<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser recaps this week's Hays city commission meeting with assistant city manager Collin Bielser and commissioner Shaun Musil.</i>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Improvements planned for Hays airport" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=rkn3j-104cc91-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser recaps this week's Hays city commission meeting with assistant city manager Collin Bielser and commissioner Shaun Musil.</i></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Improvements planned for Hays airport

People may register and watch the presentations, learn new cooking tips, recipes and techniques, or create the meals at home.&nbsp;

Most of the chef's available times are between 2 and 4 p.m. when many people are working. Hays High School media students will film the chefs preparing the meals. Then, First Call for Help will share the link to view it later that day for the people who registered. This will allow them access to watch the presentation or fix the meals when they are ready.

People may register by calling Laura Shoaf at First Call For Help: 785-623-2800 or 785-259-3811.

Payments may also be mailed or brought into First Call For Help, 607 E. 13th St., 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You can also find more information on the <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help wesbsite</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty">Facebook page.</a>

June 30 is the last day First Call for Help can double the dollars from the Schmidt Foundation for First Step Housing.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="First Call for Help offers cooking classes as fundraiser" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=fyund-104ad55-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621624316336.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>People may register and watch the presentations, learn new cooking tips, recipes and techniques, or create the meals at home.&nbsp;</p><p>Most of the chef's available times are between 2 and 4 p.m. when many people are working. Hays High School media students will film the chefs preparing the meals. Then, First Call for Help will share the link to view it later that day for the people who registered. This will allow them access to watch the presentation or fix the meals when they are ready.</p><p>People may register by calling Laura Shoaf at First Call For Help: 785-623-2800 or 785-259-3811.</p><p>Payments may also be mailed or brought into First Call For Help, 607 E. 13th St., 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You can also find more information on the <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help wesbsite</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty">Facebook page.</a></p><p>June 30 is the last day First Call for Help can double the dollars from the Schmidt Foundation for First Step Housing.&nbsp;</p>

🎙Post Podcast: First Call for Help offers cooking classes as fundraiser

The first <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">Downtown Hays Market</a> is set to return Saturday morning, with many regular vendors ready to return and a mix of new vendors.

Beginning this week the market is scheduled from  7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through October 23 at the Downtown Pavilion in Union Pacific Park, 110 E 10th St.

"We are very excited. We have a ton of new vendors that have already signed up," said Downton Hays Development Corporation executive director Sara Bloom.

Those vendors will bring a wide variety of items to the market, from fresh produce, stained glass, custom handmade candles, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh honey and more.

"We have vendors coming from Nebraska. We have vendors coming from Missouri," Bloom said. "Of course, we have the same vendors that you know and love that will be coming back, like&nbsp;Svaty's Produce. Several new produce vendors have signed up. Several new craft vendors have signed up. ... There is going to be so much there this summer."

And while the season is likely to be bigger than ever, Bloom said the first market of the season brings with it a unique energy.

"The first market is one of my favorites. Everyone is just so excited for the season to get started that they come out in hoards," Bloom said.&nbsp;

She also said the end of a year of COVID-19 precautions will likely drive more people to the market as life returns to normal.

Attendees of the market this year will also be able to take advantage of all of the updates to the park and pavilion, including the newest addition a train sculpture from local artist Pete Felten.&nbsp;

"It's crazy. The pavilion has been there for two years now," Bloom said. "We keep improving the space. ... We added the parking lot and the Pete Felten train sculpture and security cameras last year, and we are continuing to look for ways we can build up that area because that really has become the primary gathering place for outdoor events on the Bricks," Bloom said. "It's been absolutely wonderful, and I&nbsp; hope the community is enjoying it."

For more information about the market visit the DHDC website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market">downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">visit their facebook page</a>.

