Jim Mertens

Jim Mertens talks with Rock Island Mayor Ashley Harris about the State of Rock Island. He also talks with Brian Alm, Egyptologist and CommUniversity lecturer, about the opportunities the community can take advantage of at CommUniversity.

In this episode Jim Mertens talks with Illinois lawmakers, who have just returned to the state capitol for a new session, about what to expect in the new year.

In this episode Jim Mertens talks with Iowa Representative Gary Mohr and Iowa Senator Cindy Winckler about what we can expect during the 2026 Iowa legislative session.

Jim speaks with Michael Glanz from The Arc of the Quad Cities about the passing of the new Dignity and Pay Act in Illinois and how it will positively impact sub minimum wages and Jim talks with Sarah Benson and Tresa Andrews of the Parent Mentor Program about their positive impact on local schools and students.

Jim talks with Bishop Dennis Walsh, of the Diocese of Davenport, about the death of the pope, the conclave, and where the Catholic Church is going regarding goals for the future.

This episode we are on location at the Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, IL. Jim speaks with the Commander of the Rock Island Arsenal Joint Manufacturing and Technology center, COL. David Guida, about the foundry and legacy of the Rock Island Arsenal and Jim talks with S. Patrick Allie, the Rock Island Arsenal Museum Director, about recent renovations and new exhibits.

Jim talks with Reverend Rich Hendricks from the Metropolitan Community Church and Tyler Mitchell from the Project of the Quad Cities about the new administration and how policies are impacting people from the LQBTQ+ community.

Jim talks with the General Manager of WQPT PBS, Dawn Schmitt and WVIK NPR's General Manger/CEO about the recission package that made its way to the senate floor and if the recision package is passed, it would defund public media of all federal funding for the next two fiscal years.

A flat year for tourism (2025) in The Cities, why?...and what will be done to make it more attractive to see the sites in The Cities?

Jim Mertens talks with Festival of Trees Administrator Sandi Burrichter about all things Festival of Trees including their new Quilt Village and Petit Forest and also talks with Brian Allen Quad City Arts Executive Director about all the ways Quad City Arts impacts the community outside of Festival of Trees.