TO KEEP UP WITH WHAT IS HAPPENING DAILY IN YOUR OWN COMMUNITY, AS WELL AS THOSE AROUND YOU - YOU DO NOT HAVE TO RELY SOLELY ON A NEWSPAPER!  For real time updates - get yourself a scanner, either portable (hand-held) or a base station for your home.  You can buy one that is already pre-programmed - but most give you the option of entering in your own frequency codes specific to your liking.  These frequencies can be obtained FREE by going on the internet, and entering search words like FREE POLICE, FIRE, EMERGENCY SCANNER FREQUENCIES WORCESTER COUNTY MA.  As far as cost for the scanners, the portable hand-held ones can be purchased at places like RADIO SHACK for under $200.  Don't forget the rechargeable batteries and charging unit - it is the better way to go, instead of continuously buying alkaline batteries.......Base station units for the home can be purchased for as low as $100. - they are quite small, usually the size of a cigar box, and offer reasonable reception and performance....The real difference rests with the inability to take it with you, for example - when you travel in your vehicle....REMEMBER - THE AIRWAVES ARE "PUBLIC", at least the ones we are interested in at the grass roots level!  Take advantage of it - you will be glad you did!!!