Read In Browser

Word of the WEEK: Coruscant

scroll to the end for definition  

🐶Meet Chocolate - Dog Of The Week!  (Scroll Down)

"Western Mass is more than just a place on the map, it's a feeling in your soul."

Springfield celebrated its 2025 Veteran of the Year and Parade Marshal in a moving City Hall ceremony.

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Congressman Richard Neal joined officials to honor two dedicated Army veterans.

Elmer McMahon, a retired police deputy chief known for selfless community service, was named Veteran of the Year.

Michael Arillotta will lead as the 2025 Veterans Day Parade Marshal, embodying resilience and commitment.

The event highlighted veterans' ongoing contributions, inspiring local volunteerism and gratitude.

New initiatives like expanded resources and family programs underscore Springfield's support for service members.

Chaired by William Walls, the gathering featured young cadets and past honorees, fostering a sense of unity.

The annual parade kicks off at 11 a.m. on November 11 from Springfield Technical Community College, marching down State Street to City Hall for a wreath-laying.

Community events, including picnics and resource fairs, invite all to join in honoring veterans' legacies.

This recognition strengthens local bonds and recommits Springfield to supporting those who served.

Valley Light Opera marks its 50th anniversary with a spectacular new staging of Gilbert and Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore at the Academy of Music in Northampton, November 6–9.

Bringing lush orchestration and meticulous period costumes, this production promises a dazzling experience that pays homage to the operetta that began VLO’s legacy.

Local performers, joined by guest artists from afar, breathe fresh life into the themes of HMS Pinafore—class, love, and comedy—making it an ideal introduction to live musical theater for all ages.

Patrons can attend a pre-curtain talk at 1:00pm before weekend matinees (Nov. 8–9), featuring founding member Michael Greenebaum, who will discuss the history of VLO and the significance of Gilbert & Sullivan’s era.

For a blend of local artistry, historical charm, and family-friendly fun, don’t miss this milestone Valley theater event.

Tickets: Academy of Music, Northampton.

Excitement filled the air as Springfield residents came together for a beloved annual tradition.

The raising of the Puerto Rican flag kicked off Puerto Rican Heritage Month with heartfelt pride.

Local leaders, including Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, highlighted the community's enduring cultural bonds.

For more than 30 years, Springfield MA has honored its Puerto Rican heritage and contributions.

This celebration follows the vibrant September parade, embracing an Afro-Boricua theme.

The event featured lively displays of music, dance, and traditions rooted in African influences.

Officials commended the resilience shown after natural disasters, treating newcomers like kin.

Puerto Rican influences thrive in education, business, and service across Western Massachusetts.

Initiatives like festivals and youth programs foster stronger community ties.

The flag-raising embodied unity and strength despite hardships.

Upcoming activities include honoring veterans on National Borinqueneers Day.

Locals eagerly await next year's parade to sustain this spirit of joy and empowerment.

Amid expansion, these events reinforce shared histories and bright futures.

Viva Puerto Rico resonates, uniting everyone in this dynamic city.

Old Time Palmer 

This is a photograph of a Springfield & Eastern Street Railway trolley car and its crew, taken in downtown Palmer, Massachusetts, around 1905. 

Local Events: November 4–11, 2025

Pasta & Prose: A Night with Author Mike Bernard 📚 Where: Irish Cultural Center of Western New England, 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield, MA When: Tuesday 11/04/25, 5:00 PM EDT Why Go: Join a special evening with Mike Bernard, author of the ‘Boston Irish Belt Trilogy,’ discussing local inspirations, writing process, and Irish themes over delicious pasta. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/irish-cultural-center-author-visit-2/

Acoustic Alchemy 🎸 Where: The Iron Horse, 18 Center Street, Northampton, MA When: Tuesday 11/04/25, 7:00 PM EDT Why Go: Experience the UK-born duo's 35 years of innovative acoustic tunes, blending world music and virtuosic guitar work in an intimate venue. Contact Info: https://www.artshubwma.org/event/acoustic-alchemy

