<b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i>

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.

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="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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>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. </p><p>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.</p><h2>More about King in the Community</h2><p>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;</p><p>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.</p><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.

“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.

<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><p><b>By LISA MOSER</b><br><i>KSRE</i></p><p>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;</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.”</p><p>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.</p><p>“Producers feeding those bales will have quite a bit of wastage unless they grind them and add them to a mixed ration,” Lancaster said.</p><p>For producers who need to use this as a feed resource, Lancaster said they need to supplement the cattle with protein.</p><p>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.”</p><p>Additionally, there is a potential health concern with bales that were made from a failed corn crop when fed to the cattle, Lancaster said.</p><p>“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.</p><p>In that case, producers will need to test the bales for nitrates, according to Lancaster.</p><p>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.</p>

Cattle Chat: Feeding corn stalk bales

Redmond says knowing weather forecasts can help reduce risk during winter weather

If there’s a buzzword for winter that Chip Redmond subscribes to, it would certainly be safety.

As a climatologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/">Kansas Mesonet</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, Redmond understands the many risks of winter weather.

“The most obvious may be the cold,” Redmond said. “It’s definitely a time to start pulling out the warmer stuff; the thermals, the overalls…we really need to become conscious about how many layers we put on in anticipation that the weather can change pretty rapidly this time of year.”

<b>Listen to the interview by Jeff Wichman with Chip Redmond on the weekly radio podcast, "Sound Living"</b>

Morning temperatures, he said, can be quite chilly, but temperatures in the Midwest and other parts of the country often can warm nicely in the afternoon, before cooling again at sunset. Layering helps to protect during daily weather variations, Redmond said.

He also suggests a warm hat or stocking cap; mittens or gloves; and footwear that provides warmth and traction.

“There is usually an increase in slides or falling accidents this time of year when we get snow,” he said. “I suggest minimizing your outside time during slippery periods, or least have the proper footwear and avoid areas where ice might build up. Sometimes it’s easier to walk on grass than the sidewalk.”

Additional safety tips as winter weather approaches include:

“As much as I don’t want to admit it, I’m not as young as I was yesterday,” Redmond said. “It takes a toll when we put our bodies under the stress of shoveling snow, especially wet, heavy snow that can be very physically demanding. That has been a leading cause of injuries and even death due to heart attacks. Be vigilant in what your body is capable of.”

Redmond suggests asking friends, family, neighbors for help; removing snow in a way that doesn’t require picking it up and throwing it; or using a snowblower.

“Travel can be a challenge any time of year, but it becomes much more of a challenge in winter because conditions change quickly over short distances,” Redmond said.

He advises travelers to always check weather forecasts for their current location, their destination – and points in between.

“There are some apps available that will give you weather by the road (you’re traveling),” said Redmond, who suggest the U.S. government website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>, for reliable, up-to-date forecasts across the country.

In Kansas, the Kansas Department of Transportation maintains a website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/">www.kandrive.org</a>, that includes forecasts, road conditions, live cameras, road closures, and more.

Redmond said if a car’s tires are worn, get new one’s put on immediately. And, he says,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before" target="_blank">keep a winter preparedness kit in the car</a>&nbsp;that includes such items as blankets, flashlight, cell phone charger, water, radio, dry food and other items to help you weather the elements in case of a breakdown.

When storms are imminent, “don’t travel,” he said. “Make the smart decision to not go out there.”

“A lot of people in Kansas think that frozen ponds are pretty and they’re fun to walk on,” Redmond said. “But there’s very rarely every a pond or a lake that’s truly safe to walk on. To support a person’s weight, you need a lot of ice. To keep that ice frozen, we rarely see those weather conditions align because we still get warmer temperatures in the winter, and enough sun to melt the ice during the afternoon.”

Redmond recently spoke in depth about winter preparedness and safety on the weekly radio program, Sound Living, produced by K-State Research and Extension. Listen to the full program online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.soundlivingpodcast.net/">www.soundlivingpodcast.net</a>.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699644995081.jpeg" alt="When removing snow this winter, consider ways that don't require picking it up and throwing it, says K-State climatologist Chip Redmond. <b>Image Courtesy KSRE</b>" />
                        <figcaption>When removing snow this winter, consider ways that don't require picking it up and throwing it, says K-State climatologist Chip Redmond. <b>Image Courtesy KSRE</b></figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Redmond says knowing weather forecasts can help reduce risk during winter weather</h2><p><b>By PAT MELGARES</b><br><i>KSRE</i></p><p>If there’s a buzzword for winter that Chip Redmond subscribes to, it would certainly be safety.</p><p>As a climatologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/">Kansas Mesonet</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, Redmond understands the many risks of winter weather.</p><p>“The most obvious may be the cold,” Redmond said. “It’s definitely a time to start pulling out the warmer stuff; the thermals, the overalls…we really need to become conscious about how many layers we put on in anticipation that the weather can change pretty rapidly this time of year.”</p><div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/rILiJziq-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Sl-110323l" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><p><b>Listen to the interview by Jeff Wichman with Chip Redmond on the weekly radio podcast, "Sound Living"</b></p><p>Morning temperatures, he said, can be quite chilly, but temperatures in the Midwest and other parts of the country often can warm nicely in the afternoon, before cooling again at sunset. Layering helps to protect during daily weather variations, Redmond said.</p><p>He also suggests a warm hat or stocking cap; mittens or gloves; and footwear that provides warmth and traction.</p><p>“There is usually an increase in slides or falling accidents this time of year when we get snow,” he said. “I suggest minimizing your outside time during slippery periods, or least have the proper footwear and avoid areas where ice might build up. Sometimes it’s easier to walk on grass than the sidewalk.”</p><p>Additional safety tips as winter weather approaches include:</p><h2>Removing snow</h2><p>“As much as I don’t want to admit it, I’m not as young as I was yesterday,” Redmond said. “It takes a toll when we put our bodies under the stress of shoveling snow, especially wet, heavy snow that can be very physically demanding. That has been a leading cause of injuries and even death due to heart attacks. Be vigilant in what your body is capable of.”</p><p>Redmond suggests asking friends, family, neighbors for help; removing snow in a way that doesn’t require picking it up and throwing it; or using a snowblower.</p><h2>Winter travel</h2><p>“Travel can be a challenge any time of year, but it becomes much more of a challenge in winter because conditions change quickly over short distances,” Redmond said.</p><p>He advises travelers to always check weather forecasts for their current location, their destination – and points in between.</p><p>“There are some apps available that will give you weather by the road (you’re traveling),” said Redmond, who suggest the U.S. government website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>, for reliable, up-to-date forecasts across the country.</p><p>In Kansas, the Kansas Department of Transportation maintains a website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/">www.kandrive.org</a>, that includes forecasts, road conditions, live cameras, road closures, and more.</p><p>Redmond said if a car’s tires are worn, get new one’s put on immediately. And, he says,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-before" target="_blank">keep a winter preparedness kit in the car</a>&nbsp;that includes such items as blankets, flashlight, cell phone charger, water, radio, dry food and other items to help you weather the elements in case of a breakdown.</p><p>When storms are imminent, “don’t travel,” he said. “Make the smart decision to not go out there.”</p><h2>Stay off frozen waterways</h2><p>“A lot of people in Kansas think that frozen ponds are pretty and they’re fun to walk on,” Redmond said. “But there’s very rarely every a pond or a lake that’s truly safe to walk on. To support a person’s weight, you need a lot of ice. To keep that ice frozen, we rarely see those weather conditions align because we still get warmer temperatures in the winter, and enough sun to melt the ice during the afternoon.”</p><p>Redmond recently spoke in depth about winter preparedness and safety on the weekly radio program, Sound Living, produced by K-State Research and Extension. Listen to the full program online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.soundlivingpodcast.net/">www.soundlivingpodcast.net</a>.</p>

