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)
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
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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.
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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.
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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
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
Haunted Village in the Hilltowns happens this Friday & Saturday nights. More info below.
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.
FEATURED EVENTS
UNCLE ROCK AND THE PLAYTHINGS: Uncle Rock is returning to Western Massachusetts! Uncle Rock has played to an intimate crowd at the Children’s Art Museum in Shelburne Falls, and to a rockin’ full house at the Civic Center in Florence, but back then he was flying solo. Now he’s bringing in his band, The Playthings … and they rock! Come out to hear him play with his band on Sunday (10/18/09) at the Iron Horse in Northampton, MA. Concert begins at 2pm. Doors open at 1:30pm. Ticket info here.
WESTHAMPTON FALL FESTIVAL: Support the Westhampton Town Library Project! Come to their annual fall festival on Sunday (10/18/09) for some New England harvest fun! More info here.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Click here to subscribe to our podcast.
This weeks episode of the HFVS is an encore of the Harvest Moon episode which features music by new music by Sarah Lee Guthrie, Neil Young, Pete Seeger, Dan Zanes, Bob Dylan, Jim Armenti, Uncle Rock, and many others. We’re working on having our Halloween Podcast up this coming week!
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
Deadline to enter to win: October 19th, 2009
Brigid Gillette of Washington, D.C. writes: My family is considering a move North. We currently reside in Maryland, originally from NY. I am fascinated by the progressive movement up there and love it. We currently own a deli in Chevy Chase, DC which is right next to Chevy Chase, MD. I like what I read on the Hilltown Families website. I would like to get some information on the quality of life; the school system; why so many homeschoolers; are there lacrosse teams my son can join; my daughter is very artistic … My husband and I would finally like a laid back life though we would still like to own a deli somewhere is the area. Can the area sustain a deli or could we buy an existing one? Do folks in the Hilltowns buy food in deli’s on a consistent basis? If anyone could give me some great info, help, guidance I would greatly appreciate it. Post your comments here.
HELP WITH SUGGESTED EVENTS: We’re putting together a list of RAG SHAG PARADES happening during Halloween. Can readers help out by emailing when their town is hosting a parade? Towns that had them in the past: Haydenville, Williamsburg, Chesterfield, Worthington, Greenfield, Westhampton, Plainfield… Can anyone confirm dates & times? Our current list is here. And, if you know of any other Halloween or Day of the Dead events happening in the area, please post on our Suggest an Event page. Thanks to everyone so far responded with their town event!
Deadline to enter to win: October 21st, 2009
FREE FINANCIAL WORKSHOP FOR FAMILIES IN THE HILLTOWNS: Learn how to manage your family finances at a free workshop offered by the Hilltown CDC: “Money Management for YOU.” Click here for more info.
HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION: 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.
HALLOWEEN COSTUMES: The Kitchen-Lipski family of Plainfield, MA has a heap of costumes and accessories they’re looking to unload on potential Halloween fans. They has twin boys and they love to dress up and have loads of costumes left over from previous Halloweens. They have all sorts of stuff, so don’t assume she just has gender specific items. Give her a call at 634-2124 to see what she has. She’s willing to lend, give, barter or sell. Whatever feels fair and doable to others interested or in need of Halloween costumes.
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.
1pm & 2pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Rag Shag parade begins at the Huntington Library and makes its way to Hamblin Court. Followed by pumpkin carving (bring your own tools) and pumpkin painting (pumpkins and paint provided). Rain location inside Stanton Hall. Refreshments. Huntington, MA (FREE)
4pm – HARVEST DINNER: The Chester Foundation will host a Hobo Harvest Dinner at the Chester Railway Station. Music & food. Kids can check out the steam engine, caboose and children’s boxcar. RSVP 413-354-7878 Chester, MA
Harvest Moon above the Worthington, MA skyline. (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.
FEATURED EVENT
ASHFIELD FALL FESTIVAL: All the best New England traditions are celebrated at the Ashfield Fall Festival, held in the center of Ashfield, MA on Sat & Sun. There will be exhibitors of traditional arts, food vendors selling locally grown food, pumpkingames, live music and entertainment. You can also find a couple of book sales, tag sales and low-cost activities for the kids. Simply put, you gotta go! Click here to see a schedule of the events happening there this weekend.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Click here to subscribe to our podcast.
This weeks episode of the HFVS is Harvest Moon which features music by new music by Sarah Lee Guthrie, Neil Young, Pete Seeger, Dan Zanes, Bob Dylan, Jim Armenti, Uncle Rock, and many others. Families have three ways to tune in:
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
Jeanne Weintraub-Mason of Amherst, MA writes: Seeking parents and community members willing to sign a letter of support and/or potential board members for proposed Discovery School of Sustainability, a new charter school to serve K-6 students throughout Franklin County. The prospectus for the school has been approved by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (biggest hurdle) and we will be submitting the final application in coming weeks. We would like to show support from parents and members of the community in the Hilltowns of Franklin County. Please contact Jeanne at 413-367-9923 or jweintraubmason@yahoo.com for a copy of the prospectus and additional information.
HILLTOWN SCHOOL DISTRICT: The Elementary Advisory Committee has announced that parents of school-aged children are being surveyed for input on the possible closing of some elementary schools in the Gateway Regional School District for the 2010-11 school year. Read the rest of this entry
SHAKER SUPPER: October 10 and 11, November 7 and 28, 2009 is the Shaker Supper at Hancock Shaker Village. It is a fall tradition for families and friends. Guests come to the Village for a Shaker-inspired candlelight dinner in the historic Brick Dwelling, followed by a Shaker music program. For reservations, call 413.443.0188 x213. ($)
SHABBAT DINNERS: Free Shabbat dinners for Jewish and interfaith families with school-aged children. This is a wonderful, intimate way to learn more about the Jewish ritual of taking a rest. Deadline to sign up is October 15th. More info here or at www.RekindleShabbat.org
BUSINESS WORKSHOP: Hilltown CDC announces a new workshop for small businesses on “How to Get the Media to Tell Your Business Story.” This three-hour evening workshop, on October 14 from 6 to 9 PM, will take place at Gateway Regional High School, 12 Littleville Road, Huntington, MA. The fee is $35, with tuition waivers available for low and moderate income people, and with $5 off for Hilltown CDC members. More details are available at www.hilltowncdc.org, or by calling 413-296-4536 ext. 12.
HOME ENERGY SAVINGS WORKSHOPS: Free home energy savings seminar on October 13, 7 p.m. at the Ashfield Town Hall, Main Street in Ashfield, MA. This fall, CET is offering free home energy savings workshops in towns throughout western Massachusetts, thanks to funding from the Mass Municipal Association. Attendees will learn a wide array of energy saving solutions, including low-cost and no-cost measures, to common energy concerns. Homeowners will learn how their house works as a system, and how to save money and energy by taking advantage of home energy efficiency programs and incentives. If you would like to host a workshop in your town, please contact Tomasin Whitaker at 413-586-7350 ext. 225.
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.
4:30-5:30pm – YO-YO SCHOOL: Yo-yos are taken very seriously at A2Z. Their teachers are very friendly and will be happy to teach you tricks every Saturday. 586-1611 Northampton, MA (FREE)
North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival. (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
FEATURED EVENT: North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival happens all weekend in Orange, MA. Kids under 12 get in free. Visit www.garlicandarts.org for more info.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Subscribe to the HFVS Podcast
The HFVS Podcast is back in action! Technical difficulties blah blah blah blah … but that’s all fixed now and our podcast is back! So now our listeners have three ways to tune in:
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
Victoria Worth of Ashfield, MA writes: The Smith soccer team will be holding 30-minute clinics for children after games on Oct 3 and Oct 10th. The kids will get to play in some fun activities and interact with the College varsity players. The games are held on the athletic fields at the college. Check the website for game times.
Frank Grindrod of Ashfield, MA writes: I just started a blog and we have our first post with a guided tracking walk in Alaska! Please share with the community. Thanks. The link is here.
Katarina Noyes of Hadley, MA writes: Volunteer Parent Aides reach out to Hampshire County parents looking for support. 3-5 hrs/wk makes a difference in the life of a family. If you are caring, non-judgmental and a good listener, then you can be a Parent Aide. Fall training now! Call Katarina at Berkshire Children and Families in Hadley, at (413) 584-5690 ext. 140 or email knoyes@bcfcma.org
OPEN HOUSE: Amy’s House Childcare will be hosting an open house both this Saturday and on Tuesday from 9am-Noon on Main Street in Cummington, MA. Come explore a new option to childcare in the hilltowns.
Conway Festival of the Hills this Sunday, October 4th, 2009.
Kim Edgar writes: Please plan to join us and invite others to attend the Northeastern Girls Collaborative (NEGC) Western MA Fall Forum being held at the brand new Engineering and Nanotechnology Ford Hall at Smith College, Northampton, MA on Thursday, November 19, 2009 from 4:00pm. to 6:00pm. Click here for more info.
FREE MUSIC: Two time- Grammy Award winning songster/storyteller Bill Harley’s newest song “Wash Your Hands,” can be downloaded for free on his website.
AVAILABLE GRANTS: The Chesterfield Cultural Council seeks proposals from schools & youth groups. Click here for more info.
Claire Morenon writes: CISA is working on organizing a Winter Fare market this year in Northampton, and we need help! Click here for more info.
CALL TO ARTISTS: Submit your photo or kids art work. Do you have a great photo of life in Western Mass, or a fabulous work of art your kids have created that you’d like to submit to Hilltown Families? Send your jpg or link to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
CLASSES FOR KIDS: Don’t forget to check out our Suggest an Afterschool or Homeschool Class bulletin board. Lots of great classes have been shared so far. Share with us a class you’d like to suggest to local families too!
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.
Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival (October 3-4th, 2009)
Saturday 10/03
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.
10am-2pm – HARVEST FESTIVAL: Little Red Schoolhouse will hold it’s annual Applefest. Country fair with autumn activities for the whole family. The Little Red Schoolhouse is located just south of the intersection of routes 43 and 7 in South Williamstown. For more information, call 413-458-8668. Williamstown, MA.
