is designed to give our businesses
the tools they need to stay competitive and deliver unforgettable customer
experiences.”

For more information about the
event or to register, visit <a href="https://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a> or contact The Chamber office at (785)
628-8201.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634743366242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is
excited to present the "Enhancing Your Customer Service" seminar led
by national speaker and customer service expert Mike Henke. The seminar, aimed at local
businesses and professionals, will be hosted on October 24, at the Rose Garden
Banquet Hall &amp; Catering, located at 2350 E. 8th St., from 2 to 5 p.m.Sponsored by Heartland Credit
Union, the event will combine a social networking opportunity from 2 p.m. to 4
p.m. with the informative seminar from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.The session will address the
growing expectations of customers, and offer practical strategies for
delivering top-tier customer service that enhances satisfaction and loyalty.Seminar
Focus: Rising Customer Expectations and Empowering EmployeesDuring the seminar, Henke will
highlight key trends in customer service, including how customer expectations
have significantly risen in recent years.He will explore how businesses
can tailor their services to meet the unique needs of individual customers and
ensure that employees are motivated to deliver exceptional experiences."This seminar will help our
local businesses understand the importance of meeting and exceeding customer
expectations in today’s competitive market,” said Sarah Wasinger, President and
CEO of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas. “We are thrilled to welcome Mike Henke to
Hays. His expertise and dynamic approach will provide invaluable insights on
how to enhance customer satisfaction while empowering employees to act
independently.”Henke’s presentation will focus
on best practices in communication, conflict resolution, and strategies for
delivering customer-first experiences. Attendees will leave with
actionable insights they can implement immediately to improve service quality
and customer retention.Registration
and PricingThe Chamber is offering early
bird registration for members at a discounted price of $40 per person if
registered by October 10. Members of the Hays Young
Professionals (HYP) and Chamber Ambassadors can attend for a special rate of
$35. Non-members are welcome to attend for $60 per person.Registration is now open and can
be completed through the Chamber's website or by contacting the Chamber staff
directly. Due to high demand, attendees are
encouraged to register early to secure their spots. However, please note that
cancellations made within 48 hours of the event will incur a charge to cover
the costs associated with pre-submitted RSVPs.Why Attend?The "Enhancing Your Customer
Service" seminar will equip businesses with tools to navigate the evolving
landscape of customer service. Participants will learn how to:<ul>
 <li>Recognize and respond to the rising
 expectations of today’s customers.</li><li>Customize services to accommodate the
 diverse needs of customers.</li><li>Empower employees with the motivation
 and independence to deliver top-tier service.</li><li>Improve communication skills and resolve
 conflicts effectively.</li><li>Create a customer-first culture that
 drives loyalty and repeat business.</li>
 </ul>Wasinger noted that customer
service is more than just meeting basic needs — it’s about creating memorable
experiences that differentiate businesses from competitors.“Customer service is one of the
most crucial elements for business success,” Wasinger said. “Providing
exceptional service not only keeps customers coming back, but also turns them
into advocates for your brand. This seminar is designed to give our businesses
the tools they need to stay competitive and deliver unforgettable customer
experiences.”Event
Details:<ul>
 <li>What: "Enhancing Your Customer Service" Seminar,
 featuring Mike Henke</li><li>When: Thursday, October 24, 2024</li><li>Time: 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Social from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.;
 Seminar from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.)</li><li>Where: Rose Garden Banquet Hall &amp; Catering, 2350 E. 8th St.,
 Hays, Kansas</li><li>Cost: $40 for Chamber members (early bird by October 10); $35 for
 HYP and Chamber Ambassadors; $60 for non-members</li><li>Registration: Open now at <a href="https://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a> or by
 contacting Chamber staff.</li>
 </ul>For more information about the
event or to register, visit <a href="https://hayschamber.com">hayschamber.com</a> or contact The Chamber office at (785)
628-8201.

The Chamber to host ‘Enhancing your Customer Service’ seminar with Mike Henke

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728494291021.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

LARNED—The grounds of the Santa Fe Trail Center Museum will soon be filled with the rumbling of the sounds of antique and vintage farm equipment.

Prepare for a carnival-like atmosphere, and join the crowd as everyone enjoys the weekend of farming, food and fun on October 12 and 13 for the 24th Annual Tired Iron Show.

