On this episode of King in the Community, Nate King invites <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/members/rep_howe_steven_1/">State Representative Stephen Howe</a>&nbsp;to discuss the highly debated topic of Medicaid expansion in Kansas.

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/s/pdf/district_maps/district_map_h_071.pdf">Representing Kansas'71st District</a>, Howe shares an insider's take on current state matters and the legislative impact certain bills have on local communities, with a specific focus on the challenges witnessed in rural areas.

Hear Howe discuss his duties as chairman of the House Higher Education Budget Committee and his responsibilities on other committees he is a member of. <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/committees/ctte_h_apprprtns_1/">He is also on the Kansas House Appropriations Committee.</a>

With soaring waiting lists for intellectual and developmental (IDD) services, there's a sense of urgency to address this crisis. Howe notes that some people wait more than ten years before receiving life-changing services.

The episode wraps up with insights into the importance of investing in families and children, proposing state-level child tax credits, and understanding the societal and economic impact of eroding birth rates. The discussion further explores personalities' roles in creating a more positive atmosphere for political discourse and Howe's thoughts on the January 6 Insurrection at the United States Capitol Building.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705337212570.jpeg" alt="Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, wrote an op-ed about former president Donald Trump, the Jan. 6 insurrection and election denialism. <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/15/a-kansas-legislator-stands-against-trump-and-jan-6-violence-will-his-fellow-republicans-listen/">(Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</a>" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, wrote an op-ed about former president Donald Trump, the Jan. 6 insurrection and election denialism. <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/15/a-kansas-legislator-stands-against-trump-and-jan-6-violence-will-his-fellow-republicans-listen/">(Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</a></figcaption>
 </figure>On this episode of King in the Community, Nate King invites <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/members/rep_howe_steven_1/">State Representative Stephen Howe</a>&nbsp;to discuss the highly debated topic of Medicaid expansion in Kansas. <div><iframe title="State Representative Steven Howe, Legislative Update" 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=umh5z-1574dc4-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/s/pdf/district_maps/district_map_h_071.pdf">Representing Kansas'71st District</a>, Howe shares an insider's take on current state matters and the legislative impact certain bills have on local communities, with a specific focus on the challenges witnessed in rural areas.Hear Howe discuss his duties as chairman of the House Higher Education Budget Committee and his responsibilities on other committees he is a member of. <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/committees/ctte_h_apprprtns_1/">He is also on the Kansas House Appropriations Committee.</a>With soaring waiting lists for intellectual and developmental (IDD) services, there's a sense of urgency to address this crisis. Howe notes that some people wait more than ten years before receiving life-changing services.The episode wraps up with insights into the importance of investing in families and children, proposing state-level child tax credits, and understanding the societal and economic impact of eroding birth rates. The discussion further explores personalities' roles in creating a more positive atmosphere for political discourse and Howe's thoughts on the January 6 Insurrection at the United States Capitol Building.&nbsp;

🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Steven Howe legislative update

UPDATE: Due to unforeseen circumstances the performances will now be held at Salina South High School. All performance times will remain the same except tonight's show may start closer to 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Join Nate King, news director for the Salina Post, as he chats with Sacred Heart Junior/Senior High School musical director Matea Gregg, and actors Eva Matteucci and Dayne Goss about the upcoming production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." 

We discuss rehearsals, working with St. Mary's Elementary students, character preparation, and Matea's directing approach. Tune in to gain insight into this fun and whimsical musical production, running on February 8, 10, and 11.

<a href="https://one.bidpal.net/shmusical2024/abou">For ticket information click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Sacred Heart Jr./Sr. Highschool Theatre, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" 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=jq25h-1573cb9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>UPDATE: Due to unforeseen circumstances the performances will now be held at Salina South High School. All performance times will remain the same except tonight's show may start closer to 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;Join Nate King, news director for the Salina Post, as he chats with Sacred Heart Junior/Senior High School musical director Matea Gregg, and actors Eva Matteucci and Dayne Goss about the upcoming production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." We discuss rehearsals, working with St. Mary's Elementary students, character preparation, and Matea's directing approach. Tune in to gain insight into this fun and whimsical musical production, running on February 8, 10, and 11.<a href="https://one.bidpal.net/shmusical2024/abou">For ticket information click here.</a>

🎙King in the Community: 'You're a Good Man Charlie Brown the Musical'

Welcome to another episode of 'King in the Community,' where we delve deep into issues affecting Salinans and the citizens of Central Kansas.&nbsp;

Join us as your host, Nate King, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the recent kick-off of the Kansas legislative session with state representative for the 69th District, Clarke Sanders.&nbsp; 

This episode covers topics including the proposition of a flat tax, medical marijuana legislation, abortion rights, and more.&nbsp;

Discover Representative Sanders' analysis of Governor Kelly's focus shift towards rural Kansas issues. Dig deeper into the topic of flat tax implementation, examining possible advantages and drawbacks through various perspectives. Sanders shares his philosophy of providing underserved individuals with opportunities, underscoring the need to reduce dependence on government aid.

<div><iframe title="Representative Clarke Sanders on Flat Tax, Medical Marijuana, and More" 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=8dwwe-1564a87-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTWelcome to another episode of 'King in the Community,' where we delve deep into issues affecting Salinans and the citizens of Central Kansas.&nbsp;Join us as your host, Nate King, engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the recent kick-off of the Kansas legislative session with state representative for the 69th District, Clarke Sanders.&nbsp; This episode covers topics including the proposition of a flat tax, medical marijuana legislation, abortion rights, and more.&nbsp;Discover Representative Sanders' analysis of Governor Kelly's focus shift towards rural Kansas issues. Dig deeper into the topic of flat tax implementation, examining possible advantages and drawbacks through various perspectives. Sanders shares his philosophy of providing underserved individuals with opportunities, underscoring the need to reduce dependence on government aid.

🎙King in the Community: State Rep. Clarke Sanders gives a legislative update

By LISA MOSER K-State Research and Extension news service

Any dog owner will tell you that there is a decision to be made when selecting a new pet: Is it better to get a purebred dog or one that comes from a mixed genetic heritage?

For pet owners, the decision is more of a personal choice, but beef cattle producers make a similar decision, and there can be economic advantages offered by a crossbred animal, according to Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute experts.

<a href="https://%20https//ksubci.org/2024/01/19/building-your-own-herd-cross-breeding-bmr-corn-silage" target="_blank">Speaking on a recent Cattle Chat podcast</a>, beef cattle geneticist Bob Weaber said that maternal heterosis can offer a $100-$150 advantage in today’s market.

Maternal heterosis refers to the crossbred female’s increase in production over that of her parent breeds.

“The primary advantage of maternal heterosis is the extended lifetime productivity because crossbred cows last longer in the production system allowing them to have an additional calf in their lifetime as compared to a purebred female,” said Weaber, who also is head of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southeast.k-state.edu/about/">Eastern Kansas Research and Extension Centers</a>.

Other advantages of maternal heterosis include reproduction, calf survivability, pounds of calf weaned and younger age at puberty. Weaber said because they have more calves in their lifetime, there is a decrease in replacement female costs to the herd.

According to Weaber, many commercial producers will follow a two-breed rotation in time, which means that they will change sires every few years.

“If you keep the replacement females from that mating in the herd, you can expect about one-half to two-thirds of the heterosis advantage of an F1 crossbred female,” Weaber said. He added that an F1 crossbred animal is the result of a mating between a sire and dam of two different breeds.

