Extreme Halloween Displays Can Turn Any Street Into A Nightmare: Block Talk

“I’m 70, have young grandchildren and have always enjoyed the horror part of Halloween. It touches our fears in a safe way,” a reader said.

‘Acorn Apocalypse’: What’s Behind The Abundance Of Nuts This Year

In mast years, an oak tree can drop 10,000 acorns, creating a smorgasbord for some animals, a danger for others and a nuisance for humans.

What To Do When Your Neighbor’s Weed ‘Smells Like A Skunk’s Behind’: Block Talk

Readers said part of living in a community is following not just explicit laws, but also social norms — like not polluting a neighbor’s air.

How Early Is Too Early To Decorate For Halloween: Block Talk

We asked readers to settle an argument on when it’s too soon to start putting up haunted houses and other Halloween displays.

The Sheets Hit The Fan When We Asked About Scented Laundry Products: Block Talk

Readers cleared the air on dryer sheets and other scented laundry products. Some said they should be banned. Get over it, others implored.

As Fire Pit Season Heats Up, Here Are Some Dos and Don’ts: Block Talk

Patch readers were split on the etiquette of fire pits and outdoor fireplaces, vehemently so.

What To Know About 'Addictive' Energy Drink Generating Social Media Warnings

'Feel Free' is a 21-and-older product, but kids can easily get their hands on the little blue bottles found at convenience store counters.

It’s ‘One Big Goose Latrine’ In Some Neighborhoods But Solutions Vary: Block Talk

Tired of stepping around their mess, Block Talk readers offer remedies ranging from harassment with dogs to birth control to hunting.

There Are Strong Opinions About Kids At Breweries: Block Talk

Many readers are opposed, but others want a judgment-free zone where they can grab a meal and socialize with other families with kids.

2025 Grocery Store Closings Driven By These Factors

Grocery is a difficult business with thin margins, complicated by e-commerce, non-traditional competition, and labor and other costs.

What You Can Do To Stop Speeding Drivers In The Neighborhood: Block Talk

Some communities contract with private security companies for traffic enforcement. Some Block Talk respondents think that’s a terrible idea.

National Hot Dog Day Is Coming; Survey Reveals Regional Favorites And Brand Loyalties

Read staunch defenses of Chicago-style dogs with salad fixings, Detroit coney islands, New York “dirty water dogs” and other hot dogs.

15 Patriotic Cocktails And Non-Alcoholic Drinks For The 4th Of July

On Independence Day, wave the red, white and blue with patriotic takes on cocktails, some familiar and some not, and kid-friendly drinks.

Follow These 5 Tips To Pick The Perfect Watermelon Every Time

Meh. You expected a sweet, juicy bite of watermelon, but it tasted like air. Here are five tips on choosing the perfect melon every time.

Fireworks Etiquette To Keep The Neighborhood Happy: Block Talk

Consumer fireworks laws have made backyard 4th of July displays common. But not everyone loves the DIY shows — or even tolerates them.

Following These Safety Tips Can Make Summer 2025 More Fun

Summer offers endless opportunities for fun, but dangers lurk — some well-known, but others less obvious. Follow these tips to stay safe.

When A Neighbor’s House Tanks The Value Of Yours, Here’s What To Do: Block Talk

Some readers said there may be valid reasons a neighbor neglects home maintenance and yard chores. Or maybe they’re just jerks, others said.

Here’s What To Do When The Neighbor’s Dogs Bark All Night: Block Talk

Dogs, even grown and older dogs that didn’t get obedience training as pups, can and should be taught not to bark, readers told Patch.

Infant Swing Recalled Over Suffocation Risk, Safety Violations

Sold on Amazon, the recalled baby swing violates federal safety laws and could pose a suffocation risk.

These Are The Best Employers For New Gen Z College Grads

Gen Z workers, who are projected to make up 30 percent of the U.S. workforce by 2030, are clear about what they expect in a job.