King in the Community

All Episodes (55)

From new to old

From new to old From old to new

1. 

   1. Jane Anderson, Update on Smoky Hill River Renewal Project

   On this episode on King in the Community, we hear an update on the Smoky Hill River renewal project from Jane Anderson, executive director at the Friends of the River Foundation.The river renewal project dates back to the 1970s. Listen in as Anderson explains how the Smoky Hill River became a damaged ecosystem, how potential Corps of Engineer dollars will restore the river to its original flow allowing wildlife back to the area, and the ways the river will provide a recreational and relaxing are

   Sep 22,2023 33:18
2. 

   2. Central Kansas Mental Health Center, Suicide Prevention Month

   In this episode of King in the Community, I spoke with Esther Kency, Director of Crisis Services at Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC), and Megan Willis, mental health first aid youth coordinator for CKMHC.Our discussion centered around the vital importance of being aware of mental health issues and ways the Salina community can raise awareness about suicide prevention. Kency and Willis provided valuable insights into upcoming Mental Health First Aid trainings that empower individuals t

   Sep 13,2023 40:27
3. 

   3. Abilene Oktoberfest, Jamie Greening

   By SALINA POSTAbilene event organizers are finishing the last-minute preparations for the 6th Annual Oktoberfest. The family-friendly event is free to enter and will take place from Sept. 15-16 in downtown Abilene. Jamie Greening, Abilene Oktoberfest organizer, said Friday night will have more activities than in previous years. The festival kicks off at 6 p.m. Friday with activities, vendors, and performances by the Lazy Wayne Band. The Large Festival will kick off Saturday at 1:00 p.m. with liv

   Sep 12,2023 12:47
4. 

   4. LaNay Meier, Author of ”The Feelings Umbrella”

   On this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with LaNay Meier about her newly published book titled "The Feelings Umbrella." Meier is holding a book-read event at Ad Astra Coffee House on September 16 at 2:00 p.m.  Meier told Salina Post that she invites both children and grown-ups alike to attend because in her words-"adults, especially need to talk about their feelings." During our conversation, Meier shared insights into the inspiration behind her book and the importance of teaching childr

   Sep 11,2023 10:46
5. 

   5. Katie Zey, Salina Public Library

   On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down with Katie Zey, head of marketing at The Salina Public Library to talk about September adult and youth programs offered at the library and the upcoming TEEN-TOBER campaign.  Since she started working for the Salina Libary last year, Zey said she has been blown away by how much the library does for the local community. "There is always something to do at the Library," Zey said. Zey will be a regular guest on the podcast to give us udpates on ev

   Sep 06,2023 15:23
6. 

   6. Theatre Salina presents, Matilda, Weekends Sept. 1-24

   Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is taking the page to the stage starting this weekend at Theatre Salina. Experience this captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life.On this episode of "King in the Community" I talk with the director of the musical and executive director of Theatre Sali

   Aug 29,2023 15:25
7. 

   7. Shannon’s Stars Twirling Club, World Champions

   By NATE KINGSalina PostEarlier this month, Shannon's Stars Twirling Club won the gold medal in the Show Twirl Accessory Corp team competition at the 2023 World Baton Twirling Championships and Nations Cup held in Liverpool, England.  Shannon Meis, head coach at Shannon's Stars, said the audience's reaction following the team's "no drop" routine will be something she will always remember."It's like the Olympics for baton twirling you train for one event, one discipline, and that is your job to go

   Aug 26,2023 25:48
8. 

   8. Jason Graves, Horticulture Agent, K-State Research Extension

   Have you ever wondered why your garden isn't producing the way you thought it would? How about questions about landscaping or yard maintenance? Have pests you don't know how to get rid of? K-State Research and Extension has the answers. On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down for a conversation with Jason Graves, Horticulture Agent for K-State Research and Extension- Central District.  Graves shares tips on how to build a compost pile, K-State Research and Extension resources for pe

   Aug 23,2023 16:38
9. 

