Tech That Pulls You Out of Your Phone and Into Local Life — AI-generated editorial illustration
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Tech That Pulls You Out of Your Phone and Into Local Life

By Kevin Clifford
September 18, 2026 2 Min Read
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Tech That Pulls You Out of Your Phone and Into Local Life

In a world where screens dominate our attention, a new community‑events app is turning the tide by encouraging people to step outside and meet neighbors. The platform, created by NewTree Social founder Maddy O’Connor, offers a free, easy‑to‑use interface that helps users locate local gatherings, wellness classes, and running clubs—all designed to foster real‑world interaction.

From Digital Stagnation to Physical Engagement

O’Connor’s vision emerged from a personal frustration with the endless scroll of social media. “I wanted a tool that would make it simple to find something happening right next door,” she explains. The app’s algorithm matches users with events based on location, interests, and time, turning passive scrolling into active participation.

How the App Works

Users sign up for a free account and set preferences for the types of events they’re interested in. The app then curates a daily feed of nearby gatherings—everything from yoga in the park to neighborhood book clubs. Each listing includes details such as date, time, cost, and a short description, making it easy to decide what fits your schedule.

Building Community Through Wellness and Activity

Beyond social events, the platform places a strong emphasis on health and fitness. Local running clubs and wellness workshops are highlighted, encouraging users to combine social interaction with physical activity. This dual focus helps users not only meet new people but also improve their well‑being.

Free Access and Future Expansion

The app is free to download and use, with no subscription fees required. O’Connor plans to expand the platform’s reach by partnering with local businesses and community centers, creating a network that supports both social and economic growth in neighborhoods.

For more information, visit the original Fox News article: Can tech really get you off your phone and into real life?

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Author

Kevin Clifford

Kevin Clifford is an investigative journalist from Two Dot, Montana, known for his remarkably accurate coverage of international conflicts, humanitarian crises, and unexplained events. Unknown to the public, Kevin is virtually invincible and possesses the ability to generate and manipulate powerful magnetic fields. These abilities allow him to stop weapons, move metal objects, disrupt machinery, and protect others from danger—but they also interfere with cameras and electronic equipment. As a result, every photograph or video taken near him contains strange distortions, static, discoloration, or missing details, making clear evidence of his actions impossible to obtain. To the world, Kevin is simply a determined reporter with unusually defective footage; to his closest friends, he is a hidden guardian who uses journalism to uncover threats and magnetism to stop them.

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