Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for June 10-16, 2017
To find out about more event, be sure to visit our Suggest an Event Bulletin Board to see what our readers have recently shared! Have an event to share? Feel encouraged to self-post community events here at any time!
If you have a community event, educational program, or service-learning opportunity happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our Suggest An Event bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness, and costs before attending.
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Summer Camp Directory
Looking for summer camps and programs? Check out our featured post, 2017 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans! — Do you have a summer camp or program you’d like to have included in our comprehensive list? Find out how you can submit your listing HERE.
Bulletin Board
June 10
Join Easthampton City Arts & the Cottage Street Cultural District this Saturday, June 10, from 12-5pm on Cottage Street in Easthampton, MA. It’s Cultural Chaos 2017, the annual street festival with a twist! This year’s line-up features a full day of free, family-friendly activities and entertainment, including music, circus acts, baby goat petting, puppet-making, open art studios, belly dancing, performances, the running of the bulls, and a canine costume contest. A full program can be found at www.culturalchaos.org. Thanks so much and come experience Cultural Chaos Saturday!
Jun 9-18
Come to the Town of Conway’s 250 Anniversary Celebration over 2 weekends 6/9-6/18! Six superb short plays 6/9 @ 7:30pm & 6/10 @ 2 and 7:30pm; call 413-369-4301 to reserve free seats. Starting 6/16: Fireworks; Family 5k run; Live music-national and local acts; children’s activities (magic show, movie night, birds of prey and more); Historic walking tour; Teamster’s Challenge; plus great exhibits and presentations: Lester Stevens paintings; Living History of Conway; Conway School of Landscape Design; Agriculture; Antique cars, tractors and engines; outstanding regional Artists show, and all events/exhibits are free, as is ample parking and shuttle transportation. Food and beverages available. For details go to townofconway.com.
Jun 10
The Common School will host a Pop-up Playground on Saturday, June 10 from 1-4pm on their campus at 521 South Pleasant Street in Amherst, MA This free event is open to the public. Pop Up Adventure Playgrounds are joyful sessions of child-directed play with scores of loose parts, such as cardboard boxes, tubes, rope, and fabric. Kids are free to make a beautiful mess and discover, or remember, the simple joys of creative, old-school play with other children and on their own. The Play Workshop is there to support their adventure. www.theplayworkshop.com
June 11
Watch London’s National Theatre’s Peter Pan in HD at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center on Sunday, June 11th at 3pm, in Great Barrington, MA. Captured at the National Theatre, a recorded performance of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale screens in cinemas. When Peter Pan, leader of the Lost Boys, loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to Neverland, where Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. A riot of magic, music and make-believe ensues. A delight for children and adults alike, Sally Cookson (NT Live: Jane Eyre) directs this wondrously inventive production, a co-production with Bristol Old Vic theatre. www.mahaiwe.org.
Jun 18
The New England Air Museum will hold an Open Cockpit Day on Father’s Day, Sunday June 18, from 10am to 4pm. Special activities include climbing aboard in historic aircraft; flight simulators; hands-on Build & Fly Challenges. A variety of aircraft will be open for visitors including the WWII era Republic P-47D “Thunderbolt,” the Vietnam War era Bell UH-1B “Huey” helicopter, as well, as supersonic jet fighters including the North American F-100 “Super Sabre” and the Lockheed F-104C “Starfighter.” Time Machine Hobby of Manchester, CT will be here to demonstrate their R/C helicopters and drones. Food and beverage will be available, and all activities are included with museum admission. Rubber-soled shoes recommended. www.neam.org.
Hilltown Families Preschool Directory: Are you looking for a preschool that fits your child’s personality and reflects your family’s values? Check out our growing Preschool Directory, covering all four counties in Western Massachusetts, and find the perfect place for your young one! — Have a school you’d like to include in this list? Click here to find out how to have it added.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, after-school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing Sales & Marketing Manger, Merricka Breuer at mbreuer@hilltownfamilies.org.