10am – HIKE/GEOLOGY/PALENTOLOGY: Exploring Little Tom: Dikes, Sills, and Lava Flows at the Little Tom Reservation. Join geologists Richard Little and Steve Winters in exploring this little-known geologic wonder of the Mt. Tom Range. It will be an easy, one-hour hike as we explore dramatic exposures of lava, volcanic ash, and possible igneous sills and dikes that fed the volcanism that built the Holyoke Range over 200 million years ago. After Little Tom, the group will proceed to Dinosaur Footprints and perhaps Mt. Tom State Reservation for further geo- and paleontological study. 413.532.1631×13 or e-mail pvregion@ttor.org. Holyoke, MA
10am – ROAD RACE: “Book it to the Library” Road Race at the regional library. Sponsored by the Friends of the Western Mass Regional Library System. Whatley, MA.
10am – ROAD RACE: Hatfield Harvest 5K Road Race. Third annual road race to kick off the Hatfield Harvest Celebration of Agriculture. Parking, bathrooms, registration and race information will be at the Hatfield Elementary School, Main St., Hatfield, MA, beginning at 9 am. Hatfield, MA.
Decorative pumpkins at Clarksdale Farm in Deerfield, 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
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO OR KIDS ART WORK
Do you have a great photo of life in Western Mass, or a fabulous work of art your kids have created that you’d like to submit to Hilltown Families? Send your jpg or link to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
BULLETIN BOARD
WORKSHOP FOR ADOPTIVE FAMILIES: A free workshop is being offered by Adoption Journeys in Amherst, MA on October 1st to help adoptive parents and professionals learn about special education law, both federal and state, and how it plays out in the schools. Click here for more info.
VIDEO CONTEST: Learn more about Whole Foods Market School Lunch Makeover Video Contesthere.
LOCAL BUSINESS WORKSHOP: Hilltown CDC announces a new workshop for small businesses on How to Get the Media to Tell Your Business Story. More info here.
Chesterfield Library Book Sale on Saturday, Sept. 26th from 9am-1pm. (Photo Credit: Sienna Wildfield)
AVAILABLE GRANTS: The Chesterfield Cultural Council seeks proposals from schools & youth groups. Click here for more info.
WHAT’S UP IN HOLYOKE?: Discover Holyoke, MA on Saturday, October 24th from 10am-4pm during Passport Holyoke.
DINNER ON US: In Amherst there will be a free weekly roundtable discussion series for campus and Amherst Family Center families with young children called Dinner on Us, Monday evenings during the academic year in the UMass Student Union Building in Amherst, MA. As far as I know it’s open to all, but if they run into over enrollment, I’m sure that they will prioritize UMASS students, staff, and alums, as well as AFC families. Sessions are free and include: dinner, supervised children’s activities and parking. Family Dinner: 5:15-5:45pm, Supervised Children’s Activities: 5:45-7:30pm, Roundtable Discussion: 6:00-7:30pm. Space is limited. To pre-register call: 413-545-4466 OR email cshrc@stuaf.umass.edu.
CLASSES FOR KIDS: Don’t forget to check out our Suggest an Afterschool or Homeschool Class bulletin board. Lots of great classes have been shared so far. Share with us a class you’d like to suggest to local families too!
STREET PERFORMANCE: If you’re in Northampton on a Saturday night with the family, look for Bubble Ben in the alley between Thornes Marketplace and the parking garage:
A CALL TO ARTISTS: Create unique installations for Festival of Trees The Berkshire Museum is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Festival of Trees this year from Nov. 14 to Jan. 3. As many know, the Festival of Trees is a Berkshire County tradition where local businesses, schools and community groups decorate trees to display in the Museum galleries. To accompany these trees, we are looking for local artists to create unique artworks for installation that can be free standing, hang on the wall, or from the ceiling in the exhibition, keeping in mind the galleries are big and we are interested in large scale work. Deadline for submissions of proposals is October 2, 2009. For full guidelines or for more information contact Maria Mingalone at mmingalone@berkshiremuseum.org
COMMUNITY PROJECT: As part of the local 350 Neighbors project, the Old Creamery in Cummington, MA will be collecting 8 ½” x 11″ photos or drawings of the bountiful diversity of life here in the hilltowns to be shared in a display at the Old Creamery through October. More info HERE. Check out the gallery of digital images already submitted HERE:
POLL: Did you get a chance to take our poll? As our 1,001 post we’ve posted a poll to help HF better serve our readers. Please take a moment to answer a questions. Pretty please with a cherry on top! Click here to go on.
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 - FILM FESTIVAL: The 3rd Annual Ashfield FilmFest happens at the Town Hall. Ashfield, MA
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
4:30-5:30pm – YO-YO SCHOOL: Yo-yos are taken very seriously at A2Z. Their teachers are very friendly and will be happy to teach you tricks every Saturday. 586-1611 Northampton, MA (FREE)
7-8pm – ASTRONOMY: Join area astronomy clubs at Mount Holyoke Summit House in Skinner State Park and view the night sky through many telescopes. Ask questions and share in the excitement of exploring the heavens with other families. 586-0350 Hadley, MA. (FREE)
What the cluck is up in Ashfield? Chicken lawn ornaments are all the rage in Ashfield, MA... or are our Ashfieldian neighbors up to something else? (Photo credits: 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
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO OR KIDS ART WORK
Do you have a great photo of life or landscape in Western Mass, our a fabulous work of art your kids have created, that you’d like to submit to Hilltown Families? Send your jpg or link to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
FRIDAY NIGHT
BREAD AND PUPPET THEATER: Friday, Sept 18th in Amherst, MA. Check out the world renowned Bread and Puppet Theater performing at Amherst High School’s Auditorium on Friday, Sept. 18, at 7pm. This is a benefit performance for the South Amherst Conservation Association. Bread and Puppet Theater accomplish creative political theater the entire family will enjoy. More info HERE.
BULLETIN BOARD
Retirement Party to honor & thank Chief John Cotton for his service to the town of Williamsburg on September 20th, 2009 at the Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club. Click on image to find out more info.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Volunteers are needed for a Bread and Puppet event this Sunday, September 20th (admission is free). Bread and Puppet will be performing The Dirt Cheap Money Circus at 1 p.m. at the Red Barn Lawn at 893 West Street in Amherst, MA. Volunteers are needed to perform with the B&P puppeteers, and the rehearsal schedule is Saturday, 12-5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. If interested in volunteering, please contact ptinto@hampshire.edu.
CLASSES FOR KIDS: Don’t forget to check out our Suggest an Afterschool or Homeschool Class bulletin board. Lots of great classes have been shared so far. Share with us a class you’d like to suggest to local families too!
PARENT DISCUSSION SERIES: In Amherst there will be a free weekly roundtable discussion series for campus and Amherst Family Center families with young children called Dinner on Us, Monday evenings during the academic year in the Student Union Building. As far as I know it’s open to all, but if they run into over enrollment, I’m sure that they will prioritize UMASS students, staff, and alums, as well as AFC families. Sessions are free and include: dinner, supervised children’s activities and parking. Family Dinner: 5:15-5:45pm, Supervised Children’s Activities: 5:45-7:30pm, Roundtable Discussion: 6:00-7:30pm. Space is limited. To pre-register call: 413-545-4466 OR email cshrc@stuaf.umass.edu.
Massachusetts Harvest for Student Week: September 21st-25th, 2009 Join in as schools and colleges across the state purchase, serve, and engage students in hands-on activities to celebrate the bounty of Massachusetts agriculture! The goal for Massachusetts Harvest for Students Week is to spur new buying relationships between schools and farms, as well as increase existing purchasing in schools around the state. Schools are also encouraged to focus on the benefits of locally grown foods through educational activities, such as creating school gardens, taking trips to farms, and integrating agricultural themes into the classroom.
LOCAL FOOD: This fall as the local harvest peaks and thoughts shift toward winter eating, NOFA/Mass presents their first annual statewide Fall Food Preservation Day. On September 19, there will be food preservation workshops spread throughout the state, including in Cummington and Northampton, MA. Preserving food that we grow or purchase locally at the height of its freshness and flavor can save money, lessen our dependence on the global corporate food chain, and provide wonderful flavor and real food all year round. Isn’t now a good time to learn skills to do this? More info HERE.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Festival of Trees this year from Nov. 14 to Jan. 3. As many know, the Festival of Trees is a Berkshire County tradition where local businesses, schools and community groups decorate trees to display in the Museum galleries. To accompany these trees, they’re looking for local artists to create unique artwork to be on view through the exhibit. For more information contact Maria Mingalone, mmingalone@berkshiremuseum.org.
ENERGY SAVINGS: This fall, CET is offering free home energy savings workshops in towns throughout western Massachusetts (Gill, Amherst & Ashfield). Attendees will learn a wide array of energy saving solutions, including low-cost and no-cost measures, to common energy concerns. More info HERE.
SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP: Hilltown CDC announces a new workshop for small businesses on “How to Get the Media to Tell Your Business Story.” This three-hour evening workshop, on October 14 from 6 to 9 PM, will take place at Gateway Regional High School, 12 Littleville Road, Huntington, MA. More info HERE.
STORYTIME FOR PRESCHOOLERS: Every Wednesday at 10:30 am is Preschool Storytime at the Meekins Library in Williamsburg with Children’s Librarian Rochelle Wildfong.
AUDTIONS FOR KIDS: The Piti Theatre Company seeks performers (actors & dancers) ages 5 & up as well as adults for their interactive, outdoor theatrical event “Salmon Falls” which tells the story of the Deerfield River through movement, song and storytelling. The audition will be from 12:30 –3:00 pm behind the Arms Library in Shelburne Falls on Sunday, Sept. 27th. The performance will take place on three Saturdays afternoons, Oct. 3– 17th behind the Arms Library at 1:30. For details go to www.ptco.org/next. To register, email jonathan@ptco.org or call (413) 625. 6569.
COMMUNITY PROJECT: As part of the local 350 Neighbors project, the Old Creamery in Cummington, MA will be collecting 8 ½” x 11″ photos or drawings of the bountiful diversity of life here in the hilltowns to be shared in a display at the Old Creamery through October. More info HERE. Check out the gallery of digital images already submitted 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.
