Clay Masters

Iowa initially chose not to expand Medicaid to thousands of beneficiaries under the Affordable Care Act. But it's come up with a plan that uses federal money to pay for expansion, while writing its own rules. Beneficiaries will have to pay a small premium, for instance.

Just as e-books have begun working their way into libraries, librarians are grappling with how to embrace digital music. At the Iowa City Public Library, an unusual licensing arrangement with local artists is having some success.

After years spent working as a Nashville sideman, the 33-year-old guitarist is making his name as an instrumental soloist. While his songs lack lyrics, they're not short on backstory.

Iowa's Republican Governor Terry Branstad is pushing to make Iowa the healthiest state. Under the Affordable Care Act, states are deciding whether to expand Medicaid and that's created an opportunity for compromise in Iowa.

In an industry where more and more artists must take responsibility for promoting their albums and booking their tours, the problems for Big Harp are compounded by the fact its two key members are married — and recent parents. The band releases its sophomore album, Chain Letters., this month.

The Mississippi River is at historically low levels. The Army Corps of Engineers says the river will likely be able to stay open through the month, but soon it may be too shallow in parts for barge traffic. There have been calls for the corps to release water from reservoirs along the Mississippi.

One of the country's toughest congressional races pits Republican Rep. Steve King and the state's former first lady, Christie Vilsack, a political newcomer. This week, the Iowa State Fair was the battlefield.

The drought is beginning to really sink its teeth into the Midwest. More than three-quarters of the nation's corn acres are in a drought zone. In Iowa, Illinois and Indiana, corn crops are burning up and its causing commodity prices to shoot up. Suburban residents are paying to water their lawns, but it isn't doing much good.

The former governor and two-term senator is vying for the Senate seat left open by retiring Democrat Ben Nelson. But he's been out of Nebraska for more than a decade, and Republicans now outnumber Democrats in the state by a wide margin.

Though Joyner has chosen to remain under the radar, the Omaha songwriter has had a huge influence; Beck and Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes have both cited him among their favorites. Joyner's latest project is a fan-funded double vinyl LP that will be out later this year.