A few weeks ago, at the Virginia Festival of the Book, I did a placemaking activity where I had passersby fill out cards that said, “I live in ______________ and this is why I love it.” People dashed off answers like:

“Diversity & inclusiveness! We welcome everyone!”—Decatur, Georgia
“Because the people are welcoming and the food is delicious.”—Houston, Texas
“It is full of interesting people who’ve built a close-knit, lively, supportive community that feels small-town.”—Montclair, Virginia
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