<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Kansas Secretary of Labor Amber Shultz.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WxXDOzbab-k?si=QYKnNq2BuIBWxCjL" 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><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Kansas Secretary of Labor Amber Shultz.</i></p>

Forward Ever: Kansas Secretary of Labor Amber Shultz

Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.

For 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.

• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.

• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity

• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.

• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.

o Face painting<br>o Tiger tattoos<br>o Make a birthday hat<br>o Photos with Victor E. Tiger<br>o Special treats<br>o Games, crafts, and more

• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation

• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)

• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State

• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. 

FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. 

Monday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. 

 Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride. 

More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=q592s-17eb14a-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738175139663.png" alt="FHSU" />
                        <figcaption>FHSU</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.</p><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.</p><p><i>FHSU University Communications</i></p><p>For 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.</p><p>• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.</p><p>• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.</p><p>• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity</p><p>• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.</p><p>• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.</p><p>• 1-2 p.m. free birthday activities</p><p>o Face painting<br>o Tiger tattoos<br>o Make a birthday hat<br>o Photos with Victor E. Tiger<br>o Special treats<br>o Games, crafts, and more</p><p>• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation</p><p>• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)</p><p>• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State</p><p>• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.</p><p>• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. </p><p><b>ONLINE EVENTS</b></p><p><b>Birthday Card Contest </b></p><p>FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. </p><p><b>Mascot Trivia Game</b></p><p>Monday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. </p><p><b>Tiger Tales</b></p><p> Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride. </p><p>More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.</p>

🎙 Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday 

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Julie Ryder, executive director of the Downtown Hays Development Corporation about upcoming events, and the internship available for the position of downtown market manager.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Downtown Hays February events and activities" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=sb9gd-17e7454-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Julie Ryder, executive director of the Downtown Hays Development Corporation about upcoming events, and the internship available for the position of downtown market manager.&nbsp;</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Hays February events, activities

<i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the effects of the availability of water in Hays on the future of economic growth.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays, Water Use in Business" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=ssbhi-17dd90c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the effects of the availability of water in Hays on the future of economic growth.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses water, community growth

Podcast: Kansas history in celebration on Kansas Day

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Erica Berges, United Way of Ellis County executive director about the second annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser on Sat., Feb. 8 at the Ellis County Fairgrounds, Hays.

It's an unforgettable night of music, food, drinks and a Valentine-themed silent auction, all while supporting vital local programs that promote youth opportunity, a healthy community, financial security, and resiliency of Ellis County residents.&nbsp;

Grab your tickets at: <a href="http://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/2308">http://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/2308</a>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Dueling Pianos fundraiser for United Way" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=v6dbw-17d5f96-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Erica Berges, United Way of Ellis County executive director about the second annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser on Sat., Feb. 8 at the Ellis County Fairgrounds, Hays.</p><p>It's an unforgettable night of music, food, drinks and a Valentine-themed silent auction, all while supporting vital local programs that promote youth opportunity, a healthy community, financial security, and resiliency of Ellis County residents.&nbsp;</p><p>Grab your tickets at: <a href="http://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/2308">http://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/events/2308</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Dueling Pianos fundraiser for United Way 

<i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the e-Community loan program.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=3rb4f-17c6658-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the e-Community loan program.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses e-Community loans

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Ellis County Historical Society Executive Director Amanda Rupp about the upcoming annual meeting, which is open to the public.

Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the newly renovated museum building in Hays, 100 W. 7th.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Ellis Co. Historical Society annual meeting & museum renovation" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=f4p8z-17c2506-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Ellis County Historical Society Executive Director Amanda Rupp about the upcoming annual meeting, which is open to the public.</p><p>Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the newly renovated museum building in Hays, 100 W. 7th.</p>

Post Podcast: Ellis County Historical Society meeting, museum renovation

<i>Cristina Janney speaks with Hays Middle School Principal Tom Albers about student-led conferences and the Room app.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Update" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=6dbxc-17c4ced-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Cristina Janney speaks with Hays Middle School Principal Tom Albers about student-led conferences and the Room app.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Middle School student-led conferences

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with former Hays High student Dylan Dreiling, now of the Texas Rangers.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4hlHXt1uv7M?si=P2Mw279SkNSgjeQ8" 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><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with former Hays High student Dylan Dreiling, now of the Texas Rangers.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Dylan Dreiling of Texas Rangers

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder about the 5-State Photography Exhibition still on display and looks ahead to the Creative Writing and Famous Figures contests for Ellis County students.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Spring events planned at Hays Arts Council" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bn73q-17b20c8-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder about the 5-State Photography Exhibition still on display and looks ahead to the Creative Writing and Famous Figures contests for Ellis County students.&nbsp;</p>

🎙Post Podcast: Spring events planned at Hays Arts Council

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance about regulation of dietary supplements.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Do you really need food supplements and are they safe?" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=sm9wf-17b3b6d-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance about regulation of dietary supplements.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Do you really need food supplements, are they safe?