   9. Jamie Doss, Saline County Clerk

   In this episode, I chat with the Saline County Clerk, Jamie Doss about the revenue-neutral rate and upcoming elections. Doss walks me through the letters that have been sent out regarding taxing entities in their community. We discuss the impact of this rate on property taxes and how it affects county homeowners. We also discuss the importance of participating in local elections and how the Clerk's office is gearing up for the upcoming election season.Saline County Elections Office: (785) 309-58

   Aug 19,2023 17:43
10. 

    10. Dancing with the Salina Stars, Megan Robl and Maggie Spicer Brown

    It's that time of year again, your favorite Salina Stars are strapping up their dancing shoes to raise funds for Theatre Salina on Friday, Aug. 18 at the Kephart Stage, 303 E. Iron Ave.This year instead of dancing in pairs, contestants are in groups corresponding to major Kansas Universities.Kansas State UniversityChoreographer:Maggie Spicer BrownDancers:Megan RoblMatt DillMaggie GillamRenee DuxlerMary KingUniversity of KansasChoreographer:Cathie NorrisDancers:Dr. Bob KraftLaurel DriskellMeredit

    Aug 15,2023 20:48
11. 

    11. Angie Lassley, Salina YMCA President/CEO

    On Saturday, Aug. 5 the Salina YMCA celebrated Healthy Kids Day by unveiling its new childcare space, "Kids Gym." "The kid's gym is an opportunity for us to serve kids in the Salina community from six weeks to 10 years old," Lassley said. "We refreshed all the equipment that's inside that way the kids have something fun and exciting and new." Lassley said the Kid Gym features different activity stations that engage a child's creative, physical, and emotional sides.Angie Lassley, who serves as th

    Aug 09,2023 15:35
12. 

    12. Anabel Feauto, Saline County Health Department Educator

    On this episode, I sit down with Anabel Feauto, the new health educator at Saline County Health Department to talk about back-to-school vaccinations, COVID-19 boosters, the opioid crisis, and what lead her back to Salina.  

    Aug 08,2023 07:12
13. 

    13. Alice Robson, Robson’s Card and Gift celebrates 40 years

    August 1, 1983 marked an important milestone for Ken and Alice Robson, as they began their new adventure as owners of the former Callie's Card Corner in downtown Ellsworth. Together with the former owners Loren and Callie Reber and other previous owners, the store has been an anchor and a cornerstone of excellent customer service for 90 years. On this episode, I sit down with Ellsworth Hallmark Gold-Crowne Store Co-Owner, Alice Robson to hear how she and her husband made the decision to purchase

    Aug 01,2023 21:35
14. 

    14. Kori Powell, Breastfeeding Awareness Week, Saline County Health Department

    On this episode, I sit down with Kori Powell, Breastfeeding Peer Consultant for the Saline County Health Department to talk about the Breastfeeding Bash taking place Aug. 4, breaking down the stigmas associated with breastfeeding, and generational differences when it comes to using formula. 

    Aug 01,2023 06:49
15. 

    15. Harley Hamilton, Red Fern Booksellers

    Back in June, after months of construction and restoration, Red Fern Booksellers held a well-attended ceremonial ribbon cutting at the brick-and-mortar storefront, 106 S. Santa Fe Ave.On this episode of King in the Community, Red Fern Bookseller's owner, Harley Hamilton stops by our studio to talk about why he chose to open a bookstore, his past profession, his thoughts on the Salina Public Library, and his take on the "A-word," Amazon. CLICK HERE to download the Salina Post mobile app.CLICK HER

    Jul 28,2023 12:43
16. 

    16. Center for Theatre Arts, (R)evolve

    On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down again with Maggie Spicer Brown, director of CTA Education Director Maggie Spicer Brown to hear the latest on this year's contemporary dance show, Revolve.This year we are focusing on natural occurrences within the year, seasons and how it affects humans. Spicer Brown said choreographic themes will include the exploration of summer rain, falling leaves, snow, and monsoon season.  Fourteen choreographers have come together in order to create a d

    Jul 28,2023 08:19
17. 

