DEAR READER

I have this crazy idea. It’s that all of the small and independent publications around Greater Boston, or at least most of them—plus the cable access television and college radio stations, as well as many of the tiny blogs no matter how obscure—can together drive the narrative on critical issues around here. At least some of the time. As mentioned in this space before, that’s why I co-founded the Boston Institute for Nonprofit Journalism, which helps outlets including DigBoston generate coverage, sometimes addressing issues across publications. On that note, this week’s news and features section touches two essential topics in particular that need as much grassroots media focus as possible—homelessness, and cultural diversity in local arts. Only when outlets like the Dig, and other various community newspapers cover such items en masse will we ever see them surface with impactful regularity on major airwaves. We also need your help to spread the word, and our work, so when you finish reading, we kindly ask that you start tweeting.

CHRIS FARAONE, NEWS + FEATURES EDITOR

OH, CRUEL WORLD

Dear Trump-Sucking Cock Monkey,

Monday morning I walked into the downtown McDonalds to find it literally 95-100 degrees in there for the third time in two weeks. Outraged for the poor employees melting inside, I complained to the manager on their behalf and told the girl behind the register that everyone should go home if this keeps up. Looking around the room for more support for these kids, I see you waiting for your order, so I ask if you would work under these circumstances. Smirking you replied, “If I had to … ” Disgustedly I said, “No. No, you wouldn’t.” To which you replied, “Don’t tell me what I would do …” Then your order came and you bolted before I could properly dress you down for defending sweatshop conditions. I can’t wait for this election, and Tangerine Mussolini, to finally be over so this mass hysteria can be shoved way back into the closet of id where such selfishness belongs.