In this episode of Talking Art, Miguel Peña, director of Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande, joins the conversation to explore the artistry and cultural significance of folklórico dance. Composed of alumni from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley—home to the only folklórico dance major in the United States—the company brings the rich regional traditions of Mexico to life through vibrant movement, music, and storytelling.Miguel shares insight into the discipline and creativity behind folklórico performance, from intricate footwork to the visual impact of traditional costumes. The conversation also highlights the company’s work in education, where they introduce students to the fundamentals of folklórico while sharing the cultural stories that shape each dance. With performances at prestigious venues like the Kennedy Center and international tours across multiple countries, Ballet Folklórico del Rio Grande continues to preserve tradition while connecting audiences to the depth and diversity of Mexican heritage.

Shelley Cooper — a solo actor, director, playwright, composer and Augie professor — will star in “Master Class” at Moline’s Black Box Theatre, May 15-24.

In this episode of A Real Piece of Work, leaders from the Quad Cities Chamber join the conversation to discuss the forces shaping economic growth and workforce development in the region. Chris, Vice President of Business Retention, Expansion, and Workforce, and Bill Polley, Senior Director of Business Intelligence, share insights from their work supporting local businesses and analyzing regional trends.The discussion explores how companies are adapting to workforce challenges, the importance of connecting businesses with training and resources, and how data—like the Top 100 High Priority Jobs Report—helps guide decision-making across industries. With perspectives from both direct business engagement and economic research, this episode highlights the opportunities and strategies driving growth in the Quad Cities.

Augustana College has launched Peer Recovery Support, a new student-led mental health program that expands access to care while preparing students for careers in the growing mental health workforce.

Oy, “miracle of miracles” the QCA has another chance, in less than 2 years, to take in one of theatre’s most beloved musicals: Fiddler on the Roof which is now playing at Circa 21 Dinner Theatre in Rock Island and directed by Georgette Kleier, who is making her debut at Circa. I certainly hope it won’t be her last visit.

Downtown Geneseo will come alive with a new event on Saturday, May 30 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., with the first-ever Geneseo Wine Walk.

With a new Republican plan in Congress calling for $1 billion in funding for security improvements tied to the White House ballroom project, U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood says he doesn't want any public money going to support the project.

State Lawmakers will assess how much progress has occurred in public education under the Evidence-Based Funding formula.

A special unit of the Illinois State Police has launched an investigation into the fatal shooting of Silverio Villegas González, a Mexican national killed by a federal immigration agent in September.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and other mayors are asking Illinois lawmakers to increase the share of income tax revenue that goes to local governments.

Iowa shared voter registration data — including sensitive personal information — with the U.S. Department of Justice, Secretary of State Paul Pate announced Tuesday. The DOJ's demand for state voter lists has raised concerns about data privacy.

During a candidate forum in Sioux City, three Democrats competing for a chance to flip Iowa's most conservative congressional district highlighted shared priorities more than sharp differences ahead of the June 2 primary.

Central Iowa Water Works leaders said data indicates central Iowans may face another lawn watering ban due to high nitrate levels unless residents limit water use.

In the final hours of Gov. Kim Reynolds' final legislative session, Republican lawmakers came together around a plan they say will save property taxpayers around $4 billion over six years.

Community-supported agriculture has been a popular way for people to buy produce from local farms for decades. There's new pressure on farmers to offer more customization and convenience – but some CSA supporters worry that may dilute the original purpose.

Ornate box turtles and their kin face steep challenges in today’s world, but people can help out by raising the deck height on their mowers, allowing turtles to cross the road and not taking them home as pets.

Farm organizations were in different stages of a grant process when the U.S. Department of Agriculture cut dozens of projects to help underserved farmers access land and capital. Agriculture leaders say the termination deals a blow to future farmers.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade passageway, remains virtually closed due to the war in Iran. That’s driven up the prices of key agricultural necessities, which could remain high into next year.