Chris Stein, senior politics reporter for Guardian US, talks about the upcoming midterm elections, the stake involved, impact of mid-decade gerrymandering by both parties, the role of President Trump, and a look at key races in Iowa and Ohio that may determine the outcome.

Rock Island County Health Department Chief Nursing Officer Tracy Keenon says the screening covers four STIs with results within 48 hours. The testing is $25, but can be waived for lack of funding. The department is also continuing its free Narcan kit outreach program. Since May 2024, the department has given out nearly 700 kits. Anyone can request one, and the department staff will show how to administer the lifesaving opioid overdose nasal spray, no questions asked.

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.

Appointment bookings at the Alchemist Art Studio have been steady in its first month. Owner Grace DeVrieze is seeking artists to decorate the studio located at 1623 2nd Avenue in downtown Rock Island.

Community and afterschool programs are requesting more money as they still trying to get federal funding cuts back, and Gov. JB Pritzker proposed a funding cut in next years budget.

Bill filed after Taylorville student was assaulted on bus

The charges – alleging abuse to at least eight students from 2013 to 2015 — stem from a tip the FBI first received in 2024.

Lawmakers are scheduled to wrap up their session by May 31.

A jury found Brandon Bradshaw of Sioux City not guilty on misdemeanor charges after a two-day trial in Woodbury County District Court. His case sparked national attention and local debate over public art.

Democratic U.S. Senate candidates Josh Turek and Zach Wahls debated for an hour Tuesday night on Iowa PBS. They discussed issues like campaign finance reform, Social Security, immigration, agriculture and healthcare, while also addressing questions of electability.

Vice President JD Vance stopped in Iowa to rally support for Republican Rep. Zach Nunn and pitch the GOP as the party that prioritizes working-class values.

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.

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.

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.

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.