This year’s event will highlight John Deere.

Upon arrival, visitors will enter through the Peddlers Market gateway to see the booths of various arts, crafts and collectibles. There will be several food concession trucks as well.

One of the many returning activities at this year’s event includes the ever-popular Anvil Shoot.

The Kansas Anvil Shooters will shoot the anvil three times each day.

On both Saturday and Sunday, there will be scheduled demonstrations of wheat threshing, corn shelling, and blacksmithing.There will also be a working miniature farm equipment display.The tractor pull will begin Sunday at 10:00 a.m.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/">A full schedule can be found on Facebook.</a>

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/"></a>Those interested in either a booth for the Peddlers Market or for exhibiting an antique tractor, gas engine, antique or classic vehicle may call (620) 285-2054 for more information.

The Santa Fe Trail Center is located 2 miles west of Larned on K-156.To reduce traffic, the main entrance is reserved for general admission, and all oversized vehicles are asked to use the new west entrance.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696962033604.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LARNED—The grounds of the Santa Fe Trail Center Museum will soon be filled with the rumbling of the sounds of antique and vintage farm equipment.Prepare for a carnival-like atmosphere, and join the crowd as everyone enjoys the weekend of farming, food and fun on October 12 and 13 for the 24th Annual Tired Iron Show.This year’s event will highlight John Deere.Upon arrival, visitors will enter through the Peddlers Market gateway to see the booths of various arts, crafts and collectibles. There will be several food concession trucks as well.One of the many returning activities at this year’s event includes the ever-popular Anvil Shoot.The Kansas Anvil Shooters will shoot the anvil three times each day.On both Saturday and Sunday, there will be scheduled demonstrations of wheat threshing, corn shelling, and blacksmithing.There will also be a working miniature farm equipment display.The tractor pull will begin Sunday at 10:00 a.m.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/">A full schedule can be found on Facebook.</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/santafetrailcenter/"></a>Those interested in either a booth for the Peddlers Market or for exhibiting an antique tractor, gas engine, antique or classic vehicle may call (620) 285-2054 for more information.The Santa Fe Trail Center is located 2 miles west of Larned on K-156.To reduce traffic, the main entrance is reserved for general admission, and all oversized vehicles are asked to use the new west entrance.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/09/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728408491705.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

For the first time in 10 years, “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band returns to Colby, Kansas as part of the band’s Coast to Coast tour, performing a free 7:30 p.m. concert on Wednesday, October 16th at the Colby Event Center.

For full details, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour">www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour</a>.&nbsp;

Free tickets are available starting September 16th. Seating is general admission and ticket holders must be seated by 6:45 p.m.; remaining seats will be released to the standby line at that time.

The web site for free tickets is&nbsp;<a href="https://marineband.ticketleap.com/colby2024">https://marineband.ticketleap.com/colby2024</a>

“We are incredibly excited to continue the tradition of our national concert tour.” Marine Band Director Lt. Col. Ryan Nowlin said. “Musicians of the band are more eager than ever to share their musical talents with audiences live, and in-person on this Coast to Coast tour.”

Nowlin has programmed musical selections in the style of the band’s 17th Director John Philip Sousa, who initiated the concert tour tradition in 1891. Concertgoers can expect a mix of works including traditional band repertoire, Sousa marches, contemporary compositions, vocal and instrumental solos and a patriotic salute to the Armed Forces.&nbsp;

“We have tremendously appreciative patrons who come to Marine Band concerts for all types of different experiences, so our programs are designed to include a great variety of music that mirrors the wonderful diversity in our national musical heritage.” Nowlin said.

Since Sousa was first granted permission to tour the country by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892, “The President’s Own” United Sates Marine Band has delivered a White House experience from Washington, D.C. to the far-reaching corners of our nation, and these special concerts have been shared by generations of Americans. During the 30-day Coast to Coast tour, the Marine Band will perform 28 concerts in the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Oregon, Utah, Washington and West Virginia.

