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The Cities
Saturday at Noon 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.

Latest Episodes
  • In this episode of the podcast, the focus is on the 2024 Iowa caucuses for both Republicans and Democrats. Jim interviews Jeanita McNulty, the Scott County GOP Chair, and Kay Pence, the Scott County Democratic Chair, to gain insights from both sides of the political spectrum.
  • On this episode of The Cities, Jim discusses the recent 2023 legislative session in Iowa and expectations for the 2024 session with Cindy Winkler (D) and Gary Moore (R).
  • In this episode, film critic Mike Schultz joins host Jim to discuss the year in cinema and give a preview of upcoming movies for the holiday season.
  • On this episode of The Cities: Dave Harrell, President and CEO of Visit Quad Cities, talks about tourism recovering strongly in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2019 with $1.3 billion in economic impact.
  • In this episode of The Cities, we delve into the Wreaths Across America program, which aims to honor fallen service members by placing reeds or wreaths on their gravesites.
  • Reverend Dwight Ford, the Executive Director of Project NOW, explains the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) administered by his organization. He discusses the priority periods for assistance, with families with young children, elderly people, and individuals with disabilities receiving priority in October-November, and those facing disconnection getting priority in November.
  • In this episode of the podcast, the new chair of the Iowa Democratic Party, Rita Hart, joins the discussion to talk about the challenges the party faces in rebuilding after Republicans have dominated statewide elections in Iowa. With Democrats holding very few offices, Hart emphasizes the need to roll up sleeves and work on recruiting candidates and effectively communicating with rural voters.
  • Jim talks with Col. Robert Sinklar, Executive Coordinating Director of Corn Belt Ports and Roger Viadero, a Western Illinois University Environmental Scientist on the development and protection of the Mississippi River.
  • In this episode of the Cities, we explore the financial health of Rock Island County, with Richard Brunk, the county board chairman, shedding light on the past financial crises and the recent reduction in property tax levies. The sale of the former county-run Hope Creek nursing home has significantly improved the county's financial outlook, along with receiving bond rating upgrades. Brunk attributes these positive changes to tough decisions, new budgeting approaches, and effective leadership. The demolition of the old county courthouse is discussed, along with the efforts made to preserve artifacts. We also explore the potential use of the vacant courthouse site as a park and the possibility of future expansion. Administrative improvements such as hiring a county administrator and reducing the county board size have successfully streamlined governance. Shifting gears, we dive into the rich Belgian heritage in the Quad Cities, especially along 7th Street in Moline. The Belgian Museum of the Quad Cities, celebrating its 60th anniversary, takes center stage as we emphasize the importance of genealogy research and passing down heritage to younger generations. We also highlight beloved traditions like waffle breakfasts, lace making, and the unique Belgian sport of Rolly Polly.