Moonlight Magic is a community tradition held annually on the Friday after Thanksgiving coinciding with the annual “Holiday Lighting of the Village” in Shelburne Falls, MA. Many special features add to the traditional festive evening of family fun and holiday spirit in this classic New England village on the Mohawk Trail. The streets are filled with luminary candles, caroling, sidewalk sales, art events and craft demonstrations; Vendor tables are set along the sidewalks with local non-profit group’s holiday wreaths, baked goods and crafts; Live music and roving performers will be present on both sides of the river throughout the evening.; and Stores, galleries and restaurants stay open late for special holiday promotions.
The Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum will be open too. This will be a rare opportunity to ride the brightly lit and beautifully restored Trolley No. 10 after dark. While you wait for the Trolley, warm up by the potbelly stove and enjoy a cup of warm cider in the museum’s classic restored wooden caboose. Take the Trolley to the Museum’s visitor center for interesting historic period displays of life in the area one hundred years ago. The kids will love the operating displays of toy trains.
Mole Hollow Candle Company, a local candle company, provides 1500 luminary candles to line the village streets and sidewalks. The town lights up about 4:45 pm with the help of many volunteers. Bridge Street, the main thoroughfare, will become a pedestrian walkway to allow space for street performers and holiday strollers. Singing and instrumental groups will perform about town.
There will be family fun and children’s activities too, such as cookie decorating, ornament making, and candle dipping.
Drinking. Drugs. Caving into peer pressure. When parents expect their teenagers to conform to negative stereotypes, those teens are in fact more likely to do so, according to new research by professor of psychology Christy Buchanan.
“Parents who believe they are simply being realistic might actually contribute to a self-fulfilling prophecy,” says Buchanan, who studies adolescent development and behavior. “Negative expectations on the part of both parents and children predict more negative behaviors later on.”
Gorge aprés Gorge
Community Walk/Run in West Chesterfield, MA
Sunday, November 29, 2009, 10AM
The Sunday morning following your Thanksgiving dinner gorge, rise and shine to join friends and neighbors for the 6th annual Gorge aprés Gorge run/walk at the Chesterfield Gorge in West Chesterfield, MA. Community members are invited to embrace winter by being outside with friends and neighbors in a three mile out and back run/walk/bike/snowshoe/ski along the beautiful Westfield River. It’s a free event and all are welcomed! It’s a family affair.
Complimentary warm drinks will be served (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cider). Please help reduce waste and cost by bringing your own mug. Food to share is always welcome. Event will happen regardless the weather. For more information or to volunteer, email Leslie Charles leslie@lacdesign.com. Organizers ask that families kindly leave their lovely dogs at home this day.
Other great CD’s that came out in 2009 that we just didn’t get a chance to play, but listen for them in upcoming episodes of the Hilltown Families Variety Show: Read the rest of this entry »
The Worthington Cultural Council (WCC) invites you to a meeting on Nov. 11, 7pm to discuss the formation of a comprehensive Hilltown arts alliance. Worthington Historical Society building (looks like a church), corner of 143 and 112.
Explanation: the WCC members began a process that we hope will ultimately result in a coalition of HIlltown artists…we sent out a questionnaire and received 30 replies…
Our current goal is to create a website that will contain a calendar of events, classes, concerts, shows, etc. We plan an “artist of the month”, list classes, open studios, venues available for performances, shows, lectures, and readings. We are in the beginning stage and would appreciate input from you about content and local artists’ needs. We believe that such a website could bring more people to Hilltown events and more revenue to the local, often underserved Hilltown artists working in all disciplines.
We are looking for people from all Hilltowns who would like to be involved in the planning and implementation of this project. We hope you will be among them. Your input and participation is important to us.
If you would like to participate, please let us know. If you want to bring a friend who is interested in the arts, please do.
Thank you ,
Jan Roby, 238-5593
Mary Pulley, 238-7747
Kate Ewald, 238-5556
If you are interested in this event, please reply to the contact people above; they need to ensure they’ll be enough folks attending in order to have it at the Worthington Historical Society building. (They will have it at someone’s house if there is only a small group).
10am-4pm - BOTANICAL SHOW: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show at the Botanic Garden of Smith College 11/7 through 11/22 in Northampton, MA (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
If you have a family-friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, location, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
FEATURED EVENTS
Franklin County CiderDays happens all weekend throughout Franklin Co., along with free family museum days at Smith College Museum on Saturday, and The Clark museum on Sunday. There will be stargazing in the hilltowns Saturday night, and a free circus arts workshop at UMass on Sunday. And many more great events. All details below.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Click here to subscribe to our podcast and listen to our newest HFVS podcast.
This weeks episode of the HFVS features many of our favorite new albums and songs from this past year. Check out our podcast for an extended episode (to be posted soon!).
Families have three ways to tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show:
HFVS Podcast: Listen to our most recent episodes anytime you wish! Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast too!
Streaming Audio: Surf on over to ValleyFreeRadio.org on Saturday mornings and listen to us live via streaming audio from 9-10am.
On Your FM Dial: Tune in to WXOJ 103.3FM if you live near Northampton, MA from 9-10am.
BULLETIN BOARD
The Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of CT in Windsor Locks, CT is offering the 2-hour class, “Let’s Build a Crystal Radio.” What better way to experience the early days of radio than by building a crystal set? It’s a fun way for youngsters to make something with their hands, learn how radio works, and experience the mechanics of construction. No batteries or electricity required. Everyone comes away with a working radio. It’s a great way for parents and children to work together on a project too! Get a group together and call to schedule a class. More info here.
2nd Annual Geography Expo is happening on Wednesday November 18th from 6-8PM in the Gym at the Old Plain School (now the Town Offices) in Stockbridge, MA. More info here.
Arena Civic Theatre will hold auditions for its April/May production of To Kill a Mockingbird to be performed at the Shea Theater in Turners Falls, Massachusetts. Auditions are:
Sunday November 15 at Jones Library, Amherst, Ma. 6:30-8:30 (enter by rear garden door).
