Music Minute - Kim Noller: Unearthing a Story

Award-winning children’s songwriter, published author, composer, and elementary music educator Kim Noller releases “Unearthing a Story.”

Produced by two-time Emmy Award winner Carter Green of Greenjeans Studios in Wellington, Kansas, this uplifting song invites listeners of all ages to question, explore, consider, and discover hidden stories—whether buried in ancient clay or tucked within our own hearts and memories.

“My dad, Dr. Jon Kardatzke, collected artifacts because he loved the stories they told,” Kim shares. “While other kids played tag in the neighborhood, I followed him along wooded trails in Oberammergau, Germany, or listened to the haunting tale of Anne Boleyn at the Tower of London.” 

From a young age, Dr. Kardatzke amassed ancient coins from lost civilizations, dinosaur fossils, and even mummies. In 2000, he founded the Museum of World Treasures in Wichita, Kansas. Known for his captivating storytelling, he often brought history to life by having visiting students reenact epic tales like Cleopatra and Marc Antony or the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. When the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) announced its 2026 theme, “Unearth a Story” (focused on dinosaurs, archaeology, and paleontology), Kim felt inspired to dig into her own memories and create this song. “Unearthing a Story” celebrates the joy of discovery through reading, exploration, and personal reflection—perfectly aligned with the summer reading theme.

For more about Kim Noller, her music, and upcoming performances, visit kimnollermusic.com.

“Unearthing a Story” is the third single— “I Have a Dream” is the second single — “I Belong” featuring Fyütch is the first — of a 10-song album releasing in Summer 2026.

KIM NOLLER BIO: Kim Noller is a published composer and author, children's music artist, and music educator whose joyful melodies and hope-driven lyrics have been inspiring audiences for decades. Before becoming an elementary music teacher, Kim performed professionally as a contemporary Christian artist around the country, appearing with notable artists including the Gaithers, Larnelle Harris, Eli, and Margaret Becker. Her choral works are available at Excelcia Music Publishing, Plank Road Publishing, and Indianapolis Children's Choir Publishing. Her beautifully illustrated children's book Big, inspired by her award-winning song, is available on Amazon. Several of Kim's songs including Big have been recognized in leading songwriting competitions. 

Kim is a proud member of the Recording Academy-Texas Chapter. 

KIMNOLLERMUSIC.COM

SUZI SHELTON BIO: Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter and kids music artist Suzi Shelton has carved out a unique space in the world of children’s music, where as she seamlessly blended entertainment with education for over 15 years. One of the standout features of Suzi Shelton’s work is her series on YouTube called "Sing with Suzi” where she highlights artists from around the globe. This series has become a staple for many families, offering a consistent source of safe entertainment and education. Suzi has also recently teamed up with Little Miss Ann from Chicago to form indie-super duo Birds of a Feather bringing their upbeat songs to kids and families everywhere from Portland, OR to Boston, MA. With 10 + albums and multiple singles under her belt, Suzi’s songs are filled with playful melodies and positive messages, making her a beloved figure among families who seek heartwarming and interactive musical experiences.

Suzi is a proud member of the Recording Academy - NY Chapter.

SUZISHELTON.COM

FYÜTCH BIO: Harold “Fyütch” Simmons is a Grammy® Award winning children’s musician, rapper, producer, and social justice activist known for blending hip-hop, R&B, and soul with messages of equity, history, and empowerment. His work has been celebrated on major platforms including SiriusXM Kids Place Live, PBS Kids, and NPR. Fyütch creates music that educates, uplifts, and unites families through catchy beats and thought-provoking lyrics.    

Fyütch is a proud member and governor of the Recording Academy - NY Chapter.

FYUTCH.COM

Book Nook - It's Your Birthday (A Layered Board Book)

Every die-cut page turn in It's Your Birthday reveals a new layer to Kathrin Fehrl’s adorable illustrations of kids getting ready to celebrate their birthday by making a rainbow cake, celebrating and singing with family and friends, complete with a fun seek-and-find for each scene.

An ode to birthdays, the joys of eating cake, and celebrating with friends, this colorful, chunky board book is a work of art meant to be displayed face-out on nursery bookshelves. 

