U.S. Senate race: Iowa’s Senate contest is heating up around affordability and tax policy, with Republican Ashley Hinson and Democrat Josh Turek both pitching cost-of-living fixes as the race is labeled a toss-up. Energy & safety: The Iowa Utilities Commission is weighing penalties and corrective action for Black Hills Energy after a hearing found more probable pipeline safety violations and slower corrections than other major gas providers. Consumer scams: BBB Scam Tracker data shows Ogden and Chariton tied for 19th in Iowa for July scam reports, with Ogden logging two reports and Chariton also posting two. Public safety/health: Iowa City Police is recruiting volunteers for its Winter Clothing Drive, running Oct. 11-17, with extra need for Spanish, French and Arabic speakers. Community & culture: The African American Museum of Iowa will open a new exhibit Sept. 4 on Black resilience and community from 1964-1999. Sports (Iowa): Iowa volleyball coach Jim Barnes hit 500 career wins, and Iowa field hockey pulled off a major overtime comeback over No. 7 Wake Forest to start the season. Weather: Summer heat and humidity are returning across Iowa.