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Saturday, May 2, 2026
Book Nook - The Bible According to Christian Nationalists: Exploiting Scripture for Political Power
Music Minute - Wes McClelland: Ask for Help
As the country enters Mental Health Awareness Month this May, Wes McClelland's powerful single "Ask For Help" is resonating as more than just a song — it is becoming a rallying cry for a national conversation long overdue. The release arrives on the heels of McClelland's current radio single "What I Know Now," which is steadily climbing the Music Row Charts and currently bubbling under the Top 100, with a growing number of stations also spinning "Ask For Help" in response to listener demand and the urgency of its message.
Mental health remains a quietly devastating global epidemic, one that most people face in silence and shame. While recent years have chiseled away at the stigma, McClelland's heartfelt release arrives at precisely the right moment to shine an emotive light on a tough, mostly internal struggle — and to remind the millions of Americans observing May's awareness month that they are not alone.
Born from McClelland's own personal journey through depression, "Ask For Help" counters the world's demands for stoicism with a narrative of strength in vulnerability. The lyrics address the internal battles of mental health and depression with a simple but life-saving reminder: "just three words can break the lonely spell…'I need help.'"
"The silence is where the struggle grows; the words are where the healing starts," says McClelland in a recent interview with Digital Journal. "If you're feeling overwhelmed, you aren't failing — you're just human. There is no shame in the struggle, and there is immense power in the ask."
That message is the heartbeat of Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May since 1949 to fight stigma, provide support, and advocate for policies that help those affected by mental illness. With nearly one in five U.S. adults living with a mental health condition, "Ask For Help" gives the month a voice — and a melody.
"When I first heard Wes' song, 'Ask For Help,' I instantly connected to the track because of his voice," says Lee Williams, Founder of CMR Nashville, UK. "The song is beautiful, but it's his voice that makes the song."
Working with Grammy-winning co-producer Dave Hagen, McClelland recorded "Ask For Help" at the storied Dark Horse Recording in Franklin, Tennessee. The lyrically poetic anthem is filtered through piano and a blend of cinematic, lush strings and tender fiddle from Andy Leftwich, creating an atmospheric tapestry of hope and empathy.
"This track is a masterclass in bona fide sincerity. With its top-notch production and powerful humanitarian message, 'Ask For Help' is a strong recommendation for fans of both country and Christian music." — Steve Azami, Music Critic and Record Producer
"Ask For Help" aims to dismantle the stigma around mental health, framing the act of reaching out not as a moral failing, but as an act of immense courage. McClelland's rich, grounded vocals lead a world-class ensemble of Nashville virtuosos in a performance that is as technically brilliant as it is emotionally raw.
More than just a song, "Ask For Help" is a call to action — one that dovetails perfectly with the mission of Mental Health Awareness Month. It urges listeners to check in on their neighbors, their coworkers, their family members, and themselves. Poetic in approach, the track touches even the hardest of hearts and souls in the way that only music can, serving as a reminder that there is no shame in the asking, and it is never "too late to ask for help."
The buzz around McClelland continues to build beyond radio. On May 19th, Wes will travel to Los Angeles to tape an appearance on the nationally distributed lifestyle program "Lifestyle with Roy Ice," where he will share his story and perform “What I Know Now” for a coast-to-coast audience. The high-profile booking underscores the growing industry attention around McClelland's return to music — and the cultural moment his mental health message is meeting.
Both "What I Know Now" and "Ask For Help" are available now at radio and on all major digital service providers.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
Music Minute - Lee Newton: Beautifully Undone
Award-winning singer-songwriter Lee Newton’s latest project, the acoustic album ‘Beautifully Undone,’ is available now. Featuring a collection of songs from across her career, the project presents each track in a more intimate acoustic setting, bringing the lyrics and emotion to the forefront while offering a fresh perspective on the songs fans already love. The album has already earned premieres and features from outlets, including My Kind of Country, Whiskey & Cigarettes, Michelle Lee On Air, The Josie Show, The Music Universe, The Country Note, and Cashbox Magazine.
To purchase/stream, visit HERE.