<div><iframe title="Downtown Hays farmers market returns this weekend" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=cn86z-1049b57-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The first <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">Downtown Hays Market</a> is set to return Saturday morning, with many regular vendors ready to return and a mix of new vendors.</p><p>Beginning this week the market is scheduled from  7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through October 23 at the Downtown Pavilion in Union Pacific Park, 110 E 10th St.</p><p>"We are very excited. We have a ton of new vendors that have already signed up," said Downton Hays Development Corporation executive director Sara Bloom.</p><p>Those vendors will bring a wide variety of items to the market, from fresh produce, stained glass, custom handmade candles, clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh honey and more.</p><p>"We have vendors coming from Nebraska. We have vendors coming from Missouri," Bloom said. "Of course, we have the same vendors that you know and love that will be coming back, like&nbsp;Svaty's Produce. Several new produce vendors have signed up. Several new craft vendors have signed up. ... There is going to be so much there this summer."</p><p>And while the season is likely to be bigger than ever, Bloom said the first market of the season brings with it a unique energy.</p><p>"The first market is one of my favorites. Everyone is just so excited for the season to get started that they come out in hoards," Bloom said.&nbsp;</p><p>She also said the end of a year of COVID-19 precautions will likely drive more people to the market as life returns to normal.</p><p>Attendees of the market this year will also be able to take advantage of all of the updates to the park and pavilion, including the newest addition a train sculpture from local artist Pete Felten.&nbsp;</p><p>"It's crazy. The pavilion has been there for two years now," Bloom said. "We keep improving the space. ... We added the parking lot and the Pete Felten train sculpture and security cameras last year, and we are continuing to look for ways we can build up that area because that really has become the primary gathering place for outdoor events on the Bricks," Bloom said. "It's been absolutely wonderful, and I&nbsp; hope the community is enjoying it."</p><p>For more information about the market visit the DHDC website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market">downtownhays.com/downtown-hays-market</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DowntownHaysMarket">visit their facebook page</a>.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FDowntownHaysMarket%2Fvideos%2F485632369434982%2F&show_text=false&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Downtown Hays Market returns this weekend

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Cottonwood Extension District Agent Lauren Fick shares tick and mosquito bite prevention tips.

<div><iframe title="Stay safe this summer with these mosquito and tick prevention tips" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=7tce5-10496bf-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Cottonwood Extension District Agent Lauren Fick shares tick and mosquito bite prevention tips.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Stay safe this summer with these mosquito and tick prevention tips

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with Jamie Kuehl area McDonald's owner, marketing director Deana Rupp and Nigel Soria, senior research economist from the Kansas Department of Commerce discuss area unemployment.

<div><iframe title="Labor concerns continue to plague Kansas businesses" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=u7ayq-1047f60-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays Chamber president and CEO Sarah Wasinger along with Jamie Kuehl area McDonald's owner, marketing director Deana Rupp and Nigel Soria, senior research economist from the Kansas Department of Commerce discuss area unemployment.</p>

🎙Post Podcast: Labor concerns continue to plague Kansas businesses

In an effort to bring project-based activities to area youth, K-State Research and Extension has launched the Kansas Clover Classroom, providing a resource for parents and youth leaders to present fun science lessons to area children.

“It’s something we’re really excited about,” said Susan
Schlichting, 4-H Youth Development agent with the Cottonwood Extension
District. “We have been locked down for the last year of life and we put our
energies toward creating some new resources that kids and families can download
for free from the Kansas 4-H website to help them learn some new things in our
4-H traditional way of hands of learning.”

<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/resources/cloverclassroom.html">The first set of eight project challenges is currently
available now</a>&nbsp;on the Kansas 4-H website.

The challenges are laid out on 8-by-11 pages that outline the hands-on activities including resources and hints about the individual projects.

“Things like geology, photography, bread baking, gardening,
building a pollinator garden are some of the things already in the classroom,” Schlichting said.

Ultimately, they hope to have 30 projects available,
reflecting 4-H project areas.

“It’s a great tool that you can have access to anytime day or night and explore those project areas,” Schlichting said.

Each project contains everything needed for the individual
challenges, including links to further information.

And the challenges are also designed to use materials commonly
found in the home.

“The online resources and virtual 4-H meeting zooms have enhanced my ability to provide them with bigger city options and help me with resources on things I am not an expert in," said Christina Frick, who has three children involved with the Pawnee County 4-H.

"I think all these resources are great," she said. (It lets children) "use their imagination and creativity to explore.”&nbsp;

Frick also said the program has encouraged her children to be active while learning.

"The kids love to go explore the pastures," she said. "We have done metal detecting in our pastures and they always are on the lookout for drop antlers in the pasture and trees.  The day that photo (above) was taken they went exploring and brought back many treasures. ... Many 4-H projects relate to each other so when we do a project it applies to many other projects."&nbsp;

While the classroom is online and can be completed with parents in the home, Schlichting said there are also opportunities
to use the challenges in a group setting or for others that want to have an engaging experience with a child.

