Podcasts about andrew barkan

On Wednesday night, March 7th, members of Congress from the House and Senate will hear a speech from President Biden about the State of the Union. Our Founding Fathers thought the annual speech to Congress was so important, they put it in the Constitution. But what IS the State of the Union address? And what's it like to be inside the U.S. Capitol, sitting in the House Gallery, above the lawmakers and Supreme Court Justices and the cabinet?  In this special bonus episode of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries, we take you to the State of the Union address where a mysterious bird disrupts the speech. Want to know more about the history of the State of the Union address? Sign up for our Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter. That newsletter explores the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.We'll even send you a link to a FREE copy of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to State of the Union. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysteries in the U.S. Capitol. Kitty Felde is writer producer. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union here. You can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries at the website ChesapeakePress.org.  Cast: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Steven Cuevas - Papa Linda Graves - Claudia Mark Bramhall - President of the United States Ian Muchiri - Michael DeeDee Chapell - stage manager at the rebuttal speech Rosalie Huntington - Minority Leader Wenzel Jones - Waiter Music in the party is composed and performed by Kevin Pike. Andrea Felix Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. State of the Union is book two in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries series. The Spanish version Estado de la Union will be released by Chesapeake Press this summer. The podcast and the books are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students. You can get an autographed copy of any of the Fina Mendoza books by clicking the link in the shownotes or check out the Chesapeake Press website chesapeakepress.org. that's where you can also sign up for our Facts Behind the Fiction newsletter. This week, it's more information about the rebuttal speech. And when you sign up for the newsletter, you'll also get a free download of the 56 page Teachers Guide to State of the Union. I hope you'll tune in to Wednesday's SOtU speech and the rebuttals. You never know when a bird might just poop on somebody's head.     

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. Join the Mendoza family as they celebrate not only Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos.  Here's a link to curriculum for the episode. You'll find more eductional materials on our Facts Behind the Fiction blog at the website.  The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes:  Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Monica Christine Avila - Abuelita Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.  The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the books State of the Union and Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde. Don't forget to rate and review!

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It's a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they'd like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina's congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms  with the class to answer questions about youth voting.  There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks and rifling the teacher's desk. Fina consults with her detecting partner, a giant orange dog named Senator Something, and talks her sister into accompanying her on a field trip to see if her hunch about the culprit is correct. There is FREE curriculum for this episode. And if you want to know the history of lowering the voting age, check out our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are  written and produced by Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil as Gabby  Susan Valot appears as Ms. Greenwood India Scalione plays Becka Eddie Pike plays Michael and Myka Scalione plays Margaret Laura Stegman appears as Congresswoman Mitchell And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.  The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the books State of the Union and Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. It's a new school year for Fina Mendoza, another year of distance learning. Her teacher assigns a Genius Project, letting students pick the topic they'd like to research and present to the class. Since it's an election year and Fina's congressman father is back in California campaigning for re-election, Fina decides to research voting. Specifically, letting kids younger than 18 cast a ballot. Real-life Congressman Mark Takano of Riverside, California zooms  with the class to answer questions about youth voting.  There is also a mystery to be solved: who broke into their classroom, ransacking the backpacks and rifling the teacher's desk. Fina consults with her detecting partner, a giant orange dog named Senator Something, and talks her sister into accompanying her on a field trip to see if her hunch about the culprit is correct. There is FREE curriculum for this episode. And if you want to know the history of lowering the voting age, check out our Facts Behind the Fiction blog. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are  written and produced by Kitty Felde Our cast includes: Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil as Gabby  Susan Valot appears as Ms. Greenwood India Scalione plays Becka Eddie Pike plays Michael and Myka Scalione plays Margaret Laura Stegman appears as Congresswoman Mitchell And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something Hannah Matzecki is our associate producer. Our music is by composer and musician Andrew Barkan. Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.  The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are based on the books State of the Union and Welcome to Washington Fina Mendoza by Kitty Felde.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 18, all of Washington is talking about the capture of the Burrowing Owl that pooped on the president during the State of the Union address. But not about Fina. Papa's political fundraiser with LA food trucks seems to be a huge success. And Fina gets a very special letter. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we highlight some of the more creative political fundraising events over the years. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Christine Avila - Abuelita Steven Cuevas - Congressman Arturo Mendoza Tamika Katon Donegal - Monica Waiter - Wenzel Jones Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. Autographed copies of State of the Union are available for purchase at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 17, Fina and her loyal canine companion Senator Something track down Chickcharney in one of the U.S. Capitol's  parking garages. But will Fina learn the bird's secret message? Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain what's up with the construction in the Rayburn Garage. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Christine Avila - Abuelita Steven Cuevas - Congressman Arturo Mendoza Tamika Katon Donegal - Monica Construction Worker - Daniel Leslie Steve Devorkin - Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