Money Matters - Financial Distress Survey and Tips

 As inflation continues to strain household budgets and make it harder for Americans to keep up with loan and credit payments, the personal finance company WalletHub has released its latest report on the Cities with the Most People in Financial Distress. The report sheds light on where financial pressure is hitting residents the hardest across the country.

To compile the rankings, WalletHub evaluated the 100 largest cities without data limitations across nine key metrics. These factors include average credit scores, changes in bankruptcy filings from September 2024 to September 2025, and the share of residents with accounts in distress.
 

Most Distressed	Least Distressed
1. Chicago, IL	91. Scottsdale, AZ
2. Houston, TX	92. Honolulu, HI
3. Las Vegas, NV	93. Des Moines, IA
4. Dallas, TX	94. Spokane, WA
5. Los Angeles, CA	95. Jersey City, NJ
6. San Antonio, TX	96. Pittsburgh, PA
7. Atlanta, GA	97. Lincoln, NE
8. New York, NY	98. Boise, ID
9. Austin, TX	99. Winston-Salem, NC
10. Phoenix, AZ	100. Anchorage, AK

 


“Getting out of the downward spiral of financial distress is no easy feat. You may get temporary relief from your lenders by not having to make payments, but all the while interest will keep building up, making the debt even harder to pay off. People who find themselves in financial distress should budget carefully, cut non-essential expenses, and pursue strategies like debt consolidation or debt management to get their situation under control.”
–
“It seems that in the Windy City, people’s financial security is also blowing away. The share of Chicago residents who are allowed to skip debt payments due to financial difficulties went up by nearly 30% between Q3 2024 and Q3 2025. Chicago residents also had the third-most accounts in distress per person. Financial distress may increase further, too, as Chicago has some of the highest Google search interest in the country for terms like ‘debt’ and ‘loans,’ which indicates that people need to borrow even more.”

- Chip Lupo, WalletHub Analyst 


More from WalletHub

• States with the Most People in Financial Distress
• States With Largest and Smallest Credit Card Debt Increases
• States Where Auto Loan Debt Is Increasing the Most
• States Where Credit Card Delinquency Is Increasing the Most
• States Where Credit Limits Decreased the Most

Healthy Habits - Omega-3 and Kids

 Omega-3 fatty acids are foundational to overall health and wellness. Yet, research shows that, depending on region and diet, between 95% and 99% of the population is out of balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. 

The good news: increasing omega-3 intake now can lead to significant, measurable, and lasting health benefits. Long‑chain omega‑3s, particularly DHA, support brain and eye development in infants and young children, and some studies link adequate omega‑3 status to cognitive, behavioral, and attention benefits.

But here is the important catch: not all omega-3s are created equal. Effectiveness depends on factors such as omega-3 type, antioxidant protection, sourcing, toxin presence, purity, potency, and shelf-life. 

So how can children ensure they are getting the omega-3s their body truly needs?  

Start with food.

Most children can get enough omega‑3s from a balanced diet. 

• Infants: Breastmilk provides DHA when the mother’s diet/supplementation supplies it. Formula is often fortified with DHA; discuss needs with your pediatrician.

• Toddlers and older children: Aim to include DHA/EPA food sources 1–2 times/week where possible. The most potent and bioavailable omega-3s come from fatty fish, particularly wild-caught oily varieties such as salmon, sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and trout. The key is prioritizing low-mercury, high omega-3 options.  Plant-based sources like chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, and edamame also provide omega-3s, but mainly in the ALA form, which must be converted in the body and often inefficiently. 

Fill the gaps with supplements.

Even with a balanced, healthy diet, many children struggle to provide their bodies with the omega-3s they need to thrive. This is where a child‑appropriate algal DHA supplement can be useful.

• Dosage: Recommended amounts vary by age and organization. Pediatric dosing should be determined with your pediatrician. Many children’s omega‑3 supplements provide 100–250 mg DHA per daily dose for younger kids; older children may require more.

• Safety: Choose products tested for purity and low contaminants (third‑party testing). Use formulations designed for children (liquid, chewable) to avoid choking. Watch for fish allergies and ensure vitamin D or other added nutrients are safe at combined doses.