“Maybe grandma wants to teach their grandchild how to bake
bread,” Schlichting said. “Here is a great little tool to help them get started
and some hints on how to approach that with their grandchild.”

She said the projects could also be used in a school
setting, or among 4-H clubs.

“It could be done as a group effort,” Schlichting said. “But
it could also be an individual child.”

The programs are designed to work for students at a variety of ages and educational levels.

“Some of them are set up differently; some of them are very
focused on beginner level,” Schlichting said. 

Others she said include more advanced concepts.

“There are things like the bread-making challenge actually
has three different levels of challenge within one project challenge sheet,”
Schlichting said.

“Each one of them has a little bit different twist,” she
said. “You will want to explore them and see what fits well for you.”

The Clover Classroom was developed as a collaborative effort with extension agents across the state.

With the Extension being a part of
Kansas State University, Schlichting said everything is based on research and relays science-based activities in a fun and engaging way.

“It may not seem like science, but there is science behind
everything we are doing,” Schlichting said. 

“There are a lot of different avenues you can pursue with
this, and we think it is a really fun resource and hope that families will take
advantage of it this summer,” she said.

The projects can be downloaded for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/resources/cloverclassroom.html">kansas4-h.org/resources/cloverclassroom.html</a>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621540240598.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Christina Frick, Pawnee County 4-H." />
                        <figcaption>Photo courtesy Christina Frick, Pawnee County 4-H.</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Kansas Clover Classroom provides free educational opportunities" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=9zk7b-104242c-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>In an effort to bring project-based activities to area youth, K-State Research and Extension has launched the Kansas Clover Classroom, providing a resource for parents and youth leaders to present fun science lessons to area children.</p><p>“It’s something we’re really excited about,” said Susan
Schlichting, 4-H Youth Development agent with the Cottonwood Extension
District. “We have been locked down for the last year of life and we put our
energies toward creating some new resources that kids and families can download
for free from the Kansas 4-H website to help them learn some new things in our
4-H traditional way of hands of learning.”</p><p><a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/resources/cloverclassroom.html">The first set of eight project challenges is currently
available now</a>&nbsp;on the Kansas 4-H website.</p><p>The challenges are laid out on 8-by-11 pages that outline the hands-on activities including resources and hints about the individual projects.</p><p>“Things like geology, photography, bread baking, gardening,
building a pollinator garden are some of the things already in the classroom,” Schlichting said.</p><p>Ultimately, they hope to have 30 projects available,
reflecting 4-H project areas.</p><p>“It’s a great tool that you can have access to anytime day or night and explore those project areas,” Schlichting said.</p><p>Each project contains everything needed for the individual
challenges, including links to further information.</p><p>And the challenges are also designed to use materials commonly
found in the home.</p><p>“The online resources and virtual 4-H meeting zooms have enhanced my ability to provide them with bigger city options and help me with resources on things I am not an expert in," said Christina Frick, who has three children involved with the Pawnee County 4-H.</p><p>"I think all these resources are great," she said. (It lets children) "use their imagination and creativity to explore.”&nbsp;</p><p>Frick also said the program has encouraged her children to be active while learning.</p><p>"The kids love to go explore the pastures," she said. "We have done metal detecting in our pastures and they always are on the lookout for drop antlers in the pasture and trees.  The day that photo (above) was taken they went exploring and brought back many treasures. ... Many 4-H projects relate to each other so when we do a project it applies to many other projects."&nbsp;</p><p>While the classroom is online and can be completed with parents in the home, Schlichting said there are also opportunities
to use the challenges in a group setting or for others that want to have an engaging experience with a child.</p><p>“Maybe grandma wants to teach their grandchild how to bake
bread,” Schlichting said. “Here is a great little tool to help them get started
and some hints on how to approach that with their grandchild.”</p><p>She said the projects could also be used in a school
setting, or among 4-H clubs.</p><p>“It could be done as a group effort,” Schlichting said. “But
it could also be an individual child.”</p><p>The programs are designed to work for students at a variety of ages and educational levels.</p><p>“Some of them are set up differently; some of them are very
focused on beginner level,” Schlichting said. </p><p>Others she said include more advanced concepts.</p><p>“There are things like the bread-making challenge actually
has three different levels of challenge within one project challenge sheet,”
Schlichting said.</p><p>“Each one of them has a little bit different twist,” she
said. “You will want to explore them and see what fits well for you.”</p><p>The Clover Classroom was developed as a collaborative effort with extension agents across the state.</p><p>With the Extension being a part of
Kansas State University, Schlichting said everything is based on research and relays science-based activities in a fun and engaging way.</p><p>“It may not seem like science, but there is science behind
everything we are doing,” Schlichting said. </p><p>“There are a lot of different avenues you can pursue with
this, and we think it is a really fun resource and hope that families will take
advantage of it this summer,” she said.</p><p>The projects can be downloaded for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/resources/cloverclassroom.html">kansas4-h.org/resources/cloverclassroom.html</a></p>

