<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with United Way of Ellis County Executive Director Erica Berges about the ongoing fundraising campaign and upcoming events.</i>

<div><iframe title="United Way fundraising campaign underway" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d23j6-1538d74-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with United Way of Ellis County Executive Director Erica Berges about the ongoing fundraising campaign and upcoming events.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: United Way fundraising campaign underway

<b>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;and CRISTINA JANNEY</b><br>Kansas Reflector/Hays Post<br>

TOPEKA — Growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during that three-month period, the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia increased real gross domestic product during the third quarter, but Kansas outpaced the rest of the country. By comparison, GDP growth in Missouri registered at 4 percent while rates in the three other neighboring states surged by 5.8 percent in Colorado, 6 percent in Oklahoma and 7.5 percent in Nebraska. Arkansas recorded the quarter’s lowest level of growth at 0.7 percent.

“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy and grow our workforce are paying off,” said Gov. Laura Kelly.

Ellis County had the highest GDP percentage increase in the state for 2023, said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.

Ellis County had a 5 percent growth in gross domestic product in 2023 compared to 2022. The data comes from the Wichita State University Center for Economic Development and Research.

"I believe we know things have been good in Ellis County and continue to be," Williams said. "I think if people would turn off the national news and the negative information they get there and look locally, it would be a very positive perspective."

Williams listed several economic high points including housing construction in Hays, new schools, new buildings and a handful of new businesses opening in just the last quarter.&nbsp;

"I think most of the local businesses are doing pretty well," Williams said.&nbsp;

Unemployment in Ellis County remains extremely low. In November, the jobless rate dipped to 1.3 percent.

"The biggest challenge Ellis County businesses have is workforce," Williams said. "The ability to find a workforce and retain a workforce is a challenge and has resulted in the cost of labor going up. It's not necessarily a good situation for the business owner, but it's great for the employees."

Increased wages, in some cases, have allowed employees to keep up with inflation, Williams said.

He said he thinks the Ellis County economy will continue to be strong in 2024. He said he thought 2023 will reflect record sales tax collection for the city of Hays.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b0833de-8582-4800-b0ce-7f4ea9baf6d7">The Grow Hays microfactory is set to open in February. </a>Work will continue on the Hays USD 489 school bond projects, including the construction of a new high school. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b605d19-50a6-448c-90b0-627df8c9bdec">The community center for The Grove housing addition is set to start in 2024.&nbsp;</a>

The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Kansas had real GDP expansion of 7.4 percent in the second quarter from April through June. Overall, 44 states and District of Columbia were on the plus side in that quarter ranging from a positive 8.7 percent in Wyoming to a negative 1.4 percent in Vermont.

The border states to Kansas featured advances and a setback in real GDP during the second quarter. Growth in Nebraska came in at 5.9 percent while Oklahoma was at 4.5 percent and Colorado at 2.6 precent. Missouri slumped to a minus 0.1 percent.

In the first quarter of 2023, Nebraska topped the five-state region at 12.3 percent growth in real GDP from January to March. The other states: Kansas, 6 percent; Missouri, 2.6 percent; Oklahoma, 2.5 percent and Colorado, 1.9 percent. Each state and the District of Columbia grew in the first quarter and the spread nationally had North Dakota at a positive 12.4 percent and Rhode Island and Alabama at a plus 0.1 percent.

“Now, Kansas is outstripping the entire nation in economic growth and attracting business investment,” Kelly said on Wednesday. “It’s clear we have the momentum to continue this trajectory of economic success into 2024 and beyond.”