• Special cases: Children with certain developmental or attention concerns, very limited diets (vegan), or poor fish intake may benefit more from supplementation - discuss with a pediatrician or pediatric nutritionist.

Why quality matters.

Zinzino has been at the forefront of omega-3 education and innovation, emphasizing clean sourcing, antioxidant protection, and scientifically validated before-and-after testing.

The Zinzino Omega-3 supplement offerings deliver high levels of EPA and DHA in optimal ratios to support absorption and effectiveness. The Zinzino BalanceOil+ Tutti Frutti contains a premium blend of oils derived from wild-caught small fish and pre-harvest extra virgin olive, and has a “kid friendly” taste.  

• A fresh flavor with no fishy aftertaste. 

• Easy-to-swallow formula.

• BalanceOil+ Tutti Frutti  has been awarded the prestigious Superior Taste Award by the International Taste Institute – evaluated by professionals for its exceptional flavor, with special praise for the pleasant taste and fruity aroma.

Bottom line: Supplements aren’t universally required, but they’re a sensible option when dietary DHA/EPA is insufficient. Talk with your child’s pediatrician to assess needs and get recommended dosing and product guidance.

Fun Freetime - Iroquois Steeplechase (5/9, Nashville)

 The Iroquois Steeplechase, sponsored by Bank of America, and iHeartMedia Nashville’s 97.9 The BIG 98, Nashville’s #1 for new country, is proud to announce a new partnership debuting The Big 98 Stage, a brand-new live music experience launching as part of the event’s historic 85th anniversary. The milestone celebration returns to Percy Warner Park on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

Known as Nashville’s “Rite of Spring,” the Iroquois Steeplechase blends world-class horse racing, Southern hospitality, fashion and philanthropy into a one-of-a-kind social and sporting experience. Drawing more than 30,000 spectators annually, the event remains among the premier steeplechase races in the United States.

As part of the 2026 event, iHeartMedia Nashville will introduce The Big 98 Stage located in Centerfield, featuring Nashville-based artists performing throughout the day, bringing Music City’s signature sound to one of the South’s most celebrated sporting traditions. 

“The Iroquois Steeplechase is one of Nashville’s most beloved traditions and we’re thrilled to be part of its evolution,” said Howard Greiner, iHeartMedia Nashville Market President. “At iHeart, our mission is to connect audiences through music and experiences that are guaranteed human, and launching The Big 98 Stage puts live, local music front and center in an already unforgettable race-day atmosphere. From emerging Nashville artists to high-energy performances all day long, we’re excited to showcase Music City talent while enhancing a spring tradition that brings the community together year after year.”

Iroquois Steeplechase 2026 race day will feature six exhilarating races with total purses of $605,000, the richest on the National Steeplechase Association’s Spring circuit, while adding even more entertainment through The Big 98 Stage in Centerfield. All tickets will include access to the live music stage, where Nashville’s top emerging artists perform throughout the day. The full artist lineup will be announced as the event date approaches.

“We’re proud to welcome iHeart as a partner for this milestone year,” said Dwight Hall, Chairman of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “The Big 98 Stage adds a new layer of energy and entertainment to a tradition that’s been part of Nashville for generations and it reflects our commitment to evolving the event while honoring its rich legacy.”

Since being designated as a primary beneficiary in 1981, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt has received more than $11.4 million from proceeds generated by the Volunteer State Horsemen’s Foundation, underscoring the Steeplechase’s longstanding commitment to community impact.

The Iroquois Steeplechase offers a range of ticket experiences blending sport, social tradition and community.  

Magnolia Garden (formerly known as the Hunt Club), is a reimagined space that offers an all-inclusive experience with gourmet catering, full beverage service, guaranteed seating, patio views and premium sightlines to the races.

Royal 615 Lounge now has expanded seating. One of Nashville’s hottest race-day parties returns with expanded VIP lounge seating, DJ entertainment, dance floor and access to a dedicated cash bar with newly expanded seating. Royal 615 VIP tickets include added comfort and amenities.

Tailgating guests can choose from six distinct tailgating areas, each accommodating one vehicle and tent. Tailgating spaces may bring their own 10x10 tent, tables, chairs, food and alcohol (excluding glass containers) or purchase a complete tailgating package for ease. A complimentary Designated Driver ticket is included with every tailgate space. Additionally, the event includes a dedicated family area and children’s zone with inflatables, face painting and kid-friendly activities. Children 12 and under are free in all tailgating areas.