Kansas Clover Classroom provides hands-on learning opportunities

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about summer events.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays preparing for summer events" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=4vgr3-1042548-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about summer events.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Grow Hays preparing for summer events

The Hays Arts Council Summer Art Classes will return soon,
offering area youth various options to explore visual and performance
arts.

“We have a wonderful, rich schedule this summer,” said Hays
Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder.

The classes are scheduled throughout June and July, for a
variety of ages.

&nbsp;“We have a couple of
things that go down as low as 5,” Meder said. 

This year, various visual arts classes will be available
including, sculpture, drawing, painting, fashion and printmaking.

“We tried to find a way to make something fit for everyone,”
Meder said.

Many of the classes run for multiple days. Still, for those
parents who may not have the ability to drop and pick up students for an entire week of classes, Meder said a course emerges students in various art-related activities in one four-hour-long session. 

“We knew that there are parents who work outside the home,
for whom it can be really difficult to run their kids back and forth,” Meder
said. “It’s basically from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., so it’s a four-hour period where
you drop your kid off at 1 p.m., you don’t have to pick them up till 5 p.m. We
even provide a little small afternoon snack, and they will get a variety of art
and art experiences with two different teachers.”

Several of the courses will again be taught by Crystal
Hammerschmidt, including the printmaking course.

“Crystal just does the most wonderful creative things,”
Meder said. “You are working with shaving cream and gelatin prints and Styrofoam.
It’s just delightful.”

An annual favorite, the Call of the Wild session, will again
return, where students will have the opportunity to examine animals from the
Sternberg Museum, then work on art projects inspired by the animals.

“It’s great fun,” Meder said. “We have been doing that one
for years. Mitch Sommers is a former art teacher that taught in Liberal for
many years but continues as a volunteer at Sternberg Museum, so he has access
to some critters. Snakes and turtles have always gone over very well. And this
year, we are adding rats and mice and frog and fish.”

This year, acting classes will also be offered for students
ages 8 to 15.

"Acting and the theater continue to be popular for the
young people in our community. They really, really love it,” Meder said.

“We really try to mix it up and make sure that we have got
things that appeal on a broad variety of interests and tastes in what they are
doing,” she said.

<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">For more information,
including the registration form, visit the Hays Arts Council website,
haysartscouncil.org.</a>

<div><iframe title="Hays Arts Council summer classes return" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=bfxna-10425e7-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The Hays Arts Council Summer Art Classes will return soon,
offering area youth various options to explore visual and performance
arts.</p><p>“We have a wonderful, rich schedule this summer,” said Hays
Arts Council Executive Director Brenda Meder.</p><p>The classes are scheduled throughout June and July, for a
variety of ages.</p><p>&nbsp;“We have a couple of
things that go down as low as 5,” Meder said. </p><p>This year, various visual arts classes will be available
including, sculpture, drawing, painting, fashion and printmaking.</p><p>“We tried to find a way to make something fit for everyone,”
Meder said.</p><p>Many of the classes run for multiple days. Still, for those
parents who may not have the ability to drop and pick up students for an entire week of classes, Meder said a course emerges students in various art-related activities in one four-hour-long session. </p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621625981132.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>“We knew that there are parents who work outside the home,
for whom it can be really difficult to run their kids back and forth,” Meder
said. “It’s basically from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., so it’s a four-hour period where
you drop your kid off at 1 p.m., you don’t have to pick them up till 5 p.m. We
even provide a little small afternoon snack, and they will get a variety of art
and art experiences with two different teachers.”</p><p>Several of the courses will again be taught by Crystal
Hammerschmidt, including the printmaking course.</p><p>“Crystal just does the most wonderful creative things,”
Meder said. “You are working with shaving cream and gelatin prints and Styrofoam.
It’s just delightful.”</p><p>An annual favorite, the Call of the Wild session, will again
return, where students will have the opportunity to examine animals from the
Sternberg Museum, then work on art projects inspired by the animals.</p><p>“It’s great fun,” Meder said. “We have been doing that one
for years. Mitch Sommers is a former art teacher that taught in Liberal for
many years but continues as a volunteer at Sternberg Museum, so he has access
to some critters. Snakes and turtles have always gone over very well. And this
year, we are adding rats and mice and frog and fish.”</p><p>This year, acting classes will also be offered for students
ages 8 to 15.</p><p>"Acting and the theater continue to be popular for the
young people in our community. They really, really love it,” Meder said.</p><p>“We really try to mix it up and make sure that we have got
things that appeal on a broad variety of interests and tastes in what they are
doing,” she said.</p><p><a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/">For more information,
including the registration form, visit the Hays Arts Council website,
haysartscouncil.org.</a></p>