The Marine Band is America’s Oldest continuously active professional musical organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every U.S. President since John Adams. Known s “The President’s Own” since the days of Thomas Jefferson, the Marine Band’s mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

SubmittedFor the first time in 10 years, “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band returns to Colby, Kansas as part of the band’s Coast to Coast tour, performing a free 7:30 p.m. concert on Wednesday, October 16th at the Colby Event Center.For full details, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour">www.marineband.marines.mil/Tour</a>.&nbsp;Free tickets are available starting September 16th. Seating is general admission and ticket holders must be seated by 6:45 p.m.; remaining seats will be released to the standby line at that time.The web site for free tickets is&nbsp;<a href="https://marineband.ticketleap.com/colby2024">https://marineband.ticketleap.com/colby2024</a>“We are incredibly excited to continue the tradition of our national concert tour.” Marine Band Director Lt. Col. Ryan Nowlin said. “Musicians of the band are more eager than ever to share their musical talents with audiences live, and in-person on this Coast to Coast tour.”Nowlin has programmed musical selections in the style of the band’s 17th Director John Philip Sousa, who initiated the concert tour tradition in 1891. Concertgoers can expect a mix of works including traditional band repertoire, Sousa marches, contemporary compositions, vocal and instrumental solos and a patriotic salute to the Armed Forces.&nbsp;“We have tremendously appreciative patrons who come to Marine Band concerts for all types of different experiences, so our programs are designed to include a great variety of music that mirrors the wonderful diversity in our national musical heritage.” Nowlin said.Since Sousa was first granted permission to tour the country by President Benjamin Harrison in 1892, “The President’s Own” United Sates Marine Band has delivered a White House experience from Washington, D.C. to the far-reaching corners of our nation, and these special concerts have been shared by generations of Americans. During the 30-day Coast to Coast tour, the Marine Band will perform 28 concerts in the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Oregon, Utah, Washington and West Virginia.The Marine Band is America’s Oldest continuously active professional musical organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every U.S. President since John Adams. Known s “The President’s Own” since the days of Thomas Jefferson, the Marine Band’s mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps.

WPAA to host 'The President's Own' Marine Band

Enter to win Cash Grab

How does a cucumber become a pickle? It goes through a jarring experience.

How does a cucumber become a pickle? It goes through a jarring experience.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/08/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728327628867.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dobDNgOSMGA?si=lCBhPu7U5MDOzuTO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright

Why do elephants paint their toe nails red? So they can hide in a strawberry patch. Have you ever seen an elephant in a strawberry patch? They hide pretty good don't they?

Why do elephants paint their toe nails red? So they can hide in a strawberry patch. Have you ever seen an elephant in a strawberry patch? They hide pretty good don't they?

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/07/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728255975917.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728174126391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728048680614.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

How does a computer catch fish? With its internet.

How does a computer catch fish? With its internet.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/04/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727972864162.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

The final drawing for the Yuengling Flight Golf Cart Giveaway is coming during Octoberfest Hays Friday, Oct. 4.

A winner will be selected from the finalists picked throughout the last few months.

A &amp; A Coors-Yuengling invite you to this year's Oktoberfest to enjoy all of the German food, the live entertainment, and fun for all ages.&nbsp;

A &amp; A will be giving away the Yuengling Flight Golf Cart at 1:45 p.m. on the main stage...so come and find out who the big winner is!&nbsp;

1.&nbsp;Dustin Hickert from Hays – Relay Golf Tournament 6-14

2.&nbsp;Matt Cook from Hays – Relay Golf Tournament 6-14

3.&nbsp;Brian Thorell from Hays – Brogden GMC 7-13

4.&nbsp;Cade Gerhard from Hays – Brogden GMC 7-13

5.&nbsp;Sara Brown from WaKeeney – Prairie Rose Inn 8-16

6.&nbsp;Sammy Crossland from Ogallah – Prairie Rose Inn 8-16

7.&nbsp;&nbsp;Adam Napell from Hays – Kaiser Liquor 8-29

8.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stacy Campbell from Hays – Kaiser Liquor 8-29

