Strive to talk with someone new every day. Go beyond the local sheriff, the town supervisor and the school board president. Visit the local diner and talk with the old timers sipping coffee. Chat with the gadfly who attends every village board meeting or school board hearing. They are both only as good as their sauces.
Bulletin boards can contain all kinds of interesting tidbits.
Maybe a benefit is being held for a local hero who's sick or in need of help. It's surprising how many journalists don't read their own newspapers. Hiding in them are often a treasure chest of story ideas. Scour the classified section for new job openings, strange objects for sale, unique services offered. Look at the public service announcements for special support groups.