“Creating ‘Beautifully Undone’ was a special experience, bringing these songs back to their roots in a more intimate, acoustic setting,” shares Newton. “Each track was carefully chosen because it holds a deeply personal meaning and reflects the heart behind the lyrics. I hope this project feels honest, refreshing, and connects with listeners in a meaningful way.”
‘Beautifully Undone’ track listing:
01 “Used To Be Mine” - (Premiered by My Kind of Country)
02 “Be The Man” - (Premiered by My Kind of Country)
03 “Stay” - (Premiered by Whiskey & Cigarettes)
04 “Go On” - (Premiered by Smoked Country Jam & Bluegrass Borderline with Michelle Lee on Michelle Lee On Air)
05 “Strength of a Woman” - (Premiered by Smoked Country Jam & Bluegrass Borderline with Michelle Lee on Michelle Lee On Air)
06 “Carolina Rain” (Premiered by The Josie Show)
07 “Your Hat” (Premiered by The Music Universe)
08 “Meant To Be” (Premiered by The Country Note)
09 Workin’ Girl Blues - (Premiered by Cashbox Magazine)
Over the weekend, Lee Newton was honored during her album release party at the Firehouse Inn with a special recognition from the state of North Carolina. She was presented with a North Carolina state flag that flew over the State Capitol on April 20, 2026, given by NC GA Representative Jake Johnson on behalf of Governor Josh Stein in honor of her contributions to entertainment and charitable work in her home state.
In addition, Newton received formal recognition from Rutherford County Commissioner Hunter Haynes and County Manager Bryan King, officially declaring April 25, 2026, as “Lee Newton Day.”
“Celebrating ‘Beautifully Undone’ was one of the most meaningful moments of my career, turning a release party into a full weekend of unforgettable memories,” shares Newton. “I was truly honored to be recognized by Jake Johnson with a certificate from the North Carolina legislature, and to share the experience with friends, family, and supporters. Being able to perform these songs in such a personal way made it all incredibly special.”
Continuing to celebrate country music’s rich legacy, Newton also teamed with Georgette Jones and Heidi Parton for a special recording of the classic “Silver Threads and Golden Needles,” released earlier this year. Originally recorded in 1956 by rockabilly pioneer Wanda Jackson and later championed by legends like Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, and Loretta Lynn, the song has long stood as an anthem of strength and independence—now reimagined by three women honoring that enduring tradition.
For more information, visit leenewtonofficial.com.
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About Lee Newton:
Lee Newton is a Nashville recording artist and singer-songwriter from a small town in western North Carolina whose music blends traditional country, soulful blues, and a touch of Southern rock. Inspired early by legends like Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, and Patsy Cline, Newton began singing in church at age five and learned guitar from her father at seven. Her career has included collaborations with artists such as Leona Williams, Pam Tillis, T. Graham Brown, Joe Bonsall, and Rhonda Vincent. A multiple Josie Music Awards winner, including Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year, Newton continues to build momentum with new releases, media appearances, and her powerful blend of heartfelt storytelling and authentic country roots.
Enriching Education - Principles of Reggio Emilia: Children Are Natural Communicators
By Stephanie Rino, Director of Curriculum and Learning
From the moment they enter the world, children are communicating. Even before strong verbal language develops, children are constantly expressing ideas, feelings, and discoveries. Communication is one of the most natural parts of early childhood.
In a Reggio Emilia preschool, this understanding forms an essential foundation of learning. The philosophy recognizes that children are not passive learners waiting to be taught. They are active thinkers who are already sharing their ideas in many different ways.
At Little Sunshine’s Playhouse, embracing this principle helps create classrooms where children feel heard, valued, and confident sharing their thoughts with the world around them. Our goal is for this feeling to follow them for all of the life that’s to come.
As the Director of Curriculum and Learning at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse, I see this principle come to life in our classrooms every day. When we truly recognize children as communicators, we begin to notice the incredible depth of thought, creativity, and curiosity they are already sharing with us.
What Does It Mean That Children Are Natural Communicators?
In many traditional educational settings, communication is often associated mainly with speech and vocabulary development.
But the Reggio Emilia approach invites us to think much more broadly about how children express themselves.
Children communicate through:
- Drawing
- Building
- Movement
- Music
- Dramatic play
- Facial expressions
- Storytelling
- Sculpting with materials
- Collaboration with peers
In Reggio Emilia approach preschools, these forms of expression are recognized as meaningful communication.