Two Turf Tavern locations will offer beverages with the Infield Turf Tavern between Centerfield and Royal 615 and the Hillside Turf Tavern near the Box Seats and Lower Paddock Club entrance. Parking passes are available for purchase, and a designated ride-share drop-off and pick-up zone ensures easy access for guests.

Event Schedule – May 9, 2026

Gates Open: 8:00 a.m.

Opening Ceremonies: 12:00 p.m.

Additional Highlights: Style Contest, Tailgating Contest, Stick Pony Races and Parade of Hounds

Closing: Hospitality venues close approximately 15 minutes after the final race, except Royal 615, The Big 98 Stage and the Infield Turf Tavern, which remain open until 7 p.m.

Tickets are now on sale and a detailed schedule is available at www.IroquoisSteeplechase.org.

Caring Causes - Biggest Baby Shower Expo (Houston, 2/21)

 Hope Media Group’s 89.3 KSBJ, in partnership with sister station 91.7 Vida Unida, is proud to announce the return of KSBJ’s Biggest Baby Shower Expo (El Baby Shower Más Grande). This community event will take place Saturday, February 21, continuing its mission to provide hope, joy, and resources to new and expecting parents across Greater Houston.

Building on the 2025 expo—which welcomed over 2,000 attendees—this year’s event aims to bridge the gap for families in need by distributing essential baby supplies and connecting them with vital local support organizations.

"KSBJ’s Biggest Baby Shower Expo is more than just a giveaway; it is a celebration of life and a testament to the power of community," said Sara Nackoul, KSBJ/Vida Unida Director of Promotions. "With 91.7 Vida Unida and our incredible sponsors, we are able to meet the needs of families while providing a festival-like atmosphere filled with encouragement and love."

Impact and Community Support

Last year, the generosity of partners and listeners resulted in the distribution of over 17,000 diapers and over 61,000 baby wipes. This year, KSBJ and Vida Unida are calling on the community once again to help exceed those numbers and ensure no parent feels alone in their journey.

Event Details:

What: 89.3 KSBJ’s Biggest Baby Shower Expo (Vida Unida’s El Baby Shower Más Grande)

When: Saturday, February 21, 2026

Where: Woodlands Church – East River Campus

Cost: Free for the community

For more information on how to attend, volunteer, or become a partner, please visit KSBJ.org or VidaUnida.com.

Event includes:

• Essential Giveaways: Distribution of diapers and wipes (*while supplies last), and high-value items like strollers, car seats, Owlet baby monitors, and a maternity photo shoot for selected families.
• Maternity Pampering: Offering free massages, bump photos, and prayer for moms to be.
• Health & Wellness Resources: On-site support from over 20 community partners, including pregnancy assistance, health information, and free services.
• Family Activities: Free kid’s haircuts and bounce houses make this an event for the whole family. 
• A Celebration of Stories: Moments of transformation, including stories of hope from couples who have overcome long journeys to parenthood.

Partnering for Good

KSBJ’s Biggest Baby Shower (Vida Unida’s El Baby Shower Más Grande) is made possible through the collaboration of dedicated sponsors and resource partners including Air Innovations Heating & Cooling and Woodlands Church – East River Campus. Organizations such as Harris County Public Health, Paty Inc., Clothed by Faith and Butterflies & Birdies have also been instrumental in providing clothing, baby gear, and health services. 

About Hope Media Group

Hope Media Group is a family of media brands that engage people to love Jesus, serve others, and spread Hope through radio, events, online content, and mobile apps. Its platforms include KSBJ/Houston, the WayFM and Worship 24/7 national networks, Spanish-language Christian network Vida Unida, , digital content outlets Hope Nation, NGEN Radio (Christian hip-hop and pop), WAYLOUD (Christian rock), the God Listens Prayer App, and a concert and event producer, Hope Events. For more information, visit www.hopemediagroup.com.

Money Matters - Utility Bills Survey

 Just last week Congress saw the first bipartisan bill aimed at curbing electricity rate hikes due to data center power usage; so what’s the impact for Americans living near data centers?