To learn more about the economics of crossbred programs, Weaber cites the&nbsp;<a href="https://ebeef.ucdavis.edu/2021-nbcec-beef-cattle-sire-selection-manual">beef sire selection manual</a>, or a paper on&nbsp;<a href="https://ebeef.ucdavis.edu/sites/g/files/dgvnsk7331/files/inline-files/BREED%20AND%20COMPOSITE%20SELECTION.pdf">Breed and Composite Selection</a>&nbsp;that he has authored.

To hear the full discussion, go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://%20https//ksubci.org/2024/01/19/building-your-own-herd-cross-breeding-bmr-corn-silage" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/debdc4f9-6610-42cc-b86a-2e6ac1afad7c">Cattle Chat: Ways to meet the nutritional needs of heifer calves</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706112542012.jpeg" alt="A crossbred breeding system can offer a heterosis advantage. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>A crossbred breeding system can offer a heterosis advantage. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA MOSER K-State Research and Extension news serviceAny dog owner will tell you that there is a decision to be made when selecting a new pet: Is it better to get a purebred dog or one that comes from a mixed genetic heritage?For pet owners, the decision is more of a personal choice, but beef cattle producers make a similar decision, and there can be economic advantages offered by a crossbred animal, according to Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute experts.<a href="https://%20https//ksubci.org/2024/01/19/building-your-own-herd-cross-breeding-bmr-corn-silage" target="_blank">Speaking on a recent Cattle Chat podcast</a>, beef cattle geneticist Bob Weaber said that maternal heterosis can offer a $100-$150 advantage in today’s market.Maternal heterosis refers to the crossbred female’s increase in production over that of her parent breeds.“The primary advantage of maternal heterosis is the extended lifetime productivity because crossbred cows last longer in the production system allowing them to have an additional calf in their lifetime as compared to a purebred female,” said Weaber, who also is head of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southeast.k-state.edu/about/">Eastern Kansas Research and Extension Centers</a>.Other advantages of maternal heterosis include reproduction, calf survivability, pounds of calf weaned and younger age at puberty. Weaber said because they have more calves in their lifetime, there is a decrease in replacement female costs to the herd.According to Weaber, many commercial producers will follow a two-breed rotation in time, which means that they will change sires every few years.“If you keep the replacement females from that mating in the herd, you can expect about one-half to two-thirds of the heterosis advantage of an F1 crossbred female,” Weaber said. He added that an F1 crossbred animal is the result of a mating between a sire and dam of two different breeds.To learn more about the economics of crossbred programs, Weaber cites the&nbsp;<a href="https://ebeef.ucdavis.edu/2021-nbcec-beef-cattle-sire-selection-manual">beef sire selection manual</a>, or a paper on&nbsp;<a href="https://ebeef.ucdavis.edu/sites/g/files/dgvnsk7331/files/inline-files/BREED%20AND%20COMPOSITE%20SELECTION.pdf">Breed and Composite Selection</a>&nbsp;that he has authored.To hear the full discussion, go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://%20https//ksubci.org/2024/01/19/building-your-own-herd-cross-breeding-bmr-corn-silage" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/debdc4f9-6610-42cc-b86a-2e6ac1afad7c">Cattle Chat: Ways to meet the nutritional needs of heifer calves</a>

Cattle Chat: Economic advantage of crossbreeding systems

Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy stops by to discuss an exciting new shop local rewards program - <a href="https://colu.com/choosesaline-how-it-works/">Choose Saline County</a>.&nbsp;

The app allows users to earn and redeem stars by shopping at local stores and receiving certain services in Saline County.&nbsp; Earning Choose Saline County Stars is simple - users can download the app, link their credit or debit cards, join reward offers, and shop at participating local businesses.

After making qualifying purchases, users will receive Saline Stars in their app balance. These stars can then be redeemed at selected businesses, helping the local economy recover and grow.

More than $140,000 has been redeemed through the Choose Saline County app since its launch. This represents an economic impact of over $3.76 million. Currently, app users hold over $77,000 in their wallets, ready to boost local businesses

We also discuss the privacy and security measures in place, including the use of Plaid, a trusted provider for card linking. Tune in to learn more about this innovative app and how it benefits both residents and businesses in Saline County.

Are you a business owner who wants to join the effort and multiply local dollars to improve the economy? Consider signing your business up at&nbsp;<a href="https://colu.com/choosesaline/">https://colu.com/choosesaline/</a>

<div><iframe title="Melissa McCoy, Saline County Public Information Officer" 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=dcstv-1513e43-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Saline County Public Information Officer Melissa McCoy stops by to discuss an exciting new shop local rewards program - <a href="https://colu.com/choosesaline-how-it-works/">Choose Saline County</a>.&nbsp;<h2>About Choose Saline County</h2> The app allows users to earn and redeem stars by shopping at local stores and receiving certain services in Saline County.&nbsp; Earning Choose Saline County Stars is simple - users can download the app, link their credit or debit cards, join reward offers, and shop at participating local businesses. After making qualifying purchases, users will receive Saline Stars in their app balance. These stars can then be redeemed at selected businesses, helping the local economy recover and grow.<h2>Impact of Choose Saline County</h2>More than $140,000 has been redeemed through the Choose Saline County app since its launch. This represents an economic impact of over $3.76 million. Currently, app users hold over $77,000 in their wallets, ready to boost local businessesWe also discuss the privacy and security measures in place, including the use of Plaid, a trusted provider for card linking. Tune in to learn more about this innovative app and how it benefits both residents and businesses in Saline County.Are you a business owner who wants to join the effort and multiply local dollars to improve the economy? Consider signing your business up at&nbsp;<a href="https://colu.com/choosesaline/">https://colu.com/choosesaline/</a>

PODCAST: Melissa McCoy, Choose Saline County App

Carrying too much body condition early in life can have negative impacts on heifers retained as replacements, according to the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute.

On a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2024/01/05/prepare-for-your-future-creep-feeding-disease-issues/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast, the experts discussed how adding additional feed to the diet of calves still suckling their dams can be beneficial from a growth standpoint but warned that those diets must be carefully monitored to keep the heifers from getting overconditioned. This supplement feed is termed creep feed, which can be any feed supplement that is given to the calves that the dams cannot access.

Beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster said it is important to know the feed conversion.

“I recommend limiting the intake of the creep feed to 3-4 pounds of feed per head per day; if it gets higher than that, the feed conversion is poor and the profitability is worse because expensive feed is being substituted for a cheaper, forage-based feed source,” Lancaster said.

K-State agricultural economist Dustin Pendell advised producers to calculate the cost of supplemental feed as it relates to the rate of gain for the animal.

“Producers need to know the feed cost per pound of gain and the expected price of the weaned calf,” he said. “As long as the expected price is greater than or equal to the cost of the additional pound of feed, then it makes sense to creep feed.”

However, for heifer calves that will retained as replacements K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said that while there are growth and nutrition benefits when producers choose to offer supplemental feed to heifer calves, the diet needs to be managed closely so that those heifer calves are not overconditioned.

“Research has shown that heifer calves that haven’t reached puberty are fed a diet that causes them to deposit fat in the mammary gland, they may have decreased lifetime milk production,” said Larson.

K-State veterinarian Brad White said there is a nutritional plane that is optimum for growth.

“While it is important for heifer calves to grow bone and muscle, producers need to be cautious to make sure the females aren’t depositing fat in the mammary gland,” White said.

For heifers that are going to be retained in the herd, Larson does not recommend offering free-choice creep feed.

“It is best to allow them to grow on forage while they are suckling, wean them at the appropriate time and then hand deliver the nutrients they need to keep them in their optimum growth curve,” Larson said.