Wednesday November 18 at the Shea Theater, Turners Falls, Ma. 7:00-9:00 pm and
Thursday November 19, at the Jones Library, Amherst, Ma 7-00-9:00pm
Roles for 1 girl age 9-12, 2 boys age 9-14, adult men and women all ages and roles for African American actors and actresses and gospel singers. For more information call director Sondra Radosh 413-549-1511 or email smradosh@yahoo.com
Amber from Kids Craft Weekly is organizing another holiday card swap. Now in it’s fourth year, the swap involves sending handmade cards to ten specific addresses, and receiving ten cards in return from families all over the world. For all of the information, and to sign up, please visit the Card Swap FAQ and read through the info before signing up. Sign-ups for the swap close at 9am (Australian Eastern Standard Time) on November 18, 2009.
The National Honor Society of Gateway High School will again join forces with Hilltown Social Services to help families in the seven towns of Gateway Regional School District with holiday gifts for children, newborn through age twelve. The honor society and Hilltown Social Services has collaborated on this community service project since the mid nineties. Local residents, churches and organizations have also helped with providing gifts to area children through this project. Families from Blandford, Chester, Huntington, Middlefield, Montgomery, Russell, and Worthington may come in to complete their wish lists for this holiday help at Hilltown Social Services, 9 Russell Road, Huntington. The sign up period starts on Monday, November 2 and closes on Monday, November 23. The wish lists are assigned a number in order to keep all names confidential. Members of the national honor society raise funds and shop for the gifts. The gifts are then organized by the students and delivered to Hilltown Social Services for distribution on Thursday, December 17, 1 – 4 PM. Anyone interested in making donations for this holiday project should call Diane Meehan at Hilltown Social Services at 413-667-2203.
The Northampton Arts Council is excited to present YouthFilm, the fourth annual showcase of cinematic talent from local children and teenagers. The deadline is January 6, 2010. Kicking off our program at the Academy of Music Theatre on February 15th with the eleventh annual international children’s film festival KidsBestFest, the week will culminate with a return to the Pioneer Valley area to look at the films and animations created by our up and coming local superstars. YouthFilm will give them the opportunity to display their talents on the big screen at the beautiful Academy of Music Theatre. More info here.
CCRVI seeking Shelburne Falls home owners for Perennial Food Garden Design Project (Shelburne Falls, MA) More info here.
Chris Matera write: “Biomass Fuel Plants would require cutting 100,000 Acres of Massachusetts forests every year. In 16 years, 3152 square miles of Massachusetts forests would be logged.” Read more here.
SPONSORSHIP, ADVERTISING & ANNOUNCEMENTS: Deliver your message to a large local family based audience while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Advertise your event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business or announcement on our Weekly List of Suggested Events. Serious inquiries can email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com for details.
7pm - CONCERT: HIGH SCHOOL: Students from Northampton H.S., Amherst Regional H.S. and UMass will be part of an “A Cappella” benefit concert: Local Vocal Chord Bowl #3 in the auditorium at Northampton H.S. 336-4859 Northampton, MA (FUNDRAISER)
Congratulations to six families on winning four different giveaways:
Congratulation to Sherri Gionet of Leeds, MA. Sherri has won a free registration to the “No Fear Flu” herbal workshop with Blazing Star Herbal School in Ashfield, MA at the Inn at Norton Hill this Sunday (11/08/09) from 10-3. Participants who did not win who would still like to sign up for this timely workshop, please contact Tony Lemos at tlemos@noho.com.
Congratulations to Amy Cullen of Plainfield, MA & Amy Hill of Sunderland, MA. Both families have won Scholastic Storybook Treasure’s Where the Wild Things Are … And 5 More Stories by Maurice Sendak on DVD!
Congratulations to Laura Mazza of Florence, MA and Kimberly Wixsom of Pittsfield, MA. Both families will receive a copy of Sarah Lee Guthrie and Family debut family album, Go Waggaloo.
Congratulations to Glenn Doulette of Whately, MA. Glenn has won a a 4-pack of free tickets to see 1964 …The Tribute, the “best Beatles tribute on Earth,” according to Rolling Stone Magazine, perform at the Calvin Theater in Northampton, MA, on Saturday, November 7th, at 8pm.
- Last week some people were coming to dinner at my house. Because the number of waking hours I spend at my house does not give me enough time to actually keep it tidy, I had a lot to do before they got there. The one belt that I own was draped over something and I remember grabbing it and thrusting it behind something because I didn’t have enough time to run upstairs with it.
Now the diners are gone, it’s four days later and I cannot find that belt anywhere. I know it’s behind something downstairs, and in a house this small there are only so many places with a behind behind them and I have looked into them all. I have even begun looking inside things, even though I know it is actually behind something.
I found a belt that belonged to Son behind some things in the laundry room and put that on, but he said he had been looking for that one himself and asked for it back. I found another belt that belonged to a little girl who once visited here behind some other things in the laundry room, but that one was a buckle and a tip short of fitting. I don’t want to buy a new belt because I already have one, and I only need one. So now I’m stuck with a pair of pants that I can’t wear because I don’t have a belt. I might have to just put a piece of rope around my pants like Ellie Mae Clampett, but that’s just not the style up here. I know that if it was a snake (which it would sort of resemble in form) it would have bit me by now, but otherwise I cannot find it.
So, if you were wondering why I never invite you to dinner at my house, that’s why.
GRATEFUL HARVEST DINNER
Mary has gone out right now to collect all the food we will be serving in our Grateful Harvest Dinner this Thursday Friday Night (11/05/09 11/06/09).
GODS HELP US!
