Kierkegaard warned that the modern press manufactures a faceless “public” that levels truth and turns citizens into spectators. This piece traces that critique to today—and shows how HastingsNow.com in Hastings, MN counters it with Soundbites: 30-second, verified local voice posts labeled with How We Know evidence, a Provenance Chip, and a Reliability Score, each tied to one measurable outcome. The result is accountable, local speech that converts attention into action—rebuilding trust where people actually live.

Hastings’ “little mic” is here—call, leave a 30-second Soundbite, and we verify, publish, and track real outcomes: calls, RSVPs, redemptions. Join the Founding 24.