Winter prep? Think safety first, says K-State climatologist

It may not be a presidential election year but plenty of local municipal general races in Saline County will be decided in the Nov. 7 General Election. Saline County Clerk Jamie Doss talks to Nate King about upcoming deadlines and things to know for the 2023 Election.&nbsp;

"In a November of an even year election, we're at about 62 to 65% for voter turnout," Doss said. "In this city school election, we run somewhere between 18 and 22% for voter turnout. Local elections are hugely important, all elections are important, but this one hits you at a local level in your daily life."

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Advanced voting begins in Kansas on Wednesday, Oct. 18 during regular courthouse business hours.

The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 8 p.m. You can check your voter registration via the Kansas Secretary of State <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview/">MyVoterView website here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Saline County Clerk, Jamie Doss, 2023 Election Information" 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=35ite-14d1e71-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>It may not be a presidential election year but plenty of local municipal general races in Saline County will be decided in the Nov. 7 General Election. Saline County Clerk Jamie Doss talks to Nate King about upcoming deadlines and things to know for the 2023 Election.&nbsp;</p><p>"In a November of an even year election, we're at about 62 to 65% for voter turnout," Doss said. "In this city school election, we run somewhere between 18 and 22% for voter turnout. Local elections are hugely important, all elections are important, but this one hits you at a local level in your daily life."</p><p>Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Advanced voting begins in Kansas on Wednesday, Oct. 18 during regular courthouse business hours.</p><p>The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 8 p.m. You can check your voter registration via the Kansas Secretary of State <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview/">MyVoterView website here.</a></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697228353342.png" alt="Saline County Election 2023 Calendar Image&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Saline County Election 2023 Calendar Image&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure>

2023 Election Podcast: Saline County Clerk, Jamie Doss 

In this episode, I chat with the Saline County Clerk, Jamie Doss about the revenue-neutral rate and upcoming presidential preference primary.&nbsp;

Doss walks me through the letters that have been sent out regarding taxing entities in Saline 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.

Check your Voter Registration: <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView</a>

<div><iframe title="Jamie Doss, Saline County Clerk" 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=twbrt-1485261-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>In this episode, I chat with the Saline County Clerk, Jamie Doss about the revenue-neutral rate and upcoming presidential preference primary.&nbsp;</p><p>Doss walks me through the letters that have been sent out regarding taxing entities in Saline 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.</p><p>Check your Voter Registration: <a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView</a></p>

🎙Saline County Clerk explains revenue neutral rate

On this episode of King in the Community, Nate King has his monthly conversation with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage. 

Topics discussed in this episode include:

An update on the pickleball court project and when we can expect to play on the courts. 

● The Smoky Hill River Renewal Project.

 ● The role of the Law Enforcement Citizen's Review Board. 

●&nbsp;Community interest in restructuring the city commission into districts as opposed to the current at-large structure

● The Salina Animal Services study session that took place in Sept.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Salina City Manager, Mike Schrage" 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=w4i9g-14c1a1a-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><p><b>By SALINA POST</b></p><p>On this episode of King in the Community, Nate King has his monthly conversation with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage. </p><p>Topics discussed in this episode include:</p><p>An update on the pickleball court project and when we can expect to play on the courts. </p><p>● The Smoky Hill River Renewal Project.</p><p> ● The role of the Law Enforcement Citizen's Review Board. </p><p>●&nbsp;Community interest in restructuring the city commission into districts as opposed to the current at-large structure</p><p>● The Salina Animal Services study session that took place in Sept.&nbsp;</p><p>● Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair</p>

🎙King in the Community, Salina City Manager Mike Schrage

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 the TEEN-TOBER campaign focussed on engaging teens in the community.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

Zey will be a regular guest on the podcast to give us updates on events and programs at the Salina Public Library.&nbsp;

For more information go to&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/">https://salinapubliclibrary.org/</a>

<div><iframe title="Katie Zey, Salina Public Library" 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=dqdvc-149b930-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>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 the TEEN-TOBER campaign focussed on engaging teens in the community.&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>"There is always something to do at the Library," Zey said.&nbsp;</p><p>Zey will be a regular guest on the podcast to give us updates on events and programs at the Salina Public Library.&nbsp;</p><p>For more information go to&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapubliclibrary.org/">https://salinapubliclibrary.org/</a></p>

🎙King in the Community: Katie Zey, Salina Public Library

<b><br></b><b><br></b>By NATE KING<br><i>Salina Post</i>

On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down with Michelle Weis, executive director of the Saline County Emergency Management Department, to discuss the department's plan for preparedness.

This year, the department will take a new approach to its emergency training, utilizing a Dungeons and Dragons dice-rolling system to create unique and random scenarios.&nbsp;

The emergency management department will host an emergency exercise using the dice-rolling system on Oct. 19.

<div><iframe title="Michelle Weis, Saline County Emergency Management" 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=kjcud-14b6eb5-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><p><b><br></b><b><br></b>By NATE KING<br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down with Michelle Weis, executive director of the Saline County Emergency Management Department, to discuss the department's plan for preparedness.</p><p>This year, the department will take a new approach to its emergency training, utilizing a Dungeons and Dragons dice-rolling system to create unique and random scenarios.&nbsp;</p><p>The emergency management department will host an emergency exercise using the dice-rolling system on Oct. 19.</p>

PODCAST: Michelle Weis helps prepare Saline County with emergency exercises

In this episode of King in the Community, I spoke with Esther Kency, Director of Crisis Services at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ckmhc.org/" target="_blank">Central Kansas Mental Health Center</a>&nbsp;(CKMHC), and Megan Willis, mental health first aid youth coordinator for CKMHC.

Our discussion centered around the 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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/take-a-course/what-you-learn/" target="_blank">Mental Health First Aid</a>&nbsp;trainings that empower individuals to respond effectively to someone experiencing a mental health crisis.

Suicide is a heavy topic that most people do their best to avoid.&nbsp;<a href="https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/" target="_blank">However, research shows that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way.</a>

"It's a hard topic for a lot of people to talk about, because for so many years it was against the law to commit suicide," Willis said. "It's against a lot of people's culture and their religion."