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
9am-12Noon – VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Notchview Trail Work Day at Notchview Reservation. Volunteers will help clear debris from last winter’s storm clean-up and make trail improvements. Working now means better skiing later. Call the Trustees of Reservations at 413-532-1631 x13 to pre-register or for more information. Windsor, MA (FREE)
10am – ART FOR KIDS: All children are invited to join Jon Muth in the creating of their own Haiku art at the West Springfield Public Library. 736-4561 West Springfield, MA. (FREE)
4:30-5:30pm – YO-YO SCHOOL: Yo-yos are taken very seriously at A2Z. Their teachers are very friendly and will be happy to teach you tricks every Saturday. 586-1611 Northampton, MA (FREE)
7-8pm – ASTRONOMY: Join area astronomy clubs at Mount Holyoke Summit House in Skinner State Park and view the night sky through many telescopes. Ask questions and share in the excitement of exploring the heavens with other families. 586-0350 Hadley, MA. (FREE)
Circumzenithal Arc spotted in the morning sky in Haydenville, MA by Barbara Tomawski while waiting at the school bus stop with her granddaughter.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
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
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO OR KIDS ART WORK
Do you have a great photo of life or landscape in Western Mass, our a fabulous work of art your kids have created, that you’d like to submit to Hilltown Families? Send your jpg or link to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
BULLETIN BOARD
Jamie Bishop of Plainfield, MA writes: Throughout the year 4-H Youth have worked on projects to bring to the Fair. The Big E offers the opportunity to highlight their work to all of New England. You can find out more information at: http://www.thebige.com/agriculture/4-H/index.html
CONTEST WINNER: Thanks you to everyone who signed up for a chance to win tickets Alegria! We had a great response and loved hearing from everyone. Using the random number generator over at random.org we have selected a winner: Angie Gregory of Northampton, MA. She is the winner of a family 4-pack of free tickets to see Alegria on its premiere night, Wednesday, September 16th at 7:30pm, at the Mullins Center in Amherst, MA. If you did not win, we will have more giveaways in the very near future! So be sure to check back or join the Hilltown Families Emailed Newsfeed (Sign up!)
MARK YOUR CALENDAR: The Third Annual Ashfield FilmFest will take place at 7:p.m., on September 26th at Town Hall, Ashfield, Massachusetts.
FREE SUPPORT GROUPS: Free Positive Parenting and Kin Caregivers groups starting in the valley. More info here.
COMMUNITY CHORUS: The Hilltown Choral Society welcomes new singers and will hold rehearsals for their Holiday Concerts and Winter Concert on Monday evenings beginning September 14th, 2009 from 7:30 to 9:00pm in the Worthington Historical Society Building (intersection of Routes 143 and 112) in the center of Worthington, MA. More info here.
HOMESCHOOL DAY: Homeschool families are invited for an educational celebration of the fall harvest on Wednesday, September 16th, 2009 at the Historic Deerfield Museum in Deerfield, MA. More info here.
DENTAL CARE FOR KIDS: “Gator Grins”, the dental outreach program serving students in the Gateway Regional School District, will open the school year by seeing Littleville Elementary School students in Huntington, MA who are due for their six month checkups, beginning September 14 at the school. More info here.
MARKET YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS: The Hilltown Business Directory will list 350 local businesses in 20 towns, by category, by name, and by town. This 160 page reference book will be used all year by local residents. The Directory makes it easy for residents to support their neighbors by using locally available products and services, thereby strengthening the hilltown economy and preserving and creating local jobs. More info here.
FEATURED EVENT: On Saturday, in Ashfield, MA, friends and neighbors from across the region are invited to the Highland Communities Initiative’s (HCI) fifth biennial conference to celebrate the Highland’s rural nature and to share ideas from area residents that may hold the keys to its future. Click on image for more info.
PUBLIC FORUM: To further his goal of being fully accessible to constituents from all cities and towns in his district, State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield) is bringing his rolling series of open monthly meetings, dubbed Coffee & Conversation to the hilltown Peru, MA on Friday, September 18th. Downing hosts these public forums in rotating communities across the Berkshire, Hampshire and Franklin Senate District ten months out of the year. More info here.
MARKETING WORKSHOP: Hilltown CDC announces a three-session workshop on Marketing Your Website, on Sept. 16, 23 and 30, at Gateway Regional High School in Huntington, taught by Peter Pelland. Each three-hour evening session will be from 6 to 9 PM. The total cost is $90, with tuition waivers available for low and moderate income people, and with $5 off per session for Hilltown CDC members. More details are available at http://www.hilltowncdc.org, or by calling 413-296-4536 ext. 12. More info here.
We’ve been getting great results from out 1,001 Post: A Poll. Thank you to all families that have responded so far. If you haven’t had a chance to tell us your 2-cents, click on over to our poll and give us your feedback. It’s short and easy and should take more than a couple of minutes. It will really help us determine how to best serve our community of families.
SATURDAY
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
9am-1pm – VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Rockin’ the Little Tom Trail at Little Tom Reservation. If you have always wanted to try your hand at a stone wall, this is your chance! Help relocate rocks as we fortify the visitor trail at Little Tom. Enjoy beautiful woodlands during this moderately technical, physically-engaging workday. All tools provided. Please dress in long-pants, a work shirt and sturdy shoes. Bring snack/lunch, gloves, and water bottle. 413-532-1631 x13 Holyoke, MA. (Free)
9am-2pm - TAG SALE: Outdoor Community Tag Sale at the Northampton Senior Center in the parking lot of the Senior Center at 67 Conz Street. 587-1226. Northampton, MA.
10:30-11:30am – BIKE RIDING: Join the Easthampton Family Center on the Manhan Rail Trail while the weather still cooperates. We meet on Payson Ave in the Parking Lot of the Public Safety Complex for a child friendly stroll down the Manhan towards South St. Snacks provided after the stroll. Bring bikes, trikes, strollers, push toys,or just your feet for fun with friends from your community. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
1-3pm - NATURE WALK: Broad Brook Coalition will sponsor a walk, In Search of Mushroom, with Pat McDonagh at the Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area (Moose Lodge entrance). Identification, edibility, and responsible harvesting will be explored, with a period for discussion after the walk. 584-4176 Northampton, MA.
There's still time to enter to win a family 4-pack of tickets to see Cirque du Soleil: Alegría at the Mullins Center in Amherst, MA. Click on the image above to learn more about this performance and how you can have a chance to win tickets. Deadline to enter to win is this Monday, 09/07/08 @ 7pm (EST)!
SUGGEST AN EVENT
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
THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO SEE IN MA
Have you checked out our resource page, Things to Do, Place to See in a while. This would be a good weekend to take a peek over there and discover many of our local attractions, parks and museums here in Western Mass. And a good opportunity to add any sights or attractions your family has enjoyed to the list.
POLL RESULTS
Take our poll!
We’ve been getting great results from out 1,001 Post: A Poll. Thank you to all families that have responded so far. If you haven’t had a chance to tell us your 2-cents, click on over to our poll and give us your feedback. It’s short and easy and should take more than a couple of minutes. It will really help us determine how to best serve our community of families.
BULLETIN BOARD
Annie Parker of Florence, MA writes: My mom, Fairin Woods, is just moving to the area. We are both originally from the Pacific Northwest but she has most recently been living in Hawaii. Now she is moving to the Northeast! While settling in and getting the lay of the land she would like to house-sit. She will be available to take care of a home this fall and/or winter. If you know of someone who needs their house, plants and pets tended while they’ll be away please contact us. She has been a home-owner and has a wonderfully green thumb. Really she is an ideal candidate; she’s quiet, responsible, has a lovely smile and recycles. She has a great long list of wonderful attributes and I’m happy to tell you more about them all (yes, I’m a proud daughter). Of course she has other references as well, available upon request, including references from people she house-sat for recently in Hawaii. To discuss opportunities, please email her.
Joanie Schwartz of Conway, MA writes: I am looking to rent our 4 bedroom 2 bath house in Shelburne Falls, MA. It’s empty, all redone, has two new bathrooms and is ready to go ASAP. $1,500/month plus utilities. Contact me by phone 413 348-2348.
Amy Grallert of Cummington, MA writes: I know of an apartment in Windsor, MA that is up for rent. It is a 2 bedroom and $750 includes heat hot water and DSS satelight TV. High speed internet available with your phone service. If you are interested, [email] and I will put you in touch with my friend who is renting it.
Jamie Bishop of Plainfield, MA writes: The 4-H Hilltown Bird Brains will be starting a new season on Tuesday, September 8th, 2009. If your kids raise, or are interested in raising poultry or pigeons, we invite you to join us. We meet 6 – 7:30 pm every other Tuesday, September through July, at Burgy Bullets Snowmobile Club (12 Laurel Rd) in Haydenville, MA 01039. For more info email or call 413 634-0324.
ART CLASS FOR KIDS OPEN HOUSE: There will be an open house for the re-opening of ArtStar in Williamsburg, MA on Thursday, Sept. 10th from 3:15-5:15pm. Click here for more info.
HILLTOWN APARTMENTS: The Hilltown CDC has apartments available in Chesterfield and Haydenville. More info call Sarah at 296-4536 x17.
HUNTINGTON LIBRARY: There will be a public meeting in Huntington, MA regarding the status of the Huntington Public Library on Thursday, September 10th at 6:30pm.
COMMUNITY MEETING: State Senator Benjamin B. Dowsning (D-Pittsfield) will have a community-based meeting in Peru, MA on Sept. 18th at the Town Hall from 10-11:30am. Click here for more info.
P.E. CLASSES: Physical education classes for homeschoolers is happening in Westfield, MA. Click here for more info.
FIELD TRIP: A free field trip to tour the Zephyr Wind Turbine in Hancock, MA is currently being organized. Click here for more info.
BABY MASSAGE: Free infant massage classes will start on September 13th in Northampton, MA. Click here for more info.
