The $38.3 million upgrade of the Wellsford Wastewater Treatment Plant is ticking along steadily, with crews on track to have it operational by mid-2026. Watercare says this work will significantly improve the quality of treated water discharged into the Hōteo River and support future growth in the area.For Coasties who travel north frequently or have family in the wider Rodney district, this matters. Wellsford is set to more than double in size by 2052—up to 5,000 residents—so making sure the infrastructure keeps pace is essential for the health of both people and the environment.Watercare’s Head of Wastewater, Jon Piggot, says the new tech being installed is a big leap forward. “The upgrade boosts capacity to cater for 3,200 people and can be expanded down the line. More importantly, it’ll mean cleaner water flowing into the Hōteo River thanks to improved treatment using MBR and MABR systems.”In simple terms, those high-tech tanks use good bugs and UV disinfection to scrub the wastewater until it’s safe enough to return to nature. With the main tanks and pump station already in place, and 95% of drainage works complete, crews are now turning their attention to the outfall pipeline and remaining concrete pours.Suzanne Lucas from Watercare’s capital delivery team confirmed the final slabs should be in place by late July, with the control building expected to be finished by September.Locals driving SH1 just south of Wellsford might notice the ongoing traffic management around the site. Lucas says it's there for safety, as heavy vehicles are coming and going frequently. “We really appreciate everyone’s patience—it’s a short-term hassle for a long-term benefit.”Once complete, the new plant will not only reduce the environmental impact of wastewater but also future-proof the area as Wellsford and Te Hana grow.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve ever joked about being “over the hill,” it might be time to rethink it.A special panel on ageism is being held at the University of Auckland’s Newmarket Campus on 25 June, and Coasties curious about how ageing shapes our lives might find it an eye-opener.Organised by Nusch Herman from the Centre for Co-Created Ageing Research, the event will unpack how negative stereotypes about ageing—like being forgetful, grumpy, or past your prime—can actually do real harm.“Ageism is prejudice against our future selves,” says Herman, echoing author Ashton Applewhite.The message?We’re all ageing, and the more positively we see that journey, the better we’ll age ourselves.One study even found that people with a positive attitude to ageing live, on average, 7.5 years longer.And while older people often bear the brunt of ageism, Herman says young people face it too—especially when it comes to being taken seriously at work or in the community.One study even found that people with a positive attitude to ageing live, on average, 7.5 years longer.And while older people often bear the brunt of ageism, Herman says young people face it too—especially when it comes to being taken seriously at work or in the community.For locals on the Hibiscus Coast, the takeaway is simple: the more we challenge ageist ideas—whether in the media, the workplace or our own thinking—the more supportive and inclusive our community becomes.As life expectancy continues to rise, that shift matters more than ever.Ageing isn’t failing. It’s living. And it deserves to be celebrated, not feared.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.SUVs and Hybrids Drive NZ MarketRead moreNew Rescue Buoy Installed at OrewaRead moreFatal Crash in Stillwater Claims LifeRead moreSimpson endorses Brown for MayorRead moreLogan Rowell Launches FundraiserRead moreStay Connected, Stay Informed. Get the latest updates, stories, and events from around the Hibiscus Coast—right at your fingertips.Download the Hibiscus Coast App now for instant access to local news and stay ahead of the curve—whenever, wherever.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Property prices across the country dipped slightly in May—down 0.1% overall—but here on the Hibiscus Coast, there’s a rare bit of good news.Rodney recorded a 0.4% rise in home values, standing out from the broader Auckland trend.According to the latest figures from Cotality NZ (formerly CoreLogic), the national median is now $818,132.That’s still 1.6% lower than a year ago and sits 16.3% below the January 2022 peak.In Auckland, results were patchy.Franklin nudged up 0.2%, Waitākere stayed flat, but Auckland City and Manukau both dropped 0.3%.Papakura fell by 0.6%, and the North Shore was down 1.0%.Being part of the Rodney electorate, the Hibiscus Coast is included in that 0.4% monthly lift.AucklandWhile it’s only a small change, it’s a positive sign for local homeowners in a market that remains cautious.Cotality’s Chief Property Economist, Kelvin Davidson, says we’re seeing a market shaped by opposing forces.