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.

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.