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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
June 10-16, 2017
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Cultural Itineraries | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español
Events Happening in the Hilltowns
Saturday, June 10, 2017
9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Come Explore the world BIG and small with Wendy & DB from Chicago this weeks guest DJs. Let’s travel through space and land right here on Planet Earth. Learn to care for the littlest creatures and sing along with some garden features as Wendy & DB go GREEN. Encore of Saturday’s broadcast airs Sunday morning from 7-8am and podcast is posted here on Hilltown Families immediately following Sunday’s broadcast. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcasts anytime. Click here select from over 10 years of archived shows!
Saturday, June 10, 9am-4pm
PSYCHOLOGY/WELLNESS
Teachers, coaches, faith leaders, social workers and others who regularly interact with teens, need to know how to identify a mental health crisis and act accordingly. The Collaborative for Educational Services is offering Youth Mental Health First Aid training to identify common mental health challenges for young people and outline steps you should take in a crisis, or non crisis situation. This course will covers topics such as anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders and eating disorders. Registration is required. Deliso Conference Center, Mercy Medical Center 271 Carew Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 9am
COMMUNITY MEALS/PLACEMAKING
The Lenox Rhubarb Festival held outside of the Lenox Library is an example of a unique and community-building use of public space. This festival sheds a new light on the ingredient, rhubarb, as you see it used in an array of sweet and savory dishes! The event will kick off with a pancake breakfast. Learn by example by purchasing a rhubarb recipe booklet and fresh local rhubarb. There will also be rhubarb plants available. Local experts will share advice for those who want to learn how to grow the plant on their own. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 9am-12pm
ANGLING/ECOLOGY
The art of tying flies for fly fishing combines scientific knowledge, fine motor skills, and creativity. While many flies are created for use as bait, some are created for artistic displays. Pioneer Valley Trout Unlimited (PVTU) will be providing a free introduction to the art and ecology of fly fishing, teaching participants how to create (“tie”) the lures called “flies.” You will also learn about the insects that trout and other fish eat, and the relationship between fish populations and land conservation. Registration is required via the Kestrel Land Trust website. Scarborough Brook Conservation Area. Gulf Road. Belchertown, MA. FREE)Saturday, June 10, 9am-5pm
ANIMAL STUDIES/ICHTHYOLOGY
During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and river ecosystems. The fishway will be open Wednesday through Sundays, through June 18, 2017. For more information, contact the Northfield Mountain Recreation Center. 413-659-3714. 1 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 10am-12pm
GUIDED WALK
Take a stroll around Stanley Park with other community members to support accessibility! The Wheel Walk is accessible to those with wheelchairs, walkers and strollers. All are welcome. The walk will start and end at the Pavilion Anex. Register on the Stanley Park website. Refreshments and a cookout will be provided. Proceeds will promote accessibility initiatives for the park. For more information call 413-568-9312 x112 or x108. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. ($)Saturday, June 10, 10am-4pm
UPCYCLING/FIBER ARTS
Do you have any old jeans or corduroys that don’t fit anymore? You can make them into a picnic blanket and practice your sewing skills while you do so! A workshop at Shire City Sanctuary invites students to bring eight to ten pairs of discarded jeans, as well as eight yards of two inch wide cotton twill tape, and learn how to create a picnic blanket. Holes, stains, and other blemishes can be covered with fun, decorative patchwork. Patching materials will be provided. Experience using a sewing machine is necessary. Registration is required and space is limited. To register, please send payment of a comfortable amount to Crispinaffrench@paypal.com or Crispina ffrench. 413-236-9600. 40 Melville Street. Pittsfield, MA. (DONATION)
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
Did you know that you can meet local artists and explore galleries in Shelburne Falls, every second Saturday of the month? The June event will coincide with the Friends of the Arms Library Book Sale, from 10am-3pm, where you can buy used books and in doing so support programming, operations and special projects at the library. The Crescent Dancers, Western Mass’ belly dancing group, will perform at the library at 1pm. See paintings, photography, film and more in Salmon Falls Gallery, Shelburne Arts Cooperative, and The Art Garden to name a few! Various locations. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 10:30am