Springfield Museums, Free First Wednesdays 🆓 Where: Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA When: Wednesday 11/05/25, All day (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EDT) Why Go: Enjoy free admission to explore special exhibits, permanent collections, hands-on STEM and art activities, and family-friendly demonstrations. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/springfield-museums-free-first-wednesdays-2/2025-11-05/

Artist Talk: Marie Watt 🎨 Where: The Williams Inn, 101 Spring Street, Williamstown, MA When: Wednesday 11/05/25, 6:00 PM EDT Why Go: Hear from Marie Watt, a leading fiber artist, discussing her site-specific proposals and community-based textile works for the Clark's campus. Contact Info: https://www.artshubwma.org/event/artist-talk-marie-watt

Works on Paper Highlights Talk 📜 Where: Clark Art Institute, 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA When: Wednesday 11/05/25, 11:30 AM EDT Why Go: Discover rarely exhibited prints, drawings, and photographs from the Clark's 6,500+ works on paper collection in this free weekly series. Contact Info: https://berkshires.org/events/150063/2025-11-05/

A Night of Readings Celebrating 25 Years of the Massachusetts Book Awards 📖 Where: Northampton Center for the Arts, 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA When: Wednesday 11/05/25, 6:00 PM EDT Why Go: Mark 25 years of the Mass Book Awards with readings from winners and finalists, honoring diverse voices in Massachusetts literature. Contact Info: https://www.artshubwma.org/event/a-night-of-readings-celebrating-25-years-of-the-massachusetts-book-awards

The Carle After Dark 🌙 Where: Eric Carle Museum, 125 W Bay Road, Amherst, MA When: Thursday 11/06/25, 5:00 PM EDT Why Go: Transform the museum into a nighttime playground with themed activities celebrating dreams, night mysteries, and picture book magic for adults. Contact Info: https://berkshires.org/events/the-carle-after-dark/2025-11-06/

Open Mic Every Tuesday at Studio 9 🎤 Where: Studio 9 at The Porches Inn, 18 Veazie Street, North Adams, MA When: Tuesday 11/04/25, 7:00 PM EDT Why Go: Showcase or enjoy diverse talents from musicians to comedians in a state-of-the-art space with premium acoustics and lighting. Contact Info: https://berkshires.org/events/open-mic-every-tuesday-at-studio-9/2025-11-04/

UMass Mullins Center, Hockey: UMass vs Maine 🏒 Where: Mullins Center, 200 Commonwealth Avenue, Amherst, MA When: Friday 11/07/25, 7:00 PM EDT Why Go: Cheer on the UMass Minutemen in a Military Appreciation game against Maine, presented by Milton CAT, with special tributes and excitement. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/umass-mullins-center-hockey-2/

What a Glorious Crash They Made: Musick of the Revolution 🎼 Where: Bidwell House Museum, 100 Art School Road, Monterey, MA When: Saturday 11/08/25, 7:00 PM EDT Why Go: Immerse in 18th-century New England music with harpsichordist R. Franklin Donohue, performing revolutionary-era songs by candlelight. Contact Info: https://berkshires.org/events/what-a-glorious-crash-they-made-musick-of-the-revolution/

Wistariahurst Museum, Identity in Ink: The Art of Tattooing 🖋️ Where: Wistariahurst Museum, 238 Cabot Street, Holyoke, MA When: Tuesday 11/04/25, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EDT Why Go: Delve into the ancient history of tattooing through global artifacts and stories, from cultural rituals to modern expressions. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/wistariahurst-museum-exhibit-3/2025-11-04/

Society of Sketch 🎨 Where: The Mill District General Store, 91 Cowls Road, Amherst, MA When: Thursday 11/06/25, 6:00 PM EDT Why Go: Join an 18+ drawing night with costumed models, quick poses, and creative challenges in a collaborative, no-pressure environment. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/the-mill-district-general-store-society-of-sketch/

