Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events 10/31/09-11/06/09
SUGGEST AN EVENT
Rag Shag Parade in Ashfield, MA, 2007. (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.
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.
WEEKLY LIST OF SUGGESTED EVENTS
Suggest an Event | Local Forecast | School Closings and Delays | Free Museum Passes | Family Centers (Ages 0-4)
Events Happening in the Hilltowns
RAG SHAG PARADES ON HALLOWEEN
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.
SATURDAY
- 10am – HALLOWEEN EVENT / PERFORMANCE: On Halloween morning, Grammy-winning cellist Eugene Friesen presents “CELLOMAN” at the Northampton Center for the Arts. Using music, masks, storytelling and humor CelloMan brings music to young listeners in a dramatic and imaginative way. Yo-Yo Ma said “”Hooray for you, Eugene, and for ‘CelloMan!’ I really love the ideas you present, and the creative ways you have stretched the limits of the cello to engage the audience’s imagination.” www.celloman.com, www.nohoarts.org 413.584.7327 Northampton MA
- 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
SUNDAY
- 2pm – PERFORMANCE ART / DANCE: Members of six area dance companies and schools present their semi-annual benefit performance for the Northampton Center for the Arts. The dance concert features Academy of Ballet Arts, Hilltown Dance Center, New England Dance Quarters Performance Troupe, Northampton School of Dance, Pioneer Valley Ballet, and Terpsichore Ensemble. 413.584.7327 http://www.nohoarts.org Northampton, MA
SATURDAY
WHAT: Open House at ArtStar Creative Arts Lounge
WHERE: 11 Williams Street (Rt.9) in Williamsburg, MA
WHEN: 6-8pm on Halloween Evening
ArtStar invites trick-or-treater’s and their parents to stop by on Halloween evening from 6-8pm for their open house. Special treats will be handed out to trick-or-treater’s while supplies last. Come see what exciting programs and workshops are offered and view some of the great art that has been created this fall at ArtStar! ArtStar is located on Route 9 (11 Williams Street) in downtown Williamsburg, MA. For more information about ArtStar, visit on-line at http://www.artstarlounge.com. Reminder- New session of 6 week programs begin week of Nov.2nd -there are still openings in Boy’s Group, Girl’s Group and our 5-8 year olds – Exploring Art Group!
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SUNDAY
7:45pm – SAMHAIN: 29th Annual Samhain Celebration at North East American School of Dance (4th floor of the Fitzwilly’s building). Northampton, MA http://www.earthspirit.com/events/sam_west.html
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SUNDAY
Among the Deserted Homesteads Historical Hike in Williamsburg @ noon
The Williamsburg Woodland Trails Committee is pleased to present a hike lead by local historian Eric Weber. Participants will visit numerous cellar holes and old wells in the woods off upper Petticoat Hill Road. Eric will discuss the history of the various sites and provide maps and old photos to share. The hike will take approximately three hours. Some portions will be off-trail. All are welcome. (Remember daylight savings time ends the night before. Rain date is Sunday November 8th. If conditions are questionable, check the Williamsburg Woodland Trails website the morning of the hike at WilliamsburgWoodlandTrails.org for up to date information.)
Where: Petticoat Hill Road
Questions??? Call 268-7523
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SUNDAY
Hello out there,
There is a sew this Sunday at The Eastworks building in Easthampton from 1-4 p.m. It will be led by Barbara Crane. Please e mail her if you have a question. All are welcome. Sew and learn to sew or do other jobs if you are not
keen on sewing. We need to replenish bags for Cornucopia and Serios Market in Northampton. The Bagshare Project needs your help!! Here is Barbara’s e mail if you need it. Barbara.crane@charter.net
Thanks!
Leni Fried
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MONDAY
Learn How to Manage Your Family Finances (Free Workshop)
Does your money seem to disappear without you knowing where it is going? Do you have trouble budgeting and/or saving money? Would you like to be more in control of your finances? Here is your chance:
The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (HIlltown CDC) is offering a FREE workshop titled, “Money Management for YOU”. The two-session workshop takes place on Monday, November 2 and November 9 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm at the Hilltown CDC offices at 387 Main Road in Chesterfield. Pre-registration is required. Contact Paul Lischetti at paull@hilltowncdc.org or (413) 296-4536 ext. 34 to pre-register. Be among the first to register and earn a chance to win fantastic Hilltown door prizes!