A new survey on utility bills by American Home Shield found that roughly 14% of survey respondents lived near a data center:

• 94% say their rates increased, compared to a national average of 88%
• Average monthly utility bill: $255, compared to the average of $187(+$68)
• Bills increased by an average of 15% year over year

Among all Americans, 1 in 5 missed a utility payment in the last year, and 49% are overwhelmed by utility costs. 

The full report is linked above.

Smart Safety - Porch Pirates

 New data names the states most and least worried about package deliveries and porch pirates. 

The research, conducted by demand planning software Algo, examined nationwide online search data for relevant key terms related to stolen mail, including ‘Amazon delivery stolen’, ‘DHL lost my package’, and more from Google Keyword Planner. The states with the highest average monthly search volume per 100,000 people have been named the top ten states for stolen mail.   

Michigan is the state least likely to have packages stolen. The state has an average monthly search volume of just 32.72 per 100,000 people, 32% below the national average, with ‘USPS lost my package’ being the most used search term. 

According to the study, Oklahoma is the second safest state to order packages in, with only 33.51 average monthly searches per 100,000 people. ‘USPS lost mail’ is the most popular term in the state after ‘USPS lost my package’.  

Ohio, with 33.66 average monthly searches per 100,000 people, ranks as the third-best state for porch pirates. Mississippi is the fourth state least likely to have packages stolen, with an average monthly search volume of 33.88 per 100,000 people. In fifth place, Indiana has an average monthly search volume of 34.20 per 100,000 people.

Table 1: The states least likely to have packages stolen 

Rank	U.S. states	Average monthly search volume (per 100,000 people)
1	Michigan	32.72
2	Oklahoma	33.51
3	Ohio	33.66
4	Mississippi	33.88
5	Indiana	34.20
6	Arkansas	34.28
7	Kentucky	35.00
8	Louisiana	35.22
9	South Carolina	36.74
10	Alabama	36.90

 

On the other hand, Alaska takes the crown as the worst state for package deliveries, with 76.70 average monthly searches per 100,000 people, 58% higher than the nation's average of 48.27. According to the study, ‘USPS lost my package’ is the most popular search term, followed by ‘USPS lost mail’ and ‘porch pirates’.  

Hawaii is the second state where packages are most likely to be stolen. The Aloha State has an average monthly search volume of 75.25 per 100,000 people; ‘porch pirates’ is the fourth most searched-for term, coming after ‘USPS lost my package’ in first, ‘USPS lost mail’ in second, and ‘USPS lost my package claim’ in third. 

According to the study, Vermont takes the bronze medal, with an average monthly search volume of 74.91 per 100,000 people. In the state, ‘USPS report lost package’ is the most popular search term after ‘Amazon package stolen,’ ‘porch pirates’, ‘USPS lost mail’, and ‘USPS lost my package’.  

Table 1: The states most likely to have packages stolen 

Rank	U.S. state	Average monthly search volume (per 100,000 people)
1	Alaska	76.70
2	Hawaii	75.25
3	Vermont	74.91
4	North Dakota	72.29
5	North Carolina	70.46
6	Delaware	67.19
7	Rhode Island	65.16
8	Wyoming	64.63
9	Colorado	60.03
10	Washington	59.68

 

North Dakota ranks fourth. The state has an average monthly search volume of 72.29 per 100,000 people. According to the study, the sixth most searched-for term is ‘USPS lost package claim’, following ‘porch pirates’ in fifth, ‘Amazon package stolen’ in fourth, ‘USPS lost mail’ in third, ‘Amazon missing package’ in second, and ‘USPS lost my package’ in first. 

In fifth place, North Carolina has an average monthly search volume of 70.46 per 100,000 people. The state’s most searched-for term is ‘USPS report lost package’ alongside ‘UPS lost package’, ‘Amazon missing package’, ‘Amazon package stolen’, ‘USPS lost my package’, ‘USPS lost mail’, and ‘porch pirates’ from the sixth to the first most popular. 

Delaware ranks in sixth, with 67.19 average monthly searches per 100,000 people. Rhode Island, Wyoming, and Colorado follow in seventh, eighth, and ninth with 65.16, 64.63, and 60.03 average monthly searches per 100,000 people, respectively. In tenth place, with 59.68 average monthly searches per 100,000 people, is Washington.  

