Community
Stay informed about local news, initiatives, and the people who make our community thrive.
Florida Property Tax Cuts Could Cripple Local Services
In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis initially proposed a sweeping property tax cut, only to backpedal after local Republican officials protested the potential impact on essential services, demonstrating
Local media awards boost journalism, but barriers remain.
Melissa Montalvo's investigation into security guard force in homeless shelters earned her first place in Investigative Writing, a testament to the tangible impact recognized by local media awards, ac
Multiple EF1 Tornadoes Confirmed in Louisiana
The National Weather Service confirmed three EF1 tornadoes ripped through Southeast Louisiana, including parts of Jefferson and Orleans parishes, with peak winds reaching 95 mph, causing unexpected da
Medellin Ranks 20th in Time Out's 2026 Best Cities for Food
Medellin's food scene is a paradox: ranked only 20th globally by Time Out's 2026 list, yet 94% of its locals rate it excellent—the second-highest approval worldwide.
Local journalism's role in community accountability is vital for 2026.
In judicial districts across the nation, prosecutions for public corruption were notably more frequent when a nonprofit news outlet operated within the area, according to theajp .
Netta Walker's Keerah Play Earns Solid Review at Definition Theatre
Actor Netta Walker, celebrated for her stage performances, has debuted as a playwright with 'Keerah,' a summer romance that just earned a 3-star review from the Chicago Tribune .
Protest Erupts Over Clarksville Senior Center Proposed Changes
Clarksville's proposed budget for the senior center includes a staggering $178,500 for public relations, even as residents protest the city's takeover of the Ajax Turner Senior Center and the recent f
Chicago Air Quality Unhealthy Through Thursday Morning
As of mid-afternoon on Monday, July 14th, Chicago's air quality index value hit 137, signaling unhealthy conditions.
Chicago shootings overnight injure multiple people across city
In a grim discovery early Sunday, 18-year-old Cristian Jose Rojas Barrios was found shot in the chest and leg, hands tied behind his back, in a Chicago bathtub.
Chicago Council Approves Native Plant Rules, 10-Inch Limit Near Sidewalks
Chicago's new native plant rule has everyone talking!
Navigating Community Services and Local Support in 2026
St. Francis House, a single Boston facility, serves over 252,000 meals and provides 13,000 showers annually. This immense, daily demand for basic community support offers immediate relief and dignity
Rochelle Park Council Approves 911 Transfer, Residents Seek Referendum
Despite the Rochelle Park Township Council's recent vote to transfer 911 dispatch services to Bergen County for a decade, residents have already organized a petition to force a public referendum on th
Tacoma faces $27M budget gap, plans mergers
The City of Tacoma is grappling with a projected $27 million budget deficit, forcing it to freeze hiring and plan department mergers that won't fully take effect until 2027.
Local Volunteer Opportunities for Community Welfare in 2026
This April 18, Salina alone will host nine diverse volunteer projects from 8 a.
NYC Engagement Office Risks Failure Without Real Community Input
New York City's newly unveiled Office of Community Safety, designed to boost mass engagement and address critical community issues, will initially operate with just two staff members, according to pbs
Low Turnout Expected for City and School Elections
Early voting for Lubbock's city and school elections hit an all-time low compared to May elections dating back to 2006.
San Diego's Arts Funding Cuts Threaten Community Fabric and Local Economy
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria has proposed eliminating all city funding for local arts and culture organizations, reducing a $13.
City events in 2026 could cripple small businesses without better planning.
The 2006 German World Cup generated 2.
Local News is Critical for Democracy. Its Decline Threatens Civic Engagement.
In the U.S., 59% of adults highly attached to their communities follow local news very closely, compared to just 27% of unattached individuals. This stark difference shows local information is crucial
Local News Collapse Risks Democratic Deficit, Report Warns
At least 293 local newspapers have closed in the UK since 2005, representing about a third of the sector, according to GOV.
Our Safety Is Not a Budget Line-Item: We Must Fund National Guard Training
National Guard training with local emergency services is a non-negotiable cornerstone of community safety and disaster preparedness. These joint exercises forge seamless coordination, ensuring a unified, life-saving response in moments of crisis.
Why Supporting Local Businesses Is the Only Way to Secure Our Community's Future
Supporting local businesses is more than a feel-good gesture; it's the most critical investment for a resilient local economy and a unique community identity.
Top 5 Family-Friendly Parks in Cambridge for Picnics and Playdates in 2026
Looking for the best family-friendly parks in Cambridge? This guide breaks down the top picks for picnics, playdates, and nature exploration, catering to kids of all ages.
To Protect Our Brains, We Must Invest in Urban Green Spaces Now
New research reveals environmental factors accelerate brain aging, making urban green spaces critical for public health and cognitive well-being. Investing in these areas is essential for a safer, healthier, and more prosperous city.
Top-Down Reorganizations Fail Communities; Local Input Is The Only Fix
When decisions about our national forests and local services are made in distant capital buildings, the results are often costly and ineffective. Here's why local community input is the only way forward.
Public Art Isn't a Luxury; It's a Smart Investment for Our Community's Future
Public art is not a luxury but a critical strategy for community engagement, cultural identity, and economic growth. Learn how strategic investment in art builds a more resilient and vibrant city.
Our Community's Watchdog Is Fading. Here's Why Investing In Local Journalism Is Crucial.
Local journalism is the bedrock of an informed community, fostering connection and holding leaders accountable. As newsrooms face challenges, investing in local news is an investment in our civic infrastructure and the health of our democracy.
To Thrive, Our City Must Invest in Public Arts Programs Now
Our local government must increase its investment in public arts programs. They are the lifeblood of our community’s identity, the engine of our economic vibrancy, and the foundation for our future.
To Neglect Our Libraries Is to Neglect Our Future: A Case for Investment
Public libraries are not relics but essential infrastructure for education, community development, and digital equity. Increased investment in these institutions is a fundamental necessity for a thriving community.
How to Start and Sustain a Neighborhood Watch Program
Establishing a Neighborhood Watch program enhances local public safety and strengthens community bonds by fostering collaboration between residents and law enforcement. This guide outlines how to start, organize, and sustain an effective program for crime prevention and community engagement.