When it comes to discussing suicide, Willis said that changing our language is a significant part of changing our attitudes toward mental health.&nbsp;

" The word 'committing', When we are saying that someone might be 'committing suicide', we are attaching an even bigger stigma because we say that people commit fraud, commit abuse, commit robbery, larceny, all of those things are being committed, and there is a very negative perspective on those things. Our big goal is to reduce the stigma and get more people talking about it."&nbsp;

Kency stressed the significance of CKMHC's collaborative efforts and partnerships with law enforcement and rural communities.

"We are fortunate we have a great working relationship with our local law enforcement and they have been amazing to work with and we actually have an opening for another co-responder position that we are trying to hire for just to branch out that program," Kency said. "We also have a mobile crisis program that we are working on, where instead of everyone having to come to us when they're in crisis, we are able to go out with a clinician and a case manager."&nbsp;

The upcoming Mental Health First Aid training will equip participants with essential skills to respond to individuals in a mental health crisis. The Mental Health First Aid training is an eight-hour session covering topics such as risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for assisting individuals in crisis and non-crisis situations, and guidance on where to seek help.

"You are valued, you are important. Your life means so much, and you are loved," Willis said. "You are loved by people who probably don't even know you, and reach out to somebody, talk to someone, give somebody else the chance to be there for you."

Our conversation covers misconceptions and stigmas surrounding suicide and mental health. Kency and Willis also share their experiences and insights on effectively supporting individuals struggling with mental health issues and how to foster effective communication with them.

<div><iframe title="Central Kansas Mental Health Center, Suicide Prevention Month" 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=kvd5f-14a5b2c-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>In this episode of King in the Community, I spoke with Esther Kency, Director of Crisis Services at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ckmhc.org/" target="_blank">Central Kansas Mental Health Center</a>&nbsp;(CKMHC), and Megan Willis, mental health first aid youth coordinator for CKMHC.</p><p>Our discussion centered around the 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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/take-a-course/what-you-learn/" target="_blank">Mental Health First Aid</a>&nbsp;trainings that empower individuals to respond effectively to someone experiencing a mental health crisis.</p><p>Suicide is a heavy topic that most people do their best to avoid.&nbsp;<a href="https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/" target="_blank">However, research shows that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way.</a></p><p>"It's a hard topic for a lot of people to talk about, because for so many years it was against the law to commit suicide," Willis said. "It's against a lot of people's culture and their religion."</p><p>When it comes to discussing suicide, Willis said that changing our language is a significant part of changing our attitudes toward mental health.&nbsp;</p><p>" The word 'committing', When we are saying that someone might be 'committing suicide', we are attaching an even bigger stigma because we say that people commit fraud, commit abuse, commit robbery, larceny, all of those things are being committed, and there is a very negative perspective on those things. Our big goal is to reduce the stigma and get more people talking about it."&nbsp;</p><p>Kency stressed the significance of CKMHC's collaborative efforts and partnerships with law enforcement and rural communities.</p><p>"We are fortunate we have a great working relationship with our local law enforcement and they have been amazing to work with and we actually have an opening for another co-responder position that we are trying to hire for just to branch out that program," Kency said. "We also have a mobile crisis program that we are working on, where instead of everyone having to come to us when they're in crisis, we are able to go out with a clinician and a case manager."&nbsp;</p><p>The upcoming Mental Health First Aid training will equip participants with essential skills to respond to individuals in a mental health crisis. The Mental Health First Aid training is an eight-hour session covering topics such as risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns, strategies for assisting individuals in crisis and non-crisis situations, and guidance on where to seek help.</p><p>"You are valued, you are important. Your life means so much, and you are loved," Willis said. "You are loved by people who probably don't even know you, and reach out to somebody, talk to someone, give somebody else the chance to be there for you."</p><p>Our conversation covers misconceptions and stigmas surrounding suicide and mental health. Kency and Willis also share their experiences and insights on effectively supporting individuals struggling with mental health issues and how to foster effective communication with them.</p>

PODCAST: Central Kansas Mental Health Center, Suicide Prevention Month

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.&nbsp;

On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down for a conversation with Jason Graves, Horticulture Agent for <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/">K-State Research and Extension- Central District.</a>&nbsp;

Graves shares with us tips on how to build a compost pile, K-State Research and Extension resources for perfecting your lawn, the importance of PH soil levels when growing trees, the unique Kansas Climate, and what is included in the word "horticulture."

For more information regarding lawns and gardens from K-State Research Extension<a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/"> click here.&nbsp;</a>

<div><iframe title="Jason Graves, Horticulture Agent, K-State Research Extension" 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=sfqiv-148a5c8-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>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?</p><p>K-State Research and Extension has the answers.&nbsp;</p><p>On this episode of King in the Community, I sit down for a conversation with Jason Graves, Horticulture Agent for <a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/">K-State Research and Extension- Central District.</a>&nbsp;</p><p>Graves shares with us tips on how to build a compost pile, K-State Research and Extension resources for perfecting your lawn, the importance of PH soil levels when growing trees, the unique Kansas Climate, and what is included in the word "horticulture."</p><p>For more information regarding lawns and gardens from K-State Research Extension<a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/"> click here.&nbsp;</a></p>

🎙PODCAST: KSRE Horticulturist Jason Graves, preparing your lawn for fall

In this first episode of our monthly series with Saline County Administrator, Phil Smith-Hanes, we discuss Saline County's innovative uses of Federal COVID-19 ARPA funds, the soon-to-be-completed Saline County Jail, and the duties and responsibilities of the county administrator.&nbsp;

Learn about what led, Phil, a Kansas native, to pursue a career in local government and hear him express why it is a great time to be a resident of Saline County.

"I grew up in a really small town in south-central Kansas about an hour from Salina and I always felt like, community was just sort of a really big part of my life," Smith-Hanes said.

"I think to the extent possible, we need to make sure that we're serving the common interests and the common good of the community and looking forward to that kind of a future. So it's a really neat time to be in Saline County. We've had so many different economic development announcements and major projects that have been announced in the four years that I've been in the community. It's really great to see," Smith-Hanes said.&nbsp;

Check out the King in the Community podcast library to stay informed, engaged, and connected with your community.