“Lower mortgage rates are giving households a boost, but affordability remains a hurdle, and the job market is still soft,” he explained. “We’re not seeing a consistent recovery just yet.”For buyers and sellers on the Hibiscus Coast, this all points to a more balanced market.With listings still high and prices shifting slowly, there’s more room to negotiate—particularly for first-home buyers and investors looking for opportunities.Davidson noted that even their modest forecast of a 5% national rise in 2025 may prove ambitious.But he says stability could be just what the market needs.“It’s an environment where more buyers can participate without prices running away again,” he said.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Auckland FC is throwing its support behind a bold new proposal to transform Western Springs Stadium into a modern, multi-purpose arena — and they're calling on fans and locals to help make it happen.The proposed Auckland Arena would include a 12,500–15,000-seat stadium, serving as a home base for Auckland FC.But it’s not just about football.If approved, the venue would host concerts for up to 25,000 people, community sports facilities, and large-scale events — right in the heart of the city.Public feedback is now open, with Auckland Council and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited asking residents to weigh in on the future of Western Springs.Auckland FC is encouraging supporters and locals to make a submission and help bring the privately funded project to life.Have your say here.Ali Williams, former All Black and one of Auckland FC’s key investors, says the vision is bigger than sport:“This isn’t just about giving Auckland FC a home of our own — it’s about creating a community asset we as Aucklanders can all enjoy, whether we’re regularly going to games or not.”The $200–$300 million arena would be funded entirely by private investors, with no ratepayer contribution.Under the proposal, the land would remain in public ownership, with a 50-year ground lease and two potential 25-year renewals.At the end of the lease, the buildings would revert back to the Council.Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s own analysis suggests the arrangement could save ratepayers approximately $18.1 million over the next 50 years — a significant long-term benefit.Why should Coasties care?While the venue would sit in Auckland Central, Coasties are regular attendees at Eden Park and other city events.A world-class arena just a drive or bus ride away opens the door to better concerts, more sports options, and new job and entertainment opportunities for locals — without hiking our rates.Watch the video information session:Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Dame Lisa Carrington, New Zealand’s most decorated Olympian, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Auckland University of Technology (AUT), recognising her exceptional achievements in sport. With nine Olympic medals to her name, including eight golds, Dame Lisa has become a role model for athletes worldwide—and a true inspiration for young girls on the Hibiscus Coast who dream of excelling in sport.While not from the Hibiscus Coast, Dame Lisa’s journey serves as a powerful example to local girls, proving that with dedication, determination, and a focus on their goals, they too can reach the highest levels of achievement. Her remarkable success is a reminder that anyone from any background can achieve greatness.In her acceptance speech, Dame Lisa spoke of the importance of encouraging young girls, especially those in sports, to aim high. “It’s not just about medals and records,” she shared. “It’s about showing young girls that they can dream big, work hard, and stand tall in any space they choose.”AUT Chancellor, Rob Campbell, praised Dame Lisa’s contributions to both sport and society, calling her an exemplary figure who embodies the values of excellence and perseverance that the university stands for.“We are proud to confer this honour upon Dame Lisa, whose journey continues to inspire countless young athletes, especially girls who aspire to greatness.”For the girls of the Hibiscus Coast, Dame Lisa’s recognition is not just a celebration of her individual success.It’s a reminder that dreams are within reach, no matter where you come from.Her story shows that hard work, passion, and belief in yourself can take you to places you never imagined.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Logan Rowell, the talented 23-year-old motorcyclist from the Hibiscus Coast, is taking his racing career to the next level in 2025 by moving up to the Supersport 600 class.After a successful run in the Supersport 300 category, Logan is now preparing for the challenge of the 2025/26 New Zealand Superbike Championship, where he’ll be racing a 2023 KTM RC8C.To make this leap possible, Logan has launched a Givealittle page to raise the necessary funds for his upcoming season.The funds will go towards entry fees, tyres, accommodation, flights, protective gear, and transportation of his bike.Read more: Logan’s Racing Dream Gains TractionLocal support can help Logan take on the competition, develop his new bike, and aim for consistent top five finishes in the national championship.If you’d like to help Logan reach his racing goals, you can contribute directly through his Givealittle page. Every donation makes a difference!