For a few weeks, it seemed that everywhere I went, there was Mission Loc@l. Which is exciting, really, because Mission Loc@l is a news website, and that meant they were covering arts events. So, hooray!

One of those nights resulted in a video about Paul S. Flores‘s play You’re Gonna Cry. A night of outstanding talent, theater and poetry I will not soon forget, hosted by the Red Poppy Art House (sidenote–Dan and I are in the video, talking with Flores, blink and you’ll miss us). Youth Speaks performed. There was an intense post-show discussion about gentrification and prejudice. It was a memorable night in which, despite the crowded-to-overflowing room, art provided a space to seek common ground.

I was reminded of this experience because now Mission Loc@l is not only everywhere in the Mission, they are on Facebook. I received an email from a friend, inviting me to become a fan, and saw yet another great arts video about the printmaking workshop at Mission Cultural Center.

Mission Loc@l is taking a reader’s poll about what kind of coverage people would like to see. The arts are not included. But I encourage you to check out their site, and if you think that their thoughtful arts coverage (which also touches on gentrification, social justice, local history and community development) is of value, write to staff@missionlocal.org and cast your vote.