NATURE BASED PROGRAM: Sarah Pirtle will be offering her wonderful Tree of Life program in Cummington, MA for girls ages 6-12. Click here for more info.
CUMMINGTON FAMILY CENTER: This month there will be parent run drop in playgroups at the Community House in Cummington, MA. They will happen on Wednesdays from (9:30am-11:30am). In October regular playgroups will start up again.
Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons! Turn off the T.V. and turn on local community radio!
New music we’re listening to:
Eat a Bowl of Cherries by Rhythm Child
Ask the Planet by The Missoula Coyote Choir & Friends
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
8am-4pm – TAG SALE: Tag Sale to Benefit the Vegan Bus at 59 Summer Street. Northampton, MA
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
CUMMINGTON FAIR, AUGUST 27TH-30TH
The way I see it, there is only one thing happening this weekend, and that’s the 141st Annual Cummington Fair. The Biggest and Best Little Fair in the Country!
A friend recently emailed me to see if I know about discount coupons for the fair. I don’t (do you?). But I did share with her our stratagies in years past to save a few pennies. I’ll share them with you here, but I’m no expert on the Cummington Fair. Just been going with my family and friends for the past six years.
First I should share that kids under 10 get in free and their adult companions only pay $8. Kids ages 10-16 are $4. There is also the option of buying a 3-Day pass (save $4 per adult) or a 4-Day pass (save $7 per adult). You also have to pay for parking, anywhere between $3-$5 per car. So carpool if you can to save a few extra dollars.
The fair starts Thursday night and you can buy a $10 wrist band for the kids to ride the midway unlimited all night long (or until they’re too dizzy to stand). It’s also Truck Night, which has always been a little too loud for us with a young child, so we’ve always tried to skip this night. But I imagine if we had one of those kids that yelled and pointed, “Tuck!” every time one passed by, this would be an excellent night to go!
Half price tickets for rides on the Midway are sold on Friday night. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
Friday is Demolition Derby Night. Crazy as it sounds, I know several dads that love to take their sons to this one, but I’m certain there are moms and girls that would enjoy it too. What you need to know is that on Friday night you can buy discounted tickets for the rides, which in years past meant 1/2 priced tickets for the rides on the midway. This is where our penny saving strategy comes in. We give friends who go on Friday night money to buy us a ream of tickets. The secret … you can use these tickets all weekend long! Hopefully the same is true for this year.
Saturday is Old Fashion Fair Day. Families can come early and stroll around in the morning looking at the antique tractors, watch the 4H kids proudly share their animals, visit the petting barn, and check out the craft barn. After 11am the shows begin. This year Pickles da Clown, Youth Gymkhana Horse Show, Tommy James Magic Show, Rosaire’s Bears, Tommy Vee Hypnotist and Lucky Bob will be giving shows all weekend long. As well as the Draft Oxen Pulls and the Ox Teamster Challenge.
The community Roast Beef Dinner’s first seating happens around lunch time and then again as an early dinner. There are also loads of food vendors selling food. In the afternoon hours, in between shows and performances, families can check out the exhibitor hall and see all the glorious produce local gardeners have grown and crafts artisans have made. After the dinner hour families can listen to the Cottonwood Band or square dance with the Country Friendship Band. Then in the evening, new this year, there will be FIREWORKS!
Red Bucket Sugar Shack sells maple syrup cotton candy at the Cummington Fair. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
The bonus on Saturdays for us is we can let our kid and her friends ride the midway twice as much because we purchased our tickets for half the cost on Friday night. We do end up shelling out extra money for games and simulated rock climbing. To save a little more money we often times pack sandwiches, fruit and water to hold us over … but who can resists Red Bucket’s Maple Syrup Cotton Candy (hope my dentist isn’t reading this!)?
Sundays are great days too! It’s Senior Day, an excellent opportunity for grandparents to take their grandkids! The Lumerjack Championship happens in the morning, and later in the day is the Draft Horse Competition, Skid Steer Rodeo and the community turkey dinner. New this year is the Firemen’s Muster at 1pm. And Fireworks happen again in the evening!
The Cummington Fair is held every year at the Cummington Fairgrounds (97 Fairgrounds Road, Cummington, MA). It’s located one mile off of Route 9 from the center of Cummington, or 5 miles off of Route 143 from the center of West Chesterfield. Click here for Fair Schedule.
AGRICULTURAL FAIR LESSON PLANS
I’ve linked to several state fair lesson plans below for all our homeschooling and afterschooling families:
Did you get a chance to take our poll? As our 1,001 post we’ve posted a poll to help HF better serve our readers. Please take a moment to answer a questions. Pretty please with a cherry on top! Click here to go on.
Suggest an Afterschool or Homeschool Class Bulletin Board: Families are invited to post homeschool & afterschool classes they would like to recommend to other families. Please feel encourage to post your recommendations in the comment box on this page, and let other families looking for classes know about this community resource. If you instruct a class and would like to spread the word via Hilltown Families, contact us about becoming a local sponsor. Email hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Kyra Anderson of Northampton, MA writes:I’m trying to put together a game club for kids in the 8-10 age range, either after-school or during the school day (for homeschoolers, like us) who love all games, especially especially Magic, The Gathering and D&D. My vision for this class is that it would be free and meet weekly at our house here in Noho (time and day flexible). Any interested parties, please feel free to email me kyra@davidmilgrim. or call 413 341-3689.
Brent Williams writes: Great coverage of Ann Cooper’s Lunch lesson. Whole Foods Market and Chef Ann Cooper, have just joined forces to transform lunch in schools across the country with the “School Lunch Revolution” campaign. This national effort, aims to enable schools to improve the way children eat. The free, first-of-its-kind Lunch Box Web site – thelunchbox.org – will provide the necessary resources for food service directors to make tangible changes in their cafeteria menus. I thought you and your readers might find this a good follow up to your recent post + there are some great videos with Chef Ann which offer back to school food tips for parents. You can find these videos @ http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/schoollunchrevolution/videos.php
Seth Eisman of the HCDC in Chesterfield, MA writes: Website Marketing for Businesses of All Sizes Workshop begings on September 16th. Click here for more info.
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
The Hilltown Home Garden Exchange's (HHuGE) wagon at The Old Creamery Grocery off Route 9 in Cummington, MA. Click the photo to discover more about HHuGE. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
SUGGEST AN EVENT
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
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW GIVEAWAY
Thank you to all who entered our ticket giveaway to see Justin Roberts at the Iron Horse in Northampton, MA this Sunday. And thank you to IHEG for offering tickets and to Beth Benz-Claus for supplying us with two free CD’s to giveaway too. The following folks were chosen via random drawing (random.org):
TICKETS & CD: Congratulations to Marie Westburg of Williamsburg, MA. She is the winner of a family four-pack of tickets and Justin Roberts new CD, “Pop Fly.”
CD: Congratulations to Duncan Laird, also of Williamsburg, MA. Duncan will receive a copy of Justin Roberts new CD, “Pop Fly.”
Duncan Laird of Williamsburg, MA responds: “Awwwwwwwwesome! BTW, I’m good friends with Tom Adams of Reelife Productions, who is a big fan of what you’re doing with Hilltown Families, and recently told me about your organization. What a wonderful thing you’ve done.”
UPCOMING EVENT: Cummington Fair - August 27th-30th, 2009. Click the photo to discover more. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
BULLETIN BOARD:
NEW COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD: Are you looking for an afterschool or homeschool class for your kids? Have a class you would like to recommend to our community of families? There is a new bulletin board on Hilltown Families that has been created to both post and seek these classes: Suggest an Afterschool or Homeschool Class. It’s brand spanking new, so hop on over and post some aftershool or homeschool classes you’d like to recommend!
Anna Toth of Plainfield, MA writes: “We have just had a new baby at the end of May and my mother has been here helping us with our toddler and newborn. She is a cellist and is hoping to stay through the winter and help us as well as play and teach and record some in the area. As she will be traveling some in midwinter, and be with us much of the time, she would like to rent a large quiet private room with access to a bathroom, but does not need a kitchen. She is on a tiny budget, and needs only one large room that is winterized where she can practice, sleep, plug in a hotplate and teach occasionally, preferably somewhat separate from a household, such as a room over a garage, or a studio space etc… We are hoping to find her something within reasonable distance of Cummington where we will be living for the next 9 months. Please do contact me, Ana, at 718-766-5250, or my mother Elizabeth directly at 203-219-4722 if you have something that might fit her needs, or just spread the word around!”
HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES: You are invited to attend Old SturbridgeVillage’s Kick Off the School Year Home School Day! on Tuesday, September 15th. This is a great opportunity for you and your children to gain exposure to the life and work of an early 19th century rural New England community. Enjoy the beauty of OSV with home school families from all over New England. Garden talks, demonstrations, and performances are planned for all audiences throughout the day! See the Daily Event Listing (posted two weeks in advance) for performance and program times, Food Services options, and special exhibits. Please pre-register online today. Contact Kathy Kime, Education Coordinator with any questions or concerns, 508-347-0335.
Farmer's Market in Florence, MA. August 16th – 22nd is Massachusetts Farmers’ Market Week. Click the photo to read more. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
CPR CLASS: Parents wanting to learn or brush up on their CPR skills may be interested in a CPR Class being offered by the Westhampton EMS on Thursday, September 24th from 7-9pm. It will be held at the elementary school and will include child CPR and choking emergencies. Infant CPR skills will not be covered.To register ($10) call Bob Miller at 413-527-2404.
COMMUNITY CHOIR AUDITIONS: The Northampton’s Community Children’s Choir (grades 3-8) will have auditions on Sunday, September 13th starting at 2pm. Auditions will be held at the Northampton Community Music Center in Northampton, MA. To schedule an audition time call 413-585-0001. Choir meets on Tuesdays from 5-6:30pm and begins on September 15. Scholarships available for qualifying families. Joan Cornachio is the director.
SPRINGFIELD SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS: Auditions for strings, horns, trumpet and bassoon on August 25th. Call for appointment at 413-733-0636 x19.
LOCAL FOOD FOR OUR SENIORS: Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA), announced today that it will launch a campaign to raise funds to save its Senior FarmShare program, which has been providing shares of the local farm produce to low-income seniors in Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties since 2004. Click here for more info.
