Welcome to Mendon Commons, a volunteer-run, independent news site serving the town of Mendon.
Why Mendon Commons?
Local news gives us a shared understanding of the issues that affect our town and its people. It equips us to make thoughtful decisions and inspires us to get involved, even if that’s just by showing up at the polls.
We chose the name, Mendon Commons, because it reflects the notion of a gathering place where the community can learn what’s happening in town and come away feeling better informed and more connected to their neighbors.
Why Now?
Local news has been on the decline all over the country. Since 2005, the U.S. has lost almost one-third — that’s 3,300 — of its local newspapers. Many of those that remain have been taken over by media conglomerates or hedge funds with no real interest in the communities they serve. They’ve gutted their newsrooms then compensate by filling their pages with wire copy and articles from their other papers. That’s why most of the news in local papers isn’t local at all.
The good news is that hyperlocal news sites like this one have popped up all over the country to fill the void. These are structured as nonprofits, or small commercial enterprises, or like Mendon Commons, something else entirely. What we all have in common is we’re run by locals, for locals.
Which leads to the last question.
How can I help?
Mendon Commons is a work in progress that we expect will grow and evolve to meet our community’s needs. We’re run entirely by volunteers and we don’t accept advertising. That means we need you.
Here are a few ways you can help:
- Subscribe for free to receive news updates by using the Subscribe button in the menu or footer of this page
- Invite your Mendon friends and neighbors to subscribe
- Submit your events
- Contact us with story ideas and news tips
- Share our stories on social media
We’re excited to bring the news of Mendon to the people who live and work here. Thank you for being part of this effort.
