The Enduring Power of Place
Americans like to know where they are from—and like to think about where they might go. These contradictory realities are part of America's past, and of its future opportunities.
Arts
79 posts
Florida Man!
How a regional Florida newspaper informs its citizens and encourages activism.
A Library Garden Celebrates Reading, Art, and Nature
In 2015, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania relocated the town's library to a bigger space to better serve its growing population. A year later, when tragedy struck, the community stepped up to grow the library to include a reading garden.
![Historical view of the Amphitheater at the Chautauqua Institution in New York, scene of Friday, Aug. 12's attack on Salman Rushdie. [Image from New York Public Library via Wikimedia Commons.]](https://www.ourtownsfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Section_of_Amphitheater_Chautauqua_Institution_Chautauqua_New_York_NYPL_b12647398-79479.jpg)
What Happened at Chautauqua, and Why It Matters
Friday, Aug. 12, an assailant rushed the stage at the Chautauqua Institution. He stabbed Salman Rushdie in the neck and abdomen. Rushdie was not the only victim in this attack.
An Outsider Works with Insiders: Examples from Akron and Cleveland
Mac Love, who has spent much of his life outside Ohio, uses new technologies to bring community residents and college students together. That collaborative approach is now helping citizens’ voices be heard and is driving meaningful change in their neighborhoods.
Inside Our Towns: PA Humanities
A look at Humanities in the 21st century, the power of storytelling in community development, and more.
The Paper Clips Project: Students Bring Holocaust History to Southeastern Tennessee
Whitwell, Tennessee has become the center for a world-renowned cultural education project and Holocaust memorial.
Think Global, Perform Local
Troubled by the war in Ukraine, 100-year-old Angie Zerad wanted to do something. With help from her daughter, she began the daily ritual of playing the Ukrainian national anthem.
In Honor of Charly Jupiter Hamilton
A person who became the soul of his community, explains his vision—in art, and in memorable words.
A New Host for Mountain Stage
The founder of a popular and influential NPR program brings on a new host.
Charleston, West Virginia Celebrates Charly Jupiter Hamilton
“‘The Wonder Mural’ by Charly Hamilton changed an entire community. Through inclusion, Charly made a piece for the community by literally painting the community.”
Revitalizing Charleston, West Virginia Brick by Brick
Revitalizing Charleston, West Virginia Brick by Brick
History Come Alive – and Livestreamed!
Eighth of May Emancipation Celebration in Columbus, Mississippi now available on YouTube.
A Vibrant American Musical Career, far From America’s Cultural Capitals
What Larry Groce discovered by launching a national radio program from an out-of-the-way location
Meet Erie: A rust belt region continues to navigate its renaissance through a pandemic
Local filmmakers take to their streets examines the economic, cultural, and social impacts of Covid-19 during the summer of 2020 through this short film series.
The Artists of Lemmon, South Dakota
The role of the arts in a tiny town with its sights set high