🐶Meet Parker: Your Next Adventure Buddy (scroll to end!)

Chief Richard Stefanowicz leads the Southwick Fire Department with seven years of service, backed by valuable experience in Granby, South Hadley District #2, and Longmeadow fire departments.

His studies at Fitchburg State College in communication and media, along with a construction background, provide a unique advantage in firefighter technology and leadership.

As former Deputy Chief, he helped elevate the department to advanced life support, mentoring new paramedics and achieving his own paramedic certification.

Deeply committed to education, Chief Stefanowicz also teaches at the Massachusetts Fire Academy, inspiring future firefighters across the state.

At home, he enjoys time with family, vintage car drives, and visits to Quincy and Littleton, CO.

Under his guidance, the department secured a major grant for upgraded alert systems and continues strong community outreach.

His leadership leaves a lasting mark on Southwick.

Keeping with the Fire Service theme!

The ongoing drought in Western Massachusetts and the concerns it has raised about the potential for wildfires.

The lack of precipitation and dry conditions have heightened the risk of fires in the area, prompting officials to urge residents to take precautions to prevent accidents.

The article also mentions recent brush fires and the importance of monitoring outdoor burning activities.

Officials are encouraging residents to stay informed and stay prepared for potential wildfire threats in the region.

Why did the Eastern States Exposition host a potato beauty pageant?

Because they wanted to find the tater tots of tomorrow!

This Week In The 413

A Nature Year at Arcadia - Fall

Where: Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary
(127 Combs Road, Easthampton, MA)
When: 09/17/2025 9:30am–11:30am
Why Go: Immerse yourself in natural history this fall. With a skilled Mass Audubon naturalist as your guide, call - 585-3009  YES IN THE 413 area code!   🐦

Kinsley Kicks Cancer Comedy Fundraiser

Where:Portuguese American Club, 149 Exchange St, Chicopee
When:Sep 21, 2025, 6:00 PM
Why Go:FUNDRAISER- This isn’t just another comedy show. It’s a chance to turn laughter into fuel, jokes into hope, and tickets into time - time for Kinsley’s family to stay by her side.  👨‍👨‍👦

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy 

Where: 52 Sumner Ave Springfield
When: 9/18-9/18 6, 8 &10
Why Go:Step into the world of Edgar Allan Poe in this 4-part chilling cocktail experience
🍸 Sip on delicious themed cocktails, each expertly crafted and paired with each tale
😱 Hear Edgar Allan Poe's work reimagined, as told by the Poe Historians

Trailer Trash Benefit Concert 🎵

Where: Ludlow Elks Lodge- 69 Chapin St., Ludlow, MA
 When:  Fri Sept 19 7PM 
Why Go: FUNDRAISER - burgers, cheesesteaks, buffalo parm fries and more! We will also have Raffles, Cash Bar, and music from our favorite local band, Trailer Trash!

Farmers Market    
Where: The Longmeadow Shops , Longmeadow    
When: Sept 18 12-6    
Why Go: locally grown fruits and veggies, baked goods, honey, milk, cheeses, flowers.

Q: Best time to go leaf peeping in Western MA?

A: Peak foliage season in Western MA typically occurs in mid to late October.

Q: Recommended spots for leaf peeping in Western MA?

A: Some popular spots for leaf peeping in Western MA include Mohawk Trail, Mount Greylock, and Berkshire Scenic Railway.

Q: What activities can I do while leaf peeping in Western MA?

A: Aside from enjoying the vibrant fall foliage, you can also go hiking, visit local farms for pumpkin picking, or take a scenic drive along the Mohawk Trail.

**Discover Bluebonnet Diner in Northampton, MA**  
Since 1950, Bluebonnet Diner has been serving fresh, homemade dishes in Northampton, MA. This family-owned gem offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and banquet options with classic recipes and kid-friendly meals like fish and chips. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with seat-yourself bar/counter or booth/table seating (check in at the cashier). Open Sunday (8 AM–2 PM), Tuesday–Wednesday (8 AM–2 PM), Thursday–Saturday (8 AM–8 PM), and closed Mondays and major holidays. Convenient curbside pickup is available, park, and they will bring your order to your car. Support local with every bite at this community staple. Visit [bluebonnetdiner.net](https://www.bluebonnetdiner.net/) to order online (limited menu) or explore more. Bluebonnet Diner: where comfort food meets tradition!  

Waiting for you at TJO!

Parker: Your Next Adventure Buddy!

Parker: Your Next Adventure Buddy!

Meet Parker, a curious terrier mix at Thomas J. O’Connor Adoption Center, ready for a loving home after his solo adventure. Sociable yet reserved, this little explorer loves grassy runs and sniffing out fun. Perfect for first-time owners, he needs gentle intros, minimal training, and regular brushing. Parker’s open to older kids (10+) and dogs (meet first), with routine vet care. Call (413) 781-1484 to meet your new walking pal! 🐶

Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations or off-menu specials at local restaurants in Northampton - they may have some delicious hidden gems to try!