PARENTING
Oasis Camp offers specialty programs for children from 3 years old to 6th grade! With amazing facilities at Smith College, Oasis features mature staff with low camper/staff ratio and a warm environment where kids can participate in activities tailored to their interests! The Early Start camp for kids 3 years to Kindergarten offers sports, daily Red Cross swim, arts, dance, theater and a Ready for September enrichment program. The Traditional Camp (1st- 6th graders) is designed to provide campers with sports, crafts, theater, dance, Red Cross instruction and recreational swim time to further develop skills and confidence. Come to their open house on June 10 to find out more! Contact: 800-317-1392. Smith College Seeley Hall Rm. 101. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 11am
MUSIC STUDIES/FAMILY MUSIC
Family concerts are a great way for parents to get out of the house, meet other families, and introduce their children to positive musical experiences catered just for them. The members of acoustic Pop Rock Duo “The Big Littles” are both parents of toddlers, and draw inspiration from daily life in the writing of their music. Stylistically, they are influenced by performers such as Harry Belafonte. See them at Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art as part of an ongoing Family Concert Series. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$; Babies under 12 months FREE)
CRAFT
Father’s Day is around the corner! Bring your child to the Meekins Library where they will be able to create a gift and card in honor of dad! Meet other families as you craft your gifts together and prepare for the holiday. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE)
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
Street festivals encourage people to check out new towns, or new areas of their own towns that they haven’t seen before. Easthampton’s annual Cultural Chaos features music, puppetry, a farmers’ market, vendors, a petting zoo, and much more. Visit the Cultural Chaos website for a full list of performances and activities for this day-long, family-friendly event! Meet other art lovers and support local art. Various locations. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 1pm
WOMEN’S HISTORY/LOCAL HISTORY
Witchcraft is an inextricable part of local and New England history. Born in England and later a resident of Hadley, Mary Webster was an accused witch who was hanged. Margaret Atwood dedicated her book The Handmaid’s Tale to Mary Webster in honor of this tragedy. Bridget Marshall, professor at UMass Lowell, will be giving a talk about Mary Webster at the Hadley Historical Society. 413-587-2623. 12 Middle Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE)
CREATIVE FREE PLAY
The Common School will host a Pop-up Playground on Saturday, June 10. This free event is open to the public. Pop Up Adventure Playgrounds are joyful sessions of child-directed play created with scores of loose parts, such as cardboard boxes, tubes, rope, and fabric. Kids are free to make a beautiful mess and discover, or remember, the simple joys of creative, old-school play with other children and on their own. The Play Workshop will be present to support their adventure. 413-256-8989. 521 South Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 1pm-4pm
COLLABORATIVE CONSUMPTION
If you’re not a naturally mechanical person you may have broken items in need of relatively simple repairs. You can get these repairs done with the help of volunteer “fixers” at Northampton’s first community Repair workshop! Residents are invited to bring a household item or two in need of repair, and a crew of handy fix-it volunteers will attempt to fix it free of charge! Volunteers will be available to sharpen knives, repair bicycles, fix clothing, bags, and backpacks, repair small appliances and provide simple computer assistance. Various tools and basic supplies will be available. Visit the Northampton town website for details as they evolve. Community repair is a sharing economy movement which promotes repair rather than replacement of durable household items, and gets community members working together and sharing skills. Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School. 413-584-1414. 80 Locust Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 2pm
HISTORY
How has the culture of higher education classes changed over the years? Head of Special Collections and Archives at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Rob Cox, will be giving a talk, “Call me Professor, or, Students and Respect on Campus,” to explore these issues. He will put questions about generational differences in a broad historical context. This presentation is partly a response to the recent article, U Can’t Talk To Ur Professor Like This which has sparked conversations about etiquette in college classes. Historic Northampton. 413-584-6011. 46 Bridge Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 10, 2pm-5pm