The Fina Mendoza Mysteries follow the adventures of the 10-year-old daughter of a congressman, investigating mysterious animals in the U.S. Capitol. In Episode 16, Fina's investigation takes her to the National Zoo where she finds out more about the Burrowing Owls. But Fina's client Monica suffers a major setback. Want to know the Facts Behind the Fiction in this episode? This week, we explain Congressional Subpeonas. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven Cuevas - Congressman Arturo Mendoza Linda Graves - Claudia Elizabeth Logun - Bird Lady Tamika Katon Donegal - Monica Steve Devorkin - Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Fina uses her detecting skills to help her father find her grandmother who has run away from home. Their search takes them to a church basement kitchen.  Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven Cuevas - Papa Christina Avila - Abuelita Monica Vigil - Gabby Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina Steve Devorkin - Father Andrew Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.  Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Fina discovers some important clues about the mysterious bird that pooped on the president. Her teacher helps her solve some difficult math problems. And Fina tries to solve the mysteries of dogs. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood India Scalione - Becka Ian Muchuri - Michael Mark Muchuri - Brian Myka Scalione - Margaret Leo Schodorf - Mason Isla Schodorf - Cara Laura Stegman - Congresswoman Mitchell Elizabeth Logun - St. Sebastian Steve DeVorkin - Father Andrew and Senator Something. Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Fina's father and grandmother have an enormous fight with serious consequences. And there's nothing Fina can do about it. Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Monica Vigil - Gabby Imelda Hinojosa - Tia Catalina Steven Cuevas - Papa Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa.  Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can get an autographed copy of State of the Union, at the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries.

Fina's grandmother takes her to a meeting where an immigration reform protest is being organized. Her grandmother may have taken a step too far in her activism. Cast: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Monica Vigil - Gabby Adolfo Guzman Lopez - Flip Claudi Peschuita - Vicki Bill Chappelle - Protest Coach Alexandra Bank - TV Reporter Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew and Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. Autographed copies available through the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

Fina is on the hunt for Chickcharney in the basement of the U.S. Capitol, but the hunt leads to some serious consequences. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries are written and produced by Kitty Felde. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Tamika Katanon-Donegal - Monica Melanie Macqueen - the policewoman Gordon brooks and Joanie Anglin - staffers Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, Our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. Every week, that newsletter includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the Congressional Art Competition and we'll tell you how your high schooler can have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol.  

The Mendoza family finally find a church that feels like home. And Abuelita finds a new community of activists. And Gabby gets her phone back. Meanwhile, Fina is not happy with her new detecting partner St. Sebastian. He's a bird dog and easily distracted. But Fina has a breakthrough in her investigation of the bird that pooped on the head of the President. Our cast includes: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Monica Vigil - Gabby Steven Cuevas - Papa Linda Graves - Claudia Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. The song “All Are Welcome” by Marty Haugen is used by permission of GIA Publications. Our church choir was led by Rosalie Huntington and Julie Pritikin. And special thanks to Katherine LaVictoire for her clarinet contribution. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

Fina enlists the help of an expert as she continues the search for the bird that pooped on the President: a bird dog. Meanwhile, Gabby's in the doghouse for posting selfies on Instagram. Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Monica Vigil - Gabby Steven Cuevas - Papa Elizabeth Logun - St. Sebastian Mindy Shaw - the zoo intern Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew and Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

All of Washington is shut down for the storm of the century. Meanwhile, Californians Fina and her sister Gabby learn the joys...and the downsides of snow. Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Steven Cuevas - Papa Christine Avila - Abuelita Laura Segal - Congresswoman Mitchell Mindy Shaw - the voice on the zoo recording Susan Valot - Ms. Greenwood India Scalione - Becka Ian Muchiri - Michael Mark Muchiri - Brian, Mica Scalione - Margaret Leo Schodorf - Mason Isla Schodorf - Cara Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. And special thanks to Katherine LaVictoire for her clarinet contribution and Steven Leigh Morris for the sounds of snow. Season 2 of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. Get your free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter which includes the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. It's also a sneaky way to introduce civics education to elementary school students.  