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A new food safety booklet has just been released by New Zealand Food Safety, packed with essential, science-backed tips to help Coasties avoid foodborne illnesses. With today being International World Food Safety Day, this updated guide offers practical advice for safely handling food in your home, whether you’re preparing family meals, packing lunches for the kids, or hosting a summer barbecue.Every year, thousands of New Zealanders fall ill from foodborne diseases, and many of these illnesses are caused by poor food preparation, cooking, or storage. Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director-general of New Zealand Food Safety, reminds us that these illnesses can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening for vulnerable individuals.The booklet covers everything from how to wash your hands properly (one of the best ways to prevent illness), to the latest tips on cooking meat, barbecuing, and safely storing leftovers. It’s all about keeping your family and friends safe—especially during the busy holiday season when food prep often takes centre stage.For example, did you know you can safely store leftovers for up to four days in the fridge if you’re planning to reheat them? But things like pasta salad should only be kept for two days.It’s also packed with tips on use-by dates, and how to stay safe while gathering shellfish.To make sure Coasties are fully equipped, this booklet also covers advice for those who live with at-risk individuals, such as elderly family members or young children. So, whether you're gearing up for a family dinner or thinking about that next summer barbecue, these tips are your go-to resource to keep everyone safe and healthy.Download the 'Food safety at home' booklet on the Ministry for Primary Industries website and stay safe in the kitchen!Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Time is running out for KiwiSaver members to ensure they get the full $521 in their accounts from the Government this year - the last time that amount will be available.When people contribute at least $1042 into their KiwiSaver accounts in the year to 30 June, they can receive the maximum $521 from the Government.Those who contribute less receive the credit at a rate of 50c per $1 contributed.But this is the last year that $521 will be available - from next year, the contribution will be halved and people who earn more than $180,000 a year will not qualify for any credit at all.Anyone who earns more than about $34,000 and contributes 3 percent of their income to KiwiSaver will probably have contributed enough to get the maximum.But each year, many people miss out.Only about two-thirds of all KiwiSaver members receive the contribution. For those missing out it may be because they are not working, on a contributions holiday or self-employed and not contributing enough.Of those receiving a contribution, 77 percent received the full $521.43.The contribution cost the Government about $1 billion last year.A Fisher Funds spokesperson said about 60 percent of its members usually received the contribution. There was usually a spike in contributions in the last week of June, she said."We ran a campaign and emailed clients who hadn't yet reached the $1042 threshold. Of those more than 4000 have contributed the full amount. And 1500 have made a deposit to get the 50c for every dollar they have contributed."Westpac said over the last two years, 44 percent of eligible members did not receive the maximum top-up."People who are in a financial position to top up their KiwiSaver contributions to $1042.86 for the year should do so, to maximise their retirement savings for the year," said Nigel Jackson, Westpac KiwiSaver scheme provider BT Funds Management chief executive said."There may be a variety of reasons why people haven't contributed up to the threshold, for example, some members may be on parental leave, some may be working part time, or others may have temporarily suspended contributions."However, if people can afford to top up their contributions they should do, so as every dollar contributed up to the threshold has an immediate investment return of 50 percent."At Pie Funds, chief executive Ana-Marie Lockyer said about 85 percent of members received the full amount."Government contributions can have a big impact on KiwiSaver balances at retirement, and it's a shame so many people are missing out. As an industry there's always more we can do to boost awareness and ensure more KiwiSavers benefit, recognising that even following the recent budget changes this contribution along can grow to more than $41,000 over a 16-year old's working life."The Retirement Commission said, for people earning less than $30,000, the contribution as expected to create up to 20 percent of their balances at 65 on the existing settings. Once the government contribution is halved, it will be 6 percent to 11 percent."For members earning $100,000, the percentage point change is much smaller, with the government contribution reducing from 5 percent down to 1 percent of accumulated balance, and from 3 percent down to 0 percent for members with earnings of $180,000."