LOCAL HISTORY/LATINX CULTURE
Are you interested in local history? What about Latino history? The Holyoke Public Library has created an archive of local Latino family history materials. Join the Library as they open the Cada Familia Tiene Una Historia (Every Family Has a Story) exhibit. Speakers include Ramón Borges-Méndez from Clark University presenting, “The Making of Puerto Rican and Latino Communities in the Northeastern U.S,” and Joel Blanco-Rivera (University of Puerto Rico) presenting “Community Archives: an introduction and community conversation.” Refreshments will be provided. Holyoke Public Library. 413-420-8101. 250 Chestnut Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
PLACEMAKING/THEATER
Come to the Town of Conway’s 250th Anniversary Celebration over two weekends! On June 10, the festivities continue with six superb short plays. Short plays are an interesting theatrical experience as they pack all the action into a short time frame (great for short attention spans). The celebration continues on June 15 – 18 with tons of family-friendly activities. Call 413-369-4301 to reserve your play tickets. Conway Sportsman’s Club. 193 Elmer Road. Conway, MA. ($)Saturday, June 10, 7:30pm
CIRCUS ARTS
Circus arts require an array of impressive skills including flexibility, focus, balance, dexterity, strength, and theatrical, performative skills. The New England Center for Circus Arts Performance Training Program is a selective and highly-regarded program with graduates going on to work with Cirque du Soleil, Ringling Bros, and other well-known companies. People of all ages are invited to attend their showcase in the Austine Gymnasium. Gain inspiration from their gravity defying feats. You can purchase tickets on brownpapertickets.com. 209 Austine Drive. Brattleboro, VT. ($ – $$)
Sunday, June 11, 2017
Sunday, June 11, 8:30am-9:30am
ORNITHOLOGY
You don’t have to go deep into the woods to spot and identify birds. Adults and families with children ages six and older are invited on a beginner urban birding walk! Take a guided stroll through Holyoke Heritage State Park to identify and learn about the birds who make their home there. Bring binoculars if you have them. Meet in the visitor’s center lobby. Rain cancels. 413-534-1723. 221 Appleton Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)Sunday, June 11, 10:30am-11:30am
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Armed with a field guide and binoculars, what will your child find? Come to the Great Falls Discovery Center for an outdoor adventure. Families are invited to play Bike Path B-I-N-G-O, a game which will challenge you to find out how much you can spot outside in the natural world. Meet at the main entrance to the Center. Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen and wear sturdy shoes. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)Sunday, June 11, 12pm
COMMUNITY MEAL/POLISH CULTURE
Experience Polish culture in one of the most enjoyable ways possible…by eating an authentic Polish meal! St. Valentine’s Church invites you to enjoy golabki, pierogies, kielbasa, and more among other community members. There will also be a performance by the Polish Dance Group. 127 King Street. Northampton, MA. ($)Sunday, June 11, 12pm-4pm
LOCAL HISTORY
Wistariahurst, former home of prominent silk manufacturer William Skinner, now serves as a cultural and educational center. Wistariahurst helps to preserve Holyoke history through educational programs, exhibits and special events. This 1874 estate is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors are invited to engage in self-directed tours, Sundays through Tuesdays, including tours of the art gallery. Group tours (5+ people) are available additional hours by appointment. 413-322-5660. 238 Cabot Street. Holyoke, MA. (DONATION)
THEATER
You don’t have to leave the country to see international theater! Watch Peter Pan in HD at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, the next-best thing to a live performance in person. This recorded performance of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale was captured at the National Theater in London. When Peter Pan, leader of the Lost Boys, loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to Neverland, where Tinkerbell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. A riot of magic, music and make-believe ensues. A delight for children and adults alike, Sally Cookson (NT Live: Jane Eyre) directs this wondrously inventive production, a co-production with Bristol Old Vic theatre. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. ($$)Sunday, June 11, 3pm-4pm
ART STUDIES