HOMESCHOOL ARTICLE: For homeschool families, Kathleen McKernan has written an article, “How to Join a New Homeschool Group” which can be read on-line at Home Education Magazine here: http://www.homeedmag.com/HEM/231/newgroup.html
FOOD SECURITY: Come to Boswell’s Books in Shelburne Falls, MA at 7 pm on Monday, August 24, when CISA will host Jill Richardson, author of the new book Recipe for America: Why Our Food System is Broken and What We Can Do to Fix It. A food activist and creater of the blog La Vida Locavore, Jill seeks to provide an overview of the current problematic food system and her vision of what a sustainable food system would look like from the soil on up.
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
10am-2pm – COMMUNITY: The Westhampton Fire Department will be having an open house. Kids are invited to discover their new fire safety trailer and to learn about fire prevention and safety. (Free)
Fresh locally grown foods served up this Sunday at the Greenfield Local Harvest Supper on the Town Common in Greenfield, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
FRIDAY NIGHT IN THE HILLTOWNS:
Stargazing at Notchview in Windsor, MA at 9pm. Nebulae, constellations and planets are on view when Arunah Hill Natural Science Center sets up their scopes to view the heavens. Dress for a cool evening. Free to all. Call The Trustees of Reservations at 413.532.1631 x13 for more information.
Angel Park (free) Summer Music Series continues in Williamsburg, MA. Outdoor concert begins at 5pm. Rain moves concert inside to grange. More info here.
At 4pm the gates open to the Middlefield Fair in Middlefield, MA. Children 12 & under are free.
Young and old love the food and festivities at the Greenfield Local Harvest Supper, happening this Sunday from 4:30-6:30pm in Greenfield, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
The Nields will be performing a family set at the Heath Fair in Heath, MA at 1:00pm.
This year, Tanglewood is offering a concert just for families so they can share together in the joys of music. The Family Concert will take place in Ozawa Hall on Saturday, August 22, at 2:30pm. The concert program and guests will be announced at a later date. Tickets are $10, and children under 18 are free.
River Camp in West Chesterfield, MA begins this Monday, August 17th and runs through the 20th. Sponsored by Hilltown Wilderness Adventures.
ArtStar: A Creative Arts Lounge is planning on reopening in the hilltowns and is looking to connect with local homeschooling famlies. More info here.
Campus Home Exchange can help families arrange exchange of home with visitors to area college campus. A great alternative to traditional vacation planning. More info here.
Hilltown CDC seeks part time Commonwealth Corps volunteers for a one-year stipend interships. More info here.
Volunteer Opportunity with the Wild & Scenic program on the Westfield River. More info here.
August 15-September 12 is the Eat Local America! Campaign. Pledge to eat meals from primarily local products. Be entered in daily drawing at the River Valley CoOp in Northampton, MA for fabulous local food prizes!
Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons! Turn off the T.V. and turn on local community radio!
Vibrant dishes of locally grown foods are served up at the Greenfield Local Harvest Food Supper this Sunday afternoon. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
Saturday – 08/15
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
AGRICULTURE FAIR: Middlefield Fair all weekend at 7 Bell Road in Middlefield, MA. 413-623-5350
9am-12noon – FISHING: Join DCR and Mass Anglers Education association at the day use boat launch area for an all ages program at DAR State Forest in Goshen, MA. Bring fishing gear for fishing and educational fun. Flyfishing demo and instruction. Prizes. Wheelchair accessible. (Free)
9am-5pm – AGRICULTURE FAIR: Berkshire Co. 4-H Fair in Pittsfield, MA on Utility Dr. (off of Holmes Rd.). 413-448-8285 (Free)
10am-2pm – KITCHEN SKILLS: Join Pat Shearer and Alison Wahlstrom in the Northfield Trinitatiarian Church kitchen to can some blueberry jam and zucchini relish. Then go home with the skill and confidence to can foods in your own kitchen. Program is suitable for ages 12 and over. Pre-register by calling 800-859-2960.
Rabbit workshop for kids during the 2008 NOFA conference at UMass in Amherst, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
FEATURED EVENT
The Northeast Organic Farming Association hosts their summer conference this Friday-Sunday, August 7th-9th at UMass Amherst in Amherst, MA. Over 220 workshops on organic farming, gardening and land care, homesteading, sustainability, nutrition, spirituality, food politics, activism, and much, much more…
Special workshops designed for kids and teens. An educational, fun opportunity for your children to bond with others from the Northeast while you attend workshops and events.
Entertainment for the whole family: Contra-dance, zydeco, drumming, Old-fashioned Country Fair, barter event, live music, teen dance and deejay, barter event, farmer’s market, games and fun.
Lazy summer days on the Westfield River. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
FEATURED EVENTS
Putumayo Presents: A Picnic Playground Family Concert Tour at the Eric Carle Museum in Amherst, MA on Saturday at 1pm. Click here for more info.
And don’t forget about the Mettawee River Theater Co. outdoor performance in Cummington, MA on Sunday at 8pm. Click here to read our post.
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
Tom Adams of Williamsburg, MA writes: Angel Park Summer Music Series: tomorrow (7/31), 5pm, Williamsburg, MA. Featuring: AJ Rabino, old school country singer/songwriter bring appetizers and a blanket! See you all there, pass it on! www.williamsburgcac.org
Erin O’Donnell of Willamsburg, MA writes: Our family fun fundraiser is happening! August 8th (raindate August 9th)
11:00-4:00 at 13 West St. (Off route 10, right before the bridge and rotary) in Easthampton, MA: Crafts, Games, Tag/book sale, baked goods. Help us bring our baby home from China!
Tony Lemos of Ashfield, MA writes: There is a “Medicine Girls Competition” going on. Click here to read more.
Jessica Thompson of Ashfield, MA writes: Ashfield Community Preschool Has Openings – Enroll Now! We still have a few spaces left to accept children into our Fall program. For more information or to schedule a visit please call 628-3248. Click here to read more.
There will be a screening of Food, Inc. at the Little Cinema in the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA from August 7th-13th, 2009. Nightly at 8pm. Monday Matinee at 2pm. Call for more info and to confirm: 413-443-7171.
BLUEBERRIES
On Saturday, August 1st, there are a number of blueberry celebrations happening in Western Mass:
Blueberry Bake-off!
Greenfield Farmers’ Market and CISA are hosting a blueberry bake-off featuring treats made with locally grown blueberries! You are invited to participate. Baked goods should be dropped off on the day of the event at 9am and judging will take place at 10am. Your baked item will be taste tested by our 4 judges, Mayor Martin, Jay Fadanza from WHAI radio, CISA’s executive director Phil Korman, and Rachel Robertson-Goldberg from Crabapple Farm to determine the Blue Ribbon Winner and the recipient of a $50.00 gift certificate to the Greenfield Farmers’ Market and a CISA community membership (valued at $60.00). The runner-up will receive a $25.00 gift certificate and a CISA tote bag (valued at $10.00). The market is located on Court Square in Greenfield, MA. For more information call Lauren at 413-665-7100.
8th Annual Wild Blueberry Jubilee
The Benson Place,2-8pm, 182 Flag Hill Road, Heath, MA
Great food and music, farm education, family activities, lovely views. Rain or shine
Details at www.bensonplace.org or 413-337-5340.
Blueberry Festival and Tasting
West Granville Blueberries, 10am-4pm, 448 North Lane, Granville.
Blueberry food tasting and recipes, children’s activities and blueberry picking
Call the Blueberry Phone for daily picking information, 413-357-8829
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
Community Day at Jacob's Pillow 2008 (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
FRIDAY NIGHT
FAMILY CONCERT: Award-winning singer songwriter from Northampton, Dennis Caraher, will be performing his songs for families at the Angel Park Summer Music Series on Friday (07/24) from 5-6:30pm at Angel Park in Williamsburg, MA. Dennis is a Winner of the Parent’s Choice Gold Medal and was our very first guest on the Hilltown Family Variety Show. In the event of rain the concert will be moved to the Grange Hall. (FREE) More information about this Friday night concert series can be found here.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Sunday, 08/02 from 11am-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Free Family Day at the Clark. Dove/O’Keeffe: Circles of Influence will be on view, and the day will feature art activities, Southwestern entertainment, local food vendors, and turquoise jewelry and cactus workshops (fee charged for workshops). Admission to the galleries is free on this festive day. The Clark, 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. 413-458-2303 (FREE)
BULLETIN BOARD
Congratulations to Kim Williams of Northampton MA. She will receive a family 4-pack of tickets to see Lunch Money at the Iron Horse in Northampton, MA on Sunday, July 26th at 2pm. Click here to read more about this concert series.
Julie writes: We just moved to the area at the beginning of July and we are starting to venture out a bit. Thanks so much for this post (Summer Fun: More for Your Money on Wednesdays). Yesterday (Wednesday) we were thinking of going to Look Park and since I read your post that paid attractions were 1/2 off, it was the inspiration that got me out the door and looking at the map for directions. We had a wonderful day at the park. Thanks for such a wonderful site!!!!
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES – Northampton’s streets will again be awash with bargain-hunting shoppers during the city’s annual Sidewalk Sales from this Thursday-Sunday. The four day event showcases Northampton’s eclectic and expansive array of one-of-a-kind stores and offers shoppers refreshing choices and alternatives. The year’s largest sale in the Pioneer Valley’s premier shopping destination, Sidewalk Sales is a not-to-be-missed shopping ritual for local residents and visitors alike. More info here.
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
9am-5pm – AGRICULTURE FAIR: Hampden County 4H Fair happens at the Eastern States Exposition Grounds in West Springfield, MA. There’s so much for kids to do – see all the farm animals and pets up close, meet the kids that own and care for them, see how the animals and their owner are judged, and lots more. Photographs, Artwork, Informational Displays, Baked Goods, Handicrafts, Vegetables, and more are all on display. (FREE)
4-7pm – FAMILY NIGHT: The Village Green and Willamsburg Snack Bar (93 Main St.) in Haydenville, MA will have a cruise night with food, ice cream, cool cars and pony rides.