Hays Arts Council summer art classes return

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Fort Hays State University's Glen McNeil shares information about vitamins and aging.

<div><iframe title="Vitamins can play an important part in health" allowtransparency="true" height="150" 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=6f4qp-1042527-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=1"></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Fort Hays State University's Glen McNeil shares information about vitamins and aging.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Vitamins can play an important part in health

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share the latest from the Hays Chamber.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber looking to fill remaining business showcase spots" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=qkp9f-103d3fa-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of membership Rhonda Meyerhoff and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share the latest from the Hays Chamber.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber looking to fill remaining business showcase spots

On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about NetWork Kansas.

<div><iframe title="NetWork Kansas works to strengthen area economy" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=2y6d2-1038426-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast Grow Hays executive director Doug Williams shares information about NetWork Kansas.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: NetWork Kansas works to strengthen area economy

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser recaps this week's Hays City Commission meeting with city manager Toby Dougherty and commissioner Ron Mellick.

<div><iframe title="City of Hays approves right-of-way abatement" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=sm2bw-103841b-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post reporter Becky Kiser recaps this week's Hays City Commission meeting with city manager Toby Dougherty and commissioner Ron Mellick.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: City of Hays approves right of way abatement

On this episode of the Post Podcast Fort Hays State University Alumni Association interim director Tammy Wellbrock and communications coordinator, Noelle Husmann discuss the services available at the Forsyth Library.

<div><iframe title="FHSU's Forsyth Library a resource for alumni" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=v9naa-1036643-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast Fort Hays State University Alumni Association interim director Tammy Wellbrock and communications coordinator, Noelle Husmann discuss the services available at the Forsyth Library.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: FHSU's Forsyth Library a resource for alumni

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications, Scott Gross and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share details about the upcoming Business Showcase and recap their annual Golf Tournament.

<div><iframe title="Hays Chamber preparing for next Business Showcase" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=x6mce-103370b-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Chamber vice president of marketing and communications, Scott Gross and administrative assistant Marlis Fletcher share details about the upcoming Business Showcase and recap their annual Golf Tournament.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Chamber preparing for next Business Showcase

<div><iframe title="Hays Public Library remodel complete; summer programming planned" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=kz3ae-103154b-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: Hays Public Library remodel complete; summer programming planned

<div><iframe title="FHSU Foundation celebrates successful Giving Day" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=bxbir-102e0e8-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: FHSU Foundation celebrates successful Giving Day

<div><iframe title="ECHS COVID-19 Weekly Update: April 30, 2021" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=qi8ec-1023675-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙Post Podcast: J&J COVID vaccine again available in Ellis County

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays prepares to release annual report" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=bki6c-10236fd-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays prepares to release annual report

<div><iframe title="Extension Districts offer area programing for ag producers" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=68t6j-101fa9b-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Extension Districts offer area programing for ag producers

<a href="https://hayschamber.com/events/dale-carnegie-complimentary-workshop">More about the Dale Carnegie series can be found here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Dale Carnegie training returns to Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=2y9uw-101e732-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p><a href="https://hayschamber.com/events/dale-carnegie-complimentary-workshop">More about the Dale Carnegie series can be found here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Dale Carnegie training returns to Hays

During a four-day trip across western Kansas, primarily in the northwest corner of the state, Lt. Gov. David Toland made a stop in Hays.