A Comedy Presented by Hampshire Regional Drama Company
Hampshire Regional Drama Company will continue their tradition of giving graduating seniors a chance to direct their own production and then present it to the school and surrounding community on November 5th through the 7th at the Hampshire Regional High School Auditorium at 7pm. This fall’s senior collaboration features a fresh new comedy entitled Gods Help Us, written by Hampshire Regional senior Bailly Morse. The family-friendly plot follows the fictional Greek demigod Evangelos, who in order to complete his training as a God of Mount Olympus, must complete community service hours in an American high school.
As an alternative to traditional holiday buying, the Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School will host a family book and eco-craftmaking fair on Saturday December 5, 2009 from 10 am to 4 pm at the “Brassworks” building on Rte. 9 (132 Main St.) in Haydenville, MA. Parents and children alike will have the opportunity to make a variety of craft items, many using recycled and natural materials including full-sized wreaths, fabric gift bags, felt key chains, gnomes and fairies, decorated candles, lavender sachets and gingerbread people.
- The Gateway Regional High School Student Council is sponsoring its annual Food Drive to assist local families. Collections will begin on November 3rd and continue through November 19th. Students will bring donations to the cafeteria during lunch, where student council members will be available to collect items.
GRSD to Host Elders for Holiday Concert and Luncheon
- The Gateway Regional School District extends a warm invitation to area senior citizens for the Annual Holiday Luncheon and Concert at the Gateway Regional Middle/High School complex, 12 Littleville Rd. in Huntington. This event will be held on Wednesday, December 2, 2009 with a student concert in the performing arts center at 11:30 a.m. A holiday luncheon will follow at approximately1:15 p.m. in the cafeteria. This event is free of charge to all hilltown seniors.
Wendy V. Long, Editor of Breaking News From Gateway writes:
Good afternoon:
The Gateway Regional School District is seeing growing numbers of absences of students who have Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI). Health officials are presuming that people who show ILI right now have Swine Flu. Parents are asked not to send students to school if they have flu-like symptoms. Students who are ill should not return to school until their fever has been gone for at least 24 hours, without the use of products like Tylenol or Ibuprofen.
Kids Spoon-Fed Marketing and Advertising for Least Healthy Breakfast Cereals
(Photo credit: Chris James)
The least healthy breakfast cereals are those most frequently and aggressively marketed directly to children as young as age two, finds a new study from Yale University’s Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity. The researchers’ evaluation of cereal marketing, the first such study of its kind, shows pervasive targeting of children across all media platforms and in stores. The detailed findings of this study, which was supported in part by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, will be presented in Washington today at Obesity 2009, the 27th annual scientific meeting of The Obesity Society.
Researchers studied the nutrient composition and comprehensive marketing efforts of 115 cereal brands and 277 individual cereal varieties. Nineteen brands (comprised of 47 varieties) were identified as “child brands” because their cereals are marketed directly to children on television, the Internet, or through licensed characters, such as Dora the Explorer.
Cereal companies spend nearly $156 million annually marketing to children just on television. They also market extensively using the Internet, social media, packaging, and in-store promotions.
“This research demonstrates just how far cereal companies have gone to target children in almost everything they do. The total amount of breakfast cereal marketing to children on television and computer screens, and at their eye-level in stores, combined with the appalling nutrient profile of the cereals most frequently marketed, is staggering,” said lead researcher Jennifer L. Harris, Ph.D, MBA, director of marketing initiatives at the Rudd Center.
Moscow Ballet Performance of Great Russian Nutcracker
At Symphony Hall in Springfield, MA
Sunday, November 15th @ 2pm
Hilltown Families is very excited to be able to offer two family 4-packs of free tickets to see the world-famous Moscow Ballet give a benefit performance of Great Russian Nutcracker at Symphony Hall in Springfield, MA on Sunday afternoon, November 15th, at 2:00 pm. This extraordinary performance of Tchaikovsky’s Great Russian Nutcracker is a benefit for children’s services at the Brattleboro Retreat. Deadline to enter to win is SUNDAY, 11/08/09 @ 7pm (EST). More details below.
ABOUT THE MOSCOW BALLET
The Moscow Ballet is proud to unveil their 2009 Great Russian Nutcracker holiday tour! Praised for exquisite dancing and gorgeous costumes, the Great Russian Nutcracker is directed by Ballet Master Anatoli Emelianov. It is also set against Valentin Fedorov’s spectacular hand-painted backdrops and life-sized dancing puppets.
This year’s tour stars the ballet world’s Prima Ballerina, Cristina Terentieva and her partner Alexei. Cristina is a Gold Medalist of the 2008 Varna International Ballet Competition where Vladimir Vasiliev of the Bolshoi bestowed upon her the highest honors. Also starring in the Great Russian Nutcracker is the award winning couple Akzhol Mussakhanov and Ekaterina Bortykova.
The Moscow Ballet is proud to announce the addition of the Russian Father Christmas, a large magical clock and Snegurochka, the Russian Snow Maiden taken from Russian folklore, to this year’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Although the additional characters are an integral part to this year’s performance, the Moscow Ballet is particularly excited about welcoming Aleksey Burakov to the stage as the character, Herr Drosselmeyer.
In the classic tale of the Great Russian Nutcracker, the mysterious godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, enters the room where everyone is celebrating and brings all the kids different gifts. After Clara is left without a gift, Herr Drosselmeyer presents a toy Nutcracker, dressed in a soldier’s traditional parade uniform, to the little girl.
Critics rave that the Great Russian Nutcracker is “flawless,” “breathtaking,” and “dazzling.” Whimsical and imaginative storytelling blend with the richness of Russian classical ballet to make the Great Russian Nutcracker a memorable holiday treat for everyone.
BENEFIT PERFORMANCE FOR THE CHILDREN’S SERVICES AT THE BRATTLEBORO RETREAT
Proceeds from the ballet will help support children’s services at the Brattleboro Retreat in Brattleboro, Vermont. This performance, which is also part of the Retreat’s 175th anniversary celebration, marks the second consecutive year that the Moscow Ballet has appeared in Springfield’s Symphony Hall in partnership with the Brattleboro Retreat. Children in the production will be cast out of the Brattleboro School of Dance in Brattleboro, VT.
