’King in the Community’ an Eagle Media Podcast

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Mitch Robinson, Executive Director of the Salina Community Economic Development Organization, to talk about the exciting growth and developments happening in Salina and Saline County. Mitch breaks down: The new Amazon last-mile distribution center, bringing 100+ jobs to Salina by October 2025 A behind-the-scenes look at Pure Imagination Studios and its future home in the $41 million K-ARIES Center Expanding career tech education opportunities with K-State Salina Big housing projects like Aero Plains and Magnolia Commons responding to Salina's housing crunch Infrastructure upgrades from Evergy and Kansas Gas Service Mitch also shares that the EDO celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year! Public EDO meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at the Chamber Annex—just look for the blue awning next to the Visit Salina office.

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Pieter Miller, Executive Director of the Salina Airport Authority, to discuss the exciting developments taking flight in Salina. From the highly anticipated Amazon last-mile facility to new daily airline routes to Houston, Miller shares how these projects are shaping the future of our growing community. They also dive into the transformation of the historic Schilling Air Force Base into a bustling economic hub, now home to more than 170 businesses with a $1.3 billion economic impact. Miller highlights the newly established AIM Center of Excellence, which is training the next generation of aviation professionals, and discusses the groundbreaking Textron eAviation Nexus project, bringing air taxis closer to reality. Plus, get an inside look at the ongoing environmental cleanup efforts to remove pollution from the former military grounds, as well as plans to expand the Salina Airport's capabilities and partnerships.

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Rep. Clarke Sanders of Kansas’ 69th District to discuss the Republican supermajority in the state legislature and how it shapes policymaking. Sanders breaks down the numbers behind veto-proof majorities, lessons learned from past legislative sessions, and the key tax reform initiatives being pursued to lower property taxes. They also dive into water conservation efforts, the future of medical marijuana legalization, and the debate surrounding journalist access at the Kansas Statehouse. Plus, Sanders shares insights on the theater tax exemption bill, immigration policies, and the likelihood of the Kansas City Chiefs or Royals moving to Kansas.  

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Lisa Newman, Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for K-State Research and Extension – Central District. They discuss the impact of KSRE in Saline and Ottawa counties, the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening community wellness, and the 25th anniversary of Walk Kansas—a statewide eight-week health initiative designed to encourage physical activity and healthy habits. Lisa shares insights on how Walk Kansas fosters teamwork and motivation, allowing participants to track their activity, set goals, and even involve friends and family across the country. Plus, she highlights an upcoming Babysitting Clinic, designed to equip young people with essential childcare skills and job readiness training. 📅 Walk Kansas registration opens March 4, and the program runs from March 30 – May 24. 🔗 Learn more and sign up: 👉 K-State Research and Extension – Central District 👉 Walk Kansas  

In this special episode of the King in the Community podcast, Nate King sits down with Mike Schrage for a final conversation before moves to his new role as city manager in Warrensburg, Missouri. Mike reflects on his tenure as Salina's city manager, sharing insights on the challenges he faced, including managing the city's response to COVID-19, navigating budget difficulties, and overseeing significant projects like the Smoky Hill River Revitalization. He also discusses his proudest accomplishments, such as economic development efforts, housing projects, and the city's financial management. Mike opens up about his plans for the future, his decision to move closer to his wife’s family, and his feelings about Salina’s positive momentum moving forward.   

On this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Kat White, the first female in the Triconda District to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Kat shares her journey in Scouting America, her challenges, and the support that kept her going. She discusses her Eagle Project, a blessing box at the University United Methodist Church, and how it serves the community. Also joining the conversation is Brendan Tackett, District Executive for the Triconda District, who provides insight into the 115th anniversary of Scouting, including female scouts, and the program's future. From campouts to leadership development, Kat and Brendan reflect on how Scouting shapes young leaders and why more youth should get involved. Whether you're a past scout, a parent considering the program, or someone who loves a great story about how young people are improving our community, this is the episode for you.  Want to make a lasting impact on scouts like Kat? Support the Investment in Character and Leadership Campaign today!  Give now with the ICL Donation Form  