    17. Claire Ludes, Salina Area United Way Executive Director

    On this episode, I sit down with Salina Area United Way (SAUW) Executive Director Claire Ludes to talk about how the national childcare crisis is impacting folks here in Saline County.Recently SAUW received $400,000 in ARPA funds to help combat childcare issues. Claire also talks about SAUW being awarded funds to open additional childcare slots and SAUW surpassing their annual fundraising goal for the first time in a decade. 

    Jul 27,2023 21:25
18. 

    18. Jerry Titus, 43rd Annual Leadsled KKOA Spectacular Car Show

    On this episode, I sit down with KKOA legend, Jerry Titus to hear about this year's schedule of events for the 43rd annual KKOA Leadsled Spectacular, which opens on Thursday with the Sundown Cruise through downtown Salina.The parade will start at 7:30 p.m. at Oakdale Park and will end at Santa Fe Avenue and Elm Street. 

    Jul 25,2023 20:54
19. 

    19. Head Over Heels the Musical, Maggie Spicer Brown, Center For Theatre Arts

    Conceived by the original book by Jeff Whitty, based on the "Arcadia" by Sir Philip Sidney, this laugh-out-loud love story is set to the music of the iconic 1980’s all-female rock band The Go-Go’s, including the hit songs, “We Got the Beat,” “Our Lips Are Sealed,” “Vacation,” Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven is a Place on Earth” and “Mad About You." Adapted by James Magruder, Head Over Heels is the bold new musical comedy from the visionaries that rocked Broadway with Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Avenue

    Jul 21,2023 06:10
20. 

    20. Salina Center for Theatre Arts presents Finding Nemo Jr.

    On this episode of King in the Community I'm joined via phone by Center for Theatre Arts Education Director, Maggie Spicer- Brown to talk about a fin-tastic show that is swimming to the stage this weekend- Finding Nemo Jr.Maggie, with the help of summer stage cast members Sloan and Sam, share their favorite songs from the show, talk about their fish costumes and more.  To buy your tickets to see Finding Nemo Jr. click here.  

    Jul 07,2023 06:04
21. 

    21. Leslie Bishop, Salina Downtown Inc.

    On this episode I sit down with Salina Downtown Inc. Executive Director Leslie Bishop to hear about July's First Friday concert featuring local talented twirlers from Taylor's Twirlers and dancers from Revolution Dance, Tamara Howe School of Dance and Ballet and Della's Dance Studio. We also spoke about the ongoing replacement of trash corals in downtown Salina, reflecting on Fourth of July celebrations in Salina, The July Dog Days of Summer Concert, Zookeeper Appreciation Week ESCAPE and more. 

    Jul 07,2023 16:53
22. 

    22. Misty Serene, Salina Art Center Cinema Project Update

    On this episode I sit down with Salina Art Center Executive Director Misty Serene to hear an update on the ongoing renovation of the Art Center Cinema, the "POV" exhibition that is on display at the art center, art classes available to the public and upcoming events. 

    Jul 06,2023 13:25
23. 

    23. Steve Smethers, Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad

    On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad (A&SVR) volunteer, Steve Smethers, to discuss volunteer opportunities, the history of the Abilene Smoky Valley and Rock Island Railroad, upcoming dinner train events and information about the famous A&SVR Santa Fe 3415 steam engine. 

    Jun 22,2023 36:34
24. 

    24. Renee Duxler, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO

    On this episode of "King in the Community" I speak with Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Renee Duxler, about the following topics:●Duxler's Smoky River Festival reflections●An update on the Chamber's legislative priorities from the most recent legislative session●Information about LEAD Salina coming in August●Upcoming Chamber after hours events and ribbon cuttings

    Jun 14,2023 20:37
25. 