Planning a winter getaway?Coasties flying south might spot bigger planes on the tarmac—and a few more seats to choose from.Air New Zealand is adding over 36,000 seats to its domestic schedule between 28 June and 25 October.The airline is switching to larger Airbus A321 jets on selected flights between Auckland and Christchurch, Queenstown, and Dunedin.That means more flexibility during busy winter months.Whether it’s students heading back to uni, families chasing snow, or fans off to the All Blacks game in Dunedin on 5 July, these extra seats will help.This move follows last week’s launch of Air New Zealand’s new jet service between Hamilton and Christchurch.So if you’re planning a winter break, now might be a good time to book.More seats often mean more deals—and more chances to make it to the slopes, the lecture hall, or that special event.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

After a tough stretch for Auckland’s economy, the latest update shows signs of stabilisation—particularly in the housing market, where activity is slowly rebounding and prices appear to be levelling out.According to Auckland Council’s Social and Economic Research and Evaluation team, real GDP fell 1.3% over the year to March 2025.It’s been a challenging period citywide, with retail sales down 3.7% and employment softening slightly.But in several areas, the downward trend is easing.House sales are a clear bright spot.Across Auckland, 22,667 homes changed hands in the 12 months to April—up 24% from the market low last May.That makes it the seventh month in a row of rising sales.While the median house price has slipped 6% over the past year, it’s now holding steady at $1 million in real terms—similar to 2015 levels.For Hibiscus Coast locals, this is especially relevant.A more active market brings fresh opportunities for both buyers and sellers, particularly for Coasties looking to upsize, downsize, or relocate within our growing community.Rental prices are also holding firm, with the Auckland average sitting at $690 per week.When adjusted for inflation, rent has been relatively stable for two years—good news for tenants navigating cost-of-living pressures.Unemployment rose to 6.4% in the March quarter, but remains lower than the levels seen a decade ago.And while job growth dipped slightly, Auckland’s population continues to rise, creating long-term demand for housing and services.Building activity is down from previous highs, with new dwelling consents 37% below the 2022 peak.However, consent numbers have held relatively steady for nine months, suggesting the sector may be adjusting to more sustainable levels after a post-Covid construction surge.Even in imports, there are cautious signs of recovery—seaport volumes in Auckland have been rising since October.So while it’s not a full rebound yet, there’s a clear shift in direction.For the Coast, where local businesses and families are closely linked to the wider Auckland economy, this update offers a glimmer of stability after a rocky year.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Looking for plans?Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Hibiscus Coast Quiz NightFriday, 6 JunMore detailsOrewa Repair CafeSaturday, 7 JunMore detailsCasino Royale: The Glittering GatsbySaturday, 7 JunMore detailsWant to see more events? Explore what’s happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for FREE - click here

In a major move for New Zealand’s media and digital landscape, Trade Me is acquiring a 50% stake in Stuff Digital Ltd, the company behind the country’s most-visited website, stuff.co.nz.Announced this week, the deal brings together two Kiwi heavyweights—Trade Me, New Zealand’s go-to platform for property, jobs, and cars, and Stuff, which owns the largest digital news audience in the country.Under the new agreement, Stuff’s property section will carry Trade Me Property branding, with listings and some content shared across the two sites.Trade Me CEO Anders Skoe says the partnership is about helping Kiwis live their best lives.“This is an exciting investment to accelerate our growth by connecting with even more Kiwi to help them live the life they’ve always dreamed of.”Stuff’s owner Sinead Boucher, who led the buyout of Stuff five years ago, says this is the first time she’s brought on an equity partner—and it had to be the right one.“Trade Me is that partner,” she says. “A great Kiwi success story with the largest property and motoring audiences in New Zealand.”The deal excludes Stuff’s printed mastheads, events business, and Neighbourly social platform, and is expected to be finalised in the next few months.For Coasties, it’s another sign of how digital platforms are reshaping the way we access news, jobs, and property listings.With Trade Me and Stuff teaming up, and local apps like the Hibiscus Coast App already offering homes for sale alongside news and events, it’s clear the future of local content is increasingly digital—and increasingly collaborative.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland's deputy mayor has officially endorsed Wayne Brown in his re-election bid, after months of speculation she would run against him.In a joint press conference a short time ago Desley Simpson said she endorsed Brown's campaign for a second term as mayor.Desley Simpson said she had ruled out running for mayor in the October local body elections a long time ago.But in April Simpson told RNZ she was still undecided on running for mayor, after she confirmed earlier this year she was mulling it over.The changes Brown had made for Auckland had been significant for the city and praised his vision for the city, she said.Both denied they had ever shared harsh words with each other but agreed there has been disagreements.Brown said if re-elected this would be his last term.