<i>Cristina Janney speaks with Jennifer Hecker and Anniston Weber of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services about the warning signs of relationship violence in teens and having difficult conversations with your kids about dating.</i>

<div><iframe title="Options: Teen Dating Violence" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=uiebp-17ae6f0-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>Cristina Janney speaks with Jennifer Hecker and Anniston Weber of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services about the warning signs of relationship violence in teens and having difficult conversations with your kids about dating.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Options discusses teen dating violence

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser visits with Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation about estate planning and legacy giving. They also have a preview of February's Match Month in conjunction with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Hays Post Podcast: Heartland Community Foundation is going the whole 9 yards" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=qmrvv-17ae70c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser visits with Sarah Meitner, executive director of the Heartland Community Foundation about estate planning and legacy giving. They also have a preview of February's Match Month in conjunction with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan.&nbsp;</p>

🎙 Hays Post Podcast: Heartland Community Foundation going whole 9 yards

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Julie Ryder, Downtown Hays&nbsp; Development Corporation executive director, about the effects of the recent winter storm on downtown Hays businesses and then looks ahead to the planning of key events coming up.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Downtown Hays retailers feel winter weather's wrath" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bk5db-17ae6d2-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Julie Ryder, Downtown Hays&nbsp; Development Corporation executive director, about the effects of the recent winter storm on downtown Hays businesses and then looks ahead to the planning of key events coming up.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Hays retailers feel winter weather's wrath

Sandra Hickert of the Hays Virtual School shares some of the school's successes and how students of all ages can return to school to earn their high school diplomas.

<div><iframe title="USD 489: Hays Virtual School" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=5miyy-17a725a-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>Sandra Hickert of the Hays Virtual School shares some of the school's successes and how students of all ages can return to school to earn their high school diplomas.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Sandra Hickert shares successes of the Hays Virtual School

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Doug Williams discusses the Grow Hays Housing Rehabilitation Program with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays: Housing Rehabilitation Program" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=2s6py-17a7234-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" 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>, Doug Williams discusses the Grow Hays Housing Rehabilitation Program with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams discusses Housing Rehabilitation Program

<i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Doug Williams discusses his outlook for Grow Hays for 2025 with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays: Doug Williams Discusses Plans for 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=r9hka-17966a0-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" 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>, Doug Williams discusses his outlook for Grow Hays for 2025 with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams discusses Grow Hays outlook for 2025

<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance about numerous health benefits of vegetables in our diets.&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Vegetables. Love 'em or hate 'em, they're great for you." 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=8c6x7-178070f-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 Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance about numerous health benefits of vegetables in our diets.&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Vegetables. Love 'em or hate 'em, they're great for you.

<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser speaks with Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder about the HAC capital campaign, For the HeART of Hays.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: 'The Art of Bread' is part of Hays Arts Council's capital campaign" 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=kwf54-178075c-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 Hays Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder about the HAC capital campaign, For the HeART of Hays.</i></p>

🎙Post Podcast: 'The Art of Bread' is part of Hays Arts Council's capital campaign 

<i>On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses the MicroFactory with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays Discusses Plans for Hays Micro Factory" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=pkvep-17803f9-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Hays&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses the MicroFactory with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Grow Hays: Future of the MicroFactory

<b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i>

Providing safe housing is the fundamental first step in helping people develop healthy lives after leaving an abusive relationship, the director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services said.

Jennifer Hecker spoke on a recent edition of the Morning Blend on the importance of Options' Housing First Model.

"Housing First is a national model that is based on the idea that once someone is first housed safely, then they're able to address the other issues and problems in their lives," Hecker said.

"The goal is as quickly as possible to move them into safe, permanent housing."

Housing someone addresses the immediate need for safety and provides a quiet space in one's home to heal, Hecker said. It also helps victims begin to regain their independence.

She said domestic violence victims are often forced to leave their abusers and their homes with only the clothes on their backs.

She said the Housing First Model is low-barrier. Victims don't have to prove sobriety or employment.

Issues such as substance abuse disorder or unemployment often lead to homelessness. Until that person can secure safe housing, they can't deal with the root causes of their issues, Hecker said.

People come to the Options Housing First Program in various ways. For example, a person might need emergency shelter and be placed in the Options shelter in Hays.

Once someone is in the shelter, Options workers begin developing a housing plan with that client, Hecker said.

"We help them look for housing that is affordable, safe, healthy, that will pass good inspections and that anyone would be proud to live in," Hecker said.&nbsp;

Finding affordable housing in Hays and other even more rural areas of northwest Kansas can be challenging, Hecker said. The rental market is tight.