Community Day at Jacob's Pillow in Becket, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Sunday, July 26th: Community Day at Jacob’s Pillow in Becket, MA. Bring the whole family and come dance with us! No experience necessary and it’s all free fun! Community Day at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival is a celebration of dance, art and community. All are invited to enjoy performances, workshops and activities; take a guided tour of the 163-acre grounds; browse the extensive Archives, view historic dance videos and join the Dance Party on The Great Lawn. All for free. – This year’s Dance Party will be led by the Vanaver Caravan, a dance troupe that gathers their inspiration from all corners of the globe. Led by Artistic Directors Bill Vanaver and Livia Drapkin Vanaver, the dancers perform clogging, body percussion and stick dancing with live accompaniment. – Jules Feiffer and his daughter Kate Feiffer will read from their new children’s book, Which Puppy?, about the First Family’s search for the perfect pet. Click here to view this book on Amazon.com.
BULLETIN BOARD
Kathy McMahon writes: Wanted: Museum Tour Guide at the Kingman Tavern Museum in Cummington, MA. Saturday afternoons until the end of August. $12 a hour. No experience necessary. Will train. Must like people and able to present material well. If you have a strong interest in history and want to help bring a simpler era alive for people (1880-1920), join us. Two immediate openings. Respond with brief letter of intent to: Kathy McMahon PeakShrink@peakoilblues.com
LOCAL LIBRARIES OFFERING SUMMER READING PROGRAMS: Most, if not all, of the Gateway town libraries are hosting summer reading programs for kids and teens. This is an excellent way to encourage reading over the summer months! Library hours and contact information are posted on the web (some sights include summer reading program hours) for Blandford, Chester, Huntington, Middlefield, Montgomery, Russelland Worthingtonlibraries.
The Grand Opening for the HHuGE Garden Wagon is Monday, July 20, 2009. Please stop by and take a look! We’ll be in the Old Creamery parking lot on the corners of Rte 9 and Rte 112, Cummington, MA.
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
Remember when it was in the 90's last summer and the kids begged for the slip 'n slide and popsicles? (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
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
BRYANT DAY CELEBRATION: Recently revived, the second annual Bryant Day to be held on July 18 from 12:00 – 4:00 PM resurrects a 115 year-old tradition of celebration at the venerable Bryant Homestead in Cummington, MA. The first Bryant Day was celebrated in 1894 on the 100th anniversary of poet William Cullen Bryant’s birth. Hundreds arrived by horse and carriage to spend a day listening to poetry, music, and speeches. This July 18th celebration will follow a similar program. Cummington resident and former Poet Laureate of the United States William Jay Smith will read his poetry and architectural historian Bonnie Parsons will speak on the architectural design elements in the Bryant Homestead. Musicians, Rhubarb Pie, will kick off the afternoon and Berkshire Trail Elementary School student Michael Cunningham will recite a Bryant poem. The day will end with a family hike to the Rivulet Forest lead by naturalist Nancy Childs. Refreshments will be sold by the Chesterfield Grange and the Bryant Homestead Committee will provide free popcorn and hand-cranked ice cream. Admission is $5/car. The complete schedule is found below or may be accessed at www.thetrustees.org. Information may also be obtained by calling 413-532-1631 x13
FEATURED EVENT:
FAMILY CONCERT & THEATER: On Sunday (July 12th, 2009) in Amherst, MA at the Eric Carle Museum: Live Concert with Recess Monkey at 12:30pm and Castle Hill Theatre Presents Just So Stories at 2:00 pm. Join us as we welcome the popular Seattle trio Recess Monkey, a kiddie rock/pop musical group influenced by 60’s music. Designed for children but entertaining for adults, the lyrics tell stories that are fun and educational. Don’t miss these catchy tunes and the humor that goes along with them. Just a bit later, Castle Hill Theatre Company returns to The Carle with its latest production, Just So Stories. This inventive and imaginative production, taken from three of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tales, is a fanciful explanation of why the world is the way it is. Full of color and humor, it’s the perfect show for theater-goers of all ages. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Museum Admission desk or by calling (413) 658-1126. Ticket price does not include Museum Admission. Check out a free museum pass from your local library.
Air dry your clothes this summer and save energy! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
BULLETIN BOARD:
Hilltown Families and Iron Horse Entertainment Group have partnered up to offer a chance for three different families to win 4 free tickets to see Victoria Chaplin’s internationally acclaimed theatrical creation, Aurélia’s Oratorio. Click HERE to find out how you can enter to win.
Downing & Kulik announce funding for a renewable energy site survey at New Hingham Regional Elementary School in Chesterfield, MA. Read more, Wind Power Site in the Hilltowns. – Here’s an interesting article that Erik Hoffner shares from Orion Magazine: “Hell Yeah, We Want Windmills”
The Conway Farmers’ Market opened July 8 and will be open every Wednesday from 4pm to dusk through September 9. The market is held in Pumpkin Hollow on Whately Road in Conway, MA and will be open rain or shine, according to market organizer Tricia Vinchesi, who is still looking for produce vendors. If you have some fruit or veggies to sell, contact Tricia at 413-369-4109.
American Farmland Trust has launched “America’s Favorite Farmers’ Market” contest. Vote for your favorite local farmers’ market and help it win “No Farms, No Food” tote bags to hand out to customers. One small, medium and large farmers’ market with the most votes at the end of August wins. Vote today! Don’t see your favorite market as an option? Make sure that your market enrolls in the contest. Farmers’ markets can register to join the contest by visiting, http://www.farmland.org/marketmanager.
Nerissa and Katryna Nields of Conway, MA write: This Saturday, July 11, we play a 7:30pm Nields show at my church in West Cummington, MA. This is the third or fourth year in a row that we’ve done this show, and in the past we’ve paid homage to Woody Guthrie since we always perform close to his birthday (7/14/1911). This is one of the best places to see Nerissa & Katryna Nields all year; trust me. The acoustics are great, but what’s really special is the vibe. Quite simply, this is a magical place for our family; William was baptised here, as were both of my kids, and Tom and I were married here. Penny Schultz, the music director, is way up in our pantheon of musical greats, right up next to Pete Seeger and Jack Langstaff. So come! Experience the magic of the Hilltowns in July. Have dinner first at the legendary Cummington Creamery.
Summer Reading Program: Click HERE if you’re looking for a way to make summer reading even more fun for your kids (offered by TD Banknorth).
Submit your best blueberry creation to the Blueberry Bake Off on August 1st.
The special June 29 screening of Food, Inc. sold out before doors opened. If you missed out on the screening you still have time to see the film at Amherst Cinema. Click HERE for schedule.
Kerri LaPlante writes in response to Does Your Family Use Road Maps in the Car?: We often use the atlas to help the kids name and learn the states. Our 11 and 7 year old like to answer the question, ‘How many states start with the letter A, then B, then C…” Also guessing which bird belongs to each state was fun for everyone. The 11yr old likes to tell us which direction to go in the most. We believe that the fundamentals of learning are slipping by the wayside. How many kids can read an analog clock anymore? or do math in the heads without the aid of a calculator? Navigating and the knowledge of geography are not lost arts in our household and we hope not in others
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
9am-4pm – FARM FESTIVAL: Daylily Festival and Arts Festival at Glenbrook Gardens in Greenfield, MA. Dine on daylilies, see art in the garden, visit the mini marketplace, take a workshop. Call (413) 772-6997 for details.
10-11am – LIBRARY ADVENTURES: The Buckland Library Presents, Stories of the Stars, for kids of single-digit ages. Enjoy a star-studded slide show about our solar system! Whirling, twirling, spinning, hurling, exploding, and burning: it is all happening out there, and you’ll be better off knowing about it! Amateur astronomer Paul Cardone, of East Longmeadow, is a longtime member of the Springfield Stars Club, and is well known for his lively presentations to audiences throughout Western Massachusetts. A constellation of refreshments will be served. You don’t have to reply in order to come to this free event, but adults who email ljacobson-carroll@cwmars.org with # of kids they plan to bring will be rewarded with ample coffee! (FREE)
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
4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS & PARADE SCHEDULE
Click HERE to see the schedule for firework displays and parades happening in the Hilltowns and the Pioneer Valley.
BULLETIN BOARD
July 9 – Fireflies are lightening up the skies.
July 10 – Blueberries will begin to ripen, starting with low bush blueberries.
July 13 – Listen for Snowy Tree Crickets and Katydids in the evenings.
July 20 - The song of the cicadas on hot summer days start to be heard.
August 6 – Look for Yellow Warblers around the thistles.
August 19 - Have a freshwater stream nearby? Look for scarlet red Cardinal Flowers.
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
Chesterfield 4th of July Parade Schedule. Click on flyer to see larger image.
Here is a schedule of firework displays and parades happening in Western Massachusetts. Click on the listing to find out more information. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening.
Looking for family events during the day on the 4th of July?
Check the comment box below for 4th of July events.
And be sure to click on the links below. Many of the firework displays are part of an all-day community celebration.
If you know of a 4th of July event, please post it below.
4TH OF JULY PARADES
Right here in the hilltowns will be a great old fashion parade that the whole family can participate in beginning at 10:30am at the CHESTERFIELD 4TH OF JULY PARADE. Click HERE to read our post, Hilltown Families’ Kids Invited to March in Chesterfield’s 4th of July Parade.
Other parades happening in Western Massachusetts on the 4th of July include the towns of
Parents' Night Out in the Hilltowns: Radio Free Earth will be performing at the Ashfield Lakehouse in Ashfield, MA on Saturday, June 27th at 8:30pm. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
BULLETIN BOARD
CONCERT SERIES IN FLORENCE: Every Thursday night is a free lawn concert at the Florence Civic Center in Florence, MA.
ROUNDTABLE IN CHESTERFIELD: Are you planning on growing old here in the hilltowns? Do your kids grandparents live here in the hills. Want to get involved with support the elder community in rural Western Mass? Hilltown CDC and area COAs will be hosting a roundtable discussion on “Options for Elder Living” in the hilltowns at the Chesterfield Senior Center on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at 2:00 PM to explore new elder living options. Click here to read more about the roundtable and the Abbeyfield model that will be discussed.