To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2024/01/05/prepare-for-your-future-creep-feeding-disease-issues/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704990052762.jpeg" alt="To help meet their nutritional needs calves sometimes are offered creep feed while still nursing their dams. Photo courtesy K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>To help meet their nutritional needs calves sometimes are offered creep feed while still nursing their dams. Photo courtesy K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA MOSER KSRECarrying too much body condition early in life can have negative impacts on heifers retained as replacements, according to the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute.On a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2024/01/05/prepare-for-your-future-creep-feeding-disease-issues/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast, the experts discussed how adding additional feed to the diet of calves still suckling their dams can be beneficial from a growth standpoint but warned that those diets must be carefully monitored to keep the heifers from getting overconditioned. This supplement feed is termed creep feed, which can be any feed supplement that is given to the calves that the dams cannot access.Beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster said it is important to know the feed conversion.“I recommend limiting the intake of the creep feed to 3-4 pounds of feed per head per day; if it gets higher than that, the feed conversion is poor and the profitability is worse because expensive feed is being substituted for a cheaper, forage-based feed source,” Lancaster said.K-State agricultural economist Dustin Pendell advised producers to calculate the cost of supplemental feed as it relates to the rate of gain for the animal.“Producers need to know the feed cost per pound of gain and the expected price of the weaned calf,” he said. “As long as the expected price is greater than or equal to the cost of the additional pound of feed, then it makes sense to creep feed.”However, for heifer calves that will retained as replacements K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said that while there are growth and nutrition benefits when producers choose to offer supplemental feed to heifer calves, the diet needs to be managed closely so that those heifer calves are not overconditioned.“Research has shown that heifer calves that haven’t reached puberty are fed a diet that causes them to deposit fat in the mammary gland, they may have decreased lifetime milk production,” said Larson.K-State veterinarian Brad White said there is a nutritional plane that is optimum for growth.“While it is important for heifer calves to grow bone and muscle, producers need to be cautious to make sure the females aren’t depositing fat in the mammary gland,” White said.For heifers that are going to be retained in the herd, Larson does not recommend offering free-choice creep feed.“It is best to allow them to grow on forage while they are suckling, wean them at the appropriate time and then hand deliver the nutrients they need to keep them in their optimum growth curve,” Larson said.To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2024/01/05/prepare-for-your-future-creep-feeding-disease-issues/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

Cattle Chat: Ways to meet the nutritional needs of heifer calves

Join 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave and Sam this Saturday from 9-11 a.m. on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.910kina.com/">910AM 107.5 FM.</a>

Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. They're committed to making a difference in their community and keeping listeners up-to-date with updates from new and returning guests.

To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KINA&amp;embedOpened=true&amp;embedOpenedApp=song&amp;embedOpenedSong=910683and6831076845683KINA&amp;embedOpenedArtist=&amp;embedOpenedAlbum=">here.</a>

9:05 a.m.&nbsp; Kirsty Hartley, Prairieland Market on events coming up in 2024 and move to Santa Fe.

9:30 a.m.&nbsp; Dr. Jill Ahlers, Chairperson for KMOM (Kansas Mission Of Mercy) Dental Event.

10:05 a.m.&nbsp; Claire Ludes, Executive Director Salina Area United Way on Gala results, VITA and Campaign Update.

10:30 a.m. Susan Hawksworth, Director of the Smoky Hill Museum on to discuss the return of the Birger Sandzén painting to Salina

10:45 a.m.&nbsp; Red Cross Blood Drive update and other happenings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691172591916.png" alt="Dave and Sam" />
 <figcaption>Dave and Sam</figcaption>
 </figure>Join 910KINA's Saturday Morning Show hosts Dave and Sam this Saturday from 9-11 a.m. on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.910kina.com/">910AM 107.5 FM.</a>Hear highlights about community events, public affairs, and all things happening in Salina. Their approach is friendly, informative, and entertaining. They're committed to making a difference in their community and keeping listeners up-to-date with updates from new and returning guests.To listen to past 910KINA Saturday Morning Shows head on over to the KINA podcast homepage&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/KINA&amp;embedOpened=true&amp;embedOpenedApp=song&amp;embedOpenedSong=910683and6831076845683KINA&amp;embedOpenedArtist=&amp;embedOpenedAlbum=">here.</a>9:05 a.m.&nbsp; Kirsty Hartley, Prairieland Market on events coming up in 2024 and move to Santa Fe.9:30 a.m.&nbsp; Dr. Jill Ahlers, Chairperson for KMOM (Kansas Mission Of Mercy) Dental Event.10:05 a.m.&nbsp; Claire Ludes, Executive Director Salina Area United Way on Gala results, VITA and Campaign Update.10:30 a.m. Susan Hawksworth, Director of the Smoky Hill Museum on to discuss the return of the Birger Sandzén painting to Salina10:45 a.m.&nbsp; Red Cross Blood Drive update and other happenings.

910KINA Saturday Morning Show lineup

By NATE KING Salina Post

On this episode, I speak with Saline County Administrator Phil Smith-Hanes about issues the Saline County Commission hopes to address in 2024 and highlights from projects completed in 2023.&nbsp;

Have a question or concern for Phil?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/countyadministrator">Contact him here.</a>&nbsp;

To view job openings at Saline County <a href="https://ks-salinecounty.civicplushrms.com/careers/">click here.&nbsp;</a>

Throughout the year, Smith-Hanes will return to the King in the Community Podcast to speak with Salina Post's News director Nate King. In these episodes, we will discuss the goings on and happenings of Saline County and the Saline County Commission.

<div><iframe title="Saline County Administrator, Phil Smith-Hanes talks Sky West proposal, ARPA dollar reallocation and more" 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=ssc7y-153c590-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostOn this episode, I speak with Saline County Administrator Phil Smith-Hanes about issues the Saline County Commission hopes to address in 2024 and highlights from projects completed in 2023.&nbsp;Topics we discuss include:<ol>
 <li>Reallocation of American Rescue Plan funds given to Saline County</li><li>Request for proposal for an evaluation of how Saline County facilities are used</li><li>Saline County's Sky West incentive package to secure the airline as Saline County's Essential Air Service provider and restoration of direct flights to Denver and Chicago</li><li>The conclusion of the proposed Plus Power battery storage facility in Gypsum</li><li>Job openinings in Saline County</li><li>Issues likely to be addressed by the commission in 2024</li>
 </ol>Have a question or concern for Phil?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/countyadministrator">Contact him here.</a>&nbsp;To view job openings at Saline County <a href="https://ks-salinecounty.civicplushrms.com/careers/">click here.&nbsp;</a>Throughout the year, Smith-Hanes will return to the King in the Community Podcast to speak with Salina Post's News director Nate King. In these episodes, we will discuss the goings on and happenings of Saline County and the Saline County Commission.

🎙King in the Community: Phil Smith-Hanes, Saline County Administrator

K-State beef cattle experts share nutrition advice or herds grazing crop residues in the winter

Many know the key to good health is eating a balanced diet, and in the case of cattle grazing cornstalks, their diet may need to be adjusted as the quality of the forage deteriorates, according to the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute.

Speaking on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/22/winter-feeding-plans-cold-weather-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast, K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster encouraged producers to walk the fields periodically to assess the quality of the feed resource.

“When producers first turn out cattle on cornstalks, they should take note of the amount of leaves and husks available to the cattle to graze and then as the season goes on, they should continue to walk the fields to assess the quality of that feed resource and adjust accordingly,” he said.

Lancaster said that if there is too much moisture in the field, the cornstalks will turn black on the ends and the cattle will appear more hungry.

