ROCK FALLS, ILLINOIS (August 4, 2026) — Rock Falls Tourism is excited to announce the inaugural Aqua Palooza, a new two-day, family-friendly summer celebration taking place August 15-16, 2026, throughout Rock Falls. Held in conjunction with the Rock Falls River Chase, the weekend will feature thrilling boat races, live music, fishing, a brand-new Cardboard Regatta, and family activities at multiple locations throughout the city.

BETTENDORF, IOWA (July 23, 2026) — Iowa Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students made their mark at the 2026 FBLA National Leadership Conference from June 29-July 3.

FBLA is the nation's largest Career and Technical Student Organization focused on business. Members showcased their exceptional skills and professionalism, earning top placements and recognition among talented students nationwide.

SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI (July 14, 2026) — Missouri State University awarded 2,677 degrees to students in spring 2026.

The commencement ceremonies took place May 8, 2026, at Great Southern Bank Arena.

Fernando Rodriguez Lopez of Rock Island, Illinois (61201), graduated with a Bachelor of Science, Biology, Magna cum laude.

Students who graduated with honors completed at least 30 credit hours with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5.

WASHINGTON DC (July 7, 2026) — The National Organic Program (NOP) has posted a Common Organic System Plan (OSP) for organic farms, businesses, and certifiers. An OSP is central to the organic certification process, because it describes how a farm or business follows the USDA organic rules. The plan includes information on production practices, processing and how organic products are protected as they travel along supply chains.