For example, a painting filled with bold shapes and colors might reflect emotions or observations that are difficult to describe in words. Read our blog here about what your child’s drawings mean! Even a child quietly watching others is absorbing information and forming ideas.
In a thoughtfully designed Reggio Emilia preschool environment, educators understand that communication is happening constantly, even when children are not speaking.
When adults slow down and observe closely, they often discover complex thinking, creativity, and curiosity unfolding right in front of them.
The “Hundred Languages of Children”
One of the most well-known ideas within the Reggio Emilia philosophy is the concept of the hundred languages of children. This poetic phrase reflects the belief that children have many ways to express their ideas and make sense of the world.
Rather than limiting learning to traditional academic skills, Reggio Emilia approach preschools intentionally provide children with opportunities to explore a wide range of expressive mediums, such as:
- Art and painting
- Clay and sculpture
- Music and rhythm
- Building and engineering
- Storytelling and dramatic play
- Nature exploration
- Sensory experiences
Each of these becomes a “language” children can use to communicate their ideas.
For example, imagine a group of children fascinated by birds they’ve spotted outside during outdoor play. In a Reggio Emilia preschool, this curiosity might grow into a deeper investigation. Children may:
- Draw birds and their habitats
- Build nests using twigs and natural materials
- Act out birds gathering food
- Ask questions about migration and seasons
Through these experiences, children are not simply playing. Our teachers at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse are specially trained to recognize these early languages of children. By truly listening, we are able to guide children more effectively into learning.
As I support our educators across Little Sunshine’s Playhouse schools, I am continually inspired by how children use these “hundred languages” to share their thinking. When teachers recognize and nurture these expressions, learning becomes deeper, more meaningful, and truly driven by children’s curiosity.
The Role of Teachers: Listening With Intention
If children are natural communicators, then educators have an important responsibility: to truly listen.
In Reggio Emilia approach preschools, teachers view themselves as partners in learning rather than simply instructors delivering information. Listening goes beyond hearing children’s words. It involves observing their play, noticing their interests, and recognizing the ideas they express through actions and creativity.
Teachers might notice:
- The patterns a child repeatedly draws
- The materials children choose during free exploration
- The stories that emerge during dramatic play
- The questions children ask about the world around them
In a high-quality Reggio Emilia preschool, these observations help guide meaningful learning experiences.
For example, if children become fascinated with insects they discover outside, teachers may introduce magnifying glasses, books about bugs, drawing materials, and outdoor exploration opportunities. What begins as a moment of curiosity can grow into a rich learning experience inspired by the children themselves.
This approach sends a powerful message to children: their ideas matter.
In my role overseeing curriculum and learning, one of my greatest priorities is helping our teachers develop the skill of listening with intention. When educators truly observe and respond to children’s ideas, classrooms transform into places where curiosity leads the way.
Why Communication Matters in Early Childhood
Encouraging children to express themselves has benefits that extend far beyond early childhood classrooms.
In both Reggio Emilia approach preschools and supportive home environments, children who are encouraged to communicate develop important lifelong skills.
These include:
- Language and vocabulary development
- Creative thinking
- Confidence in sharing ideas
- Problem-solving abilities
- Social and emotional awareness
- Collaboration with others
When children feel safe expressing their thoughts, they become more engaged learners. They begin asking deeper questions, exploring new ideas, and building meaningful relationships with peers.
This focus on communication is one reason many families seek out a Reggio Emilia preschool, where children’s voices and ideas are valued as an important part of the learning process.
Encouraging Communication at Home
Families can support children as communicators in simple, meaningful ways at home. You don’t need special tools or elaborate activities. Often, the most powerful support comes from simply making space for children’s ideas.
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Instead of questions with simple yes-or-no answers, try asking:
- “Tell me about what you’re building.”
- “What do you think will happen next?”
- “How did you choose those colors?”
Questions like these invite children to share their thinking.
Provide Creative Materials
Simple materials like paper, crayons, blocks, clay, or recycled items allow children to express themselves through different mediums, something strongly encouraged in Reggio Emilia approach preschools.