“Young people in our country who suffer with mental health challenges are vastly underserved, which is why we’re doing our part to help change that,” said Dr. Robert E. Simpson, president and chief executive officer of the Brattleboro Retreat. “The Nutcracker is a ballet for and about children—a beautiful family event. We are grateful for the opportunity to join hands for this cause with a world-class production like the Moscow Ballet.”
The Brattleboro Retreat, founded in 1834, is a not-for-profit, regional specialty psychiatric hospital and addictions treatment center, providing a full range of diagnostic, therapeutic and rehabilitation services for individuals of all ages and their families. Nationally recognized for its premier treatment in behavioral healthcare, the Brattelboro Retreat offers a high quality, individualized, comprehensive continuum of care including inpatient, partial hospitalization, residential and outpatient treatment.
HOW TO WIN
A chance for two different families to win a free 4-pack of tickets is as easy as 1-2-3 (4)! To win simply
POST A COMMENT BELOW (one entry per household) and be sure to tell us your
FULL NAME and where you
LIVE (TOWN/STATE) You must include your town and state to be eligible.
ACCURATE EMAIL (we never share your email address).
We’ll randomly draw a winner and will share the results below.
IT’S THAT SIMPLE! — Deadline is Sunday, 11/08/09 @ 7pm
DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR HILLTOWN FAMILIES
If you don’t win you should still go! Tickets are available online through TICKETMASTER by calling 800-745-3000. To receive discounts on most ticket levels, enter the promotion code HEALTH.
Purchased Patron ticket holders (not discounted) will be treated to a fabulous post-performance reception in the Mahogany Room at Symphony Hall. Light fare and refreshments will be served. Meet and greet ballerinas and members of the Nutcracker cast! Proceeds from the ballet will help support children’s services at the Brattleboro Retreat in Brattleboro, Vermont.
Click on image to buy on-line or go to Boswell Books in Shelburne Falls to pick up a copy.
The newly formed Perennial Food Growing Group will be meeting at 6:30p.m. at Warner Farm in Cummington, MA on the following dates:
November 10th, 2009
November 24th, 2009
December 8th, 2009
December 29th, 2009
January 12th, 2010
Our goal for now is to learn more about permaculture, by teaching each other and reading selected books on the subject. For the next month or two the text we are working out of is Gaia’s Garden by Toby Hemenway. Please join us. We intend to read part one (70 pages) by the November 10th meeting and Part Two by the November 24th meeting. Our immediate focus is apple guilds (the community/ecosystem of flora, fauna, fungi and conditions that comprise a healthy environment for apple trees/orchard). So really, please join us…Let’s build some momentum for perennial food gardening in the hilltowns!
It’s coming soon… The 2nd Annual Geography Expo !! This FREE event will be held on Wednesday November 18th from 6-8PM in the Gym at the Old Plain School (now the Town Offices) in Stockbridge, MA. This event is sponsored by the Stockbridge Library and the BCHC Berkshire County Homeschool Community. All are welcome!!
What is a Geography Expo?
It sort of looks like a science fair for Geography. You will be able to visit many countries, meet exchange students, and be introduced to their customs, food, books and more.
Exchange students, Homeschool, Public and Private School Students will display information about a country on a poster board and table. Visitors that come to see the Geo Expo are given blank passports. They go around the gym visiting all the different countries represented and get their passport stamped. They can learn the general info about a country and write these facts in their passport. Sometimes, there are delicacies to taste. It’s super fun and a highly engaging way to learn about Geography and meet new friends.
So, come join the fun as a traveling visitor or choose a country to display. It’s fun to study Geography!! Make a simple display with facts such as the Capital City, Chief Export, Population, how to say hello, etc… You can bring articles from the country, dress up, bring native food, books, games or photos or pictures of the country. Have fun and be creative with your learning and display. (One hint: If you tape your facts and photos to the poster board instead of gluing them, you can remove the info after the Expo and make a report or record of your learning. )
If you are interested in displaying a country, please call or e-mail Teresa O’Brient at 413-298-0099 berksierra@aol.com She’ll make sure there is a table ready for your display when you arrive that day.
Here are just a few of the countries already signed up for. If you would like to do a country that is already represented, that’s OK too. All the displays will be so different, and diversity is beautiful!
Brazil, Libia, Germany, Holland, Mexico, Spain, USA, Russia, Italy, China
The number of Exchange Students is growing as well as students signing up for a country. So, contact Teresa soon and tell her which country you have chosen. This is a FREE Event but you’ll see a Donation Jar. All donations will go to cover the costs of the Passports and thank you gifts for the Exchange Students. Absolutely no one turned away for lack of funds. Please join us for a fun night of friendship and learning. Smiles guaranteed!!
FREE TICKETS 1964 …The Tribute
Calvin Theater in Northampton, MA
Saturday, November 7th @ 8pm
Best Beatles Tribute on Earth – Rolling Stone Magazine
More videos here.
Hilltown Families and Iron Horse Entertainment Group have partnered up to offer a chance to win free tickets to see adult venues in Northampton, MA for a PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT! You pay for the sitter, we’ll pay for the tickets!
This week we are pleased to offer a chance to win a 4-pack of tickets to see 1964 …The Tribute, the “best Beatles tribute on Earth,” according to Rolling Stone Magazine, perform at the Calvin Theater in Northampton, MA, on Saturday, November 7th, at 8pm. Win the tickets and invite other parents to come with you for a night out on the town, or take the family if you have little night owls with audience skills. Deadline to enter to win is Wednesday, 11/4/09 @ 7pm (EST). More details below.