Fina continues her investigation into finding the bird that pooped on the President. And she gets a new client: the dog that belongs to the House Chaplain. Meanwhile, Washington DC and the Mendoza family prepare for a blizzard. Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Steven Cuevas - Congressman Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Elizabeth Logun - St. Sebastian Alexandra Bank - Mary Louise Guffey Tad Daley - the anchor Bill Case - Memphis the weatherman Steve DeVorkin - Fr. Andrew and Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Special thanks to musician Anny Celci for sharing Little Black Dress with us and Kevin Pike for sharing his  news theme composition. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter highlights the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. The podcast and the book are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

Fina is still on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President Fina's father was just named to a bipartisan group of lawmakers to come up with an immigration bill. Unfortunately, Senator Something wasn't invited, but he manages to disrupt the press conference announcing the group. Meanwhile, Fina's older sister Gabby is fighting with their grandmother over a dance and a dress code. Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven Cuevas - Congressman Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Monica Vigil - Gabby Ellie Song - Congresswoman Woo Claudia Peschiutta - Vicki Linda Graves - Claudia Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something. Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. If you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter highlights the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the history of the rebuttal speech. The podcast and the book are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.

All of Washington is on the hunt for the bird that pooped on the President - including Fina Mendoza. Social media is having a field day. There's even a hashtag: PoopOnPOTUS.  Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Steven Cuevas - Congressman Mendoza Monica Vigil - Gabby Christine Avila - Abuelita Tamika Katon-Donegal - Monica Linda Graves - Claudia Ken Rudin and Garrett Brown - the political pundits Kevin Carr - Eagle Burger commercial announcer Susan Valot Ms. Greenwood Ian Kunithia - Michael India Scalione - Becka Mica Scalione - Margaret Leo Schodorf - Mason Isla Schodorf - Cara Elizabeth Logun - Chickcharney Gordon Brooks - the policeman on the walkie talkie Steve DeVorkin - Senator Something Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. Download the free 56-page Teacher's Guide to The Fina Mendoza Mysteries here. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also sign up for our "Facts Behind the Fiction" newsletter that highlights the real stories behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the story of eagles in the U.S. Capitol.

That mysterious bird poops on the president's head during the State of the Union address and Fina and her grandmother are up in the House Gallery, watching when it happens. Papa gives the State of the Union rebuttal speech about immigration reform. The House Minority Leader gives a party. Kitty Felde is writer producer. Cast: Amy Solano - Fina Mendoza Christine Avila - Abuelita Steven Cuevas - Papa Linda Graves - Claudia Mark Bramhall - President of the United States Rosalie Huntington - Minority Leader Ian Kunithia -Michael Wenzel Jones - Waiter DeeDee Chapelle - Stage Manager Music in the party scene composed and perfomed by Kevin Pike. Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our theme music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Season 2 of The Fina Mendoza Mysteries podcast is based on the book State of the Union, by Kitty Felde, published by Chesapeake Press. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or ask your local public library to order a copy to add to their collection. And if you want an autographed copy of State of the Union, check out the website Chesapeakepress.org. That's also where you can find out more about the cast and crew of the Fina Mendoza Mysteries and also where you can find a free download of the 56-page Teacher's Guide to the book and the podcast just by signing up for our newsletter. That newsletter highlights the facts behind the fiction in the Fina Mendoza Mysteries. This week, it's the history of the rebuttal speech. The podcast and the book are designed to introduce civics education to elementary school students.  

Fina decides to take the case of the mysterious Chickcharney... maybe it has a secret message for her! Amy Solano as Fina Mendoza, Tamika Katon-Donegal as Monica, Steven Cuevas as Papa, Monica Vigil as Gabby. And Steve DeVorkin is Senator Something. Andrea Felix-Cervantes is our stage manager. Our music is written and performed by Andrew Barkan, and our logo designer is Imelda Hinojosa. Download the free, 56-page Teacher's Guide at finamendozamysteries.com.