HILLTOWN FOOD PANTRY: Distributions of free nutritious food to income qualified households every Wed at the Goshen Town Hall: Call 413-268-7578 or contact the Northampton Survival Center at 413-586-6564 or http://www.thensc.org
HF LISTSERV MEMBER LAUREN ABEND WRITES: Hi all, Just wanted to let you know I will be selling organic, free range chickens at the Ashfield Farmers Market this Sat, and all following Sat. I have a range of weights, as well as giblets for sale. I processed the first batch of birds on site yesterday using the mobile poultry unit owned by the small farms institute.
PESTICIDES ON YOUR FOOD: New web search tool shows what pesticides are on your food: The Pesticide Action Network has launched a new online searchable database designed to make the public problem of pesticide exposure visible and more understandable. Whether you want to find out what’s in your apple juice, milk, peanut butter, or bottled water, this innovative tool links pesticide food residue data with the toxicology for each chemical, making this information easily searchable for the first time.
CHOCOLATE & CHILD LABOR: Tell Hershey’s to Stop Abusive Child Labor in Cocoa Production: For years, the Organic Consumers Association has been taking action, along with the International Labor Rights Fund, to stop abusive child labor in the cocoa industry in West Africa. As a result of the constant pressure, major chocolate companies like M&M/Mars and Cadbury have recently agreed to stronger labor and environmental standards in the production of the cocoa they use. But one iconic US brand is lagging behind – and they need to hear from YOU! Ask Hershey’s to switch to Fair Trade & Organic certified cocoa and sugar — for all of their products. Click here to learn more and to take action.
On Monday, June 29, at 7pm there is a special screening of Food, Inc. to benefit CISA at the Amherst Cinema. A thoughtful panel discussion featuring Pioneer Valley agriculture and food experts will follow this particular screening of the provocative film.
CAMPING: Saturday is the Great American Backyard Campout. It’s a night to turn off the computer and the TV, and spend the night outside with family and friends. Put up a tent. Count the stars. And realize that sometimes by doing nothing at all, you’re doing more than you can imagine. Together. Get free camping tips, campfire songs, activities, recipes, and more at www.backyardcampout.org.
FILM IN AMHERST: On Monday, June 29, at 7pm there is a special screening ofFood, Inc.to benefit CISA at the Amherst Cinema. A thoughtful panel discussion featuring Pioneer Valley agriculture and food experts will follow this particular screening of the provocative film.
PUBLIC SCHOOL FUNDING: Public School Funding in MA: How Do We Compare Nationally?: Not well, according to a new report by Mass Budget—a non-partisan think tank that analyzes data on state spending. Check out their quick facts on the issue, which reports that Massachusetts cut more funding to education than any other state in the country from 2002-2004. The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) provides independent research and analysis of state budget and tax policies that affect low- and moderate-income people in the state.
THE NIELDS WRITE:Look for us in Easthampton, MA at the library, in the morning, on July 1. We’ll be the ones not using our indoor voices and telling you to spend the summer reading. Also we’ll be singing: 7/1/09 Pepin Elementary School Easthampton, MA 10:30 am SUMMER Reading Kick Off Family Singalong – the website says 10:30pm, it is wrong, its really 10:30am :-)
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org. Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7-9am, and the Hilltown Family Variety Show from 9-10am. Listen via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. SRSC can also be heard on The River from 8-10am.
Worthington Swim Club Open House is on Saturday, June 20th from 12Noon-3pm in Worthington, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
FEATURED EVENT
SATURDAY, JUNE 20th: Summer Solstice Celebration with Erica Wheeler in Conway, MA. Join Mountain View B&B for a mountain-top house concert to celebrate the beauty & bounty of summer. Enjoy great music, delicious food and spectacular views of the surrounding hills and mountains of Western Massachusetts and Southern Vermont. Celebration begins at 4pm with a potluck meal. Music and dessert are from 6-8pm. Children are free. To view the venue and directions go to www.mtviewbb.com. For more info contact HF Listserv member Joanie Schwartz, joanie@delaprealestate.com, 413.369.4700
About Erica Wheeler: Wheeler is an award-winning singer/songwriter based in western Massachusetts with six CD’s to her credit. She has shared the stage with Indigo Girls, Shawn Colvin, Greg Brown, and more. Her music made the Top 10 on Billboard’s Gavin Americana Chart and she has been a featured guest on NPR’s All Things Considered. Erica’s songs take you on a journey though the American landscape and the lives lived there. Known for her poetic and visual songwriting, Erica’s music is pure Americana, with hints of folk, country and bluegrass. Erica combines her career as a performing artist with her lifelong interest in natural and cultural history to offer The Soulful Landscape writing workshop. Her environmental work has been featured in national publications such as Orion, Yankee and Yes. Her most recent CD, Good Summer Rain, was sponsored in part by the Trust for Public Land, a national conservation organization. www.ericawheeler.com
BULLETIN BOARD
What if your daughter is part of a risky or hurtful activity? Here’s how to handle it with girls, parents, and at school: When Her Friends Make Bad Choices. – Do you initiate conversations with your daughter/stepdaughter at least 5 times a week? Click here to take part in the Daughters.com poll.
What impact will the Farm Safety Bill have on our regions small farms and local food processors? Maribeth Ritchie of Sangha Farm, a small family farm in Ashfield, MA, has shared info with a call for action HERE.
Did you know that a quarter million experimental genetically engineered trees may be grown in the U.S? Concerned? Click here to read more.
There is a Green Directory in the works for the Pioneer Valley. Check out Jessica Gifford’s post HERE.
The Nields write:June 24 Wednesday at 6:30 pm We will once again break all the rules and sing at the library. This time it is the M.N. Spear Library in Shutesbury, MA. We are responsible for kicking off the summer reading program with some singing. Full disclosure, we are actually singing behind Town Hall, but it sounds so cool to say that we are going to be singing in LOUD voices in the the library. You’ll have to imagine that. This will be a family show with a mixture of songs for kids, grown ups and maybe even a bit of singing along. Dontcha know.
New music we're listening to: "If the World Was Upside Down" by Joe West and "26 Animals" by Artichoke.
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org. Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
This week’s episode of the HFVS is the Father’s Day Episode with new music by Spiral Up Kids, Joe West, The Sippy Cups, Cathy & Marcy with Christylez Bacon, and Ziggy Marley. We’ll also be featuring tunes from LP’s in the attic, including music by The Bubble Gum Singers and Orchestra and The Radio Revellers.
10am – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: The hike in the Catamount Hills scheduled for Sunday, June 14 as part of RiverFest was so popular and over subscribed that the leader, Muriel Russell will lead two more hikes the next two Saturdays, June 20 and June 27 to accommodate those not able to go before. Muriel Russell, local expert in Catamount history, will lead an exploration of cellar holes and caves in the Catamount State Forest. This is always a popular hike because of its variety and it is not too strenuous. Bring bug repellant, water, flashlight to explore caves and a lunch to enjoy at McLeod Pond. Directions to start: From Rte. 112 in Griswoldville, Colrain, take Adamsville Rd. to Lively Rd., then quick left onto East Catamount Rd. (steep and dirt) to end where there is parking. Please register with Muriel Russell (413) 624-3311.
On Wednesday, June 17th, 2009, a free public screening of the art film, “Mad City Chickens” will be showing at Forbes Library in Northampton, MA at 7 PM. The documentary tells the stories of some backyard chicken people. Refreshments, discussion, and backyard chicken Q&A following the film. Sponsored by the PVBCA and Forbes Library. For more information, click on the photo above. (Photo Credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
BULLETIN BOARD
The Franklin County Huger Task Force is encouraging home gardeners and others to increase their vegetable plot by at least one row for the benefit of hunger relief programs in the area. Read more …
There will be a veggie cart at The Old Creamery in Cummington, MA in July to supply food to anyone who needs it. Anyone can contribute their extra produce. If you want to help contact Kathy McMahon @ 634-0002. Read more …
iTunes has selected The Sippy Cups’ new single “Seven Is The New 14,″ featured recently on the Hilltown Family Variety Show, to be their first ever Discover Download in the Children’s genre. The song will be available free from the iTunes Store for one week beginning today.
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org. Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
If you are looking for summer camp opportunities in Western Massachusetts, or have a summer camp you would like to recommend, check out the HF Suggest a Camp page. Featured this week is Spirit of the Heart Marital Arts & Crafts Camp. There are two opportunities in Northampton, one in Cummington and a girls overnight. Click here to discover more.
RIVERFEST: On Saturday, June 13, the village of Shelburne Falls will once again celebrate the Deerfield River and the surrounding countryside with RiverFest. RiverFest is an annual tribute to the Deerfield River, and the role it plays in people’s lives and the ecosystem of western Massachusetts. Through entertaining, educational displays and demonstrations, a unique “Frog & Flower Parade” of schoolchildren (and adults), art, crafts, tag, book and plant sales, RiverFest helps people of all ages-area residents as well as visitors-gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for a rich natural resource.
In keeping with this year’s theme, “History, Present and Future of our Watershed”, grownups and youngsters will be able to
meet some of the spectacular birds of prey that soar through local skies
find out about the environmental and health benefits of eating locally grown foods
learn about sources of safe, sustainable energy
discover how to identify invasive and edible wild plants
take a ride on a historic trolley car
even spend some quality time rafting on the river
There will be musicians and vendors throughout the village, children’s games, singing and storytelling, creative workshops leading up to the colorful “Frog & Flower Parade,” and much more! 625-6628. (See Lui’s comment below for an update on times)
Spring radishes at the farmer's market. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
BULLETIN BOARD
Erin White of Cummington, MA writes: VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY – This Saturday, June 6th, isSpruce-Up Day at Berkshire Trail Elementary Schoolin Cummington, MA. From 9am-4pm parents and community members will work together at Berkshire Trail to get our school looking like the local treasure we know it is. We will be planting new flowers and bushes, painting the gym, raking new mulch and pea stone in the playground, and lots of other easy and fun sprucing tasks. Lunch will be provided by Bread Euphoria and The Old Creamery. Please join us! It will be a great opportunity to see Berkshire Trail and to meet some of the wonderful families in our school community.