<div><iframe title="Phil Smith-Haines, Saline County Administrator" 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=hxjbr-14adf5b-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><p><b>By SALINA POST</b></p><p>In this first episode of our monthly series with Saline County Administrator, Phil Smith-Hanes, we discuss Saline County's innovative uses of Federal COVID-19 ARPA funds, the soon-to-be-completed Saline County Jail, and the duties and responsibilities of the county administrator.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695221351517.jpeg" alt="Phillip Smith-Hanes, Saline County Administrator&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>Phillip Smith-Hanes, Saline County Administrator&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Learn about what led, Phil, a Kansas native, to pursue a career in local government and hear him express why it is a great time to be a resident of Saline County.</p><p>"I grew up in a really small town in south-central Kansas about an hour from Salina and I always felt like, community was just sort of a really big part of my life," Smith-Hanes said.</p><p>"I think to the extent possible, we need to make sure that we're serving the common interests and the common good of the community and looking forward to that kind of a future. So it's a really neat time to be in Saline County. We've had so many different economic development announcements and major projects that have been announced in the four years that I've been in the community. It's really great to see," Smith-Hanes said.&nbsp;</p><p>Check out the King in the Community podcast library to stay informed, engaged, and connected with your community.</p><div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=1b1b1b&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>

PODCAST: Phil Smith-Hanes, Saline County Administrator

<i>On this episode of King in the Community, Mike Peterson, executive director for the Community Housing Development Corporation of Central Kansas, discusses the Saline County&nbsp;Weatherization Assistance Program.</i>

<div><iframe title="Mike Peterson, Community Housing Development" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=dh677-13e593f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of King in the Community, Mike Peterson, executive director for the Community Housing Development Corporation of Central Kansas, discusses the Saline County&nbsp;Weatherization Assistance Program.</i></p>

🎙King in the Community: Housing nonprofit helps weatherize homes

K-State cattle experts share management options for open and pregnant cows

When making an important decision, many people prefer to gather as much information as they can to make the most informed choice possible.

For cow-calf producers, knowing the pregnancy status of the cows is important information to have as they decide which animals they are going to keep and which ones they are going to sell, according to the experts at Kansas State Univeristy’s Beef Cattle Institute. This was the topic for a recent discussion on the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/09/15/research-heat-impacts-goals-with-pregnancy-checking-how-to-best-handle-heat-stress/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast.

“As forage availability becomes more limited, pregnancy checking in the first 60 to 90 days of gestation allows producers to make the culling decision sooner rather than later, and that helps keep the feed costs down,” said AJ Tarpoff, K-State Research and Extension beef cattle veterinarian.

Along with knowing if they are pregnant or open (not pregnant), K-State veterinarian Bob Larson also stresses the importance of knowing when the cows are conceived.

“I want as many cows as possible to get pregnant in the first 21 days of the breeding season because they will raise the biggest calves to sell at weaning,” Larson said. He also shared that the cows that calve early are more likely to resume their heat cycles on time for the next breeding season.

Another benefit of bringing the cows off the pasture for pregnancy checking is that producers can also evaluate the body condition of the cows, said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.

“Body condition scoring the cows at weaning allows producers to make decisions about how to manage the cows nutritionally ahead of the calving season,” Lancaster said. “At the start of the calving season, mature cows should be at a body condition score between five and six and first calf heifers should be at a body condition score of six.”

If the cows are thin at weaning, there is still time for them to add weight ahead of calving, Lancaster said.

“It is a lot cheaper and easier to put weight on the thin cows going through the fall than in the winter when bad weather can make it a challenge for them to overcome the additional maintenance requirements,” Lancaster said.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695139687382.jpeg" alt="Body condition is one factor that can be evaluated when the cows are pregnancy-checked. <b>KSRE Photo&nbsp;</b>" />
                        <figcaption>Body condition is one factor that can be evaluated when the cows are pregnancy-checked. <b>KSRE Photo&nbsp;</b></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By LISA MOSER</b><br><i>KSRE</i></p><h2>K-State cattle experts share management options for open and pregnant cows</h2><p>When making an important decision, many people prefer to gather as much information as they can to make the most informed choice possible.</p><p>For cow-calf producers, knowing the pregnancy status of the cows is important information to have as they decide which animals they are going to keep and which ones they are going to sell, according to the experts at Kansas State Univeristy’s Beef Cattle Institute. This was the topic for a recent discussion on the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/09/15/research-heat-impacts-goals-with-pregnancy-checking-how-to-best-handle-heat-stress/">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast.</p><p>“As forage availability becomes more limited, pregnancy checking in the first 60 to 90 days of gestation allows producers to make the culling decision sooner rather than later, and that helps keep the feed costs down,” said AJ Tarpoff, K-State Research and Extension beef cattle veterinarian.</p><p>Along with knowing if they are pregnant or open (not pregnant), K-State veterinarian Bob Larson also stresses the importance of knowing when the cows are conceived.</p><p>“I want as many cows as possible to get pregnant in the first 21 days of the breeding season because they will raise the biggest calves to sell at weaning,” Larson said. He also shared that the cows that calve early are more likely to resume their heat cycles on time for the next breeding season.</p><p>Another benefit of bringing the cows off the pasture for pregnancy checking is that producers can also evaluate the body condition of the cows, said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.</p><p>“Body condition scoring the cows at weaning allows producers to make decisions about how to manage the cows nutritionally ahead of the calving season,” Lancaster said. “At the start of the calving season, mature cows should be at a body condition score between five and six and first calf heifers should be at a body condition score of six.”</p><p>If the cows are thin at weaning, there is still time for them to add weight ahead of calving, Lancaster said.</p><p>“It is a lot cheaper and easier to put weight on the thin cows going through the fall than in the winter when bad weather can make it a challenge for them to overcome the additional maintenance requirements,” Lancaster said.</p>

Cattle Chat: Reasons to check for pregnancy

On this episode, I hear from LaNay Meier, of Salina, about her newly published book titled, "The Feelings Umbrella." Meier is holding a book-read event at Ad Astra Coffee House in Salina on September 16 at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp;

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 shares her own insights on how parenting has evolved over the years, her inspiration for creating the book, and the importance of teaching children about emotions in a fun and engaging way.

Mark your calendars, on Sept. 16 for an event that promises to be a lot of fun and a great opportunity to meet a local children's book author.&nbsp;

If you are interested in purchasing a copy of "The Feelings Umbrella"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&amp;rh=p_27%3ALaNay+Meier&amp;s=relevancerank&amp;text=LaNay+Meier&amp;ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1"> click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="LaNay Meier, Author of ”The Feelings Umbrella”" 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=76qb9-14a28f8-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>On this episode, I hear from LaNay Meier, of Salina, about her newly published book titled, "The Feelings Umbrella." Meier is holding a book-read event at Ad Astra Coffee House in Salina on September 16 at 2:00 p.m.&nbsp;</p><p>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."</p><p>During our conversation, Meier shares her own insights on how parenting has evolved over the years, her inspiration for creating the book, and the importance of teaching children about emotions in a fun and engaging way.</p><p>Mark your calendars, on Sept. 16 for an event that promises to be a lot of fun and a great opportunity to meet a local children's book author.&nbsp;</p><p>If you are interested in purchasing a copy of "The Feelings Umbrella"<a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&amp;rh=p_27%3ALaNay+Meier&amp;s=relevancerank&amp;text=LaNay+Meier&amp;ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1"> click here.</a></p>

🎙King in the Community: LaNay Meier, author of "The Feelings Umbrella"

K-State cattle experts offer tips on how to make this choice

When making a big life decision, many people turn to making a pros and cons list to help them logically work through the process.

In agriculture, that often leads to creating a spreadsheet to calculate costs, depreciation and potential for a return on the investment, say cattle experts at Kansas State University.