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In this episode, we learn about the trickster coyote. At the end of this episode, you'll know their defense mechanisms, how dangerous they really are to humans, and what's so cool about their noses. We'll also learn a Native American story about coyotes. Plus, find out all about Latin from Jaguar. Thanks to our Patreon sponsors for your support! We are using the funds to travel to the Redwoods to learn more about different animals and speak with experts. If you'd like to support us financially, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/creator-home. You can get access to our outtakes (this episode has a LOT) and to our Zoom meetups. We hope you check out the podcast Warrior Kid Podcast. It's a really cool podcast about Indigenous people and cultures. You can find it here, or wherever you get your podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/warrior-kid-podcast/id1371964204 If you think you know the answer to our Creature Quiz, or if you do the Kid Power challenge let us know! Send us an email at coolfactsaboutanimals@gmail.com, or Tweet us at @coolanimalspod. Thanks to the Regional Arts & Culture Council for funding our audio equipment! And thanks to Andrew Barkan of Ear Snacks for our theme music!  

In this episode, we learn about one of the most endangered animals in the world, the vaquita. Vaquitas are the smallest existing porpoise and there are only about 10 o them left. We learn about the vaquita, the reason why they are in such danger, and how to help. We meet with two vaquita experts – Dr. Barbara Taylor and conservationist Jonathan White – to help us better understand the plight of the vaquita. Be sure to check your feed for our stand-alone interviews with them too. Thanks to listener Max for bringing the vaquita to our attention. If you think you know the answer to our Creature Quiz or our riddle, or take part in the Kid Power challenge, send us a note and we'll send you a bookmark! Email us at coolfactsaboutanimals@gmail.com or tweet us at @coolanimalspod. Thanks also to Maude and Jiggy, our Patreon sponsors. If you would like to support us on Patreon, head over here: https://www.patreon.com/creator-home. Funds raised will go toward traveling to meet with scientists in person, once it's safe to do so. Thanks to Regional Arts & Culture Council for our podcasting equipment. And thanks to Andrew Barkan of Ear Snacks for our theme music!

We're featuring a creepy, Halloween-worthy animal in this bonus episode! The Goblin shark gets its name because it really does look like a goblin. Learn more about its impressive mouth gape, lightning fast jaw speed, and more. We mentioned the videos of the goblin shark eating – there are links to both videos in this informative article. https://australian.museum/learn/animals/fishes/goblin-shark-mitsukurina-owstoni/ One of our kid challenges this episode is to try to find plastic-free candy wrappings if you're giving out candy for trick or treating. Here's a list of some options: https://www.treehugger.com/ideas-plastic-free-halloween-treats-4857928 If you do the kid challenge, or know the creature quiz answers, send us an email at coolfactsaboutanimals@gmail.com or tweet us at @coolanimalspod. Thanks Frannie for being our Patreon sponsor! If you'd like to financially support our podcast, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/coolfactsaboutanimals Thank you to RACC for the funds for our podcasting equipment! Jaguar's entrance and exit music would not be here if not for you. And thanks to Andrew Barkan of Ear Snacks for our theme music! Finally, don't forget to check out the other Halloween episodes from our friends at Kids Listen. You can head to the Kids Listen app the week of October 24 to find a big playlist of Halloween/spooky episodes. https://app.kidslisten.org

Piranhas get a bad rap. They're thought of as vicious, human killing machines. While piranhas do have some impressive teeth and an even more impressive bite force, they're really not quite as dangerous as they're made out to be. In this episode, we do some piranha myth busting and learn more about this impressive creature. Thank you to RACC for our audio equipment. We really think you can tell the difference! We're so glad to be able to share some clearer audio with you. Thank you also to Andrew Barkan of Earsnacks for our theme music. Do you know the answer to our creature quiz or riddle? Did you do the kid power challenge? Let us know and we'll send you a bookmark! Email us at coolfactsaboutanimals@gmail.com or tweet us at @coolanimalspod Finally, if you would like to support us financially,  head on over to our Patreon page! We are using the money raised there for some in-person trip (once safe to do so) to meet with scientists and share our interviews with you.