During the trip, he visited with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams while touring housing developments in the city along with Grow Hays' downtown co-working space, Briefspace.

“We’re really trying to take the temperature in this part of
the state,” Toland said. “(To) see how things are going, see where there are more opportunities
for growth and also where there are some pain points that are restricting
growth.”

Housing, he said, is one of the main areas of concern he noted
during the trip, along with workforce needs.

“I have asked in every town I have been in, ‘How many houses
do you have on the market?’ And the answers have ranged from zero to 12,” he said. “And
so there is a real scarcity of housing products in rural communities in
particular.”

He heard this message repeated during the tour but also sought input into how to best address the issue.

“What I try to do is ask a lot of questions and listen,”
Toland said. “These folks know best what their needs are and what it is going
to take to address that.”

“There is simply not enough units that are available right
now,” he said. “That creates pressure points for businesses, that creates
pressure points for families that are growing and so on down the line.”

To fully identify housing concerns, he said, Gov. Laura Kelly has launched the first statewide housing assessment in 27 years.

“That housing assessment is being conducted so that (we can)
understand how many units are needed, what types of units are needed …And then, where geographically do these units need to go in order to be able to support business
growth?” he said.

Locally, Toland visited the site of a rural housing incentive district at 22nd and Wheatland, a project designed to help create more workforce housing in Ellis County.

“He said it was great to see a project that was underway,” Williams said. “He signed off on a lot of these projects, but he has never been to one that is in progress.”

But along with the housing concerns, Toland said a shortage of labor is also harming area economies.

“There are longstanding issues with the availability of
labor,” he said. “Not just in northwest Kansas, but across the state.”

He noted 41,000 jobs in Kansas are currently unfilled and paired with
a 3.7 percent unemployment statewide, finding people to fill those jobs is a challenge.

“We need more bodies in the workforce and we need them now,” Toland said. “That’s the message we heard loud and clear from businesses.”

Among housing and workforce concerns, he said ancillary
factors must also be considered.

&nbsp;“We have really tried
to take an expansive view of what it means to do economic development and
consider all of the factors that make economic development efforts successful,” Toland said.

While Toland is currently serving as the lieutenant governor of Kansas, he has also retained his position as the state secretary of commerce but said the issues noted during the tour are a concern in both roles.

“The lieutenant governor role has melded nicely with what I was already
doing at commerce and continue to,” he said.

He also heads the governor's efforts in the Office of Rural Prosperity, a focus of the Kelly administration.

But the effect of the housing and labor shortages, Toland said, has negatively impacted the Kansas economy.

Overall, he said it has been growing over the
last decade, but that growth lags behind other states because of those concerns.

“So that’s what we are trying to change,” Toland said. “We
are trying to accelerate the growth and make sure we have growth, not just in
the metro areas, but throughout all parts of the state, ultimately that is why
I am here.”

Meanwhile, Williams said he was generally impressed with development in Hays.