Whether you have $10 or $10,000 in the bank, this workshop will open your eyes to a new financial lifestyle. You will learn about budgeting, credit, investments and more! Sign up today and make the first step toward taking charge of your finances. Can’t make these dates? Call now to get on the early-bird list to sign up for the next workshop.
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MONDAY
Mondays in Northampton (FREE)
Knitting & Crochet Circle
Forbes Library
Mondays from 10 to noon
Do you enjoy knitting, crocheting, or some other type of yarn craft or
would you like to start or improve on a yarn craft? You are invited to
the Forbes Library’s Knitting & Crochet circle. This group is a casual
place to meet other yarn crafters of all kinds and experience levels and
share crafting tips and pleasant conversation. Bring your projects in
progress or ideas for new ones.
This group is starting up again for the fall and will meet weekly on
Monday mornings from 10-12 in the cozy Arts & Music magazine lounge.
This circle is facilitated by Nancy Pulley who has experience in
knitting, crocheting, sewing and numerous varieties of crafts, both
personal and for shows. In Nancy’s own words, “I started when I was 12,
so I have been doing these hobbies for 52 years now. WOW, am I old. I am
extremely active, walk everyday, play tennis, bike ride, line dance,
zumba, yoga, watercolor, colored pencil and an avid reader and love
being in a library environment. Can never stop learning!”
Location: A&M Magazine Lounge
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MONDAY
Ongoing yoga classes are offered at the Belding Memorial Library Saturday mornings at 10:30 a.m. and Monday evenings at 6:00 p.m. The use of props enables students of all ages and physical capabilities to access the benefits of yoga practice, which include increased strength and flexibility, stress reduction and improved overall health.
Please go to http://www.ashfieldyoga.com for class and schedule information, email miriamzoll@mac.com or call 413-268-3053 for more information.
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TUESDAY
Hancock Shaker Village (Pittsfield, MA) members and children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Admission for adults is $ $16.50 and youth visitors aged 13 to 17 are $8. Tuesdays from 3pm to 5pm, admission is free. The Village is open from 10am to 5pm daily. For more information, call 800.817.1137 or go to http://www.hancockshakervillage.org.
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TUESDAY
Cricket on the Hearth at The Hartsbrook School in Hadley.
The Cricket on the Hearth Program creates a place for children to play and form relationships in an environment that also fosters support and inspiration for parents.
Parent Toddler/Parent Infant Programs, 9-11:30 am, Monday through Friday
The fall session is 12-14 classes beginning the week of September 14. Parent/ Infant Class is available on Tuesday mornings beginning September 15 from 9:30-11am. Please go to http://www.hartsbrook.org for more information or to register for Cricket, or call 413-584-3198.
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TUESDAY
Cradle’s First MaternaTea/Pregnancy 101 Gathering @ 6pm
Newly Expecting? Lots of Questions? We have Answers!
Faciliated by childbirth educators Vicki Elson CCE and Ann Buscemi CCE who both have more than 25 years of experience working with pregnant women and their famlies in the Pioneer Valley, this gathering is an opportuntiy to meet others expecting families and learn about the variety of resources available for pregnancy, birth and early parenting in the community. Vicki and Ann have the experience to answer most any question you might have — so bring your question and ask away! You only have THIS baby once, so why not learn more about creating your unique experience. This event is FREE and open to the public.
The MaternaTea/Pregnancy 101 event will repeat every month on the 1st Tuesday (Upcoming Dates: 12/1, 1/5 & 2/2). Spread the word!
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TUESDAY
Red Gate Farm
Mornings on the Farm
October 27 – November 17
10:00am – 11:30am
Come to the farm and see all of the seasonal changes that are taking place. Will the sheep be hunkered down in the barn, or will they be enjoying the foliage near their pasture? When will our youngest chickens lay their first eggs? How thick will the oxen’s winter coat become? What yummy treats await us in the fall garden? And how, exactly, do you put a garden to bed? Join us as we spend four fun filled mornings together exploring the answers to these questions, participate in fun, hands-on activities, and meet the animals!