    25. Salina Screenwriter, Ed Harlowe

    On this episode I sit down with screenwriter and Salina local, Ed Harlowe about a screenplay he has written that could possibly be filmed right here in Salina.The heartfelt and hilarious movie, "FRED", is the story of an older gentleman whose name is, you guessed it, Fred. The film spins a compelling tale of love, laughter, and  later years of life.FRED, a refreshingly unique comedy, explores the journey of a former class clown, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he suffers a heart attack.

    Jun 08,2023 19:25
26. 

    26. Smoky Hill River Festival, Salina Arts and Humanities

    With only a little over 24 hours left until kickoff of the 47th Smoky Hill River Festival, the excitement and energy surrounding this beloved annual event is reaching new heights. On this episode of King in the Community, dive into the Salina Smoky Hill River Festival schedule of events with Salina Arts and Humanities' Anna Pauscher Morawitz and Crystal Hammerschmidt. Get ready to be inspired by the talented artisans as they showcase their creative process and share the secrets behind their mast

    Jun 07,2023 24:25
27. 

    27. Theatre Salina’s Michael Spicer, School of Rock-The Musical

    Rock got no reason, rock got no rhyme…You better get me to school on time! Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 'School of Rock – The Musical' is coming to Theatre Salina this month.On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with Theatre Salina's Executive Director, Michael Spicer, to hear his take on what makes this season's finale unlike any production Theatre Salina has done in the past. The musical is two hours in length, consisting of two-acts, plus intermission, based on the hit movie "School

    Jun 01,2023 04:02
28. 

    28. Freedom Fest 2023: Bob Story and Nate Butler

    Freedom Fest JC (June 30-July 4) is back and bigger than ever before. Earlier this month I spoke with Junction City City Commissioner, Bob Story and State Representative Nate Butler to hear what makes this year's five day Fourth of July celebration a must attend event, the whole family will enjoy. For updates and information be sure to check out their Facebook page here.

    May 30,2023 20:01
29. 

    29. Chief Tony Sneidar, Salina Fire Department

    On this episode I speak with Salina Fire Chief Tony Sneidar about preparations for the 2nd Annual Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and Family Fun Walk, scheduled for Sept. 9 at the Graves Family Sports Complex at Kansas Wesleyan University. The Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb & Family Walk is a way to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives so that others might live on Sept. 11, 2001. Each participant pays tribute to an FDNY firefighter by climbi

    May 25,2023 09:29
30. 

    30. Gretchen Boyum and Julie Clayson, Central Kansas Mental Health Center

    May is Mental Health Awareness Month. For the folks over at Central Kansas Mental Health, every day is mental health awareness day. On this episode, I speak with two Mental Health First Aid trainers about the importance of prioritizing your mental health, how CKMHC is partnering up with private businesses during the month of May to help destigmatize the act of asking for help, services and different groups CKMHC provides, and the issues surrounding veterans suffering from depression and anxiety.

    May 23,2023 19:30
31. 

    31. Kristie Clark, Victory Clinic

    For those suffering with depression, finding the right treatment to resolve or mitigate their symptoms can seem like a never ending struggle. According to the National Institute of Health, at least 30% of those seeking treatment for their depression are resistant to medicine or treatment. On this episode I sit down with Dr. Kristie Clark, owner and founder of the Victory Clinic, to hear how she and her husband are bringing life changing mental health treatments to those who thought there was no

    May 22,2023 28:06
32. 

    32. Matthew Miller Wells, The Garage Automotive Museum

    Trucks, trucks and you guessed it, more trucks! The Garage Automotive Museum in Salina opened its largest exhibit yet on May 4.On this episode of "King in the Community" I speak with Matthew Tiller- Wells, education director for the Garage, about how he and his team managed to move all 40 exhibit vehicles in just 3 days, his thought process behind selecting which vehicles make it onto the museum floor, and the history of how trucks became a must have vehicle out of necessity.

    May 12,2023 08:24
33. 