1964 …THE TRIBUTE
1964 …The Tribute takes their audiences on a musical journey to an era in rock history that will live in all of our hearts forever. Hailed by critics and fans alike as the most authentic and endearing Beatles tribute in the world, they return to the Calvin Theatre in Northampton, MA for another memorable night of amazing music.
Unlike other acts, 1964 concentrates on only the “touring years” of the Beatles. Since this time period is one of the most well documented (pictures, films, and eye witness accounts) times of the Beatles career, there is much that one can compare. 1964 has accomplished what many other acts could only dream of: An astonishingly accurate re-creation of the energy and the magic of those touring years. Over 20 years of researching and performing have made 1964 masters of their craft. They are hailed by critics and fans alike as the most authentic and endearing Beatles tribute show in the world.
1964 recreates an early ’60’s live Beatles concert, with period instruments, clothing, hairstyles, onstage banter, with an accuracy that is unmatched even til this day. Come see why 1964 …The Tribute is the definitive and most accurrate of all the Beatle shows.
“The performance, professionalism, and musicianship make the illusion complete. 1964…THE TRIBUTE creates MAGIC!” -Dick Clark
HOW TO WIN
Your chance to win this free 4-pack of tickets is as easy as 1-2-3 (4)! To win simply
POST A COMMENT BELOW (one entry per household) and be sure to tell us your
FULL NAME and where you
LIVE (TOWN/STATE) You must include your town and state to be eligible.
ACCURATE EMAIL (we never share your email address).
We’ll randomly draw a winner and will share the results below.
IT’S THAT SIMPLE! — Deadline is Wednesday, 11/04/09 @ 7pm
If you have a family-friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, location, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
HALLOWS’ EVE EVENTS
Loads of events for families this Friday night. Click here to see our listed of Friday events.
BULLETIN BOARD
Click on banner to learn more.
CAMPAIGN FOR A COMMERCIAL-FREE CHILDHOOD: Did you know that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends NO screen time for children under the age of 2? And that the Boston-Based Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood successfully filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission forcing companies to stop claiming that videos are educational for infants, resulting in a full refund to anyone who purchased a Baby Einstein DVD in the last five years.
SAVE THE DATE: CHARLES NEVILLE, ELEMENTARY STUDENTS TO PERFORM: Third and four grade students attending Gateway elementary schools will hold a concert on Tuesday, November 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Gateway Performing Arts Center in Huntington, MA. At 7 p.m., Charles Neville will perform with The Skeletones, and will do a couple of numbers with the children.
Click on banner to learn more.
WORKSHOP ON SPEECH AND LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT FOR YOUNG CHILDREN: The Gateway Family Center in Huntington, MA is offering Caro Lambert, a Pediatric Speech and Language Pathologist from Lambert Speech and Language on Tuesday, November 24 at 10 a.m. at the Gateway Family Center. Lambert will give a workshop for parents on the typical developmental stages and ages for acquiring speech and language skills, as well as warning signs. Activities to promote speech, language, feeding and oral motor development will be discussed. Free and open to the public. Please register with Kim Savery at 667-2203 ext. 3 or email at ksavery@hchcweb.org
FOOD SECURITY: The Central Connecticut River Valley Institute (“CCRVI”) will be taking the next step in its Shelburne Falls Food Security Project this fall and winter. They will be creating a set of standard designs for small, family-oriented, perennial food garden plots which can be easily used by families wishing to create their own perennial food garden. More info HERE.
Click on banner to learn more.
WEST COUNTY RESILIENCE CONVERSATION: The next meeting is on November 3, 2009 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM at Shelburne Senior Center, 5 Main Street, Shelburne Falls, MA. They will be discussing and planning our group’s future directions. Among the topics we’ll discuss: Reskilling, West County Time Bank, Outreach and Education, Ideas for a Resiliency Fair, List of Resources and Next steps. More info HERE.
HOMESCHOOL: Homeschool Fall Fair will be on Saturday, November 7th, 2009 in Arlington, MA. More info HERE.
SPONSORSHIP, ADVERTISING & ANNOUNCEMENTS: Deliver your message to a large local family based audience while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Advertise your event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business or announcement on our Weekly List of Suggested Events. Serious inquiries can email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com for details.
Click here to listen and subscribe to the Hilltown Family Variety Show Podcast!
Ashfield, MA Parade kicks off at 6:15pm from Neighbor’s and ends up at the fire station for donuts and cider.
Cummington, MA Parade begins at 5:45pm at Berkshire Elementary School on Main Street.
Conway, MA Parade at 6:30pm.
Plainfield, MA Followed by bonfire.
Florence, MA Gather at 5:30pm at Triangle Park. Parade kicks off at 6pm. Free and open to all. Kids will march from Trinity Row Park to the Civic Center for costume judging and treats.
Shelburne Falls, MA Parade marches over bridge. Gathers around 5:30pm, but not confirmed.
Westhampton, MA Gather in the Hampshire Regional parking lot at 6:15pm.
Williamsburg, MA 6:00pm starting at Mill Street and ending at the Williamsburg Fire Station for games and refreshments.
Worthington, MA Rag Shag Review a the town hall at 7pm.
10am-1pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT / PET: “Dog-O-Ween” will be at the Eastfield Mall. Bring your four legged friends for a day of doggie games, a costume contest and more! All dogs must be leashed and friendly while in the mall, event proceeds benefit Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society. 413-543-8000 Springfield, MA (FREE)
3-5pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT / NATURE STUDIES: Haunted Hawleyween: Festive and Educational Event for the Whole Family at Kenneth Dubuque State Forest on West Hawley Road. There will be games, treats and forest adventures – help the animals of Hawley rescue their treasure. Open to all ages. Hawley, MA
7pm - HALLOWEEN EVENT / HAYRIDE: McCray’s Farm and Country Creamery will have a Haunted Hayride. Zombies are on the prowl for the 19th “Anniverscary” of the Monster Mash Haunted Hayride at McCray’s Farm. Rides start at 7 p.m. and end when the last rider runs screaming. South Hadley, MA
Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood’s ongoing campaign to stop the false and deceptive marketing of baby videos has had an important success. We’ve persuaded the Walt Disney Company to offer a full refund to anyone who purchased a Baby Einstein DVD in the last five years. The refund is only available for a limited time, so please help us spread the word now.
