Researchers, patients optimistic in fight against alpha-gal syndrome

A support group and a lab in the St. Louis area provide resources for people with the allergy to mammal products — and evidence that its effects can be reversed.

Rose LaForest, Nine PBS Oct 1, 2026

Water

Far offshore, scientists find fresh evidence of human harm to reefs

The Gulf’s Flower Garden Banks has been viewed as healthy, but a new study shows signs of damage.

Elise Plunk, Louisiana Illuminator Sep 21, 2026

Data Centers

Mississippi River mayors help cities navigate rising data center interest

More than three-quarters of member cities in a Mississippi River coalition have been approached to host AI infrastructure.

Héctor Alejandro Arzate, Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk Sep 17, 2026

Phillip Powell

Phillip Powell worked with the Desk as a Report for America corps member from 2024-2026. As part of his graduate studies at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Powell previously worked as a reporter on Capitol Hill focused on politics and foreign affairs. At Medill, Phillip took part in large investigative projects with ProPublica and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He holds his bachelor’s degree in political science from Hendrix College, where he was a staff writer for The Profile and Editor-in-Chief of the award-winning Aonian Literary Magazine. He graduated from Northwestern with a Master of Science in Journalism.