“Cattle that are hungry will be reaching through the fence,” Lancaster said.

Eventually, they will lose a body condition score, but Lancaster said that typically will take 1-2 months before it is noticeable to the producer.

To keep that from happening, Lancaster said the cattle need to be supplemented with protein when they are first turned out to graze the cornstalks. As the amount of corn residue declines, the herd may need additional supplementation.

“If the cornstalks are deteriorating, my next step is to start supplementing the cattle with hay,” Lancaster said. “The key is to move the hay to different locations in the field by either rolling out the bales or moving where the bale is placed to keep the cattle from creating a spot that will have a lower yield because the ground is compacted.”

He also urged producers to watch the amount of moisture the field is absorbing.

“If the cattle are sinking in 2-4 inches into the ground then producers should move the cattle to a dry lot,” Lancaster said.

For those who are feeding supplemental hay, K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said it is important to know the quality of the hay they are offering the cattle.

“There is a lot of variation in hay quality so it is important to assess the quality of the hay as a feed resource,” Larson said. “Hay that is harvested late in the season will not be as high in quality as hay that is cut earlier in the summer.”

He said if the hay fed to the herd was grown by the producer, they would likely have a good idea about the hay quality. But if the hay is purchased, it might be beneficial to conduct a forage test before feeding it to the herd.

Lancaster agreed with the forage test recommendation. He also said cattle will consume hay until they are full whether or not the hay is high quality, so it is important to take a look at the manure as well.

“If a producer notices manure piles that are dry and piled high, that is an indication that the cattle may not be getting enough nutrients from the hay and more protein should be added to the diet to help them better digest that hay,” Lancaster said.

To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/22/winter-feeding-plans-cold-weather-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703888758296.jpeg" alt="Feeding hay is one option for supplementation on cornstalk pastures that are decreased in their nutritional value. Photo Courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Feeding hay is one option for supplementation on cornstalk pastures that are decreased in their nutritional value. Photo Courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State beef cattle experts share nutrition advice or herds grazing crop residues in the winter</h2>By LISA MOSER KSREMany know the key to good health is eating a balanced diet, and in the case of cattle grazing cornstalks, their diet may need to be adjusted as the quality of the forage deteriorates, according to the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute.Speaking on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/22/winter-feeding-plans-cold-weather-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast, K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster encouraged producers to walk the fields periodically to assess the quality of the feed resource.“When producers first turn out cattle on cornstalks, they should take note of the amount of leaves and husks available to the cattle to graze and then as the season goes on, they should continue to walk the fields to assess the quality of that feed resource and adjust accordingly,” he said.Lancaster said that if there is too much moisture in the field, the cornstalks will turn black on the ends and the cattle will appear more hungry.“Cattle that are hungry will be reaching through the fence,” Lancaster said.Eventually, they will lose a body condition score, but Lancaster said that typically will take 1-2 months before it is noticeable to the producer.To keep that from happening, Lancaster said the cattle need to be supplemented with protein when they are first turned out to graze the cornstalks. As the amount of corn residue declines, the herd may need additional supplementation.“If the cornstalks are deteriorating, my next step is to start supplementing the cattle with hay,” Lancaster said. “The key is to move the hay to different locations in the field by either rolling out the bales or moving where the bale is placed to keep the cattle from creating a spot that will have a lower yield because the ground is compacted.”He also urged producers to watch the amount of moisture the field is absorbing.“If the cattle are sinking in 2-4 inches into the ground then producers should move the cattle to a dry lot,” Lancaster said.For those who are feeding supplemental hay, K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said it is important to know the quality of the hay they are offering the cattle.“There is a lot of variation in hay quality so it is important to assess the quality of the hay as a feed resource,” Larson said. “Hay that is harvested late in the season will not be as high in quality as hay that is cut earlier in the summer.”He said if the hay fed to the herd was grown by the producer, they would likely have a good idea about the hay quality. But if the hay is purchased, it might be beneficial to conduct a forage test before feeding it to the herd.Lancaster agreed with the forage test recommendation. He also said cattle will consume hay until they are full whether or not the hay is high quality, so it is important to take a look at the manure as well.“If a producer notices manure piles that are dry and piled high, that is an indication that the cattle may not be getting enough nutrients from the hay and more protein should be added to the diet to help them better digest that hay,” Lancaster said.To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/22/winter-feeding-plans-cold-weather-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

Cattle Chat: Managing cattle grazing cornstalks

K-State beef cattle experts offer tips for producers who are unable to manage cows on pastures

Anyone who has ever raised a dog, knows that it can be a labor-intensive experience, from feeding them twice a day to keeping their kennels clear of waste to making sure they get enough exercise to be a healthy pup.

In much the same way, cows raised in confinement also require more human capital than those raised on pastures, according to the experts at Kansas State Univeristy’s Beef Cattle Institute, who spoke about this topic on a recent Cattle Chat podcast. Joining the crew for this discussion was K-State beef cattle extension specialist Jason Warner.

Warner said confinement “is anything that is in a fence or boundary, but often we think of it as cows in a dry lot or barn.” He said the reason producers opt for this system is often because of the price of land.

“High land costs are prohibitive for expansion, and in some areas, traditional grazing pastures have been turned into row crop production,” Warner said.

K-State agricultural economist Dustin Pendell agreed with Warner and added: “When you are competing for land that is used to grow corn and soybeans, even if it is marginal pasture land, it is hard to pencil out.”

Pendell said that producers who do raise their cows in confinement need to be aware of the higher labor expense compared to the cows raised out on pastures.

“Someone has got to be there to feed the cattle and there is a labor cost tied to that,” Pendell said.

Feed is another additional expense that comes with maintaining cattle in a restricted area, said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.

“The feed costs will be higher in a confinement situation,” Lancaster said. “However, by limit- feeding a higher energy diet, producers can reduce the amount of forage needed and thereby reduce the amount of nutrients needed to maintain those cows.”

The other management difference between cows maintained on pastures versus confinement relates to sanitation, said K-State veterinarian Bob Larson.

“Calves need to be born in a sanitary environment,” Larson said. “Producers must have a plan in place to deal with the mud and dirt because young calves are the most susceptible to a disease challenge that comes from an unsanitary environment.”

<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/12/consumer-ranking-of-beef-sustainability-attributes/">To hear the full discussion, listen to the Cattle Chat podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703005846078.jpeg" alt="Cows kept in a confined area year-round have higher labor and feed costs associated with this production system." />
 <figcaption>Cows kept in a confined area year-round have higher labor and feed costs associated with this production system.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State beef cattle experts offer tips for producers who are unable to manage cows on pastures</h2>By LISA MOSER K-State Research and Extension news serviceAnyone who has ever raised a dog, knows that it can be a labor-intensive experience, from feeding them twice a day to keeping their kennels clear of waste to making sure they get enough exercise to be a healthy pup.In much the same way, cows raised in confinement also require more human capital than those raised on pastures, according to the experts at Kansas State Univeristy’s Beef Cattle Institute, who spoke about this topic on a recent Cattle Chat podcast. Joining the crew for this discussion was K-State beef cattle extension specialist Jason Warner.Warner said confinement “is anything that is in a fence or boundary, but often we think of it as cows in a dry lot or barn.” He said the reason producers opt for this system is often because of the price of land.“High land costs are prohibitive for expansion, and in some areas, traditional grazing pastures have been turned into row crop production,” Warner said.K-State agricultural economist Dustin Pendell agreed with Warner and added: “When you are competing for land that is used to grow corn and soybeans, even if it is marginal pasture land, it is hard to pencil out.”Pendell said that producers who do raise their cows in confinement need to be aware of the higher labor expense compared to the cows raised out on pastures.“Someone has got to be there to feed the cattle and there is a labor cost tied to that,” Pendell said.Feed is another additional expense that comes with maintaining cattle in a restricted area, said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.“The feed costs will be higher in a confinement situation,” Lancaster said. “However, by limit- feeding a higher energy diet, producers can reduce the amount of forage needed and thereby reduce the amount of nutrients needed to maintain those cows.”The other management difference between cows maintained on pastures versus confinement relates to sanitation, said K-State veterinarian Bob Larson.“Calves need to be born in a sanitary environment,” Larson said. “Producers must have a plan in place to deal with the mud and dirt because young calves are the most susceptible to a disease challenge that comes from an unsanitary environment.”<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/12/consumer-ranking-of-beef-sustainability-attributes/">To hear the full discussion, listen to the Cattle Chat podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.</a>

