A water monitor lizard escaped a Massachusetts home by jumping from a window. Police and residents are on alert as the search continues. The lizard is illegal to own without a permit in the state.

A new historical marker in Tampa Heights honors the Buffalo Soldiers, African American Army battalions vital to post-Civil War America, who faced racial tensions before deployment to Cuba in 1898.

Charlotte's upgrade to a Class 2 community in FEMA's CRS means residents will receive up to a 40% discount on flood insurance, rewarding the city's flood management efforts.

The Bloomington Family Aquatic Center will remain closed for the season due to a severe leak requiring extensive repairs, coupled with staff shortages.

The Oregon Humane Society reduces adoption fees by 50% for adult pets to address summer surge in shelter populations and includes care packages with each adoption.

San José's Alameda Business District established a Community Benefit Improvement District (CBID), securing enhanced services and beautification with over $327,000 annually for the next 15 years.

Los Campesinos declined a $60,000 Airbnb ad deal over the company's West Bank listings, with the band voicing support for Palestine and denouncing corporate practices they view as unethical.

San Francisco opens the country's first publicly funded disability cultural center, enhancing inclusivity and community engagement for disabled individuals.

A dozen West Metro firefighters graduated from Arapahoe Community College as paramedics after extensive training, with Stefan Martinez named class valedictorian. They now face real-world application of their skills under supervision.

Multnomah County, Oregon shares advice on staying safe in heat, offering tips on avoiding the outdoors during peak heat hours, checking on vulnerable individuals, and locating cool spaces.

Summit County, Utah is urging residents to prepare for fire season, offering steps like signing up for emergency alerts and adhering to fire restrictions to enhance community safety.

Horizon City Police conducted an active shooter training exercise with youth volunteers to improve emergency response at a local school, sharing the successful drill on social media.

Minneapolis celebrates Black Business Week from July 24-31 with events like business tours, an art crawl, panel discussions, and a food vendor court, starting at George Floyd Square.