In this episode of Talking Art, Monica Leo of Eulenspiegel Puppet Theatre joins the conversation to explore the art and impact of puppetry. As founder and lead puppeteer of the West Liberty–based company, Monica has spent decades creating original works, building puppets by hand, and bringing stories to life for audiences across the country and around the world.Monica shares insight into her creative process, from designing puppets to crafting performances that blend visual art, movement, and storytelling. The conversation highlights the unique power of puppetry as a medium—one that invites imagination, uses metaphor and symbolism, and connects with audiences of all ages.Together, they reflect on the role of puppetry in education, community engagement, and the broader arts landscape, as well as the enduring appeal of an art form that allows artists to build entire worlds and invite others into them.

Fans of the popular “Church Basement Ladies” franchise have a similar but “different” show to add to their compendium of favorites, that being Richmond Hill Players current production of Bo Wilson’s The Charitable Sisterhood of the Second Trinity Victory Church directed by Mike Skiles.

In this episode of Wellness Wake Up Call, we build on the importance of fiber by exploring five key lifestyle habits that support gut health. From reducing added sugars and staying active to managing stress and prioritizing sleep, small daily choices can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Focus on one habit this week to support your overall well-being.

Fred Burton, a former State Department special agent and New York Times best-selling author, talks about the book he co-authored with Samuel Katz called Beirut Rules: The Murder of a CIA Station Chief and Hezbollah's War Against America. He discusses Iran's role in terrorist bombings, kidnappings and killings of Americans after the Iranian revolution, the life, abduction and death of CIA Station Chief William Buckley, how 'Beirut Rules' differed from previous spycraft rules, why the US didn't retaliate, and much more. Burton also addresses whether the American public might be more supportive of the current Iran War if the terrorist attacks against the US from this period were given greater weight by the Trump administration.

Proposal would’ve imposed 3% tax on income over $1 million

House Republicans raise concerns about an amendment to the Illinois constitution changing the requirements for House district maps in Illinois. It allows for the creation of racial coalitions or influence districts and creates a priority ranking for the requirements.

Knowing how much water data centers use would help communities

While Illinois’ capital still grapples with post-pandemic challenges in the city center, officials anticipate record tourism numbers for 2026

All over the country, tech giants are rushing to build massive data centers to support AI-driven demand, and it’s forcing local governments to reckon with how such resource-intensive projects could bring billions in regional investment. One proposed data center in eastern Iowa has become the subject of a standoff between two local jurisdictions.

For the last century, Roosevelt High School’s synchronized swimming team has fostered a community for women both in and out of the water. This year marks the Sharks’ 100th anniversary, making them the oldest club of their kind.

Federal immigration agent raids may have faded from the headlines, but not from many people’s minds. In northwest Iowa, community members are stepping up to help immigrants living with uncertainty.

Police are investigating a shooting that happened early Sunday morning at the downtown Ped Mall near the University of Iowa campus. Five people were taken to area hospitals. No arrests have been made.

New research out of Ohio State University found the rate of bird decline was quicker in areas with more intense agricultural practices.

Across the central U.S., nitrate from crop fertilizer and livestock facilities is seeping into water underground. Many family wells are no longer safe to drink from without pricey treatment.

Severe weather is happening more frequently as the climate changes, adding to an ever-growing list of challenges for U.S. farmers. From sudden temperature swings to floods, these events can have serious consequences for farms and ranches.

Some close watchers of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s budget aren’t thrilled with the Trump administration’s proposal — but they're hopeful some of the suggested cuts won’t make it in the final spending plans passed by Congress.