Cattle Chat: Considerations for cows kept in confinement

K-State beef cattle experts share how to best manage bulls during this season

Many people know maintaining a healthy weight is one factor in an overall health plan, and weight maintenance is also important in the well-being of cattle, according to the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute experts who spoke on this topic on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/08/industry-inventory-counts-winter-cow-and-bull-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast.

For spring-calving cow herds, oftentimes beef nutritionists are focused on maintaining the cows in an optimum body condition through gestation and into the calving season, said K-State veterinarian Bob Larson. But he stressed that it is also important to make sure the bulls are managed to maintain a healthy weight.

“In the winter, a bull’s nutritional demands are similar to those of a cow in mid-gestation,” Larson said. “Poor quality forage alone will not meet his nutritional needs and so he may need to be given some protein supplement as well.”

Along with maintaining the bull’s weight, Larson recommends that producers manage them in a way that also protects their reproductive health from the winter weather.

“If bulls have had a rough winter, we may see scrotal frostbite and poor semen quality from those animals in the spring when we do their breeding soundness exams,” Larson said.

To keep this from happening, Larson recommends producers offer the bulls protection from the wind, allow them access to dry bedding and keep them away from the mud.

For producers who are introducing new bulls into the herd this winter, Larson said it is important to follow a biosecurity plan to reduce potential disease risk.

“I recommend producers quarantine all new animals for about 30 days so that they can watch for signs of illness during that time,” Larson said. “Oftentimes if a disease is going to break, it will show up in that time.”

He also offered one additional biosecurity tip.“It is also good to institute a vaccine program to make sure both the new cattle and the ones who have been in the herd for a while are following a similar health protocol,” Larson said.

To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/08/industry-inventory-counts-winter-cow-and-bull-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702389421324.jpeg" alt="Bulls may need to be supplemented in the winter to maintain their body condition. Image Courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Bulls may need to be supplemented in the winter to maintain their body condition. Image Courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State beef cattle experts share how to best manage bulls during this season</h2>By LISA MOSER&nbsp;KSREMany people know maintaining a healthy weight is one factor in an overall health plan, and weight maintenance is also important in the well-being of cattle, according to the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute experts who spoke on this topic on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/08/industry-inventory-counts-winter-cow-and-bull-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast.For spring-calving cow herds, oftentimes beef nutritionists are focused on maintaining the cows in an optimum body condition through gestation and into the calving season, said K-State veterinarian Bob Larson. But he stressed that it is also important to make sure the bulls are managed to maintain a healthy weight.“In the winter, a bull’s nutritional demands are similar to those of a cow in mid-gestation,” Larson said. “Poor quality forage alone will not meet his nutritional needs and so he may need to be given some protein supplement as well.”Along with maintaining the bull’s weight, Larson recommends that producers manage them in a way that also protects their reproductive health from the winter weather.“If bulls have had a rough winter, we may see scrotal frostbite and poor semen quality from those animals in the spring when we do their breeding soundness exams,” Larson said.To keep this from happening, Larson recommends producers offer the bulls protection from the wind, allow them access to dry bedding and keep them away from the mud.For producers who are introducing new bulls into the herd this winter, Larson said it is important to follow a biosecurity plan to reduce potential disease risk.“I recommend producers quarantine all new animals for about 30 days so that they can watch for signs of illness during that time,” Larson said. “Oftentimes if a disease is going to break, it will show up in that time.”He also offered one additional biosecurity tip.“It is also good to institute a vaccine program to make sure both the new cattle and the ones who have been in the herd for a while are following a similar health protocol,” Larson said.To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/12/08/industry-inventory-counts-winter-cow-and-bull-management-research-round-up/">Cattle Chat</a>podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

Cattle Chat: Caring for bulls in the winter 

By LISA MOSER K-State Research and Extension news service

Walk into any kindergarten classroom in the middle of winter and you are bound to find a little person fighting off a cold. In much the same way, young calves are also prone to respiratory disease and pneumonia after they are weaned, say the veterinarians at the Kansas State Univeristy Beef Cattle Institute.

Speaking on a recent Cattle Chat podcast, K-State veterinarians Brian Lubbers, Bob Larson and Brad White share why now is the time to stock the medicine cabinet and make a treatment plan with the local veterinarian so that producers are prepared when illness hits the herd.

“That plan should include a case definition that would indicate when the animal would need treatment and what those steps would be,” Lubbers said.

In the case of a respiratory illness in calves, some of those signs would be difficulty breathing and/or coughing, a reduced appetite and depressed behavior among others, Lubbers said.

If those signs are observed, the second stage of the plan might include bringing the calf into the chute for a closer inspection in which the person evaluating them could take their temperature, listen to their breathing through a stethoscope and perhaps run other tests.

“Whatever the protocol is, the important thing is that it is consistent across the operation,” Lubbers said. “That consistency will allow producers to monitor treatment outcomes in the best way.”

He added: “If the case definition is changing over time, then it will confound and confuse the assessment of treatment outcomes.”

Regarding treatment, Larson said ideally producers will want to have medicine at the ranch ahead of when sickness hits.

“We have a lot of effective treatment options for respiratory illness, so it is good to have those on hand and know the dose and route of administration for the products you will need to use when that sickness arises,” Larson said. “Most cattle will respond to treatment and show improvement. but some will not, so it is important to talk to the veterinarian ahead of time to plan that next step.”

Lubbers said this conversation also establishes the veterinary client patient relationship (VCPR) contract that is legally needed for producers to administer treatment to the animals without the veterinarian performing an exam first.

“Along with having a valid VCPR, producers will also need to keep an accurate record of when treatments were administered,” Lubbers said. “All products have a withdrawal time that must be adhered to and so we don’t want to send them on for sale or processing if they have residues in their systems.”

White agreed and said he recommends producers hold the calves on the property until they’ve cleared the withdrawal time.

“I don’t always know what happens to the calf once they leave my place so I always make sure the calves are out of the withdrawal time before they leave the ranch,” White said.

Lubbers also recommended that producers share those health records with the calf’s next owner.

Also, along with antibiotic treatment, Larson said it is important to include comfort care in the illness plan.

“A good nursing care plan includes offering the sick calves dry bedding to lay on, providing them palatable feed and moving them away from others in the herd so they don’t have to compete with their penmates,” Larson said. “Those attentions to detail are important in the recovery of that animal.”