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King talks with Renee Duxler, President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, about the Chamber’s 2025 legislative agenda. Renée explains how the Chamber works with local partners to tackle major issues like affordable housing, infrastructure, and workforce development. They discuss key projects, including upgrades to Magnolia Road, affordable housing developments, the potential for a KU satellite law school in Salina and the rehoming of the KHP Training Academy. Renee also highlights past successes, like securing funding for housing and other economic development projects. In her words, 'Salina is setting an example for other Kansas communities through collaboration and advocacy.' Learn more about how the Chamber works to make the Salina area a fun, sustainable and resilient community. For more information, visit the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King discusses the Salina Area Technical College's Dental Hygiene Program with Chelsea Wood, a dental hygiene student, and Erica Ruiz, the dental patient coordinator. The conversation highlights the role of Salina Tech’s Dental Hygiene Clinic in providing affordable oral healthcare while serving as a training ground for future dental hygienists. The clinic offers professional teeth cleaning with personalized treatment plans, preventative care such as sealants and fluoride treatments, and cosmetic tooth whitening with custom bleach trays. These services are provided under the direct supervision of licensed dental hygienists and dentists, ensuring quality care while addressing the growing demand for dental professionals in the region. The episode covers key aspects of the program, such as its competitive admissions process, small class sizes, and high job placement rate—over 90% of graduates secure employment before graduation. Wood shares her experience as a parent navigating the program’s demands, while Ruiz provides insight into how the clinic balances student learning with community care. Listeners will also receive practical details about the clinic at 2562 Centennial Road, Building A, in Salina, Kansas. Appointments, which can take up to three hours, can be made by calling 785-309-3146 or emailing DentalClinic@salinatech.edu. Fees for services include $20 for adult cleanings, $15 for child cleanings, $5 per tooth for sealants, and $20 for whitening services.

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King interviews Saline County Second District Commissioner Annie Grevas about her role on the County Commission. Grevas discusses her career in community corrections, emphasizing the importance of grants and collaboration in addressing challenges such as homelessness, opioid addiction, and recidivism. Grevas also outlines Saline County's priorities, including the Health Department's future, broadband access, and the use of community resources. The episode provides insight into Grevas' plans and the perspective she hopes to bring to the commission. 

This King in the Community podcast episode features a conversation with Salina City Manager Mike Schrage. Nate and Mike discuss the holiday transformation of downtown Salina, from Christmas tree lighting to the Parade of Lights. The episode also dives into serious community issues, including challenges at the Salina Animal Shelter, ongoing discussions about breed-specific legislation, and efforts to manage overcapacity. The conversation shifts to city development updates, including the demolition progress at the long-vacant Ambassador Hotel and the upcoming construction of Fire Station #4. 

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King speaks with Chad Young, Executive Director of Salina Grace and the Salina Rescue Mission, about the ongoing efforts to address homelessness in Salina. The conversation covers the role of the low-barrier winter shelter, the developments taking place at the Salina Grace Resource Center, 315 S. Broadway Blvd and the collaborative approach taken by local organizations to provide essential services. Chad shares insights into the challenges faced by unhoused individuals, the barriers to accessing resources, and how targeted efforts aim to help people transition toward stability. This discussion offers a clear-eyed look at the complexity of homelessness and the strategies implemented to make meaningful progress in the Salina area.  For more information on how to get involved or support, click here. 

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King sits down with Justin Martin, one of 12 Santas participating in the 26th annual Georgetown Santas event in Salina. From humble beginnings with a single Santa and leftover Halloween candy to a full-scale Christmas drive-through experience, the Georgetown Santas have become a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike. Justin shares heartwarming stories of spreading joy to all ages, the evolution of the iconic Santa shacks, and the logistics behind serving thousands of bags of popcorn in just three nights. Discover how this community-driven event continues to grow, fueled by the magic of Christmas and the generosity of Salina’s residents. Be a part of this magical tradition taking place on Georgetown Road in Salina from December 21– 23, 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. each night. Learn more or donate at GeorgetownSantas.com. Follow the Georgetown Santas on Facebook.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas on King in the Community! Join Nate King as he welcomes Michelle and Aaron Peck, the dynamic duo behind BEL Tree Farm—a winter wonderland nestled just outside Salina, Kansas.   Michelle and Aaron share the heartwarming story of how they turned a cherished local tradition into a thriving family-run Christmas destination. From the farm’s fascinating name (spoiler: it’s “BEL” with one L for a reason!) to the magic of fresh-cut Christmas trees, they reveal how BEL Tree Farm has become a holiday favorite for generations of families. Get ready to hear about all the joy-packed activities waiting for visitors, including horse-drawn hayrides, a cozy gift shop with more than 5,000 ornaments, free hot apple cider, and even Christmas donkeys! Whether you're hunting for the perfect tree or just soaking up the holiday spirit, BEL Tree Farm has it all. Opening weekend starts the Friday after Thanksgiving, and the farm is open throughout the holiday season. To check out their website, click here.  