Have you ever watched ants hurry busily along and wonder what they're doing? Dr. Moffett did, and decided to turn that interest into ants and other bugs into a career. In this episode, we learn about ants - from the kind in your backyard to the kind that can eat people, how Dr. Moffett almost got trampled by elephants, hit by blowdarts, and other adventures. We also are joined by his wife Melissa, who tells us about their travels and more.  Thanks to Andrew Barkan of Ear Snacks for our theme song!  Our next episode will be recorded on our new audio equipment! Thanks to the Regional Arts & Culture Council for awarding us our grant!  Questions? Want to reach out? You can find us on Twitter at @coolanimalspod or email us at coolfactsaboutanimals@gmail.com

We asked, you answered! In this episode, we hear facts about sea slugs, lions, zombie caterpillars, wild horses, and lots more. And of course, Jaguar evolves to become even more powerful. Thanks to Ari, August, Cristian, Gracelyn, Lucy, Oliver, Sally, Tristan, Quinn, Harry, Iris, and Theo for their facts! Be sure to check out the Kids Listen podcast Best Day Yet for positivity, affirmations, and animal explorations. You can find the podcast here: https://www.bestdayyetpodcast.com Thanks to Andrew Barkan for our theme song!  Don't forget to check out our mega plastic episode. We encourage you to try out one or more of our kid challenges!  And if you'd like to support us financially on our Patreon page, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/coolfactsaboutanimals

Our plastic episode is here! In this episode, we learn about how much plastic is in the ocean, why that's a problem for animals, how it all got there, and, most importantly, how you can help. We talked to so many experts to make this episode. Thank you to: Senator Jeff Merkley Dr. Jenna Jambeck, University of Georgia Christopher Joyce, NPR Rachel Giles, Chelsea Rochman's lab Shay DiPasquale, Terracycle David Clark, Amcor Thank you also to our fabulous editor, Eric Klein. If you need editing help, send him an email at e.c.klein@gmail.com Thank you to Andrew Barkan of Ear Snacks for our theme music. Thank you also to our Patreon sponsors who made this possible! We really appreciate you! We have a lot of show notes on this one: Want to do a waste audit? Here's the link to the waste audit Rachel mentioned: https://rochmanlab.com/waste-audit/ Here's a link to Terracycle's website, where you can figure out what to collect and recycle: https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/ Learn more about Senator Merkley's Break Free from Plastic Act: https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/pollution-act/ Don't know whether it's recyclable? Check out: http://recycleornot.org And be sure to download the Marine Debris Tracker app: https://debristracker.org Please let us know what steps you're taking to battle plastic pollution and we can share our progress together! Send us an email at coolfactsaboutanimals@gmail.com or tweet us at @coolanimalspod Spread the word about this episode! The more kids helping, the more of a difference we can make.

This week on the DATEScast, Derek is rich now and Tim refuses to be funny, so the end of the podcast is imminent. But before they wrap things up forever, they want to make sure to rate every cereal they can because, as everyone knows, cereal is a snack, Craig. Our snackologists are ready to do their job (well, Tim is, Derek is rich so he doesn't care) and PER this week's snack, Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pie Cereal.   Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan & Jack Harlow (@jackharlow) Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

Super Bowl time is here, which is one of our snackologists favorite snacking holidays. Our heroes talk about all of the best things you could have at your party and the best Super Bowl party they've ever been to, but most importantly, they continue our 14-part series, DATES with Craig, by rating this week's Viewer's Choice snack, 7 Layer Dip Tortilla Combos.  Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, & Morphine Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

This week on the DATEScast, Derek and Tim are on the road to Wrestlemania in New Orleans with a little help from their friend and professional surfer Danny Schlag, who provided this week's amazing snack: the Louisiana King Cake. Our snackologists reminisce about their time at The Institute and why Mardi Gras is so near & dear to Professor Agne's heart. They also determine whether or not King Cakes are overrated. SPOILER ALERT: they're not. They're amazing. Strap in for other snacking adventure and God help us all if Derek ever becomes king. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, & The Rebirth Brass Band Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

This week on the DATEScast, our snackologists turn our 14-part series, DATES with Craig, into a subscription snack box service. Get yours today. They also bravely venture into breakfast meat stick country with this week's snack, Jack Link's Dried Breakfast Sausage. With Applesauce. Is it a game changer for the morning or an abomination before God? And speaking of game changers, a variation could result in the biggest rating swing in DATES history. Wake up, wake up, wake up....it's time to eat snacks with Derek and Tim. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, Dusty Springfield, & some kids on Vine Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