9.&nbsp; DeeDee Heronemus from WaKeeney – Malay’s Market 9-7

10.&nbsp; Michelle Post from WaKeeney – Malay’s Market 9-7

11.&nbsp; Kevin Baintner from Hays – Stone House 9-13

12.&nbsp; Aaron Ladd from Hays – Stone House 9-13

13.&nbsp; Nancy Williams from Stockton – Mr. K’s Foodtown in Plainville 9-14

14.&nbsp; Irvin Brungardt from Plainville – Mr. K’s Foodtown in Plainville 9-14

15.&nbsp; Thad Wheeles from WaKeeney – Club Liquor in Hays 9-2

16.&nbsp; Curt Wachs from Hays – Club Liquor in Hays 9-26

17.&nbsp; Jane Younger from Hays – Lewis Automotive 9-27

18.&nbsp; Cheryl Schmeidler from Hays – Lewis Automotive 9-27

&nbsp;19.&nbsp; Neva Hendrix from WaKeeney – Pit Road Liquor 9-2

20.&nbsp; Don Flax from WaKeeney – Pit Road Liquor 9-28

21.&nbsp; Jeff Rupp from Hays – CERV’s on Vine 10-3

22.&nbsp; Eric Flax from Hays – CERV’s on Vine 10-3

The final drawing for the Yuengling Flight Golf Cart Giveaway is coming during Octoberfest Hays Friday, Oct. 4.A winner will be selected from the finalists picked throughout the last few months.A &amp; A Coors-Yuengling invite you to this year's Oktoberfest to enjoy all of the German food, the live entertainment, and fun for all ages.&nbsp; A &amp; A will be giving away the Yuengling Flight Golf Cart at 1:45 p.m. on the main stage...so come and find out who the big winner is!&nbsp;All finalists to date:1.&nbsp;Dustin Hickert from Hays – Relay Golf Tournament 6-142.&nbsp;Matt Cook from Hays – Relay Golf Tournament 6-143.&nbsp;Brian Thorell from Hays – Brogden GMC 7-134.&nbsp;Cade Gerhard from Hays – Brogden GMC 7-135.&nbsp;Sara Brown from WaKeeney – Prairie Rose Inn 8-166.&nbsp;Sammy Crossland from Ogallah – Prairie Rose Inn 8-167.&nbsp;&nbsp;Adam Napell from Hays – Kaiser Liquor 8-298.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stacy Campbell from Hays – Kaiser Liquor 8-299.&nbsp; DeeDee Heronemus from WaKeeney – Malay’s Market 9-710.&nbsp; Michelle Post from WaKeeney – Malay’s Market 9-711.&nbsp; Kevin Baintner from Hays – Stone House 9-1312.&nbsp; Aaron Ladd from Hays – Stone House 9-1313.&nbsp; Nancy Williams from Stockton – Mr. K’s Foodtown in Plainville 9-1414.&nbsp; Irvin Brungardt from Plainville – Mr. K’s Foodtown in Plainville 9-1415.&nbsp; Thad Wheeles from WaKeeney – Club Liquor in Hays 9-216.&nbsp; Curt Wachs from Hays – Club Liquor in Hays 9-2617.&nbsp; Jane Younger from Hays – Lewis Automotive 9-2718.&nbsp; Cheryl Schmeidler from Hays – Lewis Automotive 9-27&nbsp;19.&nbsp; Neva Hendrix from WaKeeney – Pit Road Liquor 9-220.&nbsp; Don Flax from WaKeeney – Pit Road Liquor 9-2821.&nbsp; Jeff Rupp from Hays – CERV’s on Vine 10-322.&nbsp; Eric Flax from Hays – CERV’s on Vine 10-3

Yuengling Flight Golf cart to be given away during Oktoberfest

One day, a salesman stopped by the Jones farm, knocked, and the farmer's wife came to the door. "Is your husband home, Ma'am?" he asked. "Sure is. He's over in the cow barn." "Well, I got something to show him, Ma'am. Will I have any difficulty finding him?" "Shouldn't have any difficulties... he's the one with only two legs."

One day, a salesman stopped by the Jones farm, knocked, and the farmer's wife came to the door. "Is your husband home, Ma'am?" he asked. "Sure is. He's over in the cow barn." "Well, I got something to show him, Ma'am. Will I have any difficulty finding him?" "Shouldn't have any difficulties... he's the one with only two legs."

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/03/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727898783004.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

FORT LARNED – It’s time to get ready for this year’s Candlelight Tour at Fort Larned National Historic Site.

