Source: https://hilltownfamilies.wordpress.com/2019/04/11/041319041919/
Timestamp: 2019-04-25 13:51:08+00:00

Document:
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach.
With over 8,800 opt-in subscribers, 2.5+ million visits to our award-winning web site, and robust social media channels, Hilltown Families can deliver your message each week to over 20,000 folks living throughout the four counties of Western MA via our online network. Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
Spend a fun-filled school vacation week at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA! Enjoy special storytimes with Caldecott Medalist Mordicai Gerstein, Robin Riding, and Susan Verde. See live birds of prey with rehabilitator Tom Ricardi. Enjoy original theatre with The Pineapple Project. Attend an evening event, “Books before Bedtime PJ Party.” Visit the special exhibitions Eric Carle Makes A Book, Illustrated Owls, and Out of the Box: The Graphic Novel Comes of Age. Spend your vacation with art, books, and nature! For a schedule of events, visit www.carlemuseum.org or call 413-559-6300.
New England Center for Circus Arts ♦ People can’t fly, but at NECCA they do. The impossible becomes possible – the person who is shy opens, the one who was introvert expresses, the child who is weak becomes powerful, the teen who is awkward finds grace. Find your strength. Our week long circus skills camps, in America’s newest custom circus trapezium, offer top-notch instruction in a noncompetitive environment that teaches confidence, communication skills, perseverance, self determination, and pride, as well as how to be a fAdd Locationabulous acrobat, aerialist, juggler or clown. Students work in groups by age and ability for the best learning experience and for their youngest students they include art activities and quiet time suited to their learning needs. Circus transforms! Come play! Dates: Jun 18-Aug 17; Age Range of Campers: 3-17yo; Contact: 802-254-9780 ♦ info@necenterforcircusarts.org ♦ www.necenterforcircusarts.org; Location: Brattleboro, VT.
Saturday, April 13, 9-10am – FAMILY RADIO SHOW: Hilltown Family Variety Show. Commercial-free family radio. HFVS Harmony Episode with Guest DJ, Renee Stahl of Renee & Friends. The theme of HFVS this week is harmony. Our guest DJ, Renee Stahl of Renee & Friends, has been singing harmony as long as she can remember. It’s something that comes naturally to her. However, this has been a blessing and a curse, as she hears harmony in everything, from the starting of her computer to the telephone ringing. The basic definition is “ when two things come together and create a pleasant effect,” Harmony is something you need more than one person to do (unless you’re recording). She loves collaborating and singing with others and hopes listeners enjoy this episode and find someone in which to harmonize. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Click here select from over 12 years of archived shows!
Saturday, April 13, 9am-12noon – VOLUNTEERING/PARK CLEAN-UP: Ready to shake off winter and get outside? Look Park could use your help with getting the park grounds spruced up and ready for the warmer weather! They have “tasks” for everyone at any level. It’s a fun morning of community spirit that genuinely benefits your local park! Bring rakes and work gloves if you have them (if not, they’ll have some on hand for you to use). Sports Teams, Scout Troops, and other service organizations are welcome. Please let them know how many are coming by sending an email to ecahillane@lookpark.org or calling the park at 413-584-5457. Ask for Erin or Kristin. Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10am – BOTANY/MYO: Wildflower Seed Bombs at the library! In honor of Earth Day, the library invites folks to come to create Wildflower Seed Bombs. Kids will love making and planting their flower bombs or giving as gifts. Please register at the library. Can’t make it, check out this video to learn how to MYO! Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10am – EGG HUNT: Daley Field. Easthampton, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10am – EASTER EGG HUNT: Hadley Elementary School. Hadley, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10-11am – NATURE-BASED LEARNING: Sounds of Spring Family Science Series at Hitchcock Center for the Environment. 413-256-6006, 845 West St, Amherst, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm – EUROPEAN CRAFT/EASTER: Celebrate the Easter season with a unique opportunity to learn a time-honored Eastern European craft. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum will offer its annual Slavic Easter egg decorating demonstrations and instructional workshops. This Eastern European tradition of creating intricate and beautifully decorated eggs has been passed down for generations. The Slavic Easter egg is a wax-resistant technique which employs aniline dye later in the process. The decorating begins with drawing on the egg with wax, followed by immersion in the dye, with repeated wax drawing and dying as desired. The eggs are uncooked and are “blown” out after the decorating has been completed. The eggs may be displayed, when stored carefully, for an indefinite number of years. Best for ages 12+. RSVP: 413-637-3206. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum former gatehouse. 55 Kemble St., Lenox, MA.
