Word of the Week

 Scintillating

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Adoption Pet Of The Week -  Meet  Sundae🐱
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If you're looking for a spooky activity in Springfield, MA this Halloween, check out the Forest Park Zoo Boo at the Zoo event for a fun and family-friendly way to celebrate the holiday!

Northampton, MA: Crowned Among Massachusetts' Friendliest Towns for 2025

October 27, 2025

Nestled in Western Massachusetts along the Connecticut River, Northampton—affectionately dubbed the "Paradise City"—has secured a top spot in World Atlas' 2025 list of the 11 friendliest towns in the state.

This honor highlights its blend of small-town warmth, cultural vibrancy, and inclusive spirit, drawing a population of about 30,000 into effortless connections amid historic streets and indie energy.

From its industrial roots and ties to preacher Jonathan Edwards, Northampton has evolved into a welcoming hub for families, artists, and retirees. Civic pride shines through community anchors like the First Churches, a gathering spot for reflection, and the lively Django in June festival, where Gypsy Jazz unites diverse crowds in joyful improvisation.

Smith College elevates the town's appeal with public gems: the Lyman Plant House's exotic gardens for serene chats, the Museum of Art's thought-provoking exhibits on social justice, and the storied Academy of Music Theatre hosting intergenerational performances.

Framed by the Berkshires, residents kayak the river, hike trails, or picnic riverside, fostering neighborly bonds in nature's embrace.

Northampton joins a stellar lineup of Massachusetts havens emphasizing close-knit vibes, senior-friendly spots, inclusive events, walkable downtowns, and cultural draws.

Highlights include Leverett's artisan workshops and Peace Pagoda; Newburyport's Yankee parades; Concord's revolutionary bookshops; Chatham's coastal seals; Marblehead's seafaring harbors; Provincetown's film fests; Sturbridge's 1830s reenactments; Williamstown's theater hikes; Rockport's red shack; and Oak Bluffs' gingerbread charm.

This recognition affirms Northampton's nickname as lived reality—where open arms turn visitors into locals. As holidays approach, plan a visit to feel the magic.  Paradise calls.

Springfield, Mass. faces mounting frustration after the Massachusetts State Senate rejected proposals to restore $3 million in annual casino mitigation funding for Western Massachusetts communities affected by MGM Springfield.

Local leaders say the decision, made during late October debates, undermines commitments promised under the state’s Expanded Gaming Act.

The Community Mitigation Fund, established to ease the social and infrastructure costs from casinos, has distributed over $56 million statewide since 2015.

However, the 2025 budget removed this funding, shifting resources to initiatives like the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Boston.

Springfield’s City Council and Mayor Domenic Sarno pushed for reinstatement, highlighting the city’s reliance on these funds for police, fire, and infrastructure due to increased casino activity.

With both Senate amendments rejected, Western Massachusetts communities now face heightened challenges in addressing casino impacts—fueling local anger and renewed calls for fair treatment from Beacon Hill.

Detective Sergeant Daniel Bruno of the East Longmeadow Police Department received the Law Enforcement Lifetime Achievement Award from the Western Massachusetts chapter of ASIS, celebrating his steadfast dedication and impact throughout his career.

The department’s commitment to transparency and accountability was highlighted in March 2025 when officers were equipped with body-worn cameras, a move championed by Chief Mark Williams as a modern standard that protects officers and builds public trust.

Community engagement remains central, with the annual National Night Out drawing hundreds for safety demonstrations, vendor showcases, and free food, creating positive bridges between law enforcement and residents.

Officers have also played a vital role in public safety during the ongoing East Longmeadow High School construction, managing traffic and protecting students and locals.

The department’s dedication to service and community continues to set the standard for regional law enforcement.