To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/11/24/selecting-replacement-heifers-selling-calves-treating-sick-calves/" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701716288462.jpeg" alt="A comfort care plan can include offering dry bedding to the calves. KSRE Photo" />
 <figcaption>A comfort care plan can include offering dry bedding to the calves. KSRE Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By LISA MOSER K-State Research and Extension news serviceWalk into any kindergarten classroom in the middle of winter and you are bound to find a little person fighting off a cold. In much the same way, young calves are also prone to respiratory disease and pneumonia after they are weaned, say the veterinarians at the Kansas State Univeristy Beef Cattle Institute.Speaking on a recent Cattle Chat podcast, K-State veterinarians Brian Lubbers, Bob Larson and Brad White share why now is the time to stock the medicine cabinet and make a treatment plan with the local veterinarian so that producers are prepared when illness hits the herd.“That plan should include a case definition that would indicate when the animal would need treatment and what those steps would be,” Lubbers said.In the case of a respiratory illness in calves, some of those signs would be difficulty breathing and/or coughing, a reduced appetite and depressed behavior among others, Lubbers said.If those signs are observed, the second stage of the plan might include bringing the calf into the chute for a closer inspection in which the person evaluating them could take their temperature, listen to their breathing through a stethoscope and perhaps run other tests.“Whatever the protocol is, the important thing is that it is consistent across the operation,” Lubbers said. “That consistency will allow producers to monitor treatment outcomes in the best way.”He added: “If the case definition is changing over time, then it will confound and confuse the assessment of treatment outcomes.”Regarding treatment, Larson said ideally producers will want to have medicine at the ranch ahead of when sickness hits.“We have a lot of effective treatment options for respiratory illness, so it is good to have those on hand and know the dose and route of administration for the products you will need to use when that sickness arises,” Larson said. “Most cattle will respond to treatment and show improvement. but some will not, so it is important to talk to the veterinarian ahead of time to plan that next step.”Lubbers said this conversation also establishes the veterinary client patient relationship (VCPR) contract that is legally needed for producers to administer treatment to the animals without the veterinarian performing an exam first.“Along with having a valid VCPR, producers will also need to keep an accurate record of when treatments were administered,” Lubbers said. “All products have a withdrawal time that must be adhered to and so we don’t want to send them on for sale or processing if they have residues in their systems.”White agreed and said he recommends producers hold the calves on the property until they’ve cleared the withdrawal time.“I don’t always know what happens to the calf once they leave my place so I always make sure the calves are out of the withdrawal time before they leave the ranch,” White said.Lubbers also recommended that producers share those health records with the calf’s next owner.Also, along with antibiotic treatment, Larson said it is important to include comfort care in the illness plan.“A good nursing care plan includes offering the sick calves dry bedding to lay on, providing them palatable feed and moving them away from others in the herd so they don’t have to compete with their penmates,” Larson said. “Those attentions to detail are important in the recovery of that animal.”To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/11/24/selecting-replacement-heifers-selling-calves-treating-sick-calves/" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.

KSRE Cattle Chat: Creating a care plan, experts say it's time to make a treatment plan

On this episode of the King in the Community podcast, I visit with Salina Downtown Inc. Executive Director, Leslie Bishop about the exciting holiday events taking place in Downtown Salina this Dec.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info?pgid=lkiqvoca-f792d8e6-d36a-4e25-b93e-40c5f04086ad">Holiday Art Market</a> WHEN: Saturday, December 2, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. WHERE: The Salina Art Center Warehouse &nbsp; WHAT: Twenty-three artisans will have handmade, one-of-a-kind gifts for sale. You will be able to find something special for that special someone on your holiday gift list.

<a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info?pgid=lkiqvoca-7b87502d-7bad-4a12-a867-789bae68f230">Picture with Santa Claus</a> WHEN: Saturday, December 9,1:00pm-3:00pm WHERE: Campbell Plaza in Downtown Salina WHAT: Put on your best smile and get your pictures taken with Santa.&nbsp;

Get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and discover all the magical experiences waiting for you in Downtown Salina. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this episode is a must-listen-to make the most of the holiday season in Salina.&nbsp;

Stay up to date with all things Salina Downtown by <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info">visiting their website</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinadowntowninc">checking out their social media page.</a>&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Salina Downtown Executive Director Leslie Bishop shares holiday event information" 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=ebun3-14ec35b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostOn this episode of the King in the Community podcast, I visit with Salina Downtown Inc. Executive Director, Leslie Bishop about the exciting holiday events taking place in Downtown Salina this Dec.&nbsp;<h2>Upcoming Salina Downtown Holiday Events</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699044407548.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info?pgid=lkiqvoca-f792d8e6-d36a-4e25-b93e-40c5f04086ad">Holiday Art Market</a> WHEN: Saturday, December 2, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. WHERE: The Salina Art Center Warehouse &nbsp; WHAT: Twenty-three artisans will have handmade, one-of-a-kind gifts for sale. You will be able to find something special for that special someone on your holiday gift list.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699044750947.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info?pgid=lkiqvoca-7b87502d-7bad-4a12-a867-789bae68f230">Picture with Santa Claus</a> WHEN: Saturday, December 9,1:00pm-3:00pm WHERE: Campbell Plaza in Downtown Salina WHAT: Put on your best smile and get your pictures taken with Santa.&nbsp;Get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit and discover all the magical experiences waiting for you in Downtown Salina. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this episode is a must-listen-to make the most of the holiday season in Salina.&nbsp;Stay up to date with all things Salina Downtown by <a href="https://www.salinadowntown.org/events-info">visiting their website</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinadowntowninc">checking out their social media page.</a>&nbsp;

🎙Leslie Bishop shares details for Salina Downtown holiday events 

On this episode of King in the Community, we hear a Smoky Hill River renewal project update 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 area for visitors and citizens.

The Friends of the River recently opened a walking trail located near the Smoky Hill River.

"It's about an eight to 10-foot concrete trail that is in construction right now and we're going to have a grand opening on October 28, at 10 a.m. for anyone to come," Anderson said. "We will have a few booths, drawings for prizes, and you'll get to walk a half mile and see 'Oh, my goodness this is surprisingly beautiful.'"

Anderson, who has worked as executive director for the Friends of the River for eight years, said one of the key things she's learned through this project is to be patient.

"It's not my best quality, but the project will become such a grand, beautiful project, we all have come to the conclusion that it's worth waiting for," Anderson said.&nbsp;"It's taken a long time to get to this and people have been a little frustrated which I don't blame them. We've been frustrated too, but it's just the nature of it. I encourage the community to come help with the Fall Fix Up and come check out the new trail at the YMCA and help us celebrate the first real construction project of this Smoky Hill River renewal project."

Salina YMCA president and CEO, Angie Lassley, said the Salina YMCA has been partnered with the Friends of the River Foundation for two years.&nbsp;

"It shows that we are committed. My wish list is to be able to provide canoes and kayak rentals to the public once the Smoky Hill River Renewal project is completed," Lassley said. "We also will be expanding our outdoor programming to promote safety while on the water."&nbsp;

The costs for the project are listed below.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Total Project Costs:

Federal-------------------------------$13,705,000

Non- Federal&nbsp; City----------------------$7,610,000

TOTAL------------------------------$21,315,000

RAISE&nbsp; Transportation Grant

Federal----------------------------$22,112,620

Non-Federal City&nbsp; -------------------$10,532,070

Non-Federal Friends of the River ------- $ 4,025,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

