"BJ's Wholesale Club Causes Springfield Frenzy, Cold Weather Warning Issued, Chicken Run Controversy on Maple Street, Holiday Shopping Tips, Attention-Seeking Whos in Easthampton, Rock Climbers Preserve Beloved Area!"

Interesting Facts

Hanukkah is actually known as the Festival of Lights because of the miracle of the oil lasting for eight nights. -
The traditional Hanukkah food, latkes, are fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil lasting in the temple.

Extreme Cold Weather Warning For Beginning Of The Week: Stay Safe and Warm in Frigid Conditions

Frigid temperatures and wind chill are making the region feel even colder.

The combination of cold air and strong winds is causing extreme cold conditions.

Residents are advised to take precautions to stay warm, such as dressing in layers and limiting time outdoors.

Schools and businesses may be closing due to the dangerous cold.

Stay inside and stay safe during this intense cold snap.

In East Longmeadow, a light-hearted online shopping mishap has blossomed into a beloved holiday tradition, uniting neighbors and delighting the community.

Jay Sanders and his son ordered a $15 turkey inflatable, but received a massive rooster instead.

Choosing not to return it, Sanders placed the rooster in his yard, sparking a friendly rivalry when his neighbor responded with his own inflatable chicken.

What began as a joke quickly escalated, with families and community members contributing more chickens to the ever-growing display along Maple Street.

Now, dozens of colorful chickens—decked out in festive gear—create a glowing spectacle each night.

Locals have even petitioned to rename their stretch of road “Chicken Run,” embracing the joy and camaraderie brought by the quirky displays.

The tradition hasn’t just spread cheer; it’s also slowed traffic and reignited neighborhood spirit, proving sometimes the simplest gestures can transform an entire community.

AeroGarden Harvest Lite in Black, Soil-Free Indoor Hydroponic Garden with LED Grow Light

"Mastering Panic-Free Holiday Shopping: Stress-Free Strategies for Success"

December’s here before you know it, but last-minute gifting doesn’t have to mean thoughtless choices.

From tech upgrades like the Ember Smart Mug and EcoFlow Power Station to kitchen heroes like the AeroGarden Harvest Lite and Solo Stove Pi Prime Pizza Oven, these Amazon finds are clever, useful, and sure to impress.

Clean freaks will love the BISSELL Little Green Carpet Cleaner, while wellness warriors can track progress with a RENPHO Smart Scale or boost their mood with a daylight therapy lamp.

There’s something for every personality: digital photo frames for the sentimental, touchless soap dispensers for the practical, even 4K night vision goggles for the adventurous.

Don’t stress about timing—choose a gift that’s thoughtful, locally relevant, and delivered quick.

They’ll never guess you ordered last minute—and your secret’s safe.

Easthampton Police are launching a limited-edition holiday patch inspired by Dr. Seuss, celebrating the city’s whimsical “Whoville” connection.

The new patch, debuting December 10, showcases city landmarks like Nashawannuck Pond and Mt. Tom, now topped with a glowing star and a decorated floating tree—mirroring beloved local holiday displays.

Residents have long associated Easthampton’s scenery with the fictional Whoville from How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, thanks to Dr. Seuss’ roots in the Pioneer Valley.

The patch’s debut comes after Easthampton’s 12th Annual Holiday Whobalation, uniting families for music, festivities, and a toy drive at Millside Park.

Patches, sold for $10 at the Public Safety Complex and during the Stuff-A-Cruiser Drive, benefit the Easthampton Community Center’s holiday assistance efforts.

With supplies limited, locals are encouraged to purchase early and support the spirit of giving that defines this festive Easthampton tradition.

Farley Ledges, western Massachusetts’ renowned rock climbing spot, is entering a bold new chapter after advocates secured 70 acres of land for preservation and access improvements, set to reshape the climbing experience by December 2025.

This dramatic 700-foot cliff above the Millers River is a magnet for both seasoned climbers and beginners throughout New England.

With hundreds of roped routes and classic bouldering on granitic gneiss, Farley Ledges attracts thousands every season.

The Western Massachusetts Climbers Coalition (WMCC), after nearly two decades of effort, is spearheading infrastructure upgrades including an expanded 60-car parking lot and improved trails—backed by regional grants and climbing organizations.

Climbers are reminded to respect marked trails, maintain cleanliness, and honor seasonal closures to protect this cherished resource.

As local volunteers and donations continue to power these efforts, Farley’s legacy is secured for generations of outdoor enthusiasts to come.