IT'S ME...MARIO!! This week on the DATEScast, our heroes use their extra lives to traverse the lost levels of Wal-Mart and bring back this week's hard to find snack, Super Mario Cereal. While they do reminisce on their time with Mario and Luigi fondly, our Super Snack Bros. subjectively decide this cereal's fate. Does it deliver the Saturday morning goodness we're all looking for? Or is our princess in another castle? Find out these answers and so much more on World 2-8 of Derek and Tim Eat Snacks. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan and Nintendo Cereal System  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

This week on the DATEScast, we continue our 14-part series DATES with Craig with a regional delicacy from the great state of Ohio, Marsha's Homemade Buckeyes. Our snackologists pick, eat and rate while investigating the homemade claims made on the packaging. Are these buckeyes actually made by Marsha after a long day of being a successful businesswoman and mother, or were they manufactured at the Cheesecake Factory? Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan and The Phunk Junkeez  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

Merry Snackmas to you and yours, Dateys! One of our favorite listeners Craig helps get our snackologists in the holiday spirit with a very special box of treats he sent in. So on this edition of DATES with Craig, Derek and Tim try one of the GOATS in the Christmas snack game, Pepperidge Farms' delightful seasonal cookie Peppermint Milano Slices. Find out if these ratings are real or if we're all just actually powering the Matrix with our dicks. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, Bing Crosby, Johnny Mercer & Margaret Whiting, and Shirley Temple  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

What the hell are Prongles? Are they actually chips? Is it a card game? What are the makers of Cards Against Humanity up to with this Black Friday product that popped out of nowhere? On this episode of the DATEScast, our heroic snackologists have vowed to eat whatever is in this tube. Whether it's actually food or not. Once you pop, they're great. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and Prongles  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this edition of the DATEScast, they've finally done it. Our heroes have finally come across a snack that has humbled them...MOD Pizza's No Name Cakes. Looks like an ordinary Ding Dong, right? Well, looks can be deceiving, my friends. Tear back the foil and dive into the creamy center of this week's episode.  Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and America  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this edition of the DATEScast, welcome Tim and Derek into your home for the Thanksgiving season and the duo will not come empty handed.  They will bring joy and merriment into your life as they regale you with stories about their children being smarter than them, what they're thankful for, and a sexting app for married people. But that's not all, because they will also bring with them this week's snack, Trader Joe's Turkey and Stuffing Seasoned Kettle Chips. Are these chips in fact an entire holiday meal wrapped up in a single snack? Our experts say grace, dig in, and deliver you a rating at a crazy Black Friday discount. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and Adam Sandler (@adamsandler)  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

Gather around, kids. It's time for a spooky story. On this edition of the DATEScast, Tim and Derek are tracking down the flavor ghost of Bacon Habanero Pretzel Crisps. Does the taste actually exist or is it just a myth? Is the Snack Factory a real place? And where did all of the Trick or Treaters go? Don't forget to live your best life ever on this edition of Derek and Tim Eat Snacks. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and Rhett & Link (@rhettandlink)  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this edition of the DATEScast, Tim delivers a Halloween snack home run as he brings a new bold and exciting candy to the table, Lucha Grande Nerds in Guava & Mango Chile and Laffy Taffy in Guava & Pineapple. The Lucha Nerds won the 2017 National Confectioners Association Most Innovative New Product in the Sweet Snacks category, so of course our certified snackologists had to put it through the official PER system of snack ratings. Will the candy live up to the hype of Tim storing it for months in his home? Will Derek's hatred for cooked pineapple get in the way of his snack rating? And most importantly, will the jokes on the Laffy Taffy wrappers from acclaimed Hispanic comedian Anjelah Johnson deliver? The following lucha is scheduled for one fall... Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and The Tri-Lambs & Omega Mu  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this edition of the DATEScast, Derek and Tim come back around to their first love...good ol' American sandwich cookies. And nothing could be more freaking American than this week's snack, Apple Pie Oreo cookies. Other topics of the conversation include the wonderful array of snacks you might be missing out on at Disneyland, Tim's hidden mutant powers, and why it is important to never attempt a snack rating with the proper certifications and training. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and White Trash  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