350.org International Climate Action Day in Western Mass
- This past Saturday, families and neighbors from all over Western Massachusetts gathered to take action in a world wide grassroots demonstration on climate change. Several of these events in Western Mass were posted here.
On this day, people in 181 countries came together for the most widespread day of environmental action in the planet’s history. At over 5200 events around the world, people gathered to call for strong action and bold leadership on the climate crisis. Over 15,000 photos have been submitted so far! See them all on Flickr. Discover more about 350.org here.
Many images of actions taking place right here in our home state of Massachusetts where submitted. As I looked through the photos I was so happy to see many familiar faces in several of the images. The commitment of our local families, especially on such a terribly rainy day we had this past Saturday, is fantastic! I put together this collage of wonderful images of local Western Massachusetts families and neighbors taking action and being part of a global message to address climate change:
Images pictured from left to right, top to bottom are labeled below. Click on the label and it will take you to the image on the 350.org Flickr site and will include any descriptions of their events submitted with the photo.
Funding cuts are projected for the school health services (line item 4590-0250). Please call the Governor’s office immediately at (617) 725-4000 with the following message:
“I am a parent/educator/community partner in _____ (town). I’m calling to ask that the Governor not make any additional cuts to line item 4590-0250 which has already undergone significant cuts this year during a time of great demand and stress on school health services. The Dept of Public Health, Essential Health Services grant is fundamental to school nurses’ ability to provide surveillance and management of the commonwealth’s students – an H1N1 vulnerable population. The grant also supports school nurse positions which are critical to making decisions on student dismissals and even school closures based upon population risk. The line item also supports school based health centers, a critical service for primary care especially needed during the downturn in the economy where parents rely on our services, especially if they are unemployed. It makes no sense to cut these safety nets for students in the Commonwealth. Thank you”
New Music Giveaway: Go Waggaloo by Sarah Lee Guthrie and Family
Featuring Woody Guthrie drawings on the cover art and booklet, ‘Go Waggaloo’ will entertain every member of every family.
Smithsonian Folkways Recordings recently sent us a CD by local Western Massachusetts musician Sarah Lee Guthrie and Family, Go Waggaloo, her debut family album. The 13-track disc features her husband, Johnny Irion, their two daughters, and a host of other family and friends including her father Arlo Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and Pete’s grandson Tao Rodriguez Seeger. An absolutely fantastic group of friends and family and an equally fantastic collection of both original and traditional folk music, including three songs featuring lyrics by Sarah’s grandfather Woody Guthrie from the Smithsonian Folkways archives never before put to music. The allurement of Sarah’s vocals, the originality of new songs and the familiarness of traditional folk music sung by folk music legends, make Go Waggaloo a “Grade A” family album! My daughter and I both love this new alum. We can’t stop playing it!
Arlo Guthrie writes in the introduction of this CD, “If you have enough kid left inside yourself somewhere for these songs to make sense, consider yourself lucky. They are building blocks of who you are and where you come from. I love songs that are inspired and/or written by kids themselves and not by the people who think they know what’s good for you.”
To find out more about Sarah Lee Guthrie and her husband, Johnny Irion, visit their web site at sarahleeandjohnny.com.
HOW TO WIN
Your chance to win Sarah Lee Guthrie and Family debut family album,Go Waggaloo, is as easy as 1-2-3 (4)! To win simply:
POST A COMMENT BELOW(one entry per household) and be sure to tell us your
FULL NAME and where you
LIVE (TOWN/STATE) You must include your town and state to be eligible.
ACCURATE EMAIL (we never share your email address).
We’ll randomly draw a winner and will share the results below.
IT’S THAT SIMPLE! — Deadline is Wednesday, 11/04/09 @ 7pm (EST).
MORE OPPORTUNITIES
To continue to spread the word about this album, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings is offering listeners the opportunity to stream the entire album for free until November 3rd, 2009HERE.
Additionally, SFR is running a contest on their Facebook page where they ask listeners to define what they think “Go Waggaloo” means. The first 200 people who comment each get a free download from Smithsonian Folkways.
HOLIDAY GIFT: This would make a great holiday gift! If you don’t win, you can find copies HERE for sale.
No Fear Flu Workshop
at Blazing Star Herbal School
Elecampane (Photo credit: Tony(a) Lemos)
Hilltown Families and Blazing Star Herbal School (BSHS) in Ashfield, MA have partnered up to offer one lucky participant free registration for their fantastic November 8th, workshop, No Fear Flu. Participants of this timely workshop will leave feeling empowered to handle their families winter health needs! Find out how to win a free registration to this herbal workshop below. Deadline to enter to win is Wednesday, 11/04/09 @ 7pm (EST)
ABOUT THE WORKSHOP
This very popular wellness workshop will be offered at BSHS the Inn at Norton HIll (new location) in Ashfield, MA on Sunday, November 8th, 2009 from 10-3pm. Workshop participants will explore nourishing herbs, medicinal foods and tonic herbs that strengthen their terrain, build their immunity, while supporting optimum wellness. They will become familiar with common anti-bacterial and anti-viral herbs, how to prepare them and how to use them in ways that are safe, tasty and health providing for the entire family. Participants will look at ways to prevent getting the flu by building up the immune system while also become familiar with treatments for the flu. Participants of the No Fear Flu Workshop will learn how to make simple and effective medicines from common herbs and foods for their family. – This is one workshop whose notes you will refer to again and again!