One of the decisions that many cow-calf producers face at fall weaning is determining which heifers to keep and which ones to sell. This was the topic of a&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/09/08/replacement-heifers-feeding-soybean-hay-what-is-compounding/" target="_blank">recent Cattle Chat podcast</a>, produced through the Beef Cattle Institute at K-State.

“Every operation is going to be a little different, but when deciding whether to keep or sell replacement heifers, producers need to assess if they have the labor and resources available to raise them,” said Dustin Pendell, K-State agricultural economist.

Along with that, K-State veterinarian Brian Lubbers said the current market price is also a factor worth considering.

“Calf prices are high right now and so that makes the opportunity cost really high,” Lubbers said. “If you are thinking about contracting the herd a little bit, now might be a good time to sell a few extra calves.”

For those who prefer to raise their replacement heifers, K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said he prioritizes keeping heifers that give him the best odds of success.

“The best bet heifers that have the highest likelihood of being a long-term cow are ones that were born early in the calving season to a dam that has a good disposition and high genetic quality and are daughters of a quality sire,” Larson said. “I need her to be born early because she will be the most likely to get pregnant early and stay in the herd a long time.”

Even if the heifer meets the genetic and temperament criteria, Larson said if she was born late in the calving season she falls to his sell-list.

When thinking about resources, the experts agree that it is important to think about the amount of weight the heifers need to gain between weaning and breeding.

“Depending on the mature size of the cowherd, most heifers will need to gain 300 pounds between weaning and breeding,” said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.

He recommends producers calculate the expected daily gain and compare that to what feed resources are available.

“In some parts of the country, there aren’t ample feed supplies to carry cattle through the winter. In that case, producers may need to sell the heifers and look to buy bred heifers and cows in the spring and summer after this time of limited feed resources has passed,” Lancaster said.

K-State veterinarian Brad White encouraged producers to start thinking now about their management plan for the fall.

“You need to pencil it out because keeping this year’s heifers is going to make them be more expensive cows as compared to other years,” White said. “Producers need to dive into the spreadsheets now to calculate the right number of heifers to keep before running the cattle through the chutes at weaning.”

To hear the full discussion,&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/09/08/replacement-heifers-feeding-soybean-hay-what-is-compounding/" target="_blank">listen to the Cattle Chat podcast</a>&nbsp;online or through your preferred streaming platform.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694524356937.jpeg" alt="Fall weaning is the time when some producers make keep/sell decisions for the herd. <b>Photo Courtesy KSRE</b>" />
                        <figcaption>Fall weaning is the time when some producers make keep/sell decisions for the herd. <b>Photo Courtesy KSRE</b></figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>K-State cattle experts offer tips on how to make this choice</h2><p><b>By LISA MOSER</b><br>KSRE</p><p>When making a big life decision, many people turn to making a pros and cons list to help them logically work through the process.</p><p>In agriculture, that often leads to creating a spreadsheet to calculate costs, depreciation and potential for a return on the investment, say cattle experts at Kansas State University.</p><p>One of the decisions that many cow-calf producers face at fall weaning is determining which heifers to keep and which ones to sell. This was the topic of a&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/09/08/replacement-heifers-feeding-soybean-hay-what-is-compounding/" target="_blank">recent Cattle Chat podcast</a>, produced through the Beef Cattle Institute at K-State.</p><p>“Every operation is going to be a little different, but when deciding whether to keep or sell replacement heifers, producers need to assess if they have the labor and resources available to raise them,” said Dustin Pendell, K-State agricultural economist.</p><p>Along with that, K-State veterinarian Brian Lubbers said the current market price is also a factor worth considering.</p><p>“Calf prices are high right now and so that makes the opportunity cost really high,” Lubbers said. “If you are thinking about contracting the herd a little bit, now might be a good time to sell a few extra calves.”</p><p>For those who prefer to raise their replacement heifers, K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said he prioritizes keeping heifers that give him the best odds of success.</p><p>“The best bet heifers that have the highest likelihood of being a long-term cow are ones that were born early in the calving season to a dam that has a good disposition and high genetic quality and are daughters of a quality sire,” Larson said. “I need her to be born early because she will be the most likely to get pregnant early and stay in the herd a long time.”</p><p>Even if the heifer meets the genetic and temperament criteria, Larson said if she was born late in the calving season she falls to his sell-list.</p><p>When thinking about resources, the experts agree that it is important to think about the amount of weight the heifers need to gain between weaning and breeding.</p><p>“Depending on the mature size of the cowherd, most heifers will need to gain 300 pounds between weaning and breeding,” said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.</p><p>He recommends producers calculate the expected daily gain and compare that to what feed resources are available.</p><p>“In some parts of the country, there aren’t ample feed supplies to carry cattle through the winter. In that case, producers may need to sell the heifers and look to buy bred heifers and cows in the spring and summer after this time of limited feed resources has passed,” Lancaster said.</p><p>K-State veterinarian Brad White encouraged producers to start thinking now about their management plan for the fall.</p><p>“You need to pencil it out because keeping this year’s heifers is going to make them be more expensive cows as compared to other years,” White said. “Producers need to dive into the spreadsheets now to calculate the right number of heifers to keep before running the cattle through the chutes at weaning.”</p><p>To hear the full discussion,&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2023/09/08/replacement-heifers-feeding-soybean-hay-what-is-compounding/" target="_blank">listen to the Cattle Chat podcast</a>&nbsp;online or through your preferred streaming platform.</p>

Cattle Chat: Deciding to keep or sell heifers

<b>By NATE KING<br></b><i>Salina Post</i>

The Salina Fire Department has announced that the second annual Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and Family Fun Walk will take place next month at Kansas Wesleyan University.

Salina Fire Chief Tony Sneidar said although planning for the climb last year was on a time crunch, there was still great support for the event.&nbsp;

"At last year's inaugural event we had some great support," Sneidar said. "We put the event together in about seven weeks and I got confirmation in March that of the 50 climbs around the country last year, we were 14th in funds raised at $25,800. So I'm looking forward to this year eclipsing that - not by a little bit, but by a lot."

Event check-in and on-site registration is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Sept. 9 at Graves Family Sports Complex, 231 E. Cloud Street. The event is scheduled to begin with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m. The cost is $30 per person.&nbsp;

All proceeds will benefit the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (501c3) which have provided much needed assistance to the surviving families and co-workers of the firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001.

"We are commemorating the fallen firefighters and completing their mission. The stair climb is symbolic of climbing to the top of the World Trade Center and it really is an awesome site," Sneidar said. "Also what we will do is everybody that participates will get to carry a pictured card of one of the 343 firefighters that we lost on 9/11." 

The Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; 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 climbing or walking the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. Your individual tribute not only remembers the sacrifice of an FDNY member, but it symbolically completes their heroic journey to save others.

Firefighter and community participation can ensure that each of the 343 firefighters is honored and that the world knows that we will never forget. Since that fateful day, there have been an additional 300+ firefighters who have succumbed to 9/11 related injuries or illness.

The 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; Family Walk are not a timed race event, but a way for firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, families, friends and the entire community to honor and remember. 

