
What's going on?

44% of Public University Students Pay Zero Tuition
Illinois’ proposed FY2027 budget sustains record MAP funding and operating increases that have led 44% of in-state public university students to pay no tuition out-of-pocket.

Major Illinois Employer Slashes Hundreds of Jobs
Walgreens is eliminating 469 Illinois positions as part of an ongoing restructuring under private equity ownership, prompting concern from watchdog groups.

Must-Have Wisconsin Passport for Bar Lovers
If Wisconsin dive bars are your happy place, this passport gets you free drinks at more than 130 locations across the state.

Iowa Bill Requires Self-Driving Cars To Have Human Drivers
Iowa might crack down on autonomous cars.

New Illinois Bill Could End All-Day Service Appointment Waits
A new Illinois bill aims to shorten repair appointment windows and protect customers from extra fees.
![Iowa’s Best & Most Delicious Food Festivals Happening in 2026 [LIST]](http://townsquare.media/site/675/files/2026/02/attachment-jason-an-zy6teb_fcrc-unsplash.jpg?w=980&q=75)
Iowa’s Best & Most Delicious Food Festivals Happening in 2026 [LIST]
Sweet corn, ice cream, strawberries, watermelon, BBQ... there are a ton of annual food festivals held across the state of Iowa, but which one is the BEST? Midwest Living has the answer!

Don’t Miss 2026 Free Days at Top Illinois Attractions
Illinois residents can explore top attractions for free in 2026. From museums to aquariums, these dates could save your family serious money.

Iowa Leads Tri-State Education Rankings
Iowa ranks in the Top 5 nationwide for education, while Illinois and Wisconsin perform above average but fall below the top 10 in preparing kids for future success.

Dubuque Begins Water Leak Detection in Northeast Areas
The City of Dubuque is performing a leak detection survey in northeast neighborhoods to identify underground water main issues and prevent costly repairs.

Galena's Blaum Brothers Distillery: Famous Comedian & Beyond
See how Blaum Brothers Distilling in Galena caught the attention of a famous comedian and is now making waves beyond Illinois.


