"Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire." - Unknown

Word of the Week: 

Refulgent

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Meet Mia! 🐱

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Western Massachusetts is digging out after a significant snowstorm left 6 to 8 inches blanketing the 413 on February 23, 2026.

Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke each measured close to 8 inches, while Franklin County and the North Quabbin region saw totals from 4 to 8 inches.

Strong winds created dangerous travel conditions, triggering school closures, long commutes, and scattered power outages, but the Pioneer Valley avoided the historic drifts seen in southeastern Massachusetts—where some areas were buried by more than 3 feet.

The blizzard’s heavy snow quickly piled up in driveways and yards and tested residents’ shoveling resolve.

By Monday afternoon, road crews were clearing the streets, and neighbors compared cleanups, joking it wasn’t quite the legendary storm of ’78.

MONSON, MA — A fierce three-alarm fire ripped through a home at 275 Silver Street on February 19, 2026, tragically claiming two lives and unleashing a massive emergency response across Western Massachusetts.

Authorities from the Hampden County District Attorney's Office and State Fire Marshal are investigating the fatal blaze, which erupted around 4:30 PM and drew over 70 firefighters and first responders.

Rescue attempts by Monson Police officers were thwarted by intense smoke and heat, sending two officers to the hospital for smoke inhalation.

Fire crews from Monson, Palmer, Wilbraham, and several regional departments battled difficult conditions, including a lack of municipal water, forcing them to shuttle tankers.

The Monson Fire Department, led by Chief Brian Harris, expressed deep gratitude for local support during this heartbreaking tragedy.

Aries (March 21 - April 19): This week, your passion burns brightly. Express your desires boldly in love, as surprises may spark new connections. Your leadership stands out at work — initiate projects with confidence. Outdoor activities boost your health, while a careful look at your budget encourages smart investments.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20): Self-care takes priority now. Patient communication strengthens relationships, and teamwork in the workplace brings positive results. Nourish yourself with healthy choices and gentle movement. Practice saving and avoid spur-of-the-moment buys for financial stability.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20): Words are your strength this week. Open conversations brighten love, while networking grows your career. Find balance with mindfulness and moments of calm. Explore new ways to organize your finances for future growth.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22): Family and home come first. Deepen bonds with comfort and shared experiences. Stay focused to reach career milestones. Engage in creative outlets to support emotional health, and monitor spending to strengthen your finances.

Leo (July 23 - August 22): Your charisma shines. Love is exciting and playful. Confidence drives professional achievement, and staying active lifts your energy. Financial opportunities arrive if you seek alternative revenue sources.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22): Organization leads to achievement. Show affection through thoughtful actions in love, and streamline your workflow for career advancement. Mental clarity comes through relaxation. Budgeting carefully boosts your financial outlook.

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Western Massachusetts comes alive with music and theater this week, offering a dynamic range of events for all tastes.

Enjoy Jonatha Brooke’s heartfelt songwriting at The Iron Horse Music Hall or dance to CJ Chenier’s electrifying zydeco rhythms.

Dead Night at Haze delivers spirited Grateful Dead covers, while Wednesday Karaoke invites everyone to join the fun.

Experience celebrity medium Tyler Henry live in Springfield for an inspiring evening.

LaMP supergroup jam out at The Drake, and acoustic fans can savor The Mallett Brothers Band Trio or the folk wonders of Skye Consort & Emma Björling.

On stage, Hansol Jung’s Merry Me premieres at Smith College, while the Opera House Players present a stirring production of Chess.

Don’t miss The Machine’s Pink Floyd tribute or the powerful sounds of Black Belt Eagle Scout and Mato Wayuhi at The Parlor Room.

The "Jigsaw House" is featured in this image, identified as being located in either Longmeadow or East Longmeadow.  

Currently, there are no additional details available.  

If you recognize this house or have any information about it, please reach out and share what you know at newsletter413insider.com.

Mia is a tiny, affectionate pup currently thriving in foster care after successful bladder stone surgery.

Due to her medical needs, she’ll require a lifelong prescription urinary diet and a veterinarian reference for adoption to ensure she continues receiving the best care.

In her foster home, Mia’s gentle disposition shines.

She’s pee pad trained, sleeps peacefully in her crate, and adores staying close to her favorite humans throughout the day.

Her energy is mellow—she’s happiest lounging, napping, and soaking up affection.

Though Mia may be a little barky and shy around new people, she quickly warms up and settles in as a loyal companion.

Mia prefers a home where she’s the only dog, ready to be your pampered little shadow.

If you’re seeking a calm, loving sidekick, call Dakin Humane Society at 413-781-4000 to meet Mia today.

Word of the Week: Refulgent

Definition: Adjective. Shining with a splendid, radiant brightness—like a light so pure and glorious it seems to pour warmth and beauty into everything it touches. It describes a dazzling, almost majestic glow, whether from the sun, a jewel, or someone’s beaming presence.

Example Sentence: The late February sunrise broke over the ridge, refulgent and golden, painting the snow-covered fields in such vivid light that the whole world felt newly awake and alive.

Origin: From the Latin refulgēre (“to shine back” or “flash brightly”), made up of re- (back/intensive) + fulgēre (to shine or flash like lightning). It entered English in the early 1500s and carries a slightly grand, poetic tone perfect for those extra-luminous moments.

Here’s to catching (and sharing) a little refulgent beauty in these still-short February days! 🌞✨ What’s glowing brightly in your world right now?