    33. State Rep. Jeff Underhill, 65th District

    On this episode of King in the Community, Rep. Underhill and I discuss his stance on controversial issues impacting the lives of Kansans, how Democrats and Republicans are working together to address the water conservation crisis, how Kansas became the latest state to extend its statute of limitations on childhood sexual abuse claims by 10 years and the different pieces of legislation Underhill made its way through the committees he sits on.

    May 11,2023 34:32
34. 

    34. Dale Pugh, Brother of POW MIA Maj. Dennis Pugh

    On this episode I sat down with Dale Pugh, Maj. Dennis Pugh's brother and Jason McIntire, commander of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron.Hear Dale, brother of Saline County's only missing in action service member, talk about his brothers life and legacy and how the City of Salina, in partnership with the Sons of the American Legion, plan to honor all 11 POWs and Dennis Pugh at a Memorial Day event at Sunset Park in Salina. 

    May 08,2023 28:41
35. 

    35. Mo Reynolds, Kansas Storytelling Festival

    What makes someone a "good" storyteller? Is it the vast and interesting vocabulary they use? What about the style of story they tell? Or is it their ability to wrap up a story by neatly connecting multiple themes into one concise narrative?According to Kansas Storytelling Festival storyteller, Mo Reynolds, there is no gatekeeping when it comes to storytelling- anyone can tell a story.On this episode of King in the Community, hear about how Mo got started telling stories, her first experience att

    May 05,2023 14:47
36. 

    36. Junction City Main Street, Michaela Joyce

    The Junction City Main Street Market's inaugural kick off event is Saturday, May 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in downtown Junction City. I sat down for a conversation with Michaela Joyce, executive director for Junction City Main Street, to find out what types of vendors will be showcased at the market and other ways the Junction City Main Street program is creating a more connected community. 

    May 03,2023 08:06
37. 

    37. Al Gordon, Junction City, CityCommission Candidate

    Al Gordon, Junction City, officially announced his candidacy for city commission at the Junction City city commission meeting on April 18. On this episode of King in the Community, Gordon, a local small business owner, talks about the importance of supporting local small businesses, how he came to call Junction City home and why he decided to run for city commission. 

    May 01,2023 13:22
38. 

    38. April Rickman, Salina Optimist Club

    By providing hope and a positive vision, Optimists bring out the best in youth, our communities and themselves. In this episode of King in the Community we hear how the Salina Optimist Club helps recognize students who go above and beyond when it comes to having a positive attitude. We talked about that and more on this episode of King in the Community. 

    Apr 25,2023 09:16
39. 

    39. Dustin Schlaefli, Nex-Tech

    Nex-Tech, a Kansas company and leader in technology, has announced the grand reopening of its retail location in Salina. Located at 104 N. Santa Fe Avenue, Suite B, in downtown Salina. In 2016, Nex-Tech started the deployment of fiber along key business routes in Salina and has continued to expand its fiber footprint in Salina.  

    Apr 24,2023 07:34
40. 

    40. Vickee Spicer, Prairieland Market

    What started as a farm fresh food cooperative in the 70s has grown into a thriving locally grown produce market. Prairieland Market, located in Salina, Kansas, sells a range of farm-fresh, Kansas-made foods including meats, cheeses, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and baked goods. Vickee also shared with me some exciting news about the markets future plans to move to a new location in Salina.

    Apr 20,2023 21:39
41. 

    41. Mike Peterson, Community Housing Development

    The Weatherization Assistance Program helps reduce energy costs for low-incomehouseholds by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, while ensuring their health and safety. I sat down with Mike Peterson to hear more. 

    Apr 17,2023 11:17
42. 

    42. Brenda Gutierrez, Salina Technical College Foundation Director

    National Technical College Signing Day was on April 20. The day is designed to honor students who are entering a technical field and to celebrate the dignity of their work. I sat down with director of the Salina Tech Foundation, Brenda Gutierrez to talk about the signing event and a $1.8 million grant awarded to Salina Tech by the Kansas Department of Commerce.The grant will fund roughly half of the cost of its new 15,00 square-foot building which will house the new Industrial Maintenance and Au

    Apr 17,2023 20:28
43. 