This year we’re exploring the role of the Post Trader in the life of a frontier military post. Post traders were merchants granted a license to operate a store on the post to provide soldiers with items not issued by the Army. Being able to get things like soap, writing paper, and special foods, just to name a few, was very helpful for men stationed far from towns or cities. The Post Trader had his downsides, though, one of which was selling alcohol in his store, which could cause lots of problems for the officers and men. The scenes in this year’s tour will highlight both the good and bad side of having a civilian store on post.

The tour will be on October 12th&nbsp;with reservations beginning on September 30th&nbsp;at 8:30 am. Reservations can only be made by phone at 620-285-6911, or in person at the Visitor Center. &nbsp;The first tour will leave at 7:30 pm and then every 15 minutes afterwards, until the last tour leaves at 10:15 pm for a total of 12 tours. Each tour has space for 20 people and reservations will be taken on a first come, first served basis.

Fort Larned National Historic Site, one of 430+ National Park units, is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. Information about visiting can be found on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_internet@nps.gov">fols_internet@nps.gov</a>. For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call (620) 285-6916.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727471111809.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedFORT LARNED – It’s time to get ready for this year’s Candlelight Tour at Fort Larned National Historic Site.This year we’re exploring the role of the Post Trader in the life of a frontier military post. Post traders were merchants granted a license to operate a store on the post to provide soldiers with items not issued by the Army. Being able to get things like soap, writing paper, and special foods, just to name a few, was very helpful for men stationed far from towns or cities. The Post Trader had his downsides, though, one of which was selling alcohol in his store, which could cause lots of problems for the officers and men. The scenes in this year’s tour will highlight both the good and bad side of having a civilian store on post.The tour will be on October 12th&nbsp;with reservations beginning on September 30th&nbsp;at 8:30 am. Reservations can only be made by phone at 620-285-6911, or in person at the Visitor Center. &nbsp;The first tour will leave at 7:30 pm and then every 15 minutes afterwards, until the last tour leaves at 10:15 pm for a total of 12 tours. Each tour has space for 20 people and reservations will be taken on a first come, first served basis.Fort Larned National Historic Site, one of 430+ National Park units, is located six miles west of Larned on Kansas Highway 156. Information about visiting can be found on the internet at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nps.gov/fols">www.nps.gov/fols</a>, by calling 620-285-6911, or emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:fols_internet@nps.gov">fols_internet@nps.gov</a>. For information on area tourism partners, lodging, dining, and community services go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.larnedks.org/">www.larnedks.org</a>&nbsp;or call (620) 285-6916.

Fort Larned plans 2024 Candlelight Tour   

It is tough starting a sarcastic club. It’s really hard to tell if people are interested in joining or not.

It is tough starting a sarcastic club. It’s really hard to tell if people are interested in joining or not.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/02/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727811479998.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

What did the limestone say to the geologist? Stop taking me for granite.

What did the limestone say to the geologist? Stop taking me for granite.

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 10/01/24

In celebration of the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is embarking on a special project to commemorate four decades of community engagement, business growth, and individual achievements.

As part of this milestone, Chamber staff are reaching out to past award winners, banquet attendees, and participants, asking them to share memories, photographs, and videos that capture the essence of the event over the last 40 years.

The annual banquet has long served as a cornerstone event for the Hays business community, celebrating the accomplishments of local businesses, organizations, and individuals who have made a significant impact on the region.

With the 40th anniversary approaching, The Chamber is taking the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of those who have shaped the local economy and culture.

Sarah Wasinger, President and CEO of The Chamber in Hays, expressed her excitement for the project, noting the importance of capturing these stories for future generations.

“As we celebrate the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, it’s not just about looking back but also about recognizing how far we’ve come and what we’ve achieved together as a community,” Wasinger said. “The awards banquet has been a platform to highlight the incredible businesses and individuals who have made Hays what it is today, and we

want to honor that legacy by documenting the memories that have been created over the past 40 years.”

The Chamber is inviting all past award winners, nominees, sponsors, and attendees to contribute photos, videos, and written memories that highlight the impact of the banquet on the community.

These materials will be incorporated into a multimedia presentation that will be featured during the 2025 banquet, offering attendees a chance to relive past moments and see how the event has evolved.

“We want to bring people together to remember and celebrate the role the Annual Chamber Awards Banquet has played in their professional and personal lives,” Wasinger said. “When you look at the names of past recipients, you see a collection of people and businesses who have dedicated their lives and passion towards making Hays and Ellis County a special place to call home.”