If you are an inquisitive youngster between the ages of 0 to 4 years old, grab your favorite adult and come on down to Red Gate Farm! The program runs every Tuesday morning through the fall. Sign up for either (or both) of our four week sessions this fall.
Please call the Farm Office to register. Register for a four week session • $20/adult, $10/child, babies under 6 months are free
Red Gate Farm Office (413) 625-9503
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TUESDAY
Worthington Health Center will be offering free infant massage classes at the Worthington Library. Open to all families with babies under 1yo. Free childcare for older kids. And transportation assistance is available. 413-238-5511 x155
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TUESDAY
Tuesday, November 3rd in Buckland, MA at Red Gate Farm
http://www.redgatefarm.org
Moonlight Hike
Tuesday, November 3, 7:30pm – 8:30pm
Come for a prowl in our moonlit woods and fields! The moon will light our way as we discover twilight and night time in the outdoors. We will listen for owls and other wildlife and use our senses to explore the natural world at this special time. Young children are welcome, but should be accompanyied by an adult.
All ages welcome.
Please call the Farm Office for hike confirmation.
Free for all.
Red Gate Farm Office (413) 625-9503
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WEDNESDAY
On-going Events at the Meekins Library in Williamsburg, MA
Every Wednesday at 10:30 am – Note new time (FREE)
Preschool Storytime
with Children’s Librarian Rochelle Wildfong
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WEDNESDAY
Wednesday, November 4th in Amherst, MA
UMass Amherst
Global Arts: Performances for Schools and Home School Families
All performances start at 10AM and run approximately one hour unless otherwise noted*
Tickets: $6 student; $8 adult
Please call 413-545-2116 for tickets and information
Wednesday, 11/4
American Shakespeare Center: Romeo and Juliet
A classic performance featuring a multicultural cast
Grades 7-12
*Note: This performance is 2 hours in length
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WEDNESDAY
Wednesday, November 4th in Amherst, MA
UMass Amherst Global Arts: Performances for Schools and Home School Families
All performances start at 10AM and run approximately one hour unless otherwise noted
Tickets: $6 student; $8 adult
Please call 413-545-2116 for tickets and information
American Shakespeare Center: Romeo and Juliet
A classic performance featuring a multicultural cast
Grades 7-12
*Note: This performance is 2 hours in length
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THURSDAY
On-going Events at the Meekins Library in Williamsburg, MA
Every Thursday, October 8 – December 17 at 9:30 and 10:30 am ($$)
Hilltown Music Together
Music and movement for children newborn through kindergarten and their families
Call for rates. Siblings under eight months free. Tuition includes two professionally recorded CDs, songbook, and Music Together at Home DVD.
To register, or for more information, call Lui Collins at (413) 268-0197 or see The Hilltown Music Together website.
Scholarship aid available, please ask if needed.
Every Thursday, October 8 – December 17 at 4:00 pm ($$)
Kids’ Jam
Music and movement for “big kids”, ages 5-7 and their parents.
Pilot program created and taught by Hilltown Music Together director Lui Collins. Traditional songs and singing games with additional songs composed by Lui specifically for KIDS’ JAM. With Djembe drum circle, solfege, and rhythm play.
Call for rates. Tuition includes two professionally recorded CDs and songbook.
To register, or for more information, call Lui Collins at (413) 268-0197 or see The Hilltown Music Together website.
Scholarship aid available, please ask if needed.
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FRIDAY
Friday, November 6th in Williamstown, MA
New parents are invited to a free gallery talk at the Clark at 10:15 am. Moms and dads, along with their babies, will enjoy a relaxing hour discovering and discussing art in the Clark collection. Parents may bring strollers or carry their infants in the galleries. Backpack-style infant carriers are not permitted in the galleries. Front-hanging carriers are welcome. The Clark, 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. http://www.clarkart.edu, 413-458-2303.