In this episode of the King in the Community podcast, host Nate King sits down with Maggie Spicer Brown to discuss the upcoming holiday production of The Sound of Music at Theatre Salina. Maggie, the show's director, shares a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, the talented cast, and what it is like to direct such an iconic musical. The production, running from November 22 through December 15, promises to deliver the magic and harm of this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic with a stellar cast, a live orchestra, and stunning visuals. Maggie highlights the collaborative efforts of the Theatre Salina team, including the creative crew, the inclusion of community families, and the dedication of everyone involved in bringing this timeless story to life. They also delve into the significance of the show’s themes, the importance of family, and Theatre Salina’s ongoing efforts to expand and enhance its facilities through a capital campaign. Maggie emphasizes how the production will leave audiences with a sense of nostalgia and joy, perfect for the holiday season. Learn more about the production and purchase tickets at salinatheater.com.  

In this King in the Community episode, host Nate King interviews April Saskowski and Angie Andrewson from the Building Blocks Learning Center at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salina. April shares the story of founding the preschool 13 years ago and how it has grown into a program that now includes childcare services. Angie discusses her experiences as a teacher and how her background in early childhood education helps her provide a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners. For parents looking for a preschool or childcare program, this episode offers an inside look at how Building Blocks Learning Center is helping children thrive. To learn more, visit their website at https://preschool.triumc.org/ for enrollment details.

On this episode of King in the Community, Nate King speaks with Michelle Cardinal Dolan, Executive Director of Music at Kansas Wesleyan University, about the recent growth in student enrollment, renovations at Sam’s Chapel and the recent "Come Home" concert. Dolan highlights how the upgraded rehearsal spaces and the addition of a new Steinway grand piano enhance the music department's offerings. The discussion also covers upcoming events, including the annual Christmas by Candlelight concert, and how the university engages with the Salina community and beyond through music and the arts.   To view the KWU Music Department "Come Home" concert, click here.     

Welcome to the King in the Community Podcast! In this episode, Nate is joined by Leslie Bishop, Executive Director of Salina Downtown, Inc., to explore the magic of the holiday season in downtown Salina. From Pink Friday shopping on November 22 to the dazzling Parade of Lights on November 23, and festive family moments like Santa photos on December 14 and 21, Leslie shares all the exciting events and opportunities to shop local this holiday season. Tune in to hear how supporting downtown businesses strengthens the community while creating unforgettable holiday memories. Whether you're a 67401 local or just passing through, this episode has everything you need to celebrate the season in Salina. 

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King welcomes Jeff Hammond, the City of Salina's Director of Parks and Recreation, for an engaging conversation about the city’s parks, recreation projects, and community initiatives. Jeff shares a little about his career and what led him and his family to live in Salina. They dive into the recent upgrades and future plans for Salina’s parks, including significant improvements to Jerry Ivey Park and continued implementation of the Parks Master Plan.  Jeff also talks about Dean Evans Stadium, updates on the possible animal shelter expansion, and the ongoing community debate around breed-specific legislation. 

In this episode of King in the Community, host Nate King welcomes Kevin, Ash, and Amanda from Build A Pro—a new nonprofit in Salina transforming the path to skilled trades. Build A Pro connects young people, second-chancers, and veterans with hands-on apprenticeships, guiding them from beginners to certified plumbing, electrical, and culinary arts professionals. With divisions dedicated to youth and the military and the "Lazarus Project" for those rebuilding their lives, Build A Pro offers comprehensive support, from technical skills to financial literacy and conflict management.   Tune in to hear how this apprenticeship intermediary is filling a critical need in Salina’s workforce, helping participants achieve mastery in their fields—all while keeping education accessible and debt-free. For more information or to get involved as an apprentice or business partner, visit Build A Pro's website.

Nate King sits down for a conversation about breast health with Marian Gagna, radiologic technologist from Salina Regional Health Center’s Breast Diagnostic Center. In this episode, Marian provides insights regarding the importance of early detection, recent advancements in mammography imaging technology, and the steps involved in self-examinations and mammograms. With more than 30 years of experience, Marian provides and in depth look at the processes at Salina’s Breast Diagnostic Center, from biopsies to imaging techniques. Statistics show that when breast cancer is found at its earliest localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%.   Schedule your mammogram today.