That's no moon. On this episode of the DATEScast, Tim invites Derek on a flavorless journey through time and space. Pursued by the Empire's sinister agents,our heroes race home aboard their starship, custodian of the stolen plans that can save their people and restore snacking freedom to the galaxy with this week's snack, Popchips Star Wars Galaxy Puffs. They may not look like much, but do they have it where it counts? Will Tim find Derek's lack of faith disturbing? And what role do GMOs play in our future? You don't need to see any identification...these are the droids you're looking for. And never forget that Han shot first. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and Meco  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, it all comes down to this! The finals of the 1st Annual DATES Lay's Chip Off concludes as last week's semi-final winner, Lay's Wavy Fried Green Tomato potato chips, takes on the number contender of flavor in Lay's Crispy Taco potato chips. Our certified snackologists don't always agree, but will they be able to determine a clear cut winner? And will the Crispy Tacos chips live up to the flavor promises and the terrible pictures of tacos on the bag? Listen and find out! Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and Shadows of Knight (not Nazis)  Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, Tim and Derek use their platform to voice very strong opinions about some of the terrible things that have happened this week to further divide this great country and infringe upon the snacking rights of others. Then, they proceed to tear the nation apart with the introduction of a snack civil war between the North and the South with a head to head matchup between Lay's Wavy Fried Green Tomato chips vs Lay's Kettle Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese chips. A winner is chosen and lies are discovered as our snackologists try to bring this country together though potato chips. And fuck Nazis. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, and Slim Gaillard Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, the constant snacking variations and novelties have made our heroes Derek and Tim long for a simpler time when snacking was wholesome, healthy, and not about name brand recognition.  This journey led our snackologists down a dark path of discovery about bands their wives made them hate to the doorway of the classic childhood snack, Ants on a Log. Spoiler Alert: Tim hates celery. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, Larry Groce, and the Dave Matthews Band Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, Derek and Tim track down the hard to find new snack cake from Hostess, a box of alluring Chocolate Peanut Butter Twinkies. Chocolate + Peanut Butter x Twinkies = A sure fire hit, right? WRONG! Before you even dare to try this tempting treat listen to this episode and hear our snackologists put their lives on the line for you, our snack loving consumer. If we can save one person from a world of snacking disappointment, then our job here is done. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan and Soul Coughing Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, Tim and Derek's search for the perfect S'mores based cereal may be over after coming across this newly released treasure from Post, Honey Maid S'mores cereal. But much like everything in society, this cereal has skeletons in its closet and a dark secret that our heroic snackologists discover while attempting to rate it. Other topics include metaphorical cereal masturbation, scientific theory about GMOs and vaccines, chocolate conspiracies, and more. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan and Mellow Lilly Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, Derek gives in to the limited edition flavor trend yet again when he came across this week's snack, Strawberry Nut M&Ms. Find out how Tim thinks dragons preferred their knights when eating them and the duo provide Mars Inc. with two stellar M&M flavor ideas for absolutely free. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan and Mars Inc. Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

On this episode of the DATEScast, Tim gives in to his DC Comics fan boy affliction and reluctantly drags Derek into a Wal-Mart to purchase Kellogg's Exclusive Villains Edition Frosted Chocolate Sugar Cookie Pop-Tarts. The duo discuss their favorite flavors from their childhoods, how they like their tarts cooked, what a sham Kellogg's has pulled by basically serving dessert for breakfast, and so much more. Also, have YOU ever put butter on a Pop Tart? Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall & Andrew Barkan, Hoyt S. Curtin, and Griffin & Quagmire Inspired by: Mike and Tom Eat Snacks

Welcome to episode one of Derek and Tim Eat Snacks! On this episode, Derek and Tim explore the wide wide world of Oreos and their newest Fourth of July themed creation, Fireworks Oreos. The duo discuss the validity of putting Pop Ro...I mean 'popping candy' into a cookie, if crazy flavors are a cry for attention, and why someone would think Swedish Fish Oreos was a good idea. Featuring: Derek Montilla (@cap_kaveman) & Tim Agne (@timagne) Music by: Polly Hall and Andrew Barkan