Wednesday 11th March 2026

September Pack the Backpack Winner: Aaron Backlin

The September Minuteman Printing & Graphics Pack the Backpack winner, is Aaron Backlin – Spanish / Computer Science Teacher @ Grinnell High School. He was nominated by Mary Lindberg, and here is what they wrote to Kix 101.1.

Grinnell-Newburg High School was unable to fill an open high school Spanish teacher position for the 2025-2026 school year leaving Mr. Backlin as the only full-time high school Spanish teacher. Because of this, Mr. Backlin’s teaching schedule wasn’t finalized until less than a week before the school year started. He graciously switched one of his classes from a standard class to an accelerated class very last minute to allow for the incoming 9th graders to have a path towards AP Spanish. He is always willing to do what is best for the students and the school even if it creates more work for himself. He is always smiling and willing to help a student. In addition to his Spanish teaching, he assists with high school debate and was selected by the students as a commencement speaker in 2024. He also helps lead a trip to Spain once every three years. He is a positive, engaged, welcoming, hardworking part of the school and the community who makes an impact inside and outside of the classroom.

On the last Wednesday of the month during the school year, we award $101 to a Kix Country classroom to help out with supplies. Nominate a Kix Country teacher today at Kixweb.com.

 

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Blog

Kenai 3/10/2026

OUR KIX CRITTER OF THE WEEK IS KENAI!!

Kenai is a high-energy puppy with a heart full of love and a playful spirit that’s impossible to resist. He can be a little shy when he first meets new people, but once he warms up, he’s all in—loyal, affectionate, and eager to be your best friend.

He absolutely loves being outside and would thrive with an active person or family who enjoys spending time in nature. Whether it's a romp in the yard or a hike through the woods, Kenai is always ready for the next adventure.

Like many pups his age, Kenai is still learning his manners and would benefit from some consistent training. But at his core, he’s just a big baby who wants to love and be loved.

Kenai is neutered, up to date on all his vaccinations, heartworm tested, and microchipped. He’s healthy, sweet, and ready to find his forever home. His adoption fee because he is our KIX Critter is only $75.00!!!

If you’ve got the time, energy, and heart for a young pup who will adore you endlessly, Kenai is waiting to meet you.

 

 
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Jonathan Knight

The List for Monday, March 9th 2026

Welcome to The List,

Looks like Britney Spears may be facing some serious legal trouble after her recent DUI stop. Reports say pills found in her possession are believed to be Adderall, and authorities are now testing them for other substances like fentanyl or cocaine. Some reports claim the pills may have been obtained during a recent trip to Mexico. And according to the Daily Mail, Britney and her team are now discussing possible treatment options after the arrest.

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A terrifying moment at Rihanna’s Beverly Hills home yesterday when multiple shots were fired while she was inside. Police say a woman in her 30s allegedly fired between seven and nine rounds from an AR-15 style rifle while parked in a Tesla across the street. Four rounds reportedly struck the house. Thankfully nobody was injured and the suspect was arrested. Authorities say more information about the shooter will be released today. And somewhere in Beverly Hills a security company just doubled their prices overnight.

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Is a Florida Georgia Line reunion actually happening? Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley have said they wanted to repair their friendship after the duo split back in 2022. Now fans are buzzing because the two were recently spotted vacationing together with their wives. Brian’s wife Brittney even posted photos from the trip, including one showing Brian with a guitar while Tyler sat at a piano. So yeah… when two country stars sit down with instruments together, that’s usually not just for a group sing-along around the hotel minibar.

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If you’re expecting wild rock star behavior backstage with Thomas Rhett, you might be disappointed. The country star says his dressing room rider is actually pretty simple. He told CountryNow his must-have items are Coke Zero, water, and Boar’s Head turkey. That’s it. No beer, no whiskey, just straight protein. He says sometimes he’ll throw a little mustard on the turkey, but mostly he just eats it plain. Which officially makes Thomas Rhett the only country singer whose backstage spread sounds like a gym trainer planned it.

You can catch The List, weekday afternoons at 4:20 with Jonathan Knight. Only on Iowa’s BEST Country KIX 101.1

 
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