"There is not enough affordable low-income housing for people," Hecker said. "That's something we need to address in our community."

Lack of transportation is also an issue in small communities where there's no public transportation, she said.

In addition to transition advocates, Options relies on partnerships with landlords and housing advocacy groups.

"Sometimes our clients lose housing and are evicted from their apartments or rental properties because domestic violence happened there," Hecker said. "Some of what we do is educate landlords about the laws. It is illegal to evict a domestic violence victim from their house because domestic violence happened."

Options offer financial assistance for people who need housing. They can pay back payments. Hecker said often, domestic violence victims' credit histories or rental histories are ruined as a byproduct of their abusers' financial abuse.

Options can pay rent for victims for several months to allow them to get back on their feet. They work with other agencies to assist with security deposits.

Some of these strategies are meant to help domestic violence victims stay in their homes and create more stability for them and their children,&nbsp; Hecker said.

"For the first time in a long time, for a lot of people, it's the first time they've been able to turn on the radio, crank it up loud on a Saturday morning," Hecker said, "and dance around the living room with their kids without feeling fear of waking up the beast."

"You can decide to leave your dishes in the sink overnight and not worry someone is going to drag you by your hair and shove your face in the sink."

She added, "That resilience, that independence, that ability to live and just breathe is so important and a critical part of healing from trauma."

Options cover an 18-county area across northwest Kansas. Leaving their homes to come to an emergency shelter in Hays is not always the best option for victims and their families.

If victims can stay in their homes, kids don't have to change schools, and the victims may be able to keep jobs if they are working. They may also be closer to friends and family who can provide support.

"It really gives folks an opportunity to rebuild their lives and finally, once and for all, stop that isolation they're experiencing," Hecker said.

Homelessness leaves domestic violence victims vulnerable, she said. Hecker recalled a woman who lost custody of her children because she was homeless. Seven years later, she still hasn't regained custody of her children.

Providing safe housing for mothers and children helps break the cycle of abuse, Hecker said.

Community members can assist Options in their work to provide safe housing to domestic violence victims, Hecker said.

She asks landlords to look at the affordability of rents and also consider the safety of domestic violence victims when looking at housing waiting lists.

"Stable housing prevents further violence," Hecker said. "Safe housing can save lives."

She also encouraged other housing assistance agencies to minimize barriers to housing so domestic violence victims can be rehoused quickly.&nbsp;

Hecker said advocacy agencies have changed their philosophy on housing during the last decade to the Housing First Model.

"Ten years ago our philosophy was if get someone into a house and they don't have a job, that's money down the drain," she said. "They're going to come right back. Of course, they're going to come right back because we haven't addressed the issue that brought them to be homeless in the first place.

"I can't imagine dealing with trauma and trying to heal from trauma, and all the while, I'm wondering where am I going to sleep tonight ... where are my children going to sleep tonight," she said. "You can't move forward when that is your biggest need."

Donors can give monetary gifts to Options to support its housing and shelter programs. Options also regularly shares a wish list of items needed for the emergency shelter on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OptionsHays">Facebook page.</a>

Options raises about 30 percent of its funds at this time of year. Cash donations fill gaps that are not supported through grants.

If you are a survivor of domestic or sexual violence, you can receive help in a variety of ways from Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Service. The agency serves 18 counties in northwest Kansas.

 You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby. You can call Options' 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.

The Options website,&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>, offers a live chat option or video conference with an advocate.

The website has a safe escape button that allows you to close out of the website and erase your cookies quickly, so anyone on the computer after you will not be able to see that you have been on the website.