TOTAL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $36,669,690

<div><iframe title="Jane Anderson, Update on Smoky Hill River Revilization Project" 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/?i=gcyfa-14b118a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>By NATE KING Salina PostOn this episode of King in the Community, we hear a Smoky Hill River renewal project update 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 area for visitors and citizens.The Friends of the River recently opened a walking trail located near the Smoky Hill River."It's about an eight to 10-foot concrete trail that is in construction right now and we're going to have a grand opening on October 28, at 10 a.m. for anyone to come," Anderson said. "We will have a few booths, drawings for prizes, and you'll get to walk a half mile and see 'Oh, my goodness this is surprisingly beautiful.'"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668136849216.png" alt="A view of the Smoky Hill River boardwalk near The Garage Car Museum. Project design renderings provided by the Friends of the River Foundation" />
 <figcaption>A view of the Smoky Hill River boardwalk near The Garage Car Museum. Project design renderings provided by the Friends of the River Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637207778298.jpeg" alt="Founders Park Project design renderings provided by the Friends of the River Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Founders Park Project design renderings provided by the Friends of the River Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>Anderson, who has worked as executive director for the Friends of the River for eight years, said one of the key things she's learned through this project is to be patient."It's not my best quality, but the project will become such a grand, beautiful project, we all have come to the conclusion that it's worth waiting for," Anderson said.&nbsp;"It's taken a long time to get to this and people have been a little frustrated which I don't blame them. We've been frustrated too, but it's just the nature of it. I encourage the community to come help with the Fall Fix Up and come check out the new trail at the YMCA and help us celebrate the first real construction project of this Smoky Hill River renewal project."Salina YMCA president and CEO, Angie Lassley, said the Salina YMCA has been partnered with the Friends of the River Foundation for two years.&nbsp;"It shows that we are committed. My wish list is to be able to provide canoes and kayak rentals to the public once the Smoky Hill River Renewal project is completed," Lassley said. "We also will be expanding our outdoor programming to promote safety while on the water."&nbsp;The costs for the project are listed below.U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Total Project Costs:Federal-------------------------------$13,705,000Non- Federal&nbsp; City----------------------$7,610,000TOTAL------------------------------$21,315,000RAISE&nbsp; Transportation GrantFederal----------------------------$22,112,620Non-Federal City&nbsp; -------------------$10,532,070Non-Federal Friends of the River ------- $ 4,025,000&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;TOTAL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; $36,669,690

PODCAST: Friends of the River Foundation

The story you know, the music you love — Theatre Salina hopes you find yourself feeling like you're not in Kansas anymore as it presents, "The Wizard of Oz"&nbsp;<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/tickets/">Nov. 17-30, Dec. 1-2, Dec.15-17.</a>

Join me on this episode of King in the Community where we get a behind-the-curtain look at the show from Musical Director and Theatre Salina Executive Director Michael Spicer.

Spicer said tickets are going fast. For ticket and showtime information check out <a href="https://salinatheatre.com/tickets/">Theatre Salina's website here</a>&nbsp;or call the box office at (785) 827-3033.

L. Frank Baum’s classic novel comes to life in&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz. This faithful adaptation by the Royal Shakespeare Company features all the most beloved songs and moments from the 1939 classic film, brought to life onstage. Young Dorothy Gale is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz. There, she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk, and things magical to behold. 

To find her way home, she must journey along the Yellow Brick Road to see the mysterious and all-powerful Wizard in Emerald City. Along the way, she makes new friends, but must also brave many dangers, including the Wicked Witch of the West, who will stop at nothing to get her hands on Dorothy’s magical ruby slippers. To make it home safely, Dorothy must learn an important lesson: there’s no place like home.

The Cast of Theatre Salina's "The Wizard of Oz"

Nikko/Commander of Monkeys – Erin Jeffreys

Lullaby League – Maggie Brown-Mereles**

<div><iframe title="Michael Spicer and Theatre Salina presents, ”The Wizard of Oz”" 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=cfqgw-14fe3d4-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostThe story you know, the music you love — Theatre Salina hopes you find yourself feeling like you're not in Kansas anymore as it presents, "The Wizard of Oz"&nbsp;<a href="https://salinatheatre.com/tickets/">Nov. 17-30, Dec. 1-2, Dec.15-17.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700246424271.png" alt="Image Courtesy Karen Bonar, Heartland Photography" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Karen Bonar, Heartland Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>Join me on this episode of King in the Community where we get a behind-the-curtain look at the show from Musical Director and Theatre Salina Executive Director Michael Spicer.Spicer said tickets are going fast. For ticket and showtime information check out <a href="https://salinatheatre.com/tickets/">Theatre Salina's website here</a>&nbsp;or call the box office at (785) 827-3033.<h2>About the "Wizard of Oz"</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700246521499.png" alt="Glinda the Good Witch and&nbsp;Gultch, the Wicked Witch of the West. Image Courtesy Karen Bonar, Heartland Photography" />
 <figcaption>Glinda the Good Witch and&nbsp;Gultch, the Wicked Witch of the West. Image Courtesy Karen Bonar, Heartland Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>L. Frank Baum’s classic novel comes to life in&nbsp;The Wizard of Oz. This faithful adaptation by the Royal Shakespeare Company features all the most beloved songs and moments from the 1939 classic film, brought to life onstage. Young Dorothy Gale is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz. There, she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk, and things magical to behold. To find her way home, she must journey along the Yellow Brick Road to see the mysterious and all-powerful Wizard in Emerald City. Along the way, she makes new friends, but must also brave many dangers, including the Wicked Witch of the West, who will stop at nothing to get her hands on Dorothy’s magical ruby slippers. To make it home safely, Dorothy must learn an important lesson: there’s no place like home.<h2>The Cast of Theatre Salina's "The Wizard of Oz"</h2>Dorothy – Grace Corman**Gultch/Wicked Witch – Vickee SpicerGlinda – Jill FrenchAunt Em – Callie HobkirkUncle Henry/Oz Guard – Zach SwansonProf. Marvel/Wizard – Bob JonesHunk/Scarecrow – Andrew GraberHickory/Tin Man – Aidan HeusmanZeke/Lion – Cathie NorrisNikko/Commander of Monkeys – Erin JeffreysWinkie General – Tommy FloresMunchkin LandLullaby League – Cali Smith**Lullaby League – Maggie Brown-Mereles**Lullaby League – Gabby Garber**Lollipop Guild – Mason Leonard**Lollipop Guild – Harlow HendrickLollipop Guild – Ollie Jeffreys**Mayor – Lily LeonardCoroner – Sloane Ryan*Barrister – Paige ShaftCity Father 1 – Amelia Lund*City Father 2 – Harper Riekhof*Fiddler – Molly Zuccarelli*EnsembleAddilyn JagodzinskeAlicia DeHaan**Callie HobkirkCamille GraberElias TorresElin ShaftEllie Riekhof*Guthrie Burch**Katie MorganKeira HoffmanKinsleigh ShowmanLarkin FrenchMara MondtMari Brown-MerelesOllie JeffreysOscar Sheforgen*Tara DuloheryTasha DeiserTommy FloresWilliam Howe*Theatre Salina DebutNarrative provided by Stage Agent

🎙  'The Wizard of Oz' comes back to Theatre Salina

On this episode of "King in the Community," I visit with Salina screenwriter, Ed Harlowe about the recent developments for a movie that will be filmed in Salina — "Fred."

Notably, Harlowe shares with me the "Hollywood A-List Celebrity" he wants to play Fred, a wise-cracking senior citizen who is caught in the throws of growing old. Harlowe also shares with us details about another screenplay he's working on, "Heartbreak City," a film that focuses on the life and death of a Hollywood actress most people have never heard of, Peg Entwistle.

Learn about Entwistle's tragic death, possible Salina filming locations, and more on this episode of King in the Community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Radio's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Radio news director, Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with interesting stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.