You may think of artists like Picasso as completely independent thinkers, creating amazing work alone. Like many artists, however, Picasso utilized the power of collaboration, working frequently with the printers who helped him create his copper plates, the foundries who cast his bronzes, and the publishers who sold his prints. Manton Curator of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs Jay A. Clarke will explain how these collaborations helped fuel and strengthen Picasso’s artwork, in a lecture at the Clark Art Institute. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (Adults $; Clark members, children 18 and younger, and students with valid ID FREE)Sunday, June 11, 3:30pm
SCULPTURE
Outdoor sculpture works are often created in a kind of artistic conversation with the landscapes they inhabit. You can explore several outdoor artworks at the SculptureNow Opening Reception. The artist-led guided tour is a wonderful opportunity to stroll the grounds of The Mount and learn about the large-scale sculptures – what materials were used, how they were made, how they were transported, how long it took to make them, and more. The tour will meet in the Stable. A 5pm reception on the Terrace will follow. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
PLACEMAKING/COMMUNITY MEAL
Living in the hilltowns can be isolating. Come out and meet other community members at the Hilltown Bash in Cummington! Bring a labeled dish to share for the potluck community picnic, bring friends, and enjoy the festivities, rain or shine. In the covered pavilion, The Picky Bastards will play their folk rock, americana tunes, and New England bluegrass. All ages are welcome. Pettingill Park Pavilion. Main Street. Cummington, MA. (DONATION)Sunday, June 11, 6pm
MUSIC STUDIES
New England Swing and Motown band, The O-Tones, has been playing all over New England since 1990. Over the course of time, various singers and instrumentalists have lent their talents to the band’s fun and professional swing, Motown, blues, and soul sound. The group is a 6-piece band with three singers, sax, guitar, piano, bass, and drums. They will be playing a family-friendly concert in Stanley Park. All are welcome. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
AGRICULTURAL STUDIES
There are many different types of farms, growing different crops or raising animals. Farmers’ markets and community supported agriculture (farm shares) are growing trends in many communities, but dairy farmers are often left out of these markets. Over the past 50 years, New England has lost over 10,000 conventional dairy farms. Family operated farms have been impacted by drought as well as low priced milk and other dairy products from corporate farms. The documentary Forgotten Farms explores cultural divides in New England’s farm and food communities with a focus on conventional dairy farmers who have been affected by these trends. You can see the film at Memorial Hall followed by a Q and A session with the filmmakers! Screening this film and asking questions can teach you about local history, as well as national economic trends, from a personal perspective. 51 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE)Sunday, June 11, 7:30pm
CIRCUS ARTS
Circus arts require an array of impressive skills including flexibility, focus, balance, dexterity, strength, and theatrical, performative skills. The New England Center for Circus Arts Performance Training Program is a selective and highly-regarded program with graduates going on to work with Cirque du Soleil, Ringling Bros, and other well-known companies. People of all ages are invited to attend their showcase in the Austine Gymnasium. Gain inspiration from their gravity defying feats. You can purchase tickets on brownpapertickets.com. 209 Austine Drive. Brattleboro, VT. ($ – $$)
Monday, June 12, 2017
Storyhour & Playgroups: East Longmeadow, Pelham & Whately
Monday, June 12, 1pm-2:30pm
FIBER ARTS/LOCAL HISTORY
A hands-on program at Holyoke Heritage State Park invites families with children ages five and older to learn about local history through fiber arts! Though it is now known as the “Paper City,” Holyoke was once home to many textile mills. Thread and fine silks were woven in Holyoke. Families can learn more about this history while engaging in simple weaving of their own. Meet in the Visitor’s Center lobby. 413-534-1723. 221 Appleton Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)Monday June 12, 5pm-7pm
ART STUDIES
If you are an artist, exploring contemporary work by local artists can help you to maintain inspiration and drive. A new exhibit at the Forbes Library will feature work by Jan Ruby-Crystal and Ellen Augarten. In this exhibit, their work is “driven by light, shadows, nature and most recently, fences” and includes mixed media, three-dimensional pieces, photographic prints, and collaborations between Jan and Ellen. Come to the reception on June 12 to celebrate their work among other art lovers. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Monday, June 12, 6pm-7pm
YOGA/INTERGENERATIONAL
Want to take a yoga class with your child? Children ages ten and up are welcome to yoga classes in Stanley Park! A certified instructor will lead participants of all levels through foundation yoga poses and breathing exercises. Yoga In The Park will take place weekly through July 3. Bring your own mat and any props as needed; wear comfortable and stretchy clothes. You may sign up by emailing gdelmastro@stanleypark.org or call 413-568-9312 ext. 112 or register at the park at your first class where registration forms will be available. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (<$)