Sanjeev Balasubramanian, SVP of Solution Architecture at Algo, comments on the study, “Roughly 104 million packages were stolen from Americans last year, which amounts to roughly a quarter of a million thefts every day. This study highlights the states most at risk of porch pirates, with Alaska taking the top spot. By utilising tracking software, digital mailboxes, and security cameras, residents can help prevent packages from being lost or stolen in 2026.” 

Post courtesy https://www.algo.com/. 

Sources 

• Google Keyword Planner
• Safewise

Methodology 

This campaign analyzed state-wide online search volumes from Google Keyword Planner. The states with the highest average monthly search volume per 100,000 people were named the worst states for porch pirates. 

Area Attractions - Private Eyecon 2026 (5/15-5/17, Murfreesboro, TN)

 PRIVATE EYECON™ 2026 recently announced an extraordinary lineup of nationally respected investigators, journalists, forensic experts, legal professionals, and media leaders for its inaugural conference, May 15th - 17th at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

Curated by investigative journalist and private investigator Sheila Wysocki, PRIVATE EYECON™ brings together the people behind real-life investigations and the stories you can’t stop watching and listening to. From cold case detectives and forensic experts to journalists, podcasters, and legal professionals, this one-of-a-kind event pulls back the curtain on how cases are really solved and stories are responsibly told. The first two keynote speakers announced are EMMY-nominated ‘Dateline NBC’ correspondent Josh Mankiewicz and EMMY-nominated documentary filmmaker Josh Zeman (‘Cropsey,’ ‘The Killing Season’).

Early bird tickets start at just $299.00, with additional premium packages available for those who want an even deeper experience. To purchase tickets, visit HERE.

Event information:

PRIVATE EYECON™ 2026

May 15–17, 2026

Middle Tennessee State University

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

To sponsor the event or inquire about vendor booths, email scott@2911.us.

“PRIVATE EYECON™ creates space for meaningful conversation between experts and the broader true-crime community,” said Wysocki. “Featuring leaders like Josh Mankiewicz, John Lordan, and Josh Zeman allows us to educate, engage, and inspire curiosity while maintaining ethical and evidence-based standards.”

To view the first PRIVATE EYECON commercial, visit HERE.

In addition to its public-facing programming, PRIVATE EYECON™ offers continuing education credits for qualifying professionals, including private investigators, attorneys, and others working within the justice and investigative fields.

The multi-day event features nationally recognized journalists, documentarians, investigators, attorneys, and subject-matter experts across media, investigative, and legal tracks. Programming includes interactive presentations, moderated panels, case-focused sessions, and immersive discussions.  A special movie night screening with documentary filmmaker Josh Zeman will be featured, followed by a moderated panel discussion examining investigative filmmaking, ethical challenges, and the real-world consequences of true crime narratives.

True crime remains one of the most listened-to podcast genres in the U.S.—with Edison Research estimating more than 19.1 million weekly listeners age 18+.

For more information, visit privateeyecon.com.

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About PRIVATE EYECON™
PRIVATE EYECON™ is an immersive investigative conference dedicated to true crime, justice, and responsible storytelling. Headlined by Josh Mankiewicz, one of the most trusted voices in investigative journalism, the event brings together nationally recognized journalists, investigators, documentarians, legal professionals, and engaged true-crime audiences for a first-of-its-kind, case-driven experience. Unlike traditional conferences, PRIVATE EYECON™ places attendees inside the investigative process through evidence review, expert analysis, and jury-style deliberations that mirror how real cases move from crime scene to courtroom.

Founded by internationally recognized private investigator and investigative journalist Sheila Wysocki, PRIVATE EYECON™ reflects decades of meticulous, victim-centered investigative work. Wysocki, the creator of Without Warning Podcast, is widely respected for her work on complex cold cases, wrongful death investigations, and investigative failures, and for pairing rigorous investigative standards with ethical storytelling. Hosted by the Middle Tennessee State University Department of Criminal Justice Administration, PRIVATE EYECON™ emphasizes credibility, ethics, and evidence-based inquiry while bridging academic insight with real-world investigative practice.