“The lieutenant governor was impressed with what we have going on in Hays, and he had a lot of positive things to say about Hays, which is great," he said. "It’s always good to hear that from somebody outside the area."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619208356288.jpeg" alt="Lt. Gov. David Toland speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams at the site of a new housing development at 22nd and Wheatland in Hays." />
                        <figcaption>Lt. Gov. David Toland speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams at the site of a new housing development at 22nd and Wheatland in Hays.</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Lt. Gov David Toland visits Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=583xe-1018c9c-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>During a four-day trip across western Kansas, primarily in the northwest corner of the state, Lt. Gov. David Toland made a stop in Hays.</p><p>During the trip, he visited with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams while touring housing developments in the city along with Grow Hays' downtown co-working space, Briefspace.</p><p>“We’re really trying to take the temperature in this part of
the state,” Toland said. “(To) see how things are going, see where there are more opportunities
for growth and also where there are some pain points that are restricting
growth.”</p><p>Housing, he said, is one of the main areas of concern he noted
during the trip, along with workforce needs.</p><p>“I have asked in every town I have been in, ‘How many houses
do you have on the market?’ And the answers have ranged from zero to 12,” he said. “And
so there is a real scarcity of housing products in rural communities in
particular.”</p><p>He heard this message repeated during the tour but also sought input into how to best address the issue.</p><p>“What I try to do is ask a lot of questions and listen,”
Toland said. “These folks know best what their needs are and what it is going
to take to address that.”</p><p>He said it comes down to a supply issue.</p><p>“There is simply not enough units that are available right
now,” he said. “That creates pressure points for businesses, that creates
pressure points for families that are growing and so on down the line.”</p><p>To fully identify housing concerns, he said, Gov. Laura Kelly has launched the first statewide housing assessment in 27 years.</p><p>“That housing assessment is being conducted so that (we can)
understand how many units are needed, what types of units are needed …And then, where geographically do these units need to go in order to be able to support business
growth?” he said.</p><p>Locally, Toland visited the site of a rural housing incentive district at 22nd and Wheatland, a project designed to help create more workforce housing in Ellis County.</p><p>“He said it was great to see a project that was underway,” Williams said. “He signed off on a lot of these projects, but he has never been to one that is in progress.”</p><p>But along with the housing concerns, Toland said a shortage of labor is also harming area economies.</p><p>“There are longstanding issues with the availability of
labor,” he said. “Not just in northwest Kansas, but across the state.”</p><p>He noted 41,000 jobs in Kansas are currently unfilled and paired with
a 3.7 percent unemployment statewide, finding people to fill those jobs is a challenge.</p><p>“We need more bodies in the workforce and we need them now,” Toland said. “That’s the message we heard loud and clear from businesses.”</p><p>Among housing and workforce concerns, he said ancillary
factors must also be considered.</p><p>&nbsp;“We have really tried
to take an expansive view of what it means to do economic development and
consider all of the factors that make economic development efforts successful,” Toland said.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619208405695.jpeg" alt="Lt. Gov. Toland speaks with reporters during a stop at BriefSpace in downtown Hays." />
                        <figcaption>Lt. Gov. Toland speaks with reporters during a stop at BriefSpace in downtown Hays.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>While Toland is currently serving as the lieutenant governor of Kansas, he has also retained his position as the state secretary of commerce but said the issues noted during the tour are a concern in both roles.</p><p>“The lieutenant governor role has melded nicely with what I was already
doing at commerce and continue to,” he said.</p><p>He also heads the governor's efforts in the Office of Rural Prosperity, a focus of the Kelly administration.</p><p>But the effect of the housing and labor shortages, Toland said, has negatively impacted the Kansas economy.</p><p>Overall, he said it has been growing over the
last decade, but that growth lags behind other states because of those concerns.</p><p>“So that’s what we are trying to change,” Toland said. “We
are trying to accelerate the growth and make sure we have growth, not just in
the metro areas, but throughout all parts of the state, ultimately that is why
I am here.”</p><p>Meanwhile, Williams said he was generally impressed with development in Hays.</p><p>“The lieutenant governor was impressed with what we have going on in Hays, and he had a lot of positive things to say about Hays, which is great," he said. "It’s always good to hear that from somebody outside the area."</p>

Kan. lieutenant governor recognizes need for housing during Hays visit

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8da5d13d-9536-498a-a07c-c6902a0843ba">To read more about the meeting click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="City officials discuss infrastructure during weekly meeting" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=ud3ag-1018cb3-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8da5d13d-9536-498a-a07c-c6902a0843ba">To read more about the meeting click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: City officials discuss infrastructure during weekly meeting

<div><iframe title="Grilling safely starts with good equipment" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=dy4bm-1018c87-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Grilling safely starts with good equipment

In conjunction with the National Drug Take-Back Day, the Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit, including members of the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and the Hays Police Department, will be collecting unused and unwanted drugs Saturday in Hays.

The free event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the north side of the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center, 105 W. 12th.

During the event, deputies will meet participants at their car window as they pull up and will be conscious of COVID-19 concerns.

"We will be wearing masks to make sure you are safe and comfortable," Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said. "We'll take your bags or you can throw them personally into those containers, but one way or another we will get those off your hands."

Drugs that can be dropped off include tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs.

By removing the drugs, the department hopes to lower the risk of someone using the drugs in ways that can be harmful.

"The Drug Enforcement Unit has seen a need for this and so has the DEA that started this program because people were using drugs that were left in the counter and the medicine cabinet," Braun said.