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Tuesday, June 13, 9:30am-11am
NATURE STUDIES
The average American child spends about thirty minutes of their day in unstructured, outdoor play, and more than seven hours in front of a screen (see this report for more information). Most people intuitively understand the connection between time spent in nature and positive well-being. Fresh air and exercise keep our bodies in shape and our minds focused. But did you know that time spent outdoors in childhood is also correlated with better distance vision? For young, developing children, the benefits are endless. You and your child can increase your time spent outdoors by participating in a nature playgroup at Naumkeag. The playgroup is best-suited for three to six year olds. It is not stroller friendly, though babies in arms are welcome. Participants, both children and caregivers, can expect to get very dirty and explore some of the most remote corners of the property. Registration is required. Call 413-298-3239 ex 3013. 5 Prospect Hill. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 10:30am-12pm
ENTOMOLOGY/ZOOLOGY
The sound of crickets, among other bugs and animals, can be relaxing for adults. But children may feel curious and even a little afraid of all those mysterious nighttime noises. Families with children ages five and older are invited to “Night Noises: WHO is Going Bump in My Night?!” to learn about nocturnal creatures which share our local habitat. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the visitor’s center in Holyoke Heritage State Park. 413-534-1723. 221 Appleton Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 1pm-2pm
HORTICULTURE
Arranging flowers in a bouquet is a thoughtful art, appealing to gardeners and anyone with an eye for color and form. You can plant a cutting garden specifically for this purpose, and pick flowers with abandon, year-round! You won’t have to worry about damaging your perennial garden if you plant some flowers specifically for the purpose of cutting. Carol Platt has been a garden columnist for 23 years, and a served as editor at House and Garden magazine. She will be giving a presentation on how to create a cutting garden, with The Longmeadow Gardeners at the Storrs Library 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 5:30pm-6:30pm
MUSIC STUDIES
Songwriting combines musical and literary creativity. Writing songs allows you to express yourself in a way which also benefits the listener as you brighten their day with your music. Local musician and songwriter Michael Lesko will be running a songwriting workshop for teens and adults at the Mason Library. No musical background is necessary. Lesko is a former Berklee College of Music student; he will help participants explore the vulnerability of songwriting and musical performance. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 5:30pm-8pm
ART STUDIES/PASTEL
Do you like working with pastels? Unlike paint, pastel is mixed and blended on the canvas. There are more than a dozen different artistic techniques for using pastels. You can improve your pastel artwork, or try it out for the first time, by attending a hands-on workshop run by the classically trained artist Greg Maichack. Participants will be able to experiment with professional-grade materials while creating their own pastel painting of Georgia O’Keeffe’s elegant Jimson flower that sold for just short of $45 million. Tolland Town Hall. Call 413-258-4201 to register. 241 West Granville Road. Tolland, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 6pm
ZOOLOGY/POLLINATORS
The term “pollinator” refers to any animal which helps bring about the fertilization of flowers by transferring pollen between males and females of the species. Bees are perhaps the most well-known example, but other insects such as wasps, and even mammals (rodents and lemurs for example) can pollinate plants. Increasing nesting sites such as meadow grasses can help pollinators thrive. Tom Sullivan of Welcome Pollinators will speak on how to assist pollinators to proliferate on our home landscapes, at the Greenfield Public Library. Learn what you can do to help securing our food supply and encouraging pollinators. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 6:30pm
STORYTELLING/IMMIGRATION STUDIES
Storytelling isn’t just for kids! The Sunderland Public Library Short Story Series features local actors reading short stories aloud to a live audience. On June 13, Linda Putnam of Northampton
will read “Two Kinds,” by Amy Tan, and Kim Mancuso of Ashfield will read “Hell-Heaven,” by Jhumpa Lahiri. Both stories concern immigration experiences, providing insight into this topic through an entertaining and creative means. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 13, 6:30pm-8pm