ABOUT BLAZING STAR HERBAL SCHOOL
Dedicated to teaching traditional herbal medicine in a way that supports a more sustainable future and shows respect for the integrity of nature, BSHS offers a unique perspective on herbalism, weaving social and political aspects of health and healing through the study of medicinal herbs and food practices. Serving as a local and national resource for education and networking, BSHS has been in Ashfield for over 25 years on 26 wooded acres of pine trees, rushing brooks, wildflower meadows and gardens. Right here in the hilltowns of Western Massachusetts, the school offers unique and exciting programs in herbal studies to give both the student and professional an opportunity to delve deeper into the art and science of herbalism. Their courses have been highly acclaimed for inspiring students to find their unique healing path through personal relationship with the plant world. For more information about BSHS visit them on line at blazingstarherbalschool.typepad.com, or contact Tony(a) Lemos at 413.625.6875, tlemos@valinet.com.
HOW TO WIN
Your chance to win a free registration to this herbal workshop with Blazing Star Herbal School in Ashfield, MA as easy as 1-2-3 (4)! To win simply:
POST A COMMENT BELOW(one entry per household) and be sure to tell us your
FULL NAME and where you
LIVE (TOWN/STATE) You must include your town and state to be eligible.
ACCURATE EMAIL (we never share your email address).
We’ll randomly draw a winner and will share the results below.
IT’S THAT SIMPLE! — Deadline is Wednesday, 11/04/09 @ 7pm (EST)
Halloween prank spotted in the parking lot outside the Old Creamery in Cummington, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
Click here to suggest an event.
If you have a family-friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, location, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
If you’re looking for events happening the day/night of Halloween, visit our Suggest An Eventpage for posts.
FEATURED EVENTS
HAUNTED HOUSE IN THE HILLTOWNS: On Saturday, Red Gate Farm in Buckland, MA will have a Haunted House with “not-so-scary” attractions, hay ride, games and treats. Come in costume. More info at www.redgatefarm.org.
SUNDAY IN WILLIAMSBURG: Williamsburg will have their fall festival on Sunday. Festivities include music, animals, crafts, food, kid games, and more. Also in Williamsburg is a hike up Petticoat Hill Reservation. Details below.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
This weeks episode of the HFVS is our HALLOWEEN Episode which features music by Barenaked Ladies, The Who, Ella Fitzgerald, Oingo Boingo, Justin Roberts, Steve Weeks, and many many more. Our EXTENDED PODCAST is over an hour of great tunes for the Halloween season.
Families have three ways to tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show:
HFVS Podcast: Listen to our most recent episodes anytime you wish! Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast too!
Streaming Audio: Surf on over to ValleyFreeRadio.org on Saturday mornings and listen to us live via streaming audio from 9-10am.
On Your FM Dial: Tune in to WXOJ 103.3FM if you live near Northampton, MA from 9-10am.
BULLETIN BOARD
Climate Action Carnival in Greenfield, MA.
Amy Coyne of Goshen, MA writes: The New Hingham School in Chesterfield, MA is starting a ski club this year! Skiing or snowboarding at Berkshire East. If any families are interested, there is still space–in fact we need more participants to make this happen! It will be one day a week–after school. A bus will leave from the school on Smith Road in Chesterfield @ 3:30–you will have to be there at that time to board bus, you don’t have to attend the school to join this fun activity! It looks like Thursday or Friday will be the day, I think, but it is yet to be determined. Joan Griswald is the person to contact. joan@bybhealth.com or 413-268-7482. She’ll need to know ages of the children–if equipment will need to be rented-for child/ and or parent–if lessons are needed etc.
Jason Trotta, Executive Director of the Northampton Community Music Center in Northampton, MA writes: Dear Home-Schooling Parents of Western Massachusetts; As Director of the Northampton Community Music Center, I wanted to bring to your attention the many opportunities for music education that are available at our Center. You can visit our web site at www.ncmc.net for more information. I am also open to creating specially-designed, affordable music classes for groups of home-schooled students, and invite parents who are interested to contact me directly to discuss the possibilities. — I also wanted to invite any families with children in grades 3-8 to attend a free open rehearsal of our Community Children’s Choir directed by Joan Cornachio – Tuesday, October 27, 5:00-6:30 PM. This wonderful chorus sings in several wonderful community concerts each year, and has been featured at the opening ceremonies for the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art and in Commonwealth Opera’s productions of “La Boheme” and “Brundibar.” Call me if you have further questions. Otherwise, just come on over and check us out next Tuesday evening. (413) 585-0001 jason@ncmc.net
WINNERS OF DAN ZANES TICKETS: Congratulations to Jessica Day of Leyden, Deborah Doulette of Whately, Julie Russell of Granby, and Minuet Fusto of Greenfield. They are the lucky winners of 4-tickets to see Dan Zanes and Friends this Friday night at the Fine Arts Center at UMass in Amherst, selected by random.org.
WINNER OF AUTUMNAL TITLES FROM STOREY: Congratulations to Lilly Lombard of Northampton, MA. Using random.org she was randomly selected to receive these three seasonal titles by Storey Publishing.
HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION THIS SATURDAY: Regional Household Hazardous Waste Collection for area hilltowns is on Saturday, October 24th, 2009 from 9am-12Noon at the RH Conwell School in Worthington, MA. Pre-register to dispose of your families hazardous waste. More info here.
CLIMATE DAY: Saturday is the 350.org International Climate Action Day. Click here to find out what’s happening to mark this day in Cummington, Ashfield, Williamstown, Northampton & Greenfield. Other town events will be added here when submitted.
FREE MUSIC DOWNLOAD: Charity and the JAMband is offering a free music download of a new song, “Rockstar.” This month’s song is a rallying cry to dance your dance, sing your song, shine your light, stay grounded and keep loving all along the way. Grab your kids, pick up a hairbrush or your air guitar, and call upon the music within you. You Know What To Do: SING, DANCE, LOVE, ROCK, SHINE. Click here to find this free download.
