Thawing Dog Poop Shows What ‘Lazy Slobs’ Some Owners Are: Block Talk

“What I can’t understand is why people bag it and then leave the full bag,” one person said of cold-weather dog poop scooping etiquette.

Unruly Parents Are ‘Ruining Youth Sports’: Block Talk

Readers suggest requiring parents to sign “good conduct” contracts, banning them from games until the playoffs and other measures.

These Things Drive Neighbors Up The Wall As Winter Drags On: Block Talk

Just breathe, several readers said. Oh, yeah, how would snowmobiling after 10 on a school night or “frozen fudge bombs” on the hiking trail?

Who Pays When A Neighbor’s Tree Damages Your Property: Block Talk

In a perfect world, a neighbor whose dying tree fell on another’s property would volunteer to pay for the damage, many readers said.

Sidewalk Snow Removal Scofflaws Create Frosty Relationships: Block Talk

Readers eagerly step in when neighbors physically can’t shovel snow but may “silently judge” those who are too lazy to pick up a shovel.

Neighborhood Resolutions Include Meeting Up, Fixing Up And Shutting Up: Block Talk

Resolutions varied, some tangible and others reflecting neighborhood-specific, yet widely held concerns. Many want to know neighbors better.

2026 Guide To Meteors, ‘Blood Moon,’ Supermoons And More Celestial Events

Supermoons bookend 2026. The year also features a total lunar eclipse, a “blue moon” and perfectly dark skies for the Perseid meteor shower.

Yes, It’s Rude To Bring Leftover Containers To Holiday Meals: Block Talk

It’s even ruder to hide to-go kits from the host, fill them with leftovers when the meal’s over and run, like it’s a holiday smash-and-grab.

Porch Pirates, Package Thefts And How To Stop Them: Block Talk

Package thefts go up during the holidays as thieves become more sophisticated and organized, but there are ways to deter porch pirates.

Patch People Helps Build Connections; We Want To Hear Your Story

The aim of Patch People, a feature telling relatable stories showcasing readers’ diverse lives, is to make us all feel a bit more connected.

These AI Toys Raise Safety Concerns, New Report Says

The plush toy engaged in and even started explicit sexual discussions — and it’s not the only AI-powered toy parents should worry about.

Put These Thanksgiving Fails From Real Cooks On The ‘Don’t Do’ List

For one cook, “hair on fire” wasn’t an idiom. Another fail: That time “you couldn’t get near the kitchen” without risking life and limb.

Does Turning On Holiday Lights Early Make You A Bad Neighbor? Block Talk

The custom of letting Thanksgiving pass before turning on lights is widely observed, but “Christmas creep” has support, too.

Should Texting And Walking Cluelessly Be Illegal? Block Talk

Survey respondents agreed distracted walking reflects a societal trend towards self-absorption but differed on “distracted walking” laws.

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.