Small Town Tour of Fame: Corning
Johnny Carson made the town popular, but what else makes this little town so special? Words by Vonnie...
iowa
Iowa’s Wind Energy: A Photo Essay
With wind energy as the state’s largest source of renewable energy, each new wind turbine offers a small...
Iowa’s COVID Response: April and May
One year later, we reflect on Iowa’s handling of the pandemic from when it first began in 2020. Read More
Iowa’s COVID Response: March
One year later, we reflect on Iowa’s handling of the pandemic from when it first began in 2020. Read More
Extrañas y Estrellas: To Chicago & Back
Strangers and Stars Discuss the Midwest’s Mexican Cuisine- This Time on the Road Read More
The Heat Index: FlyLife, Sqvce, & 64Cityy
Lucius Pham and Ryan LeFort·
Prolific members of the Des Moines hip-hop collective Us Vs. Them, FlyLife, Sqvce & 64Cityy talk about collaboration and their individual musical careers with THE HEAT INDEX–featuring a reimagined music video for their song “Send It Up!” Read More
Rachel In Search Of: The Perfect Reuben
Urban Plains’ reporter Rachel James goes on a quest for the best reuben in Des Moines, Iowa. Watch her journey as she explores five of the top places, eats a lot of corned beef, and maybe finds the perfect reuben sandwich. Read More
“Dead” Moines: How We Got Here
Des Moines isn’t your typical Midwest music scene. Sure, it’s right on the crosshairs of Interstates 80 and 35, connecting culture hubs like Chicago or Minneapolis with modest scenes like Omaha and Kansas City. But despite it’s prime location, live music in Des Moines has historically been behind the curve. Read More
Educational Support Programs for Refugees Continue Work During the Pandemic
Alina Dorion and Rachel Wente·
Over the past year, the pandemic has exacerbated challenges refugee students and their families face. Read More
The New York Times Magazine’s 1619 Project could be barred from Iowa schools
A bill that would ban the use of The New York Times Magazine’s slavery project in schools is being considered by the Iowa House Education Committee. Read More