Options also has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734476007256.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
                        <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Options focuses on Housing First Model for domestic violence victims" 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=63uue-177a960-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 CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Providing safe housing is the fundamental first step in helping people develop healthy lives after leaving an abusive relationship, the director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services said.</p><p>Jennifer Hecker spoke on a recent edition of the Morning Blend on the importance of Options' Housing First Model.</p><p>"Housing First is a national model that is based on the idea that once someone is first housed safely, then they're able to address the other issues and problems in their lives," Hecker said.</p><p>"The goal is as quickly as possible to move them into safe, permanent housing."</p><p>Housing someone addresses the immediate need for safety and provides a quiet space in one's home to heal, Hecker said. It also helps victims begin to regain their independence.</p><p>She said domestic violence victims are often forced to leave their abusers and their homes with only the clothes on their backs.</p><p>She said the Housing First Model is low-barrier. Victims don't have to prove sobriety or employment.</p><p>Issues such as substance abuse disorder or unemployment often lead to homelessness. Until that person can secure safe housing, they can't deal with the root causes of their issues, Hecker said.</p><p>People come to the Options Housing First Program in various ways. For example, a person might need emergency shelter and be placed in the Options shelter in Hays.</p><p>Once someone is in the shelter, Options workers begin developing a housing plan with that client, Hecker said.</p><p>"We help them look for housing that is affordable, safe, healthy, that will pass good inspections and that anyone would be proud to live in," Hecker said.&nbsp;</p><p>Finding affordable housing in Hays and other even more rural areas of northwest Kansas can be challenging, Hecker said. The rental market is tight.</p><p>"There is not enough affordable low-income housing for people," Hecker said. "That's something we need to address in our community."</p><p>Lack of transportation is also an issue in small communities where there's no public transportation, she said.</p><p>In addition to transition advocates, Options relies on partnerships with landlords and housing advocacy groups.</p><p>"Sometimes our clients lose housing and are evicted from their apartments or rental properties because domestic violence happened there," Hecker said. "Some of what we do is educate landlords about the laws. It is illegal to evict a domestic violence victim from their house because domestic violence happened."</p><p>Options offer financial assistance for people who need housing. They can pay back payments. Hecker said often, domestic violence victims' credit histories or rental histories are ruined as a byproduct of their abusers' financial abuse.</p><p>Options can pay rent for victims for several months to allow them to get back on their feet. They work with other agencies to assist with security deposits.</p><p>Some of these strategies are meant to help domestic violence victims stay in their homes and create more stability for them and their children,&nbsp; Hecker said.</p><p>"For the first time in a long time, for a lot of people, it's the first time they've been able to turn on the radio, crank it up loud on a Saturday morning," Hecker said, "and dance around the living room with their kids without feeling fear of waking up the beast."</p><p>"You can decide to leave your dishes in the sink overnight and not worry someone is going to drag you by your hair and shove your face in the sink."</p><p>She added, "That resilience, that independence, that ability to live and just breathe is so important and a critical part of healing from trauma."</p><p>Options cover an 18-county area across northwest Kansas. Leaving their homes to come to an emergency shelter in Hays is not always the best option for victims and their families.</p><p>If victims can stay in their homes, kids don't have to change schools, and the victims may be able to keep jobs if they are working. They may also be closer to friends and family who can provide support.</p><p>"It really gives folks an opportunity to rebuild their lives and finally, once and for all, stop that isolation they're experiencing," Hecker said.</p><p>Homelessness leaves domestic violence victims vulnerable, she said. Hecker recalled a woman who lost custody of her children because she was homeless. Seven years later, she still hasn't regained custody of her children.</p><p>Providing safe housing for mothers and children helps break the cycle of abuse, Hecker said.</p><p>Community members can assist Options in their work to provide safe housing to domestic violence victims, Hecker said.</p><p>She asks landlords to look at the affordability of rents and also consider the safety of domestic violence victims when looking at housing waiting lists.</p><p>"Stable housing prevents further violence," Hecker said. "Safe housing can save lives."</p><p>She also encouraged other housing assistance agencies to minimize barriers to housing so domestic violence victims can be rehoused quickly.&nbsp;</p><p>Hecker said advocacy agencies have changed their philosophy on housing during the last decade to the Housing First Model.</p><p>"Ten years ago our philosophy was if get someone into a house and they don't have a job, that's money down the drain," she said. "They're going to come right back. Of course, they're going to come right back because we haven't addressed the issue that brought them to be homeless in the first place.</p><p>"I can't imagine dealing with trauma and trying to heal from trauma, and all the while, I'm wondering where am I going to sleep tonight ... where are my children going to sleep tonight," she said. "You can't move forward when that is your biggest need."</p><p>Donors can give monetary gifts to Options to support its housing and shelter programs. Options also regularly shares a wish list of items needed for the emergency shelter on its <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OptionsHays">Facebook page.</a></p><p>Options raises about 30 percent of its funds at this time of year. Cash donations fill gaps that are not supported through grants.</p><h2>How to get help</h2><p>If you are a survivor of domestic or sexual violence, you can receive help in a variety of ways from Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Service. The agency serves 18 counties in northwest Kansas.</p><p> You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby. You can call Options' 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.</p><p>The Options website,&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>, offers a live chat option or video conference with an advocate.</p><p>The website has a safe escape button that allows you to close out of the website and erase your cookies quickly, so anyone on the computer after you will not be able to see that you have been on the website.</p><p>Options also has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."</p>

🎙Options focuses on Housing First Model for domestic violence victims

<i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a> account executives Brian Weimer and Gene Stramel discuss prescription drug programs with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Insurance Planning shares information about prescription drug programs" 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=k2pwx-177de38-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>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a> account executives Brian Weimer and Gene Stramel discuss prescription drug programs with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Insurance Planning shares information about prescription drug programs

<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650310171036.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="The Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="240" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mfxwd-513918-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&order=episodic&limit=40&filter=tags&tag=all&ss=079545fa78cbd214d90f518dd160ff1e&btn-skin=f6f6f6&size=240" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a></p>