HF Listserv member Dina Raymond of Goshen, MA writes: BARTER OPPORTUNITY – Given the economy and in consideration of all the talented people in the Hilltowns and Northampton, we would like to propose a bartering situation here on lower highland lake in Goshen, MA. We have 3 cottages (www.goshensummerrentals.com) that we typically rent for the months of June, July, August and into September (a great time). There are many weeks not rented as people may not be able to afford to be here- thus the barter proposal. Have you musical teaching skills, (guitar/voice) kid sitting skills, know French, CPR, swimmming, cooking, proficient in house cleaning, electrical work, gardening/weeding? If you’d like to live on the lake for a week or more and have excellent bartering skills, please contact us. 413-268-7772. Come enjoy the lake with your family!
Tracie from CISA writes: LOST & FOUND – A volunteer working at the CISA table at the Hilltown Festival in Cummington on May 30 left behind a hand-carved cane that his late father made for him. Obviously, it is irreplaceable. Please call CISA at 413-665-7100 if you or someone you know found this item. Ask for Tracie.
MA EBT FARMERS’ MARKET PROJECT: Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield) proposal promotes access to fresh, locally grown, nutritious food. Click here to read more.
FAMILIES INTERESTED IN SOLAR ENERGY: There will be a Solar Energy Seminar for homes and businesses in Cummington, MA at the Community House on Wednesday, June 10th from 6:30-8:30pm. Click here for more info.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Sippy Cups new CD, "Time Machine," and Ziggy Marley's new CD, "Family Time."
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org. Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
This weeks episode is BICYCLE with new music by Joe West, Artichoke, Ani DiFranco & Putumayo Kids.
CONCERT & DVD GIVEAWAYS – WINNERS!
Ellen Ferris of South Hadley, MA (winner of the “Treasury of 25 Storybook Classics: Dinosaurs, Trucks, Monsters… and More!” writes: Oh wow! I am so excited!! Thank you so much – I love your website (and radio show) – it is an excellent resource and wonderful help to me. I also just decided about a week ago to homeschool my little ones so this will be a great thing to add to our “classroom”.
Marian Kent of Easthampton, MA (winner of Patty Larkin tickets & CD) writes: Right on! Thanx a ton, wow! Happy day.
FEATURED EVENT
SUNDAY: There will be a pop-up bookmaking workshop given by artist Jeannie Hunt on Sunday, June 7th from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Senior Center in Chesterfield. Children ages 8 – 12, with one attending parent or grandparent, will learn how to create simple pop-up books. Refreshments will be provided. Space is limited; call Kester Warlow-Harry at 413-296-8058 to register. The workshop is supported by the Friends of the Chesterfield Public Library and grants from the Cultural Councils of Chesterfield, Goshen, Westhampton, Williamsburg and Worthington.
Frog under Jack-in-the-Pulpit in West Chesterfield, MA (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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
BULLETIN BOARD
OZ COSTUMES SOUGHT: The Drama Club at R. H. Conwell Elementary School is looking for costumes for The Wizard of Oz. Ideas and old Halloween costumes are needed. Put your name somewhere on the costume and they will be given back to you after the production.
GOOD NEWS FOR YOUTH SUMMER JOBS: Due to the economic stimulus package, unprecedented amounts of state money are available for Summer Youth Employment. All students ages 14 – 24 looking for summer jobs can apply to the program, run through the Franklin-Hampshire Career Center. Applications are available in the high school Guidance Office. All students (regardless of income level) are encouraged to apply.
FEATURED EVENTS
SATURDAY: The hilltowns are buzzing about the 3rd annual Hilltown Spring Festival. This year’s Festival will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2009, from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm at the Cummington Fairgrounds. The Festival features great local food from Hilltown eateries, live music and entertainment by professional and student performers, and children’s entertainment. Click here to see the entertainment line-up. The Festival will include a Hilltown Business Expo, an Art and Craft Exposition and a Focus on Sustainability featuring environmental education and renewable energy displays. Event is free but must pay to park your car. Click here to read more.
CONCERT & DVD GIVEAWAYS
We have two giveways being offered this week. Check them out, leave a comment and you’ll be entered to win:
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org. Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
This weeks episode is Truckin’ Road Trip with new music by Ziggy Marley, The Sippy Cups and The Pop Stars.
4-7pm – NATURE: Seed Festival at 400 Adamsville Road in Colrain, MA. Celebrate spring renewal, exchange seeds and plant almost-extinct heritage wheats. Bring a local organic potluck dish. Study circle on ancient food and seed systems and modern challenges. 624-0214 (Potluck)
7:30-10pm – INTERGENERATIONAL DANCE: The Northampton Senior Center will host a dance for all ages in Northampton, MA. Dance or listen to fine music. Light refreshments will be served. For information, call 587-1228. All proceeds benefit the Senior Center.
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 EVENT
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair on May 23rd & 24th, 2009, at the Cummington Fairgrounds in Cummington, MA. One of the oldest of all the New England sheep fairs, the Cummington fair is a fun and affordable way to spend a day with family and friends discovering one of the oldest industries in the world.
Shepherds, spinners, weavers, and other fiber artists come from all over the Northeast to demonstrate their skills and sell their handmade fiber products. But the sheep are the real stars of it all, and there will be hundreds of them attending, both meat and wool breeds. They will be joined by a host of other fiber animals, including angora rabbits and goats, llamas, and maybe even a yak or two!
Other festival highlights include sheep dog trials, spinning and weaving contests, a fleece sale, fiber workshops, a shearing service, live music, and workshops for kids (see below). Breakfast and lunch items will be available at the food booth, including the popular lamb bits. Admission is free, however you must pay for parking.
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org. Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
This week we went into the archives and are re-airing a couple of episodes(Cats & Dogs (Sharks & Eels) Episode& Fishing Fry Episode) from our half-hour slot we use to host on Tuesday evenings. My co-host was only four back then … my how time passes.
Worthington Gardeners Plant Sale (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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.
FEATURED EVENT
The Ashfield Community Preschool will hold a May Fair Celebration and a benefit concert with The Nields at the preschool on Saturday May 16th in Ashfield, MA. At 10 a.m. the grounds will open to Maypole dancing, a woods walk through a fairy forest, a baby animals barnyard, crafts, music and food. The event is meant to celebrate spring and the preschool’s 25th anniversary. Lady Spring herself will greet the children wearing her long, green cloak. Other cloaked figures will guide visitors through the activities. Click here for more info.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org for the Lunch Sack Episode of HFVS.
Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
Fishing derbies are happening this time of year. On Saturday (May 9th, 2009) from 9-11:30am, children ages 14 and under are invited to Chesterfield's Annual Fishing Derby at the Bisbee Pond, sponsored by the Chesterfield 4 Seasons Club. Bring your fising poles and bait. Food and prizes will be offered. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
There are several Mother’s Day activities happening in the area (listed below). Here are a few links for Mother’s Day:
In celebration of Book Week and School Library Media Month, Education World presents dozens of book-themed activities, lessons, and projects, from our archive! Included: How to write better book reports, stage a “Literature Day,” compose Harry Potter haiku, plus additional classroom activities for teaching about fairy tales, folk tales, biographies, and more! Click HERE to discover more.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org for our Mother’s Day Episode of HFVS.
Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
New music we’re listening to:
Spiral Up Kids by Spiral Up Kids
Here I Am! by Caspar Babypants.
Music from both CD’s is featured this week on HFVS.
9am – SPORTS: The Berkshire Trails Elementary School in Cummington, MA is having their 4th annual 5K Run/Walk. Registration starts at 8am. Fee is $20. (Fundraiser)
For school vacation we made a road trip to Washington, D.C., and on Earth Day we found ourselves on the Washington Mall. With bags in hand we went around the Mall and picked up trash, an agreement we made with my daughter's school. She LOVED the adventure of scouting for trash and the accomplishment of filling up her bag. - Share with us what your family did for Earth Day in the comment box below! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
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.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org for our Vintage Jazz Episode of HFVS.
Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
The Ashfield Community Preschool will hold a May Fair Celebration and a benefit concert with The Nields at the preschool on Saturday May 16th in Ashfield, MA. At 10 a.m. the grounds will open to Maypole dancing, a woods walk through a fairy forest, a baby animals barnyard, crafts, music and food. The event is meant to celebrate spring and the preschool’s 25th anniversary. Lady Spring herself will greet the children wearing her long, green cloak. Other cloaked figures will guide visitors through the activities. CLICK HERE for more information.
Fox Den: Mama fox with her kits in West Chesterfield, MA. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
EARTH DAY
Earth Day is this Wednesday. Included below are events happening on and for Earth Day for families. Check out the side bar for links to on-line resources for Earth Day too.
EVENTS FOR SCHOOL VACATION. ETC.
This week’s list of suggested events will include the weekends of April 18th/19th and April 25th/26th, along with event links for Earth Day. Be sure to check out our “Suggest an Event” page for event happening during spring vacation week, along with our “Suggest a Camp” page. If you didn’t get you event posted on our “Suggest an Event” page on time, no worries … go ahead and post it and families can find events there.
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.
Northampton Puppet Festival. Click on image to see a full schedule of shows.
FEATURED EVENT
Puppet Festival in Northampton! Marionettes take the stage at the Academy of Music in Northampton, MA during the April School Vacation period, April 20-23, 2009. The finest puppet companies in New England will bring the magical world of Marionette Theater to Northampton every morning of School Vacation with two shows daily: 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Each day a different show will be presented. Click on the image to see a full schedule of events.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show on Saturdays from 9-10am on Valley Free Radio (VFR), 103.3FM (Northampton, MA), or listen via streaming audio at www.ValleyFreeRadio.org for an encore presentation of the Bill Harley Episode.
Every Saturday VFR offers four hours of commercial-free, quality family program from 6-10am, including Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child from 7am-9am. It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons!
"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 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.
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. 
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW (WXOJ 103.3FM)