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 6/6Showers. Fairly breezy West to Sou'West windsHigh: 13Low: 7Saturday, 7/6Morning showers. Breezy Sou'West winds.High: 13Low: 6Sunday, 8/6Mostly sunny. Breezy West to Sou'West winds.High: 14Low: 9Monday, 9/6Mainly sunny. Breezy South to Sou'West winds.High: 14Low: 7Looking for more weather details? Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

The Blues have locked in their squad for a high-stakes showdown against the Chiefs this Saturday in Hamilton, with just one tweak to the starting XV following their commanding win over the Waratahs.Adrian Choat steps in at blindside flanker, replacing Anton Segner, who will bring firepower off the bench. Hooker Ricky Riccitelli is set to hit a major milestone, running out for his 50th match in Blues colours.This one’s a biggie—not just because it’s finals footy, but because the last time these two sides met, the Chiefs edged it by a single point. Since then, the Blues have tightened up their defence and won three of their last four, keeping opponents to six points or fewer in two of those clashes.Coasties heading south can expect a bruising battle. These are the top two defensive teams in the competition—only 0.8 points separates their average concession rates—so fans might want to brace for a real arm-wrestle.Head coach Vern Cotter said the team is well-prepped and ready to rise to the challenge. “Finals rugby is a clean slate,” he said. “We are certainly up for the fight and looking forward to the opportunity ahead of us.”Cotter also had a message for Blues supporters, urging them to travel down State Highway 1 to back the boys in blue. “We need our Blues fans behind us for this one and hope to see plenty of them in the crowd cheering us on.”And yes—tickets are still up for grabs at flicket.co.nz for any Coasties keen to make the trip and soak up the electric atmosphere of finals night.Blues Team to Play Chiefs7:05pm, Saturday 7 June – FMG Stadium, HamiltonStarting XV:Joshua Fusitu’a (35)Ricky Riccitelli (49)Marcel Renata (64)Patrick Tuipulotu (captain) (122)Laghlan McWhannell (21)Adrian Choat (53)Dalton Papali’i (95)Hoskins Sotutu (76)Finlay Christie (66)Beauden Barrett (42)Caleb Clarke (73)AJ Lam (56)Rieko Ioane (126)Mark Tele’a (78)Corey Evans (27)Reserves: 16. Kurt Eklund (73) 17. Jordan Lay (25) 18. Angus Ta’avao (80) 19. Josh Beehre (25) 20. Anton Segner (35) 21. Sam Nock (80) 22. Harry Plummer (87) 23. Cole Forbes (28)Unavailable due to injury:Cam Christie (thumb), Stephen Perofeta (leg), Reon Paul (shoulder), Cam Suafoa (medical, season), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck, season), Sam Darry (shoulder, season)Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Only around 50% of new businesses survive more than five years, and just one-third make it to ten.So what’s the one thing you can do to help ensure your business is sustainable?Create a clear, actionable growth strategy.A growth strategy is more than a vision for success.Without a concrete plan, you risk stagnation—or worse, losing ground to competitors.Rob Beiderman, writing for Entrepreneur Magazine, outlines a seven-step process for building a successful growth strategy.Here’s a summary of his approach, along with a few of my own thoughts based on real-world experience:1. Establish Your Value PropositionWhat sets your business apart? What makes customers choose you over competitors? Your value proposition should be crystal clear. Focus on the unique benefit you offer – and don’t dilute it by trying to be everything to everyone.2. Identify Your Ideal CustomerYou started your business to solve a problem. Who exactly are you solving it for? Make sure you’re targeting the right audience. The clearer your focus on your ideal customer, the better your chances of sustainable growth.3. Define Your Key IndicatorsYou can’t improve what you don’t measure. Identify the key metrics that drive your business and track them consistently. Growth should be measurable, and your key performance indicators (KPIs) are essential – not just for tracking progress, but for making smart decisions.4. Strengthen