Observe Play
Children often communicate through play. Watching what captures their attention can offer insight into their interests and ideas.
Listen With Curiosity
Children are more likely to communicate openly when they feel truly heard. Even small moments during everyday routines can become opportunities for meaningful conversation.
A Classroom Full of Voices
Step inside a Reggio Emilia preschool, and you may notice something special.
Children are discussing ideas with one another. They are drawing, building, experimenting, and asking thoughtful questions. Their artwork and projects are often displayed alongside documentation of the learning process, showing the ideas behind their creations.
In Reggio Emilia approach preschools, communication isn’t limited to answering questions correctly or speaking during circle time. Instead, classrooms become vibrant environments where children share ideas through art, conversation, exploration, and collaboration.
Sometimes, all it takes is one adult who pauses, listens closely, and says: “Tell me more.”
Keep reading about the seven principles of Reggio Emilia! We’ll be posting the following four shortly!
- (1) Children Are Active Participants in Their Learning
- (2) Learning Thrives Through Collaboration
- (3) Children are Natural Communicators
- (4) The Classroom is the Third Teacher
- (5) Teachers are Partners and Guides
- (6) Documentation is Communication
- (7) Parents are Partners in Learning
Caring Connections - Best Cities to Celebrate Mother's Day
It's nearly Mother’s Day, and it’s time to start planning the ultimate day of relaxation and celebration! But where are the best cities to celebrate Mother’s Day?
To answer that question, the researchers over at The Maids comparatively analyzed the top 50 most-populated U.S. cities across 9 factors that considered convenience/relief as well as celebration/relaxation. All factors are listed below, but some include the cost and availability of childcare (to give mothers a day off) and the number of spas, brunch restaurants, Mother’s Day events, etc. (to give mothers some fun activities)! Here’s what the study found:
The best cities spanned across the country, but #1 Atlanta, Georgia, scored the highest overall! Atlanta made it in the top 5 of four different factors: number of childcare workers, cleaning services, brunch restaurants, and spas.
St. Louis, Orlando, Cincinnati, and Miami round out the top 5 (in that order).
Florida had 3 cities (Orlando, Miami, Tampa) in the top 15, the most of any state. Virginia is the only other state with multiple cities (Richmond, Virginia Beach) in the top 15.
California, as a state, performed the worst overall. Five CA cities landed in the bottom 10 (San Jose, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Riverside, and San Diego).
You can check out the full study here.
Factors analyzed in the study: No. of Childcare Workers (per 100K Residents), Average Hourly Cost of a Babysitter, No. of House Cleaning Services (per 100K Residents), No. of Flower Shops (per 100K Residents), No. of Day Spas (per 100K Residents), No. of Brunch Restaurants (per 100K Residents), No. Of Mother’s Day “Events” (per 100K Residents), Average Star Rating of Brunch Restaurants, and Average Cost of a Brunch Entree.
Healthy Habits - National Smile Month: Your Mouth Has More than 700 Types of Bacteria – Here’s Why That’s a Good Thing
As National Smile Month gets underway, experts are highlighting a surprising fact: your mouth hosts roughly 700 different types of bacteria — and most of them play beneficial roles. Far from being a sign of poor hygiene, a diverse oral microbiome helps protect against harmful invaders, supports digestion, and contributes to overall oral health.
Why Nutrition and the Oral Microbiome Matter More Than Ever
Every year, National Smile Month (11th May-11th June), reminds us of a simple but powerful message: prevention is better than cure. Yet for many people, oral health is still something we only think about when there’s a problem. A sudden toothache, bleeding gums, or bad breath often acts as the trigger, but by then, the damage may already be underway.
The reality is that most dental issues, including tooth decay and gum disease, are largely preventable. What’s changing today is our understanding of how to prevent them. Beyond brushing and flossing, science is increasingly pointing to two powerful and interconnected factors: nutrition and the oral microbiome.
Your Mouth: A Living Ecosystem
The oral cavity is far from a sterile environment, it is a dynamic and complex ecosystem known as the oral microbiome. This microbiome is made up of a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes that coexist in a delicate balance.
