A two-minute call on a cell phone is now a window into local history in Orange, New Jersey, where a new project has created an audio tour/history lesson out of more than 30 recordings of local residents.
Signs are scattered throughout town with instructions and a phone number to call to hear place-specific stories and memories from local residents.
"The project is intended to create a sense of pride in a once-thriving industrial community of 33,000 residents that saw a mass exodus of businesses and residents to the suburbs when the construction of Route 280 demolished entire neighborhoods beginning in the 1960s."
"...Since March, nine Orange High School students have interviewed business owners, current and former residents and officials throughout the city and transmitted the interviews to an online message center. Callers can find ear-shaped signs at sites around the city, dial a free local number and punch a code into their cell phone to hear short, first-hand stories about the location."
FULL STORY: 'Murmur' hopes to improve Orange residents' connection with city

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
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From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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