I hate Stop & Shop.

Yep, I said it, I hate 'em. Granted, I'm more of a Costco and BJ's shopper anyway...but I now really hate Stop & Shop. Why? Oh, I'm glad you asked...

Stop & Shop has finally won approval...back home in MA...to erect a brandy new store in my hometown. And while that wouldn't normally be such a bad thing, it is if you bulldoze the greatest soft ice cream stand ever to do it. That's right friends, Tasty Top is no more. Easthampton Golf is no more. They're going the way of the do-do bird, selling out to make room for Stop & Shop.

I feel bad for those who live in the neighborhoods and apartment buildings nearby; the traffic will be unbearable. And I'm sure that little two lane road will be overwhelmed very quickly. And I'm saddened to see another haunt of my youth go away (along with the arcade out back at Tasty Top, Dream Machine, the original Pizza House, Norm's Diner, etc.). E-town isn't nearly what it used to be.

That's why we like the town we've chosen today. Many of you know where we live, and have asked what attracted us to this town. It's simple...this little town of ours reminds us of how we grew up. There's a mix of nice, small businesses (with owners that know everyone around) and some necessary chain stores (see the really great TJ Maxx/Homegoods store on rt. 83 for details), a great pizza place down the street and a wonderful, mom & pop dry cleaner that still does shirts the way I like 'em (heavy starch, on hangers, without shrinking them). This little portion of the land of steady habits is a throwback to yesterday, and we like it like that!

Now, if only I could figure out how to buy the dormant d*ckpin center in town and convert it successfully to candlepin! Hmmmmm.....

In other news, I just love it when the CG Event Calendar is as full as it is today. Recently updated with all the new roll-off information, candlepin events are heating up all through the northeast. So if you want to catch some great action, look at the calendar today to find an event close to you!

Kudos once again to Pilgrim Lanes in Haverhill for their new webcam. It broadcasts house events, open bowling, etc., whenever it's turned on. So stop by their website today to have a look.

For more information on Tasty Top's final day (RIP, TT), go here.