Among these, bacteria are the most dominant and well-studied group, with scientists identifying more than 700–750 different bacterial species living in the mouth. These microbes colonise various surfaces, including the teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks, forming unique micro-environments within the oral cavity.
Importantly, these microorganisms are not just passive inhabitants. They play an active and essential role in maintaining oral health. Beneficial bacteria help regulate the growth of harmful species, support the integrity of gum tissues, contribute to the body’s natural defence mechanisms, and even assist in maintaining a stable pH in the mouth.
When this microbial community is balanced, it supports a healthy oral environment. However, when disrupted through factors such as poor diet, high sugar intake, or lifestyle habits, this balance can shift, allowing harmful microbes to dominate and increasing the risk of dental disease.
Your mouth could reveal more about your health than you think
The importance of oral health goes far beyond your smile. Dr. Maria Papavergos, known as “The Lifestyle Dentist,” explains: “This National Smile Month, let’s recognise oral health as the foundation to a happy smile. A healthy mouth links to a healthy body, with oral disease increasing risks of systemic disease from Alzheimer’s disease to diabetes and even cancer. Viewing the mouth through a holistic lens, balancing nutrition and lifestyle with oral hygiene, underpins a smile that looks good, feels good and reflects full body health.”
5 simple ways to improve your oral health today
Experts recommend small, practical steps:
Brush and floss regularly
Cut down on sugar
Eat more fibre-rich foods
Stay hydrated
Consider microbiome-friendly oral care products
What You Eat Shapes Your Oral Health
For decades, oral health advice has focused heavily on reducing sugar and rightly so. Free sugars feed harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. But focusing only on what to avoid tells only half the story. Equally important is what we add to our diets. A growing body of evidence shows that a high-fibre, plant-rich diet can actively support a healthier oral microbiome.Fibre plays a dual role in maintaining a healthy mouth.
First, fibrous foods require more chewing, which stimulates saliva production. Saliva is one of the body’s most effective natural defence mechanisms, it helps neutralise acids, wash away food debris, and deliver minerals that strengthen enamel.
Second, and perhaps more importantly, fibre acts as a prebiotic. This means it provides nourishment for beneficial bacteria, helping them grow and thrive. A well-fed population of “good” bacteria can outcompete harmful microbes, supporting a more balanced and resilient oral microbiome.
Foods rich in fibre and prebiotics include:
Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens
Fruits like apples and bananas
Whole grains such as oats and brown rice
Legumes including lentils and chickpeas
Prebiotic-rich foods like onions, garlic, leeks, and asparagus
These foods don’t just support gut health, they also play a critical role in maintaining a healthy mouth.
From Sugar Reduction to Microbiome Support
Reducing sugar intake remains essential, but the conversation is evolving. Rather than focusing solely on restriction, there is a growing emphasis on rebalancing the oral environment.
Highly processed diets,typically low in fibre and high in refined carbohydrates tend to promote microbial imbalance. In contrast, whole, plant-based foods support diversity within the microbiome, which is associated with better health outcomes.
Oral Probiotics: A New Frontier
Alongside dietary changes, oral probiotics are emerging as an innovative way to support the microbiome.Unlike traditional oral care products that aim to eliminate bacteria, oral probiotics introduce beneficial strains that help restore balance. These microorganisms are specifically selected to survive in the oral environment and provide targeted benefits. Strains such as Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus paracasei have been studied for their potential to:
Compete with harmful bacteria
Support gum health
Reduce plaque accumulation
Contribute to fresher breath
When combined with a fibre-rich, nutrient-dense diet, oral probiotics represent a complementary approach to maintaining oral health working with the body rather than against it.
A Preventive Mindset for Lifelong Health
Samangi Wijesena, microbiologist and co-founder of the UK’s first probitic dental care solution Luvbiotics comments: “One of the key messages of National Smile Month is the importance of building healthy habits early and maintaining them consistently. However, it’s never too late to make positive changes. By shifting focus from treatment to prevention, and from surface-level care to internal balance, individuals can take greater control of their oral health”.
A Healthier Smile Starts From Within
Oral health is deeply connected to overall wellbeing. The mouth is not separate from the body, it is the gateway to it. By understanding the role of the oral microbiome and the impact of nutrition, we can take a more holistic and effective approach to care.