Quote Of The Week

"Where the city meets the country, and the old meets the new. Welcome to Western Massachusetts."

Word of the Week: 

Lambent

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BREAKING: We're Not Covering the Snowstorm (You Already Know About It Anyway)

In a bold editorial decision that will shock absolutely no one, the 413 Insider has decided NOT to dedicate another single word to the snowstorm that has dominated every news outlet, social media feed, and awkward small-talk conversation in western Massachusetts for the past four days.

Yes, it snowed. A lot. You know this because you were there. You shoveled it. You cursed at it. You took seventeen identical photos of your snow-covered car and posted them to Instagram with increasingly creative captions.

We could tell you how many inches fell (you measured), which roads were closed (you couldn't drive on them), or interview someone who said "Wow, that's a lot of snow" (you already said that). But why? You lived it. You're still living it. There's probably snow in your boot right now.

Instead, we're choosing to report on literally anything else happening in the 413—because believe it or not, life continued even while the meteorologists were losing their minds on TV.

So no, we won't be covering the snowstorm. You're welcome.

Now back to our regularly scheduled programming

Governor Maura Healey’s State of the Commonwealth address spotlighted Western Massachusetts with major promises to improve local life and affordability.

An $8 billion infrastructure plan will rapidly repair 27 bridges in the Berkshires and Pioneer Valley, boosting safety and daily commutes.

Residents will see lower electric and gas bills this winter, thanks to targeted discounts, a new Canadian hydro line covering 20% of the state’s energy needs, and measures blocking utility rate hikes.

The administration is accelerating housing construction, supporting accessory dwelling units, and offering expanded down-payment help—making the region more accessible for families and first-time buyers.

Early College expansion, 100,000 new apprenticeships, and increased food bank funding aim to strengthen the workforce and support vulnerable neighbors.

The Holyoke Veterans’ Home has been fully rebuilt and recognized as a national leader, with enhanced services for local veterans.

The address echoed a theme of resilience—showcasing progress for the 413 as Massachusetts approaches its 250th anniversary.

New details are emerging from Chester, regarding a frightening incident within Gateway Regional School District. The superintendent has now revealed new information about a school bus that went missing for hours last week.

Seven people have been displaced by a house fire in Westfield.

The fire started in the basement of the home.

Westfield Fire Capt. Keith Supinski said firefighters were called to 7 Washington Street around 10 p.m. Sunday for a report of smoke coming from the basement.

The community has rallied around the affected families and is offering support during this difficult time.

As January winds down and February arrives, the stars bring a lively blend of passion, stability, and clear communication to the forefront for each sign.

Aries are encouraged to be bold in love, channeling their drive toward both romance and career.

Taurus should seek steadiness, nurturing relationships and managing finances with foresight.

Gemini finds opportunity through conversation, connecting deeper with loved ones and exploring new earnings, but should research options with care.

Cancer focuses on home and emotional well-being, strengthening bonds with family and maintaining financial security for a future goal.

Leo steps into the spotlight, infusing love with playfulness and taking creative initiative at work to boost finances.

Virgo excels through organization, showing love with thoughtful gestures and reaping rewards from balanced habits and careful budgets.

This week’s historic photograph spotlights Miss Hall’s School at 492 Holmes Road in 1910, only a year after relocating to its enduring Pittsfield campus.

The elegant estate, framed by stately buildings and groomed grounds, marks a transformative moment for education in the Berkshires.

Founded in 1898 by Mira Hinsdale Hall, a Smith College alum, the school pioneered secondary education for young women when few such options existed.

Offering a rigorous academic and college preparatory program, Miss Hall’s School quickly emerged as one of New England’s first all-girls boarding schools, reflecting its founder’s progressive ideals.

Hall’s leadership spanned forty years and earned her national recognition, particularly after the devastating 1923 fire that destroyed the original buildings.

Undeterred at age sixty, Hall oversaw the construction of the Georgian-style main building still standing today.

Mazzeo’s Ristorante in Pittsfield has been a local staple for authentic Italian cuisine since 1988.

This family-owned restaurant on South Street stands out with classic Italian-American favorites, like Penne alla Vodka and shrimp with linguini, served in generous portions.

Fresh, house-made pasta and flavorful sauces are matched with a warm bread service that regulars rave about.

The portions are famously hearty — even a half-serving leaves most diners satisfied and with leftovers for the next day.

Mazzeo’s atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and special, making it ideal for family dinners or celebrations.

Attentive, friendly staff treat every table with care, creating a welcoming dining experience.

After nearly four decades, Mazzeo’s is beloved for its quality, value, and true hospitality — a standout Italian spot the Berkshires is proud to call its own.

This week in the Pioneer Valley and Greater Springfield, local arts, music, and sports light up the midwinter calendar.

Get groovy at Haze in Northampton for Dead Night’s Grateful Dead jam session or show off at Wednesday Karaoke.

UMass basketball hosts Dayton for midweek hoops action at Mullins Center in Amherst.

Springfield Thunderbirds treat hockey fans to home games against Laval and Bridgeport at MassMutual Center with lively downtown energy.

The local music scene sizzles: catch indie acts like Love Crumbs & Mare Berger, emerging artist showcases at The Parlor Room, or jazz from Wes Brown & Friends in Turners Falls.

Looking for something cozy? Try the Stitch 'n Flix “Groundhog Day” screening with crafting, or relax at Cello & Chocolate’s classical concert (complete with gourmet treats).

From guitar jams and DJ nights to storytelling, workshops, and cultural events for all tastes, there’s a vibrant mix for every winter rhythm-seeker aged 25-80.

Za is relaxed with other dogs, gives feedback well when uncomfortable during interactions, or simply relaxes in another dog's presence after successful greetings. He would do well as an only dog, and would also be a good fit for other mellow dogs who are well socialized and communicate effectively. [Case-By-Case (Must Meet First)]

Word of the Week: Lambent

Definition: Adjective. Gently glowing or flickering with a soft, playful light—like candle flames dancing on a windowsill or moonlight rippling across quiet water. It describes a delicate, graceful radiance that feels warm and alive without being harsh.

Example Sentence: On this clear January night, the lambent glow of the streetlamps turned the fresh snow into a sea of tiny, shimmering stars right at our feet.

Origin: From the Latin lambere (“to lick” or “lap”), evoking the way flames softly “lick” at the air. It entered English in the 1600s and has been a poetic favorite for describing tender, flickering light ever since.

Perfect for these quiet late-January evenings—here’s to noticing the lambent little lights around us! ✨ What soft glow is catching your eye this week?

Make sure to visit the Berkshire Museum during the winter months for indoor activities and exhibits to escape the cold weather.