SPONSORSHIP, ADVERTISING & ANNOUNCEMENTS: Deliver your message to a large local family based audience while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Advertise your event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business or announcement on our Weekly List of Suggested Events. Serious inquiries can email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com for details.
10am-3pm – HISTORY/OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary sponsors a hike with environmental historia Mike Whalen to a “ghost town” in Catamount State Forest. Hike is 5 miles. (413) 584-3009 Colrain, MA
11am - PUPPET SHOW: Marmalade Productions is pleased to present Michael’s Surprise Show at the Stockbridge Library. Michael’s Surprise Show is an unpredictable and inspiring journey into the world of puppets. The walls of Michael’s workshop are full of surprises and all things possible – shoes speak, tennis balls demand their right, even his broom has an attititude. Throughout Michael’s surprise show he shares his secrets of creation with his audience, inviting them to explore the world around them with the eyes and hands of a puppeteer. This program is recommended for kids of all ages and their grown-up friends. For further information, please call the Stockbridge Library at 413-298-5501. Stockbridge, MA
7pm – TALENT SHOW: Fuller’s Follies at the Village Congregational Church. Bring the family and enjoy the amazing talent found right here in the hilltowns. Bring a food donation for the Hilltown Food Pantry. Cummington, MA
Senior Bertha Baranowski (age 93) of Hadley, MA, a recipient of the 2008 Presidential Lifetime Service Award, donates 300-500 (!) hats annually that she has knitted for RSVP. Hilltown Families is assisting in the distribution of child sized hats to families in need in the hilltowns. Hats are available to individuals on a first come, first serve basis. To reserve a hat for a child in need, email hilltownfamilies@gmail.com with “Hilltown Hats” in the subject line.
The ACT Volunteer Center and RSVP of Franklin and Hampshire Counties are sponsoring the Make a Difference Day 2009 Book Drive for Children’s Literacy on Saturday, October 24th, 2009.
On this national day of community service, more than one million people across the country will participate in projects to help others. Based on the success of Make a Difference Day 2009, for a third year, here in the Pioneer Valley the focus of our service will be on children’s literacy.
Organizations and individuals are invited to collect new and gently used children’s books and bring them to one of two drop-off sites on Saturday, October 24th between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.:
Dial/Self Youth and Community Services, 21 Abbott Street, Greenfield;
Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton.
The Make a Difference Day 2009 Book Drive for Children’s Literacy is an occasion and opportunity for families to experience the satisfaction of giving. Children can donate books selected from among their own collections or help choose a new book for another child. Donated books will be distributed to children in need through such local anti-poverty and family literacy programs as Square One, Holyoke, The Amherst Survival Center, and Valuing our Children of Athol.
Bids to Offer Guiding Good Choices Parent Workshops
Rolling responses
The Strategic Planning Initiative for Families and Youth (SPIFFY) in collaboration with the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, and with funding support from the Massachusetts Woman’s Home Missionary Union seeks bids to provide the science-based Guiding Good Choices (GGC) Program in Hampshire County. Read the rest of this entry »
Makes a great gift! Click the image to find at Amazon.com.
Scholastic Storybook Treasure has rerelease and repackaged Where the Wild Things Are … And 5 More Stories by Maurice Sendak on DVD. A copy of this newly released DVD is being offered to two lucky families. Details below.
ABOUT THE TITLE STORY
Where the Wild Things Are, which has captured a prestigious Caldecott Medal and sold millions of copies since it was originally published in 1963, is familiar to children –and adults — of all ages. Regarded as a landmark children’s classic, it’s the wildly imaginative story of Max, a young boy who misbehaves and is sent to his room without supper. There, he lets his imagination take him to a faraway place where, after donning a distinctive wolf costume, he befriends the strange, mythical creatures who inhabit the island. But, after a “wild rumpus” Max decides it’s time to head back home, “where someone loved him best of all.”
ABOUT THE DVD
Including versions of Where the Wild Things Are in English, Spanish and French, children will delight in following the narration of this beautifully animated version of Max’s adventures with the read-along function which highlights the words as they are read. The DVD also includes five other Sendak tales: In the Night Kitchen, Alligators All Around, Pierre, One Was Johnny and Chicken Soup with Rice. And for those kids that go crazy over stickers from the bank, dentist and doctor’s office, they will love the free set of stickers included with this DVD.
"If we wish to create a lasting peace we must begin with the children." - Mahatma Gandhi
Welcome to Hilltown Families, a grassroots communication network for families with grade school children living in Western Mass, established in 2005 by hilltown mother and long time activist Sienna Wildfield.
HF welcomes writings that reflect the positive work and educational efforts activists, families, teachers, and artists work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families.
GRENDEL BOOKS, ABAA/ILAB
Local, independent book store selling out-of-print and used quality books for over 20 years.
Hilltown Families welcomes individuals and businesses to become a sponsor. Email hilltownfamilies@gmail.com to inquire how you can support the work of Hilltown Families by becoming a sponsor.
The National Honor Society of Gateway High School will again join forces with Hilltown Social Services to help families in the seven towns of Gateway Regional School District with holiday gifts for children, newborn through age twelve. The honor society and Hilltown Social Services has collaborated on this community service project since the mid nineties. Local residents, churches and organizations have also helped with providing gifts to area children through this project. Families from Blandford, Chester, Huntington, Middlefield, Montgomery, Russell, and Worthington may come in to complete their wish lists for this holiday help at Hilltown Social Services, 9 Russell Road, Huntington. The sign up period starts on Monday, November 2 and closes on Monday, November 23. The wish lists are assigned a number in order to keep all names confidential. Members of the national honor society raise funds and shop for the gifts. The gifts are then organized by the students and delivered to Hilltown Social Services for distribution on Thursday, December 17, 1 – 4 PM. Anyone interested in making donations for this holiday project should call Diane Meehan at Hilltown Social Services at 413-667-2203. 
Music
