The mind-boggling premiums were described by Larry Harbour, the 33-year-old owner of LB Custom Chrome and Detail in Broken Bow, Neb.

NPR: The Hunt For Affordable Health Insurance

The junior Senator, Ben Nelson, is a Democrat, but as one resident of the town of Broken Bow told us on a visit last week, he votes Republican a lot.

NPR: Economic Check-Up in Broken Bow

Mr. RAY BROWN (Broken Bow Resident): I'm Ray Brown.

NPR: Economic Check-Up in Broken Bow

But the steady flow of coal and commerce does not stop in Broken Bow, where small stores in the center of town may be showing some improved signs of economic life, but making ends meet on the land gets harder every year.

NPR: Economic Check-Up in Broken Bow

When Mr. Gerhardt arrived in Chicago, he found his bow broken in half and a note from TSA saying it had opened the case for inspection.

WSJ: Frequent-Flier Miles for Cellos, Other Large Musical Instruments Foment Debate--Middle Seat