Meanwhile, Kansas recorded the third-ranked growth in personal income at 4.9 percent during the third quarter. Farming income contributed to the state’s improvement in personal income during the period.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703780956907.jpeg" alt="The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis says growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during the three-month period. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
                        <figcaption>The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis says growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during the three-month period. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp;and CRISTINA JANNEY</b><br>Kansas Reflector/Hays Post<br></p><p>TOPEKA — Growth in the market value of goods and services produced in Kansas from July to September was tops in the nation and expanded by 9.7 percent during that three-month period, the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported.</p><div><iframe title="Ellis County reports highest GDP growth in Kansas in 2023" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jvmpp-1537c10-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p>All 50 states and the District of Columbia increased real gross domestic product during the third quarter, but Kansas outpaced the rest of the country. By comparison, GDP growth in Missouri registered at 4 percent while rates in the three other neighboring states surged by 5.8 percent in Colorado, 6 percent in Oklahoma and 7.5 percent in Nebraska. Arkansas recorded the quarter’s lowest level of growth at 0.7 percent.</p><p>“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy and grow our workforce are paying off,” said Gov. Laura Kelly.</p><p>Ellis County had the highest GDP percentage increase in the state for 2023, said Doug Williams, Grow Hays executive director.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703781951685.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Ellis County had a 5 percent growth in gross domestic product in 2023 compared to 2022. The data comes from the Wichita State University Center for Economic Development and Research.</p><p>"I believe we know things have been good in Ellis County and continue to be," Williams said. "I think if people would turn off the national news and the negative information they get there and look locally, it would be a very positive perspective."</p><p>Williams listed several economic high points including housing construction in Hays, new schools, new buildings and a handful of new businesses opening in just the last quarter.&nbsp;</p><p>"I think most of the local businesses are doing pretty well," Williams said.&nbsp;</p><p>Unemployment in Ellis County remains extremely low. In November, the jobless rate dipped to 1.3 percent.</p><p>"The biggest challenge Ellis County businesses have is workforce," Williams said. "The ability to find a workforce and retain a workforce is a challenge and has resulted in the cost of labor going up. It's not necessarily a good situation for the business owner, but it's great for the employees."</p><p>Increased wages, in some cases, have allowed employees to keep up with inflation, Williams said.</p><p>He said he thinks the Ellis County economy will continue to be strong in 2024. He said he thought 2023 will reflect record sales tax collection for the city of Hays.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b0833de-8582-4800-b0ce-7f4ea9baf6d7">The Grow Hays microfactory is set to open in February. </a>Work will continue on the Hays USD 489 school bond projects, including the construction of a new high school. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5b605d19-50a6-448c-90b0-627df8c9bdec">The community center for The Grove housing addition is set to start in 2024.&nbsp;</a></p><p>The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported Kansas had real GDP expansion of 7.4 percent in the second quarter from April through June. Overall, 44 states and District of Columbia were on the plus side in that quarter ranging from a positive 8.7 percent in Wyoming to a negative 1.4 percent in Vermont.</p><p>The border states to Kansas featured advances and a setback in real GDP during the second quarter. Growth in Nebraska came in at 5.9 percent while Oklahoma was at 4.5 percent and Colorado at 2.6 precent. Missouri slumped to a minus 0.1 percent.</p><p>In the first quarter of 2023, Nebraska topped the five-state region at 12.3 percent growth in real GDP from January to March. The other states: Kansas, 6 percent; Missouri, 2.6 percent; Oklahoma, 2.5 percent and Colorado, 1.9 percent. Each state and the District of Columbia grew in the first quarter and the spread nationally had North Dakota at a positive 12.4 percent and Rhode Island and Alabama at a plus 0.1 percent.</p><p>“Now, Kansas is outstripping the entire nation in economic growth and attracting business investment,” Kelly said on Wednesday. “It’s clear we have the momentum to continue this trajectory of economic success into 2024 and beyond.”</p><p>Meanwhile, Kansas recorded the third-ranked growth in personal income at 4.9 percent during the third quarter. Farming income contributed to the state’s improvement in personal income during the period.</p>

🎙 Ellis County highest 2023 GDP growth in state; Kansas leads nation during third quarter 

<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar chair Tamara Hamel about the 2024 event.</i>

<div><iframe title="Holy Family Elementary plans 2024 Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vidx7-1537c2e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Holy Family Elementary Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar chair Tamara Hamel about the 2024 event.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Holy Family Elementary plans 2024 Annual Chili Supper and Bazaar

<b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i><br>

Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior-Senior High School in Hays will host its annual Monarch For a Day on Jan. 5.

Ellis County fifth through eighth graders are invited to attend the free event, said Chad Meitner, TMP-M High School principal.

"It's a natural transition. If you're a fifth grader, you're going to be going to the middle school," Meitner said. "If you're an eighth grader, you'll be going into high school. It's a perfect time for families to check it out."

Meitner said it's an opportunity to see what it would be like to be a TMP student.

"It's a chance to see what the small class sizes would be like, that individual attention. ... Until you sit in that environment, you don't really realize how cool it is," he said.

Participants will also get a taste of the school's traditional values, Meitner said, such as the Catholic faith and Christian values practiced in the classroom.&nbsp;

Potential students will also meet the teachers they would have as well as classmates.&nbsp;

"They'll rotate through about eight stations during the morning.&nbsp;You'll sit through shortened versions of what those classes would be like," Meitner said. "You get there at eight o'clock and see what it's like to start the day and then finish with lunch."

Holy Family Elementary School students are already scheduled to participate in Monarch For a Day.