All participants will have the honor of carrying the name badge of one of the fallen 343 firefighters and will also receive a 9/11 Stair Climb/Family Walk T-shirt to commemorate the event.

Following the stair climb and family walk, an after-party event will be held from 6-11 p.m. at the Tumbleweed event Center, 5680 W. Old Highway 40, Salina, Kansas.&nbsp;<br>This year, the event will host Lieutenant Joe Minogue, FDNY Ret., as a special guest. His insight into the events of 9/11 and its global aftermath, will inspire all who hear him speak that night or catch one of his appearances at various civic groups a few days beforehand.<br>

Sneidar said Martinelli's Little Italy will provide free food from 6-7 p.m. Music guests Jake Gill and Lix will perform live at the event.<br>The&nbsp;Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; 5K Family Fun Walk&nbsp;are&nbsp;not timed events.&nbsp;It is&nbsp;a way for the&nbsp;entire&nbsp;community, firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, families, and friends to honor and remember&nbsp;those who served and sacrificed on that day, and all that meant to American citizens. Each local and regional&nbsp;participant&nbsp;will honor the fallen by carrying the name badge of one of the 343 firefighters. Participants who pre-register also&nbsp;will receive a&nbsp;complimentary&nbsp;9/11 Stair Climb / Family Fun Walk t-shirt to commemorate&nbsp;their time at&nbsp;the event.&nbsp; &nbsp; All&nbsp;event donations and&nbsp;proceeds benefit the FDNY Counseling Services&nbsp;Unit,&nbsp;and the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (501(c)(3),&nbsp;which provide&nbsp;much-needed assistance to the surviving families and co-workers of&nbsp;9/11 late&nbsp;firefighters. There&nbsp;are event-sponsorship opportunities available.

&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;For details on how to&nbsp;make a donation&nbsp;to the Stair Climb/Fun Walk,&nbsp;go to&nbsp;<a href="https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas23">https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas23</a>

&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;For details on how to participate in the virtual Stair Climb, visit<a href="https://www.salinaymca.org/">https://www.salinaymca.org</a>

<div><iframe title="Chief Tony Sneidar, Salina Fire Department" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2xtc6-141a116-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><b>By NATE KING<br></b><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>The Salina Fire Department has announced that the second annual Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and Family Fun Walk will take place next month at Kansas Wesleyan University.</p><p>Salina Fire Chief Tony Sneidar said although planning for the climb last year was on a time crunch, there was still great support for the event.&nbsp;</p><p>"At last year's inaugural event we had some great support," Sneidar said. "We put the event together in about seven weeks and I got confirmation in March that of the 50 climbs around the country last year, we were 14th in funds raised at $25,800. So I'm looking forward to this year eclipsing that - not by a little bit, but by a lot."</p><p>Event check-in and on-site registration is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Sept. 9 at Graves Family Sports Complex, 231 E. Cloud Street. The event is scheduled to begin with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m. The cost is $30 per person.&nbsp;</p><p>All proceeds will benefit the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (501c3) which have provided much needed assistance to the surviving families and co-workers of the firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001.</p><p>"We are commemorating the fallen firefighters and completing their mission. The stair climb is symbolic of climbing to the top of the World Trade Center and it really is an awesome site," Sneidar said. "Also what we will do is everybody that participates will get to carry a pictured card of one of the 343 firefighters that we lost on 9/11." </p><p>The Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; 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 climbing or walking the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. Your individual tribute not only remembers the sacrifice of an FDNY member, but it symbolically completes their heroic journey to save others.</p><p>Firefighter and community participation can ensure that each of the 343 firefighters is honored and that the world knows that we will never forget. Since that fateful day, there have been an additional 300+ firefighters who have succumbed to 9/11 related injuries or illness.</p><p>The 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; Family Walk are not a timed race event, but a way for firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, families, friends and the entire community to honor and remember. </p><p>All participants will have the honor of carrying the name badge of one of the fallen 343 firefighters and will also receive a 9/11 Stair Climb/Family Walk T-shirt to commemorate the event.</p><p>Following the stair climb and family walk, an after-party event will be held from 6-11 p.m. at the Tumbleweed event Center, 5680 W. Old Highway 40, Salina, Kansas.&nbsp;<br>This year, the event will host Lieutenant Joe Minogue, FDNY Ret., as a special guest. His insight into the events of 9/11 and its global aftermath, will inspire all who hear him speak that night or catch one of his appearances at various civic groups a few days beforehand.<br></p><p>Sneidar said Martinelli's Little Italy will provide free food from 6-7 p.m. Music guests Jake Gill and Lix will perform live at the event.<br>The&nbsp;Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb &amp; 5K Family Fun Walk&nbsp;are&nbsp;not timed events.&nbsp;It is&nbsp;a way for the&nbsp;entire&nbsp;community, firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, families, and friends to honor and remember&nbsp;those who served and sacrificed on that day, and all that meant to American citizens. Each local and regional&nbsp;participant&nbsp;will honor the fallen by carrying the name badge of one of the 343 firefighters. Participants who pre-register also&nbsp;will receive a&nbsp;complimentary&nbsp;9/11 Stair Climb / Family Fun Walk t-shirt to commemorate&nbsp;their time at&nbsp;the event.&nbsp; &nbsp; All&nbsp;event donations and&nbsp;proceeds benefit the FDNY Counseling Services&nbsp;Unit,&nbsp;and the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (501(c)(3),&nbsp;which provide&nbsp;much-needed assistance to the surviving families and co-workers of&nbsp;9/11 late&nbsp;firefighters. There&nbsp;are event-sponsorship opportunities available.</p><p>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;For details on how to&nbsp;make a donation&nbsp;to the Stair Climb/Fun Walk,&nbsp;go to&nbsp;<a href="https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas23">https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/centralkansas23</a></p><p>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;For details on how to participate in the virtual Stair Climb, visit<a href="https://www.salinaymca.org/">https://www.salinaymca.org</a></p>

🎙Salina Fire Chief: 9/11 memorial stair climb Saturday 

Aug. 1 marks the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1-7). Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States.

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 on Aug. 4, as well as, breaking down the stigmas associated with breastfeeding, and generational differences of opinion when it comes to using formula.&nbsp;

 In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”

National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents

<div><iframe title="Kori Powell, Breastfeeding Awareness Week, Saline County Health Department" 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=ba44m-146dc07-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><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>Aug. 1 marks the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1-7). Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States.</p><p>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 on Aug. 4, as well as, breaking down the stigmas associated with breastfeeding, and generational differences of opinion when it comes to using formula.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690918626002.jpeg" alt="Powell, Kori Breastfeeding Peer Consultant for the Saline County Health Department" />
                        <figcaption>Powell, Kori Breastfeeding Peer Consultant for the Saline County Health Department</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>More about Breastfeeding Awareness&nbsp;</h2><p> In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”</p><p>National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents</p>

🎙King in the Community: Aug 1-7 Breastfeeding Awareness Week

<b>BY NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i>

On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with screenwriter and Salina local, Ed Harlowe to discuss 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.&nbsp;

<br>The film spins a compelling tale of love and laughter during the later years of life.