    43. Linn Exline, USD 305 Superintendent

    USD 305 Superintendent and Salina Native, Linn Exline, has worked in Salina Public Schools her entire career in teaching. Her dedication and passion for education stems from her desire to cause positive changes in student's lives. 

    Apr 17,2023 28:26
44. 

    44. Jessica Kootz, Mental Health First Aid

    Jessica Kootz, executive director for K-State Research and Extension Midway District stops by our studio to talk about mental health resources and programs available through KSRE. 

    Apr 17,2023 25:34
45. 

    45. Michael Spicer, Theatre Salina

    Michael stops by to talk about two musicals being performed by Theatre Salina,  "Something Rotten" and "The School of Rock." Spicer also shared information about the Theatre Guild Gardenia Fundraiser and KU Men's Basketball raffle, as well as plans for building expansion. 

    Apr 14,2023 25:13
46. 

    46. Jim Hughes, Saline County Sheriff’s Office

    Be prepared and ready for anything. That is the message behind the Saline County Sheriff's new first aid class titled "Tactical First Aid." I sat down with Saline County Sheriff's Operations Captain, Jim Hughes to talk about the upcoming class and what people can expect to learn during this life saving training.   

    Apr 14,2023 08:04
47. 

    47. Mike Hoppock, Mayor of Salina

    Salina Mayor, Mike Hoppock is no stranger to civil service. He is currently serving his second term as mayor. During our talk Hoppock spoke about the municipal sales tax, his time as mayor during the COVID-19 pandemic,  where he sees Salina in 10 years and importance of being an informed voter.

    Apr 14,2023 21:27
48. 

    48. C.J. Wise, Salina Police Chief

    In February of 2023, The City of Salina selected C.J. Wise, of Edmond, Okla., to be the new police chief. Wise's over 28 years of experience in areas such as K-9, SWAT, detective, drug enforcement, and internal investigations. Our conversation touched on several community concerns including the drug enforcement task force, police officer shortage, homelessness and his first impressions of Salina. 

    Apr 14,2023 23:30
49. 

    49. Tammie Schneider, Saline County Health Department Clinic

    Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise. I sat down with Saline County Health Department, Clinic Coordinator, Tammie Schneider to hear what is causing this uptick in cases and how the health department is working to address it. 

    Apr 14,2023 05:27
50. 

    50. Clarke Sanders, Kansas Representative 69th District

    After securing his reelection in the midterm election, State Representative Clarke Sanders KS-69 discusses policies he anticipates coming up this legislative session. 

    Apr 13,2023 13:49
51. 

    51. Jason Tiller, Saline County Health Department

    Refered to as the "Tripledemic" RSV, seasonal flu and COVID-19 cases are on the rise. I sat down with Saline County Health Department Director, Jason Tiller, to hear how county health officials are managing the rising cases. 

    Apr 13,2023 13:39
52. 

    52. Tony Sneidar, Salina Fire Chief

    Salina Fire Chief Tony Sneidar has over 28 years of firefighting experience. Originally from Philadelphia, Sneidar didn't expect to be a firefighter, he wanted to be a police officer. 

    Apr 13,2023 13:21
53. 

    53. Tim Blake, Business Owner, Prickly Pear

    The Prickly Pear Grill and Cantina joined the Salina Downtown scene in November 2022. I sat down with one of the cantina's owners, Tim Blake, to talk about how business has been and to congratulate him on being named Salina Downtown Inc.'s, Good Neighbor of the Quarter.

    Apr 13,2023 06:56
54. 

    54. Kansas Rep. Clarke Sanders legislative update

    Rep. Sanders reflects on the failed attempt to legalize medical marijuana, legislation surrounding the rights of transgender athletes, the Sunflower Equity Act, the failed passage of the convention of states, the Infant Born Alive Act and the opioid crisis.  

    Apr 14,2023 21:40
55. 

    55. Grow HaYS

    GROW HAYS

    Apr 12,2023 16:34