Back In Time

Hampden County Bridge 1924

Local Events: December 16–25, 2025 (Greater Springfield & Pioneer Valley)

Bright Nights at Forest Park (Ongoing Holiday Lights) 💡 Where: Forest Park, 1040 Park Drive, Springfield, MA When: Daily 12/16/25 – 12/25/25, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT (Sun–Thu) or 10:00 PM EDT (Fri–Sat); Christmas Eve/Christmas open with possible adjusted hours Why Go: Experience the full holiday splendor with 1M+ lights, animated displays, a 50-foot musical tree, and AR features—peak season crowds for this iconic drive-through tradition. Contact Info: https://www.brightnights.org/

Grinchmas Holiday Happenings (Ongoing) 🎄 Where: Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA When: Daily 12/16/25 – 12/24/25, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EDT (closed Christmas Day) Why Go: Final week to meet the Grinch, view gingerbread masterpieces, and join crafts—festive mischief and creativity before the exhibits wrap up post-holidays. Contact Info: https://springfieldmuseums.org/holiday/

Song & Story Open Mic 🎤 Where: The Parlor Room, 32 Masonic St, Northampton, MA When: Tuesday 12/16/25, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM EDT Why Go: Share or hear songs woven with personal tales—intimate folk and storytelling in a cozy Northampton venue, perfect for reflective holiday vibes. Contact Info: https://parlorroom.org/calendar

Bright Nights $12 Tuesday 💡 Where: Forest Park, 1040 Park Drive, Springfield, MA When: Tuesday 12/16/25, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT Why Go: Discounted admission for the drive-through spectacle—great value during the busy pre-Christmas week. Contact Info: https://www.brightnights.org/

Holiday Caroling at The Fort 🎶 Where: Student Prince Cafe & Fort Restaurant, 8 Fort Street, Springfield, MA When: Wednesday 12/17/25 – Tuesday 12/23/25 (evenings; recurring carolers) Why Go: Enjoy live holiday caroling with German-inspired meals and mulled drinks—cozy, nostalgic music in a historic downtown spot. Contact Info: https://www.studentprince.com/events

Handel's Messiah Sing-Along or Community Concert 🎼 Where: Various venues (e.g., Springfield Symphony Hall or local churches like First Church of Christ, Springfield) When: Friday 12/19/25 or Saturday 12/20/25 (common dates for annual performances) Why Go: Join or listen to community renditions of Handel's classic oratorio—uplifting choral music with audience participation for the holiday spirit. Contact Info: Check pvsoc.org or local church listings

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services with Music 🕯️🎶 Where: Multiple churches (e.g., Christ Church Cathedral, Springfield; First Congregational, Northampton; St. John's Episcopal, Northampton) When: Wednesday 12/24/25, Various times (5:00 PM family services, 7:00–10:00 PM, midnight) Why Go: Traditional carols, choirs, and candle lighting—beautiful musical programs for reflection and celebration on Christmas Eve. Contact Info: Local church websites or wwlp.com listings

Christmas Day Services & Community Gatherings 🎶 Where: Select churches and centers in Springfield/Northampton area When: Thursday 12/25/25, Morning services (9:00–11:00 AM typical) Why Go: Joyful Christmas morning worship with hymns and choirs—open to all for peaceful holiday music and community. Contact Info: Check individual church sites

Michael's of Stockbridge: A Fine Dining Experience Celebrating Seasonal and Local Ingredients

Michael's of Stockbridge is a restaurant in Stockbridge, Massachusetts that offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

The restaurant prides itself on providing delicious cuisine and exceptional service in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

They also offer catering services for special events and celebrations.

With a focus on high-quality ingredients and a commitment to sustainability, Michael's of Stockbridge has become a popular dining destination in the Berkshires region.

Touring Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Interesting Facts

Stockbridge was the inspiration for the Norman Rockwell painting "Main Street at Christmas (Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas)."

The town is home to the renowned Norman Rockwell Museum, which houses the world's largest collection of original Rockwell art.

Stockbridge is known for its charming New England architecture, including the iconic Red Lion Inn, which dates back to 1773.

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2, 14 Oz, App-Controlled Heated Coffee Mug

Pet of the week

Meet Small Fry!

My name is Small Fry.
I am a male, white and brown Chihuahua - Long Haired mix.
The shelter staff think I am about 5 years old.
Some dogs are naturally timid or shy, while others may not have learned to trust people while they were young. These dogs need to feel safe before they will interact with people; the work to build a relationship of trust could be a long and hard one but the experience can be one of the most rewarding of dog ownership. Chicken Little Dogs: are fearful of new people and places, take time to trust, shut down here at the shelter, and will bite if people push or try to interact too quickly. However, once they trust a person, the often become very bonded.

Word of the Week: Mirth

Definition: Noun. That warm, contagious joy and laughter that fills a room when people are truly happy together—like the giggles, chuckles, and playful banter that make ordinary moments feel magical and light-hearted.

Example Sentence: The kitchen was alive with mirth as the family decorated cookies, teasing each other over lopsided snowmen and sneaking extra frosting.

Origin: A genuine Old English treasure, from "myrgþ" meaning gladness or joy. It’s been part of our language since before the year 1000, perfectly capturing the spirit of good cheer.

Just what we need in mid-December—let’s invite a little more mirth into every day! 🎄😄 What’s making you laugh or smile this week?