Bonsai Workshop at Bright Ideas Brewing 🌳 Where: Bright Ideas Brewing, 109 Apremont Way, Westfield, MA When: Thursday 11/06/25, 6:00 PM EDT Why Go: Craft your own mini bonsai tree while sipping craft beer—perfect for beginners in a relaxed brewery atmosphere. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/bonsai-workshop-at-bright-ideas-brewing/

Great Awakening Brewing Company, Cardinal Paint and Sip 🖌️ Where: Great Awakening Brewing Company, 77 Mill Street, Westfield, MA When: Thursday 11/06/25, 6:30 PM EDT Why Go: Create a seasonal cardinal painting with guided instruction from Masterpiece Art Bar, paired with local brews. Contact Info: https://explorewesternmass.com/event/great-awakening-brewing-company-paint-night/

Kids’ Fall Harvest Paint & Sip 🎨 Where: St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 67 East Street, Pittsfield, MA When: Saturday 11/08/25, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT Why Go: Free family art session for ages 5-12 with harvest themes, snacks, and all materials provided—drop-in friendly. Contact Info: https://berkshires.org/events/kids-fall-harvest-paint-sip/

Veterans Day Commemoration (Springfield) 🇺🇸 Where: Veterans Memorial Green, 1500 Main Street, Springfield, MA When: Tuesday 11/11/25, 11:00 AM EDT Why Go: Join a solemn ceremony with speeches, music, and honors for veterans, including a moment of silence and flag presentation— a meaningful way to reflect and thank those who served. Contact Info: https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/veterans-day-events-in-western-massachusetts/

Veterans Day Observance (Northampton) 🇺🇸 Where: Parsons Field to Memorial Hall, Northampton, MA When: Tuesday 11/11/25, 10:45 AM – 11:00 AM EDT Why Go: Participate in a traditional parade ending at Memorial Hall for a service with guest speakers and musical performances, celebrating Pioneer Valley veterans and their sacrifices. Contact Info: https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/veterans-day-events-in-western-massachusetts/

Available For Adoption

My name is Chocolate.

My name is Chocolate.
I am a male, chocolate and tan Chihuahua - Long Haired.
The shelter staff think I am about 2 years and 1 month old.
I have been at the shelter since Oct 04, 2025.

While we don't know details, we do know that Chocolate's life was a bit ruff before he came to TJO. He has since shown us that his affection for humans has not diminished, and that his dislike of other dogs appears to be just as high. Chocolate is a good boy who will thrive with love and humans who understand how to keep him safe and set him up for success.

(Dad) Joke Of The Day

Why did the math book look sad?

Because it had too many problems.

Residents in Western Massachusetts are growing concerned about PFAS contamination in their drinking water.

Towns like Westfield and West Springfield face serious issues from these forever chemicals, often linked to military sites.

Recent reports highlight widespread pollution in the Pioneer Valley, affecting groundwater and health in Hampden County.

New federal standards demand stricter PFAS limits, pushing local systems to upgrade and protect millions nationwide.

In Westfield, traditional treatments like granular activated carbon  have helped, but costs soar into millions for communities.

Emerging  UV-based water treatments offer hope, using light to break down contaminants without chemicals.

These innovations could safeguard vital resources like the Barnes Aquifer and Connecticut River watershed.

Local officials and lawsuits target polluters to ease financial burdens on ratepayers.

Experts see UV systems integrating with existing infrastructure for long-term solutions.

As health risks linger, communities advocate for cleaner water to ensure a safer future.

Word of the Week: Coruscant

Definition: Adjective. Glittering or sparkling with a shimmering, almost magical brilliance, like stars twinkling fiercely in a clear night sky. It’s a rare gem for describing anything that dazzles with vibrant, flickering light.

Example Sentence: The coruscant display of fireflies in the meadow transformed the evening into a scene from a fairy tale.

Origin: From the Latin coruscare, meaning "to flash or gleam," this word flickered into English in the 15th century but remains a lesser-known treasure for vivid descriptions.

Love how this one shimmers in the shadows! 😄 What do you think of it?

Take some time today to reach out and thank a veteran for their service.

Your appreciation and support can truly make a difference in their day.