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The Cities
Saturday at 4:30 p.m. on WVIK News 90.3 FM and 90.3 HD1.

The Cities is a local features program hosted by Jim Mertens, broadcast on WQPT on Thursdays at 7:00 P.M.

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Latest Episodes
  • Spotting Human Trafficking
    Jim talks with Sara K. about the signs of human trafficking and also talks with wildlife biologist Kelly McKay about eagle counting.
  • The State of Moline, IL
    Jim talks with Moline Mayor Rayapati about the state of the city and what we can expect in this new year.
  • Changing Iowa Universities
    Jim Mertens talks with Iowa State Rep. Taylor Collins about changing what's taught in Iowa universities and also talks with John Deere historian Neil Dahlstrom about John Deere's 222nd birthday.
  • You Could Learn the Uke!
    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.
  • Illinois Legislative Session 2026
    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.
  • Expecting What? Iowa Legislative Session
    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.
  • Equitable Pay & Parent Mentor Group
    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.
  • A Changing Catholic Church
    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.
  • Rock Island Arsenal
    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.
  • The State of Equality for the LGBTQ+ Community in the Quad Cities
    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.