Interested families with students at public elementary schools in Hays, Victoria or Ellis should register on the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_XfLragC6t7u9A2ZV55dA-SAAz9_3ZN_7ySEwet9mdcNjmw/viewform">TMP-M website</a> to attend or contact Melissa Schoepf, junior high principal, at schoepfm@tmpmarian.org.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702316530240.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="🎙 Sign up is open for TMP-M’s Monarch For a Day on Jan. 5" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jb3yp-1528640-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i><br></p><p>Thomas More Prep-Marian Junior-Senior High School in Hays will host its annual Monarch For a Day on Jan. 5.</p><p>Ellis County fifth through eighth graders are invited to attend the free event, said Chad Meitner, TMP-M High School principal.</p><p>"It's a natural transition. If you're a fifth grader, you're going to be going to the middle school," Meitner said. "If you're an eighth grader, you'll be going into high school. It's a perfect time for families to check it out."</p><p>Meitner said it's an opportunity to see what it would be like to be a TMP student.</p><p>"It's a chance to see what the small class sizes would be like, that individual attention. ... Until you sit in that environment, you don't really realize how cool it is," he said.</p><p>Participants will also get a taste of the school's traditional values, Meitner said, such as the Catholic faith and Christian values practiced in the classroom.&nbsp;</p><p>Potential students will also meet the teachers they would have as well as classmates.&nbsp;</p><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ithIfjNq_eo?si=kSmOZAt5HaAzKkO2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p>"They'll rotate through about eight stations during the morning.&nbsp;You'll sit through shortened versions of what those classes would be like," Meitner said. "You get there at eight o'clock and see what it's like to start the day and then finish with lunch."</p><p>Holy Family Elementary School students are already scheduled to participate in Monarch For a Day.</p><p>Interested families with students at public elementary schools in Hays, Victoria or Ellis should register on the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_XfLragC6t7u9A2ZV55dA-SAAz9_3ZN_7ySEwet9mdcNjmw/viewform">TMP-M website</a> to attend or contact Melissa Schoepf, junior high principal, at schoepfm@tmpmarian.org.</p>

🎙 Sign up open for TMP-M's Monarch For a Day on Jan. 5

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.</i><br>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1vLx27MX6tM?si=lJFOVPeAtwVvITvh" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert.</i><br></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Country Stampede marketing director Shelby Ebert

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the recent letter of support signed by the Hays City Commission to support Medicaid expansion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses Medicaid expansion" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=imb2e-15286b0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.growhays.com/" target="_blank">Grow Hays</a> Executive Director Doug Williams about the recent letter of support signed by the Hays City Commission to support Medicaid expansion.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses Medicaid expansion

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Heartland Community Foundation</a> Executive Director Sarah Meitner about end-of-year giving.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Heartland Community Foundation</a> Executive Director Sarah Meitner about end-of-year giving.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p><div><iframe title="Time remains to give to Heartland Community Foundation" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=m8hua-15286bd-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎙 Post Podcast: Time remains to give to Heartland Community Foundation

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with First Call for Help Executive Director Macey Pfeifer.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rXe7P6oCh-U?si=vVJzUELFTO6xIG4Y" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with First Call for Help Executive Director Macey Pfeifer.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: First Call for Help executive director Macey Pfeifer

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> agent Gene Stramel discusses Medicare enrollment with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Navigating Medicare enrollment with IPI Financial Services" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=vj62r-1524c66-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> agent Gene Stramel discusses Medicare enrollment with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Navigating Medicare enrollment with IPI Financial Services

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with President of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association, Ed Cross.</i><br>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/scdN3HUVJPs?si=8edODo1oeAHLRwFy" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with President of the Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association, Ed Cross.</i><br></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: KIOGA President Ed Cross

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Colby Community College President Seth Carter.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WqLJeet2EW4?si=UQT_V-OBv2siUZSK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Colby Community College President Seth Carter.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Colby Community College President Seth Carter

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3/1400 Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with <a href="https://www.hctks.com/events" target="_blank">Hays Community Theatre's Keeping Christmas: A Traditional Christmas Tale</a> Director Amy Bergman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Hays Community Theatre to present Keeping Christmas: A Traditional Christmas Tale" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=s9ya7-1512029-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3/1400 Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with <a href="https://www.hctks.com/events" target="_blank">Hays Community Theatre's Keeping Christmas: A Traditional Christmas Tale</a> Director Amy Bergman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Community Theatre to present Keeping Christmas: A Traditional Christmas Tale

<i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, KAYS 94.3/1400 Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with Fort Hays State University's director of choral activities, Terry Crull, about upcoming holiday concerts.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="FHSU choirs preparing for holiday concerts" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9nnef-151065c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, KAYS 94.3/1400 Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with Fort Hays State University's director of choral activities, Terry Crull, about upcoming holiday concerts.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: FHSU choirs preparing for holiday concerts

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/" target="_blank">United Way of Ellis County</a> Executive Director Erica Berges about their ongoing fundraising campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

﻿#GivingTuesday&nbsp;is an annual global event that takes place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Encouraging people to give back whether it's time, money or resources to help those in need.&nbsp;It is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">Click here to donate.</a>

Bring the kids to enjoy cookies and milk while Santa reads a story.<br><b>When:</b>&nbsp;Saturday, Dec. 2<br><b>Where: </b>Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601<br><b>Time:&nbsp;</b>1 to 3 p.m.