Saturday, April 13, from 10am-4pm – LIVING HISTORY/REVOLUTIONARY MUSTER: Patriot’s Day Revolutionary Muster at Historic Deerfield. This annual living history event is a full day of activities for visitors of all ages throughout the village, including a colonial-era encampment.The Revolution played out in different ways all across Massachusetts as people responded to the news of what happened on April 19, 1775, in Lexington and Concord. This event allows visitors to gain a more vibrant sense of what life was like in early America during this period, and to learn about the response of the residents of Deerfield to this turbulent time in our nation’s history. Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10am-6pm – NATIVE AMERICAN/DANCE: 38th Annual UMass Powwow. The Annual UMass Powwow will bring together Native and non-Native students of the valley together for a day of dancing and celebration! Food, indigenous vendors, and an intertribal dance. Curry Hicks Cage. 1 Hicks Way, Amherst, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10am-8pm – LANGUAGE ARTS/LITERACY: 5th Annual Easthampton Book Fest, a city-wide festival celebrating the rich literary culture of the Pioneer Valley through a variety of forums, workshops, exhibits, and events. Community spaces are activated with author talks, workshops, performances, readings, gallery exhibitions, letterpress demonstrations, panel discussions, a Literary Marketplace, and an annual Kids Book Fest, too! Easthampton, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10:30am – EGG HUNT: Franklin County Rotary. 244 Country Club Rd, Greenfield, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 10:30am-12noon – CITIZEN SCIENCE: Today is Citizen Science Day, an annual event to celebrate and promote all things citizen science: amazing discoveries, incredible volunteers, hardworking practitioners, inspiring projects, and anything else citizen science-related! To participate in Western MA, people of all ages are invited to the Meekins Library for a morning of projects. If you have a personal portable or mobile device, you are encouraged to bring it! Meekins Library. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 11am-3pm – EASTER BUNNY/TROLLEY: Connecticut Trolley Museum annual Easter Bunny Fun Days takes place April 13-14 & 19-20 in East Windsor, CT. Motorwoman Cotton-Tail will be roaming the grounds and posing for pictures from 11am-3pm. Each child will receive an Easter Egg (filled with a surprise) upon completion of a Scavenger Hunt, Bunny Ear Craft and a visit to the Fire Truck Museum (on the same grounds). Take as many trolley rides as you’d like operated by period dressed motorman. Learn about the history of the museum, trolley cars, and artifacts. Visit their theater & gift shop. All activities and Fire Truck Museum entrance are included in admission ($13/Adults; $12/Seniors; $11/Youth (ages 4-12); $4/Children (under age 3). Visit www.ct-trolley.org for hours of operation. East Windsor, CT.