FRED, a refreshing and unique comedy, explores the journey of a former class clown, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he suffers a heart attack.&nbsp;

<br>While&nbsp;he recuperates in a nursing home, he meets the love of his life, Mary, and the two embark on an unforgettable adventure. According to Harlowe the story is punctuated by sharp, witty and unforgettable one-liners, as it also shines a light on the struggles and triumphs in the twilight years.<br>

The movie's backdrop will look especially familiar for Salina locals. Harlowe said several locations in Salina are &nbsp;expected to be featured in the movie. Locations include the Walmart, a nursing home, the downtown area and more.

Harlowe told Salina Post he is wanting Ted Danson to play the role of FRED. He also said if the film is given the green light, &nbsp;there will be a casting call for the film-giving locals a chance to be part of telling Fred’s story.&nbsp;

Directed by the accomplished Shedrack Anderson Ill, FRED promises a heartwarming, hilarious, and poignant cinematic experience. However, due to the current writers' strike and subsequent delays, the movie's production is on hold for now.

 In this episode we'll uncover the inspiration behind this captivating story, and explore the vibrant characters that will make FRED a must-watch movie.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Salina Screenwriter, Ed Harlowe" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i3vvh-142c525-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><b>BY NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with screenwriter and Salina local, Ed Harlowe to discuss a screenplay he has written that could possibly be filmed right here in Salina.</p><p>The heartfelt and hilarious movie, "FRED", is the story of an older gentleman whose name is, you guessed it, Fred.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The film spins a compelling tale of love and laughter during the later years of life.</p><p>FRED, a refreshing and unique comedy, explores the journey of a former class clown, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he suffers a heart attack.&nbsp;</p><p><br>While&nbsp;he recuperates in a nursing home, he meets the love of his life, Mary, and the two embark on an unforgettable adventure. According to Harlowe the story is punctuated by sharp, witty and unforgettable one-liners, as it also shines a light on the struggles and triumphs in the twilight years.<br></p><p>The movie's backdrop will look especially familiar for Salina locals. Harlowe said several locations in Salina are &nbsp;expected to be featured in the movie. Locations include the Walmart, a nursing home, the downtown area and more.</p><p>Harlowe told Salina Post he is wanting Ted Danson to play the role of FRED. He also said if the film is given the green light, &nbsp;there will be a casting call for the film-giving locals a chance to be part of telling Fred’s story.&nbsp;</p><p>Directed by the accomplished Shedrack Anderson Ill, FRED promises a heartwarming, hilarious, and poignant cinematic experience. However, due to the current writers' strike and subsequent delays, the movie's production is on hold for now.</p><p> In this episode we'll uncover the inspiration behind this captivating story, and explore the vibrant characters that will make FRED a must-watch movie.&nbsp;</p>

King in the Community: Ed Harlowe, local screenwriter

On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with <a href="https://asvrr.org/?utm_source=paidsearchad&amp;utm_medium=google&amp;utm_campaign=ASVRR2023&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw4s-kBhDqARIsAN-ipH3rTsjF7RHwxj59T9rCcZZcc7gpx-uvXe1nF_GNa0Th-fScqs1MJLQaAie3EALw_wcB">Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad </a>(A&amp;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&amp;SVR Santa Fe 3415 steam engine.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Steve Smethers, Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ccuzs-143d377-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><b>BY NATE KING</b><br>Salina Post<br></p><p>On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with <a href="https://asvrr.org/?utm_source=paidsearchad&amp;utm_medium=google&amp;utm_campaign=ASVRR2023&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw4s-kBhDqARIsAN-ipH3rTsjF7RHwxj59T9rCcZZcc7gpx-uvXe1nF_GNa0Th-fScqs1MJLQaAie3EALw_wcB">Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad </a>(A&amp;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&amp;SVR Santa Fe 3415 steam engine.&nbsp;</p>

🎙 King in the Community Podcast: Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad

<b>BY NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post&nbsp;</i>

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<br>●An update on the Chamber's<a href="https://www.salinakansas.org/legislative-advocacy.html"> legislative priorities</a>&nbsp;from the most recent legislative session<br>●Information about <a href="https://www.salinakansas.org/leadership-salina.html">LEAD Salina</a>&nbsp;coming in August<br>●Upcoming Chamber after hours <a href="https://web.salinakansas.org/events">events </a>and ribbon cuttings

<div><iframe title="Renee Duxler, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=p4amu-1433906-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><b>BY NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post&nbsp;</i></p><p>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:</p><p>●Duxler's Smoky River Festival reflections<br>●An update on the Chamber's<a href="https://www.salinakansas.org/legislative-advocacy.html"> legislative priorities</a>&nbsp;from the most recent legislative session<br>●Information about <a href="https://www.salinakansas.org/leadership-salina.html">LEAD Salina</a>&nbsp;coming in August<br>●Upcoming Chamber after hours <a href="https://web.salinakansas.org/events">events </a>and ribbon cuttings</p><h2>More "King in the Community" episodes</h2><div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=1b1b1b&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>

🎙 King in the Community Podcast: Renee Duxler, Salina Area Chamber

On this episode of the "King in the Community" podcast, I meet up with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage to talk about a range of topics.&nbsp;

Topics discussed in this episode:<br>● City's budget season<br>●&nbsp;The City's financial standing and the ways the commission is saving money on how it acquires city vehicles<br>● What he sees as the greatest challenges facing the city<br>● The tennis courts in Kenwood Park the progress made to make them more accessible to the public<br>● Arts and humanities investments.<br>● Schrage's professional relationship with the city commission

Throughout our conversation, we gain insight into the role of Salina's City Manager and the inner workings of city government. Join us each month for an update from City Manager Mike Schrage right here on "King in the Community."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685990553365.png" alt="<b>Salina City Commissioner Mike Schrage.</b> Photo by Nate King" />
                        <figcaption><b>Salina City Commissioner Mike Schrage.</b> Photo by Nate King</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>BY NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>On this episode of the "King in the Community" podcast, I meet up with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage to talk about a range of topics.&nbsp;</p><div><iframe title="Mike Schrage, Salina City Manager" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fr9jr-1427cab-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>Topics discussed in this episode:<br>● City's budget season<br>●&nbsp;The City's financial standing and the ways the commission is saving money on how it acquires city vehicles<br>● What he sees as the greatest challenges facing the city<br>● The tennis courts in Kenwood Park the progress made to make them more accessible to the public<br>● Arts and humanities investments.<br>● Schrage's professional relationship with the city commission</p><p>Throughout our conversation, we gain insight into the role of Salina's City Manager and the inner workings of city government. Join us each month for an update from City Manager Mike Schrage right here on "King in the Community."</p>

🎙King in the Community: Salina City Manager, Mike Schrage 

During the May 15 Salina City Commission meeting, Mayor Hoppock proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The proclamation was read by Julie Clayson, Central Kansas Mental Health's community based services coordinator.&nbsp;

On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with Clayson and Gretchen Boyum from Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) to discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health wellness, the ways CKMHC is partnering up with private businesses during the month of May, the different services and mental health support groups CKMHC provides, and the issues surrounding veterans suffering from depression and anxiety.

