Describes what goes on in teenage hangouts and why hangouts are important in providing a social meeting place for teenagers. Discusses physical features that make hangouts attractive, how small communities can effectively manage teenage hangouts, and how teenage hangouts encourage social development including developing a sense of community. (LP)

Suggests that Americans often overlook the importance of historic preservation because of prevailing ideas of progress that devalue the past and a nouveau riche mentality embarrassed by the past. Points out the irreplaceable value of local landmarks that tie a community to its past. Describes instances where ordinary people pooled their resources…

Increasingly, colleges and universities are engaging in service learning, but for service learning to be successful in rural communities, students and faculty must look beyond the stereotypes of rural life and see rural people and places for what they are. Rural stereotypes are discussed, and a "stay option" is identified as a common…

An investigation of effects of community change on children's lives explored the proposition that, in both rural and urban Kentucky since the Second World War, children have lost shared multigenerational activities, freedom to roam, and open unstructured time. Data included oral histories from residents born 1895-1950, archival research, and…

Proposes questions for citizens of small towns to discuss when considering local economic endeavors. Questions address local concerns for maintaining rural character, quality of life, and sense of community while promoting economic growth. Considers effects on local taxes, the environment, natural resources, and employment opportunities. (KS)

Subdivisions are the dominant form of new housing, characterized by nonlinear patterns, pure residential land use, and resident homogeneity. Advocates traditional small town approach to development, which provides a range of residents and opportunities for frequent social interactions. Recommends strategies to overcome barriers to small town…

Discusses trends toward constant economic and technological change, ways in which increased access to information may affect our sense of community, and implications for the survival of small towns. Lists strategies for effecting positive community change. Discusses ways to build "lovable" communities, local economies, and communitywide…