PLAINFIELD — In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Plainfield Congregational Church plans to host a public conversation on domestic violence in the Hilltown communities.
The program will feature a 20-minute video about the role of the church in dealing with cases of domestic violence.
Members of group Where Hilltown Faith and Safety Meet will lead a discussion on the video and answer questions that participants may have.
“The presentation begs the question, ‘what is our community’s response in the face of violent injustice?’ How can we help bring compassion, healing and justice?” said the Rev. Stephen Philbrick, pastor of the West Cummington Congregational Church and member of Where Hilltown Faith and Safety Meet.
According to Bev Henrichsen, an advocate with Hilltown Safety at Home, addressing domestic violence is a community issue.
“Everyone can do something about domestic violence,” Henrichsen said. “Sometimes it’s a matter of just knowing what to do or who to call.”
Organizers plan the program as an opportunity for Hilltown residents to learn more about the crime of domestic violence and that fact that it is taking place daily in many homes across the nation — including in the Hilltowns.
According to Jane Doe Inc., The Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence, there have been 19 domestic homicide deaths between January 2017 and Sept. 1, 2017. One of those deaths was a 6-year-old boy.
The event is free and can also be repeated for any interested community groups.
Hilltown Safety at Home provides a domestic violence victim advocate for those who have experienced domestic or sexual abuse.
The advocate works confidentially with people on the phone or in person. If it’s safe for an advocate to come to your home, home visits are also available.
The advocate can also help friends and family members who are trying to support a loved one in an abusive situation. All services are free.
The Plainfield Congregational Church is located on Highway 116.
For additional information contact Bev Henrichsen, 387-3120, or Stephen Philbrick, 684-3852.
WORTHINGTON — Join state Sen. Adam Hinds and Rep. Steve Kulik at a coffee hour in Worthington on Oct. 30 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Worthington Town Hall at 160 Huntington Road.
The coffee hour is designed to be agenda-free, unscripted and an opportunity for residents and local officials to ask questions, share concerns, and make recommendations on state issues to the members of their legislative delegation and district staff.
CUMMINGTON — Are you in for a good scare? Come for a spine-chilling weekend at the William Cullen Bryant Homestead and see what ghoulish spirits lurk about this 200-year-old house.
As the event website describes, “Enter the residence and see how Edgar Allen Poe meets Washington Irving in this creepy haunted house that takes you through the eerie servant’s quarters, to the third floor and back staircases.
“All of American literature’s scary stories come to life in this bone-chilling event. You never know who, or what you’ll encounter!”
This event will take place on Oct. 20, 21, 28 and 29, from 6-10 p.m.
Reservations are strongly encouraged. Tickets may be purchased online at www.thetrustees.org/things-to-do/pioneer-valley/event-35928.html or by contacting Andrea Caluori at acaluori@thetrustees.org.
The event begins outdoors, so walking shoes are essential. Due to scary situations, the event is recommended for those 13 and older.
The price is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers.
Ideas for this column on life in the Hilltowns can be sent to Fran Ryan at fryan.gazette@gmail.com