CULINARY ARTS
The building and using of earthen ovens is an ancient art dating back 3,400 years in Egypt. It’s also an easy and inexpensive way to prepare exciting meals while enjoying the company of your family, friends, and nature. You can learn about backyard ovens in a workshop led by Ashley Schenk of Broadfork Permaculture. The workshop will cover oven construction, use, and modern adaptations for a variety of designs. You will learn how to create the perfect gathering space in your backyard for this summer. Learn how to cook delicious pizzas and artisan breads outside while enjoying the beautiful summer weather! River Valley Co Op. Registration is required. 413-584-2665. 330 North King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
Wednesday, June 14, 10:30am-11:30am
ECOLOGY/ANIMAL STUDIES
Besides humans…what kinds of species occupy our local habitat? Look no further than Holyoke Heritage State Park to find creatures such as birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and insects. Families with children ages four and older are invited to an animal exploration program combined with talks on natural history, storytelling, puppetry, games and more at the park! Meet in the Visitor’s Center lobby. 413-534-1723. 221 Appleton Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, June 14, 6:30pm
MUSIC STUDIES/WORLD MUSIC
Outdoors concerts in the Sunken Garden at Porter-Phelps-Huntington Museum are a family-friendly, local musical tradition! On June 14, you can hear Viva Quental play a mix of genres from World Music to Afro-Andean to Latin to Jazz Fusion. They perform with an array of exotic and familiar instruments. Picnickers are welcome on the museum grounds beginning at 5:00 pm. 413-584-4699 . 130 River Drive, Hadley MA. ($; children 16 and under <$)Wednesday, June 14, 7:30pm
HISTORY
Teens and adults who enjoy spooky stories and exploring unfamiliar places will enjoy taking a “ghost tour” at The Mount. Syfy’s Ghost Hunters found The Mount to be full of eerie experiences. Whether or not you believe in anything supernatural, these tours are a fun and unique way of learning about history, as you tour the grounds of a place that was once a home to writers such as Edith Wharton, as well as actors, wealthy families, and hardworking servants. This program is not recommended for children under twelve. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. ($)Wednesday, June 14, 7:30pm-9pm
ECOLOGY/BEAVERS
From afar, a beaver dam looks like a big pile of sticks, but a closer examination reveals careful construction and cool inner architecture! Through the creation of dams, beavers have had profound effects on plant, animal, and microbial communities across the country. Learn more about our country’s largest rodent and their relationship within our ecosystem by visiting the beaver ponds at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. This program is suitable for ages three and up. Wear long pants, long sleeves, and a hat. Bring binoculars if you have them. Registration suggested but not required. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. (<$)
Thursday, June 15, 2017
Thursday, June 15, 12:15pm-1pm
LOCAL HISTORY
Theodore Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, drew inspiration for his stories from the neighborhoods of Springfield. This is an immense source of pride for many of us who call western Massachusetts our home. Geisel also strove to write books that were appealing to very young children just learning to read. He limited his vocabulary down to a small number of distinct words and used simple words that a young person would know. You can learn more about this local, creative genius in a lunchtime lecture at the Springfield Museums. Donald E. Pease, Geisel Third Century Professor in the Humanities at Dartmouth College will discuss Geisel’s life and prolific writing career. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. (<$)Thursday, June 15, 4:30pm
YOGA/MINDFULNESS
Yoga and writing are two activities which can be combined with mindfulness for relaxation and a greater understanding of your emotions. Yoga instructor Kristina Mose-Lion and writing instructor Abby Forcier will be leading a relaxation and writing workshop for youth at the Holyoke Public Library. Participants will explore their feelings through writing, learn basic yoga stretches, meditation, and write a reflection on this process. No experience is required. Registration is required. This workshop is for ages ten to fifteen. Mats, blocks, straps, and writing materials will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. 413-420-8101. 250 Chestnut Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)Thursday, June 15, 5:30pm-7:30pm
SERVICE-BASED LEARNING