"I don't know anybody who hasn't gone through a mental health challenge, meaning that you had a moment in life when things were hard. It's just a matter of having the courage to say so and to be able to share your testimony. What we've found out is that being with one another, being in a group, checking in on one another, is one of the greatest things you can do to support mental health," Clayson said.

 "Having a village, having people that can surround you, and you can share with them when you need it. Find your village and if you need one, come see us at Central Kansas Mental Health Center, we'd be happy to help you find a group or providers that can support you in finding what that village looks like for you."

<div><iframe title="Gretchen Boyum and Julie Clayson, Central Kansas Mental Health Center" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=x5jds-1417487-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><b>By NATE KING</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>During the May 15 Salina City Commission meeting, Mayor Hoppock proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The proclamation was read by Julie Clayson, Central Kansas Mental Health's community based services coordinator.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684874793809.jpeg" alt="<b>The proclamation that was read by Clayson at the May 15 city commission meeting.</b> Image Courtesy City of Salina.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption><b>The proclamation that was read by Clayson at the May 15 city commission meeting.</b> Image Courtesy City of Salina.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>On this episode of "King in the Community" I sit down with Clayson and Gretchen Boyum from Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) to discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health wellness, the ways CKMHC is partnering up with private businesses during the month of May, the different services and mental health support groups CKMHC provides, and the issues surrounding veterans suffering from depression and anxiety.</p><p>"I don't know anybody who hasn't gone through a mental health challenge, meaning that you had a moment in life when things were hard. It's just a matter of having the courage to say so and to be able to share your testimony. What we've found out is that being with one another, being in a group, checking in on one another, is one of the greatest things you can do to support mental health," Clayson said.</p><p> "Having a village, having people that can surround you, and you can share with them when you need it. Find your village and if you need one, come see us at Central Kansas Mental Health Center, we'd be happy to help you find a group or providers that can support you in finding what that village looks like for you."</p><h2>"King the Community" episode list</h2><div><iframe title="King in the Community" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=skmut-558a99-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=1b1b1b&size=315" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
</div>

🎙King in the Community: Central Kansas Mental Health

<b>By NATE KING&nbsp;</b><br><i>Salina Post</i>

The month of May, what does it make you think about? Summer vacation, community BBQs, road trips to see relatives, going to baseball/softball tournaments, finally packing away your winter coat, or if you are like me celebrating your birthday.

There is however one important day which honors and remembers those men and women who gave their lives in order for us to live in a free country- I'm talking about Memorial Day.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Dale Pugh, Brother of POW MIA Maj. Dennis Pugh" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bzzdg-140148e-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div><p><b>By NATE KING&nbsp;</b><br><i>Salina Post</i></p><p>The month of May, what does it make you think about? Summer vacation, community BBQs, road trips to see relatives, going to baseball/softball tournaments, finally packing away your winter coat, or if you are like me celebrating your birthday.</p><p>There is however one important day which honors and remembers those men and women who gave their lives in order for us to live in a free country- I'm talking about Memorial Day.&nbsp;</p><p>This year, on May 29, the Salina American Legion Post 92 in partnership with the City of Salina, will honor a unique set of veterans, MIA-POWs.&nbsp;</p><p>The POW/MIA recognition project was spearheaded by Jason McIntire, commander of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 62 and fellow squadron members Kirk Cibolsk (vice commander) and Adam Hummel (treasure). McIntire came up with the idea last year after wondering how many Salina/Saline County residents became POW/MIAs in the wars, according to Sons of the American Legion Squadron 62.</p><p>The 11 POWs from Saline County will be honored with inscribed paving bricks at the site south of the war memorial in Sunset Park. See below for a list of POWs from Saline County.&nbsp;</p><p>● Lewis J. Wehr, WWII/Army 31INF</p><p>● Donald A. Achenbach, WWII/AF BS452 BG</p><p>● James Cole, WWII/Air Force</p><p>● Harold Fulton, WWII/Army AF 15AF</p><p>● Wilbur D. Gott, WWII/Army 28INF</p><p>● Robert H. Maxey, Korea, Vietnam/Army Co G 32 Regt 7 Div</p><p>● Thomas A. McGinness, WWII/Army</p><p>● Vernon K. Rawlings, WWII/8AF 92BG</p><p>● Kenneth Schoshke, WWII/Army 34INF</p><p>● Charlie A. Stanley, WWII/Army AF B24 Bomber Pilot</p><p>● Ernest V. Swanson, WWII/Army AF ETO 44BG</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681691275351.jpeg" alt="<b>Major Dennis Pugh the day before his aircraft was shot down on March 19, 1970.&nbsp;</b>" />
                        <figcaption><b>Major Dennis Pugh the day before his aircraft was shot down on March 19, 1970.&nbsp;</b></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Additionally, Dennis Pugh, Vietnam, 25th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, 7th U.S. Air Force, is the only service member from Saline County who remains missing in action. He will be honored with a monument to the south of the war memorial, according to information in the news release.</p><p>"I am incredibly moved and honored that Jason and his group did this," Dale Pugh, brother of Major Pugh said. "Not at my suggestion or direction, we have bought some memorials to my brother all around Kansas and all around the country, in fact, but they've been put there because my family wanted them there. Now here's an opportunity for Salina and Saline County to honor one of their own because at least Jason McIntire and the sons of the American Legion believe it was the right thing to do. And so we hope that anyone that goes out to the memorial in the future will actually think about what all those names represent. And the fact that there's kind of a unique recognition of Dennis, because he is in kind of an interesting category being missing an action, it means that you just never found out you don't know."</p><p>McIntire and committee members had fundraisers to benefit the project, which will cost more than $10,000.</p><p>"To myself, it is very important to not only learn history but also to remember those who have fought and died to give people the freedom we have today. The POW/MIA monument we are building, thanks those veterans from Salina/Saline county and to make sure they are never forgotten," McIntire said.</p><p>Also in attendance for the Memorial Day ceremony will be Ann Mills-Griffiths, chairman of the board of directors of the National League of POW/MIA Families. She will offer her presentation at 6 p.m. May 28 at the American/Legion Post 62/VFW Post 1432.</p><p>Commander James B. Mills, USNR, Mills-Griffiths’ brother, was listed as MIA on Sept. 21, 1966, when the Navy F4B on which he served as Radar Intercept Officer (RIO) disappeared on a night, low-flying bombing mission over North Vietnam.  He was on his second tour, assigned to Fighter Squadron 21, USS Coral Sea.</p><p>According to information from Veterans Affairs, 140,000 American service members were captured and served time as POWs, and more than 81,500 Americans remain missing from WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and the Gulf Wars/other conflicts. Out of the more than 81,500 missing, 75 percent of the losses are located in the Indo-Pacific, and more than 41,000 of the missing are presumed lost at sea (i.e. ship losses, known aircraft water losses, etc.).</p>