<div><iframe title="Ed Harlowe, Salina screenwriter" 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=vceuz-1501fc9-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostOn this episode of "King in the Community," I visit with Salina screenwriter, Ed Harlowe about the recent developments for a movie that will be filmed in Salina — "Fred."Notably, Harlowe shares with me the "Hollywood A-List Celebrity" he wants to play Fred, a wise-cracking senior citizen who is caught in the throws of growing old. Harlowe also shares with us details about another screenplay he's working on, "Heartbreak City," a film that focuses on the life and death of a Hollywood actress most people have never heard of, Peg Entwistle.Learn about Entwistle's tragic death, possible Salina filming locations, and more on this episode of King in the Community.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>More about King in the Community</h2>Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Radio's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;Join Eagle Radio news director, Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with interesting stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.<div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=25&filter=all&ss=bd7e1966baf59887e91906bcb18b9576&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>

King in the Community: Salina screenwriter, Ed Harlowe

By NATE KING Salina Post

On this episode of the King in the Community Podcast, Rafael Mendez, a Salina resident and member of the Leadership Kansas Board of Advisors, talks about the first Kansas Leadership session held in Salina.

Leadership Kansas is a statewide program that’s was created to enhance and motivate leaders from various Kansas communities.&nbsp; Kansans representing multiple occupations in the private, public, and non-profit sectors are nominated annually to apply for the program. Forty individuals are selected to participate in the program.

Leadership Kansas' mission is to provide a unique opportunity for these elected leaders to learn about many topics important to Kansans through seven monthly sessions held across the state. 

 "For us in Salina, this was the first time ever we were selected as an official session," Mendez said, "When you get to see from afar and up close, people who just give unselfishly to the Community, folks who lay it down, don't talk about how awesome they are, but they show it through the volunteering and the way that they pour their commitment into so many things in the Community. 

"It leaves a mark; it's been the biggest influence in my life as to why it's important for me to continue engaging the Community," Mendez said. "I wanted to showcase so many other folks in Salina, so many other companies in Salina and in the surrounding area, that do that and allow their workers to do that as well." 

In this episode of King in the Community, we discuss the exciting local stops the 2023 Kansas Leadership Class made here in Salina and some of the impressions and takeaways they had after their visit.

<div><iframe title="Rafael Mendez, Leadership Salina 2021 and Leadership Kansas 2022 graduate" 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/?i=5eved-14e028a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostOn this episode of the King in the Community Podcast, Rafael Mendez, a Salina resident and member of the Leadership Kansas Board of Advisors, talks about the first Kansas Leadership session held in Salina.Leadership Kansas is a statewide program that’s was created to enhance and motivate leaders from various Kansas communities.&nbsp; Kansans representing multiple occupations in the private, public, and non-profit sectors are nominated annually to apply for the program. Forty individuals are selected to participate in the program.Leadership Kansas' mission is to provide a unique opportunity for these elected leaders to learn about many topics important to Kansans through seven monthly sessions held across the state. "For us in Salina, this was the first time ever we were selected as an official session," Mendez said, "When you get to see from afar and up close, people who just give unselfishly to the Community, folks who lay it down, don't talk about how awesome they are, but they show it through the volunteering and the way that they pour their commitment into so many things in the Community. "It leaves a mark; it's been the biggest influence in my life as to why it's important for me to continue engaging the Community," Mendez said. "I wanted to showcase so many other folks in Salina, so many other companies in Salina and in the surrounding area, that do that and allow their workers to do that as well." In this episode of King in the Community, we discuss the exciting local stops the 2023 Kansas Leadership Class made here in Salina and some of the impressions and takeaways they had after their visit.

🎙King in the Community: Rafael Mendez, Leadership Kansas 2023 Class visits Salina

Since opening its doors in 1970, OCCK, Inc. has been facilitating partnerships and relationships with people who have disabilities, families, communities, businesses, social service agencies, and more. 

On this episode, I speak with OCCK President and CEO Shelia Nelson Stout about a wide array of topics including, what drew her to work at OCCK, the various local partnerships being formed with community stakeholders to expand in-home care services, and what OCCK is doing to increase access to mental health services in rural Kansas.

<div><iframe title="Shelia Nelson-Stout, OCCK President/CEO" 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=u6pip-14f3505-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By NATE KING Salina PostSince opening its doors in 1970, OCCK, Inc. has been facilitating partnerships and relationships with people who have disabilities, families, communities, businesses, social service agencies, and more. On this episode, I speak with OCCK President and CEO Shelia Nelson Stout about a wide array of topics including, what drew her to work at OCCK, the various local partnerships being formed with community stakeholders to expand in-home care services, and what OCCK is doing to increase access to mental health services in rural Kansas.<h2>More about King in the Community</h2>Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Radio's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;Join Eagle Radio news director, Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with interesting stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.<div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=25&filter=all&ss=bd7e1966baf59887e91906bcb18b9576&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

🎙King in the Community: OCCK President/CEO Shelia Nelson-Stout

K-State cattle nutritionist explains how corn stalk bales can be a feed resource

When eating a salad, imagine how it might taste if all there was to eat were the stems of the plant. Not very appealing, right?&nbsp;

Similarly, cattle that are offered corn stalk bales to eat in place of hay also often find that to be less palatable, said Phillip Lancaster, beef cattle nutritionist for the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute.

Speaking on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/11/10/sandhills-calving-corn-stalk-bales-mandatory-price-reporting/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast, Lancaster said there is an increase of corn stalks being baled as a feed resource this year because of the shortage of hay and the decrease in pastures available for fall grazing due to a lack of moisture.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700054298806.jpeg" alt="Corn stalk bales can be used for bedding or as a feed resource with supplementation." />
 <figcaption>Corn stalk bales can be used for bedding or as a feed resource with supplementation.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>K-State cattle nutritionist explains how corn stalk bales can be a feed resource</h2>By LISA MOSER KSREWhen eating a salad, imagine how it might taste if all there was to eat were the stems of the plant. Not very appealing, right?&nbsp;Similarly, cattle that are offered corn stalk bales to eat in place of hay also often find that to be less palatable, said Phillip Lancaster, beef cattle nutritionist for the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute.Speaking on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/11/10/sandhills-calving-corn-stalk-bales-mandatory-price-reporting/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast, Lancaster said there is an increase of corn stalks being baled as a feed resource this year because of the shortage of hay and the decrease in pastures available for fall grazing due to a lack of moisture.“Traditionally, grazing cattle in the late fall on harvested corn fields can be an option to extend the grazing season because cattle can eat the husks and leaves, which have a decent nutritional value,” Lancaster said. “However, this year farmers are baling up the corn stalks after they’ve harvested the crop, which leaves only the stalks that are lignified and indigestible.”He said that when cattle are offered a corn stalk bale, they will consume the resource at a higher proportion of stalks than they would if they were just grazing the field.“Producers feeding those bales will have quite a bit of wastage unless they grind them and add them to a mixed ration,” Lancaster said.For producers who need to use this as a feed resource, Lancaster said they need to supplement the cattle with protein.He added: “For cows going into their third trimester this winter, their maintenance requirements are higher so along with protein they will also need to be supplemented with energy as well.”Additionally, there is a potential health concern with bales that were made from a failed corn crop when fed to the cattle, Lancaster said.“If nitrogen fertilizer was put on the crop in the spring and then it failed, the plant may still be holding that nitrogen,” Lancaster said.In that case, producers will need to test the bales for nitrates, according to Lancaster.To hear the full discussion, listen to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/11/10/sandhills-calving-corn-stalk-bales-mandatory-price-reporting/">Cattle Chat</a>podcast online or through your preferred streaming platform.