Volunteer work supports the community while providing individual volunteers with valuable new skills and experiences. But how do you decide where to volunteer? Where do you begin? The Springfield Library Mason Square Branch is making it easy with their Volunteer Fair. A variety of organizations will be represented, including the Dakin Humane Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, United Way of Pioneer Valley, Horizons for Homeless Children, Mason Square Health Task Force, Make-it Springfield, and the Springfield City Library. Learn about the work environment of an interesting organization by assisting them. 413-263-6853. 765 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)Thursday, June 15, 6pm-8pm
PLACEMAKING/MUSIC STUDIES
Warm weather and longer stretches of daylight allow us new opportunities to meet and connect with our neighbors and other community members, many of whom we may not have seen during the cold, winter months. Bring a lawn chair, or set up a picnic with friends and family at this Co Op Concert in Greenfield. Sharing a meal, meeting someone new, appreciating the built and natural landscapes, and enjoying live music all play a part in placemaking. You can also explore the gardens. This concert will feature Russ Thomas, Katie Clarke, and Small Change. Come hear bluegrass, country, swing, jazz, folk and more in Energy Park. 50 Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)Thursday, June 15, 6:30pm
SOCIAL JUSTICE/FILM STUDIES
The term “intersectionality” is used to address the fact that different aspects of identity, such as race, sexual orientation, gender, and many others, intersect. In order to work against racism, we must acknowledge that race does not exist in a vacuum, and that individuals experience racism differently due to their other intersecting identities. You can learn more about intersectionality by viewing the video series, #RaceAnd, at the Jones Library. Each short video features a different artist, activist, or thinker, sharing their experience of how race intertwines with their other identities. The film will be followed by a brief discussion and an opportunity to continue work on some local anti-racism action projects. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Thursday, June 15, 6:30pm
YOGA
Did you know you can do yoga comfortably seated in a chair? Seated yoga still improves muscle tone, flexibility, and strength, just like standing yoga poses. Yoga of any kind can help you sleep and breathe better by decreasing stresses and helping you draw attention to your breath. You can learn seated yoga poses, no experience necessary, at the Gaylord Memorial Library. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
Friday, June 16, 2017
Live music & kids activities at ball field on Friday from 5-9pm. Fireworks at 9pm.
Friday, June 16, 10am-5pm
ART STUDIES/SCULPTURE
Chesterwood celebrates and commemorates the work of Daniel Chester French, the sculptor best known for his statue of Abraham Lincoln (1920) created for the Lincoln Memorial. But what does contemporary sculpture look like? You can view the work of fifteen contemporary artists in a new exhibition, Contemporary Sculpture, at Chesterwood. The exhibition was guest curated by Sharon Bates. 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($$; Ages 17 and under <$)Friday, June 16, 3pm
PUBLIC HEALTH/FUNDRAISING
The 20th annual Relay For Life will kick off on June 16 in Look Park. Relay For Life provides an opportunity to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost and fight back against the disease through solidarity, education, and fundraising for cancer research. During the Survivor’s Lap, survivors will be invited to walk a lap around the track to honor their courage and resilience. The Luminaria Ceremony will follow at 9 p.m. to recognize those who have passed on and offer hope and comfort to others. 413-584-5457. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. (DONATION)Friday, June 16, 7pm
CHEMISTRY/STEM
People often talk about “chemicals” in our food, water, or hygiene products in reference to possibly toxic or carcinogenic ingredients. Some chemicals certainly are dangerous to humans, but EVERYTHING is made up of chemicals! But what is the exact definition of a chemical, anyway? The Merriam-Webster definition of “chemical,” reads A substance obtained by a chemical process or producing a chemical effect. And chemistry is the study of how chemicals interact and react with one another. Learn more about everyday chemical reactions by reading our post, Chemistry is F9 U92 N7!. Junior scientists between the ages of five and sixteen can learn about chemistry through a fascinating range of demonstrations at the 4th Annual Chemistry Demonstration Show. For information or to RSVP contact Raina Kittilstved at rkittilstved@chem.umass.edu. University of Massachusetts Amherst Integrated Sciences Building. Room 135. 661 North Pleasant Street. Amherst MA. (FREE)
Hilltown Families’ list of Weekly Suggested Events is supported in part by a grant from the Amherst, Ashfield, Bernardston, Chester, Chesterfield, Conway, Erving, Heath, Holyoke, Ludlow, Montague, Montgomery, Pelham, Rowe, Russell, Shutesbury, South Hadley, Springfield, Ware, and Warwick Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