To participate in this unique project, previous attendees and award recipients are encouraged to submit their materials to The Chamber by December 1.

Submissions can be sent via email to hayscc@hayschamber.com or dropped off at The Chamber office at 2700 Vine St.

For those wanting to set up a time to capture those memories on video are encouraged to schedule a time with chamber staff.

All submissions will be reviewed and considered for inclusion in the banquet’s multimedia presentation.

Those with compelling stories or particularly notable contributions may also be featured in a special retrospective video series leading up to the event.

Since its inception, the Annual Chamber Awards Banquet has grown into one of the most highly anticipated events in the Hays business calendar.

The event serves as an opportunity for the community to come together and reflect on the year’s successes while fostering connections that fuel future growth.

“The Annual Banquet is more than just an awards ceremony—it’s a celebration of the Hays community and the people who drive it forward,” Wasinger said. “This year’s event

promises to be even more special as we take a look back at the incredible impact the banquet has had on local businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, while ushering in our next class of inductees!”

The 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet will be January 28, 2025, at Fort Hays State University. The evening will include a formal dinner, awards presentation, and the unveiling of the 40th-anniversary project, featuring contributions from community members.

For more information on how to submit materials or to learn more about the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, visit hayschamber.com or call (785) 628-8201.

<figure>
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 </figure>SubmittedIn celebration of the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is embarking on a special project to commemorate four decades of community engagement, business growth, and individual achievements.As part of this milestone, Chamber staff are reaching out to past award winners, banquet attendees, and participants, asking them to share memories, photographs, and videos that capture the essence of the event over the last 40 years.The annual banquet has long served as a cornerstone event for the Hays business community, celebrating the accomplishments of local businesses, organizations, and individuals who have made a significant impact on the region.With the 40th anniversary approaching, The Chamber is taking the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of those who have shaped the local economy and culture.Looking Back to Move ForwardSarah Wasinger, President and CEO of The Chamber in Hays, expressed her excitement for the project, noting the importance of capturing these stories for future generations.“As we celebrate the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, it’s not just about looking back but also about recognizing how far we’ve come and what we’ve achieved together as a community,” Wasinger said. “The awards banquet has been a platform to highlight the incredible businesses and individuals who have made Hays what it is today, and wewant to honor that legacy by documenting the memories that have been created over the past 40 years.”The Chamber is inviting all past award winners, nominees, sponsors, and attendees to contribute photos, videos, and written memories that highlight the impact of the banquet on the community.These materials will be incorporated into a multimedia presentation that will be featured during the 2025 banquet, offering attendees a chance to relive past moments and see how the event has evolved.“We want to bring people together to remember and celebrate the role the Annual Chamber Awards Banquet has played in their professional and personal lives,” Wasinger said. “When you look at the names of past recipients, you see a collection of people and businesses who have dedicated their lives and passion towards making Hays and Ellis County a special place to call home.”How to ParticipateTo participate in this unique project, previous attendees and award recipients are encouraged to submit their materials to The Chamber by December 1.Submissions can be sent via email to hayscc@hayschamber.com or dropped off at The Chamber office at 2700 Vine St.For those wanting to set up a time to capture those memories on video are encouraged to schedule a time with chamber staff.All submissions will be reviewed and considered for inclusion in the banquet’s multimedia presentation.Those with compelling stories or particularly notable contributions may also be featured in a special retrospective video series leading up to the event.About the Annual BanquetSince its inception, the Annual Chamber Awards Banquet has grown into one of the most highly anticipated events in the Hays business calendar.The event serves as an opportunity for the community to come together and reflect on the year’s successes while fostering connections that fuel future growth.“The Annual Banquet is more than just an awards ceremony—it’s a celebration of the Hays community and the people who drive it forward,” Wasinger said. “This year’s eventpromises to be even more special as we take a look back at the incredible impact the banquet has had on local businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, while ushering in our next class of inductees!”Event DetailsThe 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet will be January 28, 2025, at Fort Hays State University. The evening will include a formal dinner, awards presentation, and the unveiling of the 40th-anniversary project, featuring contributions from community members.For more information on how to submit materials or to learn more about the 40th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet, visit hayschamber.com or call (785) 628-8201.

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