Purchase tickets at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mYEbnbBRgsp1oGsqtrxX71Q0WkbrN5hr1MVDhm8BzoRwg7_Io-dRu0TwFJNpSRKEE7UoOqIhQ3ezPGRXYmu4pmMF8WLpNuEgaXbwKIecOzfO6qXYc-61ZrJzzCpmema0PvzltC6omSY=&amp;c=pbZB4a_nws87QRIcLS7H8XkEYcYriaTrchuxhkMJ5FApgp_JjOEOYA==&amp;ch=gyzqN7Ce0bdpxM_2R0jkrVRMLEGeTaUAw3p8J_w81wzcjevnZMRr1Q==" target="_blank">liveunited.us</a><br>Enter for a chance to win one of three gift card bundles.<br>$5 each or five tickets for $20<br><b>When:</b>&nbsp;Dec. 1 - Dec. 18

Join us for a special one-night-only event with food, drinks and entertainment. Enjoy holiday appetizers and finger foods, a cash bar with holiday-themed cocktails, music and more.<br><b>When:&nbsp;</b>6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15<br><b>Where:</b>&nbsp;1102 Main St., Hays, KS 67601

Join us as we release our collaborative brew with Defiance Brewing Co. Enjoy live music, food and sample our commemorative beer to celebrate 70 years in Ellis County.<br><b>When:</b>&nbsp;Friday,&nbsp;Dec. 22<br><b>Where:</b>&nbsp;Defiance Taproom<br><b>Time:</b>&nbsp;7 to 9 p.m.

<div><iframe title="United Way of Ellis Co. fundraising campaign underway" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nwzmb-150edec-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/" target="_blank">United Way of Ellis County</a> Executive Director Erica Berges about their ongoing fundraising campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p><h2>Giving Tuesday</h2><p>Today, Nov. 28</p><p>﻿#GivingTuesday&nbsp;is an annual global event that takes place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Encouraging people to give back whether it's time, money or resources to help those in need.&nbsp;It is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. <a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">Click here to donate.</a></p><h2>Cookies &amp; milk with Santa</h2><p>Bring the kids to enjoy cookies and milk while Santa reads a story.<br><b>When:</b>&nbsp;Saturday, Dec. 2<br><b>Where: </b>Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601<br><b>Time:&nbsp;</b>1 to 3 p.m.</p><h2>Dine Out Days Raffle</h2><p>Purchase tickets at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mYEbnbBRgsp1oGsqtrxX71Q0WkbrN5hr1MVDhm8BzoRwg7_Io-dRu0TwFJNpSRKEE7UoOqIhQ3ezPGRXYmu4pmMF8WLpNuEgaXbwKIecOzfO6qXYc-61ZrJzzCpmema0PvzltC6omSY=&amp;c=pbZB4a_nws87QRIcLS7H8XkEYcYriaTrchuxhkMJ5FApgp_JjOEOYA==&amp;ch=gyzqN7Ce0bdpxM_2R0jkrVRMLEGeTaUAw3p8J_w81wzcjevnZMRr1Q==" target="_blank">liveunited.us</a><br>Enter for a chance to win one of three gift card bundles.<br>$5 each or five tickets for $20<br><b>When:</b>&nbsp;Dec. 1 - Dec. 18</p><h2>Pop-up Bar</h2><p>Join us for a special one-night-only event with food, drinks and entertainment. Enjoy holiday appetizers and finger foods, a cash bar with holiday-themed cocktails, music and more.<br><b>When:&nbsp;</b>6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15<br><b>Where:</b>&nbsp;1102 Main St., Hays, KS 67601</p><h2>Defiance Taproom</h2><p>Join us as we release our collaborative brew with Defiance Brewing Co. Enjoy live music, food and sample our commemorative beer to celebrate 70 years in Ellis County.<br><b>When:</b>&nbsp;Friday,&nbsp;Dec. 22<br><b>Where:</b>&nbsp;Defiance Taproom<br><b>Time:</b>&nbsp;7 to 9 p.m.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: United Way of Ellis County sets holiday events