Steiger's was an American department store company of New England in the 19th and 20th centuries. Founded in Holyoke, Massachusetts in 1896, its flagship store for much of the company's history was in Springfield, Massachusetts. At the time of its purchase by May Department Stores, Steiger's was described as the last family-owned chain of department stores in New England

Not so everyday event listings

🍗 ALL YOU CAN EAT WING NITE AT FLETCHER'S 🍗 🍗
Where: 408 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01106
When: Wednesday 10/29/25, 5:00 PM EDT
Why Go: Indulge in unlimited wings and great vibes at Fletcher's weekly wing night, perfect for food lovers and casual hangouts.
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/773916441936894/

Farmers Market at The Longmeadow Shops 🥕
Where: 690 Bliss Rd, Longmeadow, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01106
When: Thursday 10/30/25, 12:00 PM EDT
Why Go: Shop fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisan products in a vibrant community market setting.
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1324526068629707/ 

Southwick Village Trunk or Treat 🎃
Where: Southwick Village Residential Living, Southwick, MA
When: Thursday 10/30/25, 4:00 PM EDT
Why Go: Bring the family for a safe, fun trunk-or-treat event with candy, costumes, and community spirit.
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1365430728552711/ 

Trunk or Treat & Not-So-Scary Haunted House 👻
Event by East Longmeadow Recreation Department and East Longmeadow Rotary Club
Where: 328 N Main St, East Longmeadow, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01028
When: Thursday 10/30/25, 4:30 PM EDT
Why Go: Enjoy a family-friendly Halloween celebration with trunk-or-treating and a mildly spooky haunted house.
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/776136815040030/ 

Nitemare on Page Boulevard 😈
The Boulevard Tavern & Grill,
Where: 664 Page Boulevard, Springfield, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01104
When: Friday 10/31/25, 9:00 PM EDT
Why Go: Kick off Halloween with a high-energy party featuring music, costumes, and spooky fun on Page Boulevard.
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1313638090458262/ 

Country Garden Adult Prom - Sixth Annual Fundraiser for Second Time's a Charm 💃
Where: 2523 Boston Rd, Wilbraham, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01095
When: Saturday 11/01/25, 8:00 PM EDT
Why Go: Relive prom night with dancing, cocktails, and fundraising for a great cause—dress to impress!
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1814662702480039/ 

Nathan Bill's Annual Cash Costume Contest 🎃
Where: 110 Island Pond Rd, Springfield, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01118
When: Saturday 11/01/25, 9:00 PM EDT
Why Go: Compete for cash prizes in one of the area’s biggest costume contests—bring your A-game and creativity!
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/24721256227495027/ 

RiverMills Festival of Trees 🎄
Where: 5 West Main St, Chicopee, MA, United States, Massachusetts 01020
When: Tuesday 10/28/25 – Saturday 11/01/25 (ongoing)
Why Go: Admire beautifully decorated trees, vote for your favorite, and support local nonprofits in this festive holiday kickoff.
Contact Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/2526756154361924/

Meet Sundae (and her best friend, Kathy - see web site)
Sundae is a pretty white and grey older kitten with a gentle, cautious heart. She came to us as a feral kitten and spent a few months in a loving foster home learning that people can be kind and safe. Sundae must be adopted with her best friend, Kathy — the two are inseparable and bring each other comfort and confidence. They love to play, explore, and snuggle up together when it’s time to rest. These sweet girls will need a very patient, understanding adopter who has experience with shy or scared kitties. With time, love, and a calm home, Sundae and Kathy will reward you with the joy of watching them blossom and trust.

OTHER PETS: Sundae and Kathy would be great with other social kitties. They have no dog experience.

OWNER EXPERIENCE: Sundae and Kathy's adopter must have experience with scared kittens.

KIDS: Sundae and Kathy would be best suited for a teens and up home.

"Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn and cauldron bubble." - William Shakespeare

Word of the Week: Scintillating

Definition: Adjective. Sparkling with lively brilliance or wit, like a dazzling display of light or a conversation that’s bursting with clever charm. It’s perfect for anything that grabs your attention with its vibrant energy!

Example Sentence: Her scintillating wit lit up the dinner party, as every story she told had us hanging on her every word.

Origin: From the Latin scintilla, meaning "spark," this word danced into English in the 17th century to describe things that shimmer or shine with liveliness.

Such a fun, sparkling word! 😄 What’s your vibe with this one?