And during the COVID-19 pandemic, use has increased significantly.

"According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. has seen an increase in overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 83,544 Americans overdosing during the 12-month period ending July 1, 2020, the most ever recorded in a 12-month period," according to the department. "The increase in drug overdose deaths appeared to begin prior to the COVID-19 health emergency but accelerated significantly during the first months of the pandemic."

Even more so, the amount of drugs collected nationally over the 10-year life of the programs shows the everyday need to remove unwanted drugs from homes.

"Since the time that it has started (nationally) 10 years ago, there have been over 6,800 tons of prescription drugs taken off the streets that don't end up in our kids' hands," Braun said.

While the effort helps keep people safe, it is also a good environmental effort, he said.

"Back in the day, we used to dump them down the toilet and then they would destroy and hit our water system," Braun said. "We found that is not the best practice."

He said the collection is kept anonymous to alleviate and privacy concerns.

Further Bruan said participants can blackout names on prescription bottles, or remove labels prior to drop off if they have concerns.

"I can assure you, your identity is kept safe and we will make sure that it makes it to the appropriate locations," he said.

While the effort brings attention to the issue, residents can also drop off unwanted drugs in a permanent drop box maintained by the department.

"We have a bin in the sheriff's office lobby, and we take them all year long," Braun said. "We will make sure they are secure and will make it to St. Louis to be destroyed."

<div><iframe title="Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit set to collect unwanted prescription drugs Saturday" allowtransparency="true" height="150" 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=t4hcj-101796d-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=1"></iframe></div><p><b>By JAMES BELL</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>In conjunction with the National Drug Take-Back Day, the Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit, including members of the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office and the Hays Police Department, will be collecting unused and unwanted drugs Saturday in Hays.</p><p>The free event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the north side of the Ellis County Law Enforcement Center, 105 W. 12th.</p><p>During the event, deputies will meet participants at their car window as they pull up and will be conscious of COVID-19 concerns.</p><p>"We will be wearing masks to make sure you are safe and comfortable," Ellis County Sheriff Scott Braun said. "We'll take your bags or you can throw them personally into those containers, but one way or another we will get those off your hands."</p><p>Drugs that can be dropped off include tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs.</p><p>By removing the drugs, the department hopes to lower the risk of someone using the drugs in ways that can be harmful.</p><p>"The Drug Enforcement Unit has seen a need for this and so has the DEA that started this program because people were using drugs that were left in the counter and the medicine cabinet," Braun said.</p><p>And during the COVID-19 pandemic, use has increased significantly.</p><p>"According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. has seen an increase in overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 83,544 Americans overdosing during the 12-month period ending July 1, 2020, the most ever recorded in a 12-month period," according to the department. "The increase in drug overdose deaths appeared to begin prior to the COVID-19 health emergency but accelerated significantly during the first months of the pandemic."</p><p>Even more so, the amount of drugs collected nationally over the 10-year life of the programs shows the everyday need to remove unwanted drugs from homes.</p><p>"Since the time that it has started (nationally) 10 years ago, there have been over 6,800 tons of prescription drugs taken off the streets that don't end up in our kids' hands," Braun said.</p><p>While the effort helps keep people safe, it is also a good environmental effort, he said.</p><p>"Back in the day, we used to dump them down the toilet and then they would destroy and hit our water system," Braun said. "We found that is not the best practice."</p><p>He said the collection is kept anonymous to alleviate and privacy concerns.</p><p>Further Bruan said participants can blackout names on prescription bottles, or remove labels prior to drop off if they have concerns.</p><p>"I can assure you, your identity is kept safe and we will make sure that it makes it to the appropriate locations," he said.</p><p>While the effort brings attention to the issue, residents can also drop off unwanted drugs in a permanent drop box maintained by the department.</p><p>"We have a bin in the sheriff's office lobby, and we take them all year long," Braun said. "We will make sure they are secure and will make it to St. Louis to be destroyed."</p>

🎙 Drug Take-Back Day seeks to help keep area residents safe

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/976d0cae-b1a5-4325-a82c-04949f9e2d08">To read more click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="FHSU Foundation's inaugural Giving Day set for Thursday" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=spgdq-1016f77-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">notifications click here.</a></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/976d0cae-b1a5-4325-a82c-04949f9e2d08">To read more click here.</a></p>