<i>&nbsp;On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">The Chamber in Hays, Kansas'</a> 36th Annual Ag Appreciation dinner, Sponsored by High Plains Farm Credit with Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Vice President of Marketing from High Plains Farm Credit, Jared Bauck.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="The Chamber in Hays, Kansas announces title sponsor for the 36th Annual Ag Appreciation dinner" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=a3u4r-150d3a0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>&nbsp;On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">The Chamber in Hays, Kansas'</a> 36th Annual Ag Appreciation dinner, Sponsored by High Plains Farm Credit with Chamber President and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Vice President of Marketing from High Plains Farm Credit, Jared Bauck.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: 36th Annual Ag Appreciation dinner title sponsor announced

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LGqQhSwz_Ag?si=_bHSPpRELuqeGxjv" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: 2023 Motorcycle Cannonball winner Todd Cameron

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses upcoming events at the <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Cottonwood Extension District</a> with agent Stacy Campbell.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Cottonwood District continues information programing for area residents" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ytbpg-150a159-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses upcoming events at the <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Cottonwood Extension District</a> with agent Stacy Campbell.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood District continues information programing for area residents

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses holiday safety with <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/232/Fire-Department" target="_blank">Hays Fire Department </a>Chief Ryan Hagans.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Stay safe this holiday season with these tips from the Hays Fire Department" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=d8mit-150858e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses holiday safety with <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/232/Fire-Department" target="_blank">Hays Fire Department </a>Chief Ryan Hagans.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay safe this holiday season with these tips from the Hays Fire Department

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser discusses Grow Hays' funding request for The Grove in Hays with City Manager Toby Dougherty and Commissioner Alaina Cunningham.</i>

<i>Read more at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b73f54b-75e4-4eb9-aa82-7fce4efa3ebe" target="_blank">Grow Hays asks city for $1M, financing changes for housing developments</a>.</i>

<div><iframe title="Hays City Commission contributes $1 million toward community center project" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=grziu-150728e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Becky Kiser discusses Grow Hays' funding request for The Grove in Hays with City Manager Toby Dougherty and Commissioner Alaina Cunningham.</i></p><p><i>Read more at <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b73f54b-75e4-4eb9-aa82-7fce4efa3ebe" target="_blank">Grow Hays asks city for $1M, financing changes for housing developments</a>.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays City Commission contributes $1 million toward community center project

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">The Chamber in Hays, Kansas</a>, President and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Vice President of Membership Leigh Purdy about advocacy at The Chamber.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Advocacy remains large part of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas mission" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kuxic-1504c7a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">The Chamber in Hays, Kansas</a>, President and CEO Sarah Wasinger and Vice President of Membership Leigh Purdy about advocacy at The Chamber.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Advocacy remains large part of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas mission

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with General Counsel and Litigation Director for the Kansas Justice Institute Sam MacRoberts.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Vr66UuhSK_c?si=x_j-HL8mHdhOeDfi" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with General Counsel and Litigation Director for the Kansas Justice Institute Sam MacRoberts.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Kansas Justice Institute litigation director Sam MacRoberts

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses protein in the diet with Fort Hays State University's Jessica Phelan.</i>

<div><iframe title="Protein intake important year round" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ictdt-14fdf4e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;KAYS 94.3's The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker discusses protein in the diet with Fort Hays State University's Jessica Phelan.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Protein intake important year round

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/" target="_blank">Hays Arts Council</a> executive director Brenda Meder discusses the 2023 Winter Art Walk.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council prepares for 2023 Winter Art Walk" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9cyci-14fc9f5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/" target="_blank">Hays Arts Council</a> executive director Brenda Meder discusses the 2023 Winter Art Walk.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council prepares for 2023 Winter Art Walk

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, 94.3/1400 KAYS The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District</a> Family and Community Wellness Agent Monique Koerner about cooking turkey safely.</i>

<div><iframe title="Stay safe this Thanksgiving with these turkey cooking tips from the Cottonwood Extension District" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mi5dn-14fb16a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, 94.3/1400 KAYS The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District</a> Family and Community Wellness Agent Monique Koerner about cooking turkey safely.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay safe this Thanksgiving with these turkey cooking tips from the Cottonwood Extension District

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Heartland Community Foundation</a> Executive Director Sarah Meitner about National Community Foundation week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Heartland Community Foundation celebrates National Community Foundation week" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hmrpy-14fb145-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;

Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Heartland Community Foundation</a> Executive Director Sarah Meitner about National Community Foundation week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>