Town and Story

Community

10 articles

The new Burlington store in Cicero, Illinois, with a red ribbon stretched across the entrance for its grand opening ceremony.
New in Town

Burlington Cicero Opening Date Announced: September 18th

On Friday, September 18th, the new Burlington store in Cicero officially opens its doors.

Kian Parsa·September 10, 2026
A lively town square showcasing unique local businesses, symbolizing community character and economic vitality.
Local Features

Supporting Local Businesses: Defining Town Character

For every $100 spent at a local business, roughly $68 stays within the local economy, a stark contrast to the less than $14 recirculated by chain stores, according to Pillur .

Kian Parsa·August 28, 2026
Split image: a lively community arts center contrasted with a modern co-working space and struggling small businesses, illustrating uneven regional development.
New in Town

Region Sees New Business and Community Spaces Opening

In the historically underserved Northside district, a defunct textile factory has transformed into 'The Canvas,' a vibrant community arts center, offering free workshops, according to the Northside Co

Kian Parsa·August 26, 2026
A lively town square showcasing independent local businesses, symbolizing community connection and economic prosperity.
Founder Stories

How Do Local Businesses Shape Community Identity and Economy?

For every $100 spent at an independent local shop, approximately $50 recirculates within the community, according to Localcart .

Samuel Reed·August 24, 2026
Construction barriers and heavy machinery line a closed section of Blue Springs' Main Street, with storefronts of local businesses partially hidden, illustrating the impact of the ongoing project.
Main Street News

Blue Springs Main Street construction begins, impacting downtown businesses

Downtown Blue Springs' Main Street is now a construction zone, a transformation not slated for completion until spring 2027.

Vincent Moretti·August 10, 2026
A lively Main Street with independent shops and people browsing books, symbolizing the successful integration of local businesses with online platforms.
Main Street News

Local platforms preserve Main Street's essence, capture market share

In its first year, Bookshop.

Samuel Reed·July 16, 2026
Meet John Mateyko: The Serenbe Financial Planner Recognized for Community and Client Success
Founder Stories

Meet John Mateyko: The Serenbe Financial Planner Recognized for Community and Client Success

John Mateyko, Managing Partner of IDEX Financial, is a Serenbe financial planner recognized for his professional achievements and significant contributions to the community through youth sports, local theater, education, and philanthropy. This article explores his experiences, values, and community involvement that have shaped his personal and professional journey.

Sponsored·July 7, 2026
A bustling North Shore street with award-winning boutiques and design services, bathed in warm sunlight, representing local business success.
Style & Services

4 North Shore Boutiques & Design Services Honored in 2026 Awards

EcoChic Fashions, a boutique founded just 18 months ago, unseated a five-year incumbent to win 'Best Sustainable Boutique' with 60% of the category's votes in the 2026 North Shore's Best Awards.

Baa' Yazzie·June 5, 2026
Diverse crowd celebrating Juneteenth in Fort Worth with music, performances, and pride elements, showcasing an expanded scope of the holiday.
Local Features

Jubilee Day Celebrations Expand Juneteenth Event Activities

In Fort Worth, the 2026 Juneteenth period will feature not only a 'Freedom Soul Cypher' but also a 'Live OUT Loud' event with drag performances and a 'Pride As Big As Texas' concert.

Aisha Campbell·June 4, 2026
Diverse volunteers happily harvesting fresh produce in a sunlit community garden, symbolizing collective effort and local impact.

Local volunteering initiatives build community resilience and address needs

The University of New Mexico's Food Loss & Waste initiative has already diverted nearly 700 pounds of food from landfills to its campus food pantry, directly supporting students in need.

Aisha Campbell·May 12, 2026