Your Revenue StreamsTake a close look at how your business makes money. Are your current revenue streams performing well? Could they be improved? Are there new opportunities worth exploring? More revenue doesn’t always mean more complexity – it’s about smart, strategic refinement.5. Learn from the CompetitionYour competitors may be succeeding in areas where you’re not. Study what they’re doing differently. What’s working for them? Why? It’s not about copying – but about understanding different strategies and deciding what could work for your business.6. Play to Your StrengthsInstead of focusing all your energy on fixing weaknesses, ask: what are we great at? Build on your strengths and create opportunities where those strengths give you a competitive edge.7. Invest in TalentYour team is key to growth. Hire people who believe in your business and align with your values. Be frugal where it counts – but never cut corners when it comes to building a strong, motivated team. The right people are your most valuable long-term asset.What’s striking is how often these principles come up in conversations with clients.It’s reassuring to see that these common-sense approaches are also backed by strategic thinking.But remember: growth strategies aren’t one-size-fits-all.Every business is different, and your strategy should reflect that.While you can draw inspiration from others, blindly copying another company’s playbook won’t deliver sustainable results.A tailored growth strategy – designed specifically for your business and your customers – is what truly drives success.If you would you like to discuss this in greater depth, please feel free to get in touch. I’d love to hear from you!

A person has died following a two-car crash on East Coast Road in Stillwater during Tuesday night’s stormy weather.The crash happened just before 7pm, with emergency services responding quickly. One person was tragically pronounced dead at the scene, while another was taken to hospital with moderate injuries.At the time of the crash, the Hibiscus Coast was being hit by heavy rain and strong winds, making for dangerous driving conditions.Police confirmed the Serious Crash Unit attended and an investigation is now underway to determine what led to the incident.For many on the Coast, this is a devastating reminder of how unpredictable our roads can be—especially when the weather turns.Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family and loved ones of the person who lost their life.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

If you’ve walked past the Orewa Surf Life Saving Club lately, you might’ve noticed a new addition—right at the top of the concrete ramp. It’s not a piece of art, though it could save a life.A new public rescue buoy has just been installed at Orewa Beach, thanks to ACC, and AON. Designed to be used when lifeguards aren’t on patrol, this rescue tool gives anyone nearby the chance to help someone in the water—without putting themselves at risk.It’s simple, but powerful: a rigid flotation device with a shoulder strap and long lanyard. In a real emergency, it can keep a struggling swimmer afloat until help arrives.Here’s how to use it:Place the strap over your shoulderPull the buoy behind youStay 2 metres from the person until they’re calmSupport them until trained help arrivesAnd here’s the key point: if you see someone in trouble, always call 111 and ask for police first. This tool is only to be used if you’re confident in the water yourself.This isn’t just a box-ticking safety measure. Between 2013 and 2023, not one bystander who drowned in New Zealand had a flotation device with them. These buoys change that. By mid-2025, Surf Life Saving NZ aims to have them installed at all 74 clubs and other high-risk locations.For Coasties, having one now at Orewa means one more chance to keep our beachgoers safe—especially as the cooler months bring fewer lifeguards but just as many walkers, dog owners, surfers and kids exploring the shore.It’s a small piece of kit, but it could make a huge difference when seconds count.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.