Saturday, April 13, 11am-5pm – STEM/MAKERS FAIR: Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these “makers” to show hobbies, experiments, projects. They call it the Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth – a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. All ages are welcome, open to public, free. Glimpse the future and get inspired! Smith College. Davis Ballroom, 12 Prospect Street. Northampton, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 12noon – EGG HUNT: Atkins Farms Country Market. 1150 West St., South Amherst, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 12:30-2pm – WILDLIFE HABITAT/BATS: Bat Box Building Workshop with Mass Audubon. Bat houses on your property are a great way to support these declining but important predators of flying insects. Get crafty in our cozy red barn and build something that will improve wildlife habitat in your neighborhood. Learn about bats in our area and their natural history. Bat boxes make a great addition to your community, helping to keep away pesky insects like mosquitoes naturally. This hands-on, family-friendly workshop will teach you where and how to place the boxes in ideal habitats. In the end, you get to take them home. No experience necessary. Children free with paying adult. All materials included. Preregister. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 1pm: EGG HUNT: Pine Hill Orchards. 248 Greenfield Road, Colrain, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 2pm – THEATER/SOCIAL ISSUES: Sweat. Winner of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Lynn Nottage’s play deftly and unflinchingly examines the complicated ways race, class, and gender intersect in a struggling factory town. Sweat features well-drawn characters that stir us to think about how we can overlook the various ways hate presents itself and how close it is to us, until we are forced to confront it. This piece engages audiences in an exploration of one of the most critical social topics of our time. Performances will be held in The Curtain Theater at th Fine Arts Center at UMass.151 Presidents Drive, Amherst, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 2pm –TONY AWARD-PULIZTER PRIZE WINNING/BROADWAY MUSICAL: Next to Normal. The award-winning production, which received the 2009 Tony Award for best musical score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize, follows the life of Diana Goodman and her family as she struggles to overcome a longtime battle with mental illness onset by the death of her infant son. Next to Normal explores contemporary issues such as grief, trauma, mental illness, mental health treatment, and the definition of family. It also highlights a small cast of student actors showcasing their individual vocal talents. Performance will be held at the Ely Studio Theatre in the Ely Campus Center. 577 Western Avenue, Westfield, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 2:30-3:30pm – IMPROV/MINDFULNESS: Is there a voice inside your head that sometimes tells you that you’re not good enough? Professional improv comedian and author Pam Victor calls that voice the Evil Mind Meanie, the internal voice of unhelpful judgment that’s frequently in our heads telling us that we’re doing it wrong…plus a whole buffet full of other judgmental and unhelpful negative messages that keep us from tapping into our most creative, productive, authentic selves. Through wise and wise-cracking stories and easy-to-do, fun interactive exercises, Pam provides practical and immediately-applicable techniques for quieting the inner critic, so you can better reach your full potential and life with more joy and ease. Jones Library. 413-259-3223. 43 Amity St, Amherst, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 7:30pm – THEATER/SOCIAL ISSUES: Sweat. Winner of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Lynn Nottage’s play deftly and unflinchingly examines the complicated ways race, class, and gender intersect in a struggling factory town. Sweat features well-drawn characters that stir us to think about how we can overlook the various ways hate presents itself and how close it is to us, until we are forced to confront it. This piece engages audiences in an exploration of one of the most critical social topics of our time. Performances will be held in The Curtain Theater at th Fine Arts Center at UMass.151 Presidents Drive, Amherst, MA.
Saturday, April 13, 8pm – TONY AWARD-PULIZTER PRIZE WINNING/BROADWAY MUSICAL: Next to Normal. The award-winning production, which received the 2009 Tony Award for best musical score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize, follows the life of Diana Goodman and her family as she struggles to overcome a longtime battle with mental illness onset by the death of her infant son. Next to Normal explores contemporary issues such as grief, trauma, mental illness, mental health treatment, and the definition of family. It also highlights a small cast of student actors showcasing their individual vocal talents. Performance will be held at the Ely Studio Theatre in the Ely Campus Center. 577 Western Avenue, Westfield, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 7-8am – FAMILY RADIO SHOW: Hilltown Family Variety Show. Commercial-free family radio. HFVS Harmony Episode with Guest DJ, Renee Stahl of Renee & Friends. The theme of HFVS this week is harmony. Our guest DJ, Renee Stahl of Renee & Friends, has been singing harmony as long as she can remember. It’s something that comes naturally to her. However, this has been a blessing and a curse, as she hears harmony in everything, from the starting of her computer to the telephone ringing. The basic definition is “ when two things come together and create a pleasant effect,” Harmony is something you need more than one person to do (unless you’re recording). She loves collaborating and singing with others and hopes listeners enjoy this episode and find someone in which to harmonize. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Click here select from over 12 years of archived shows!
Sunday, April 14, 8-11am – COMMUNITY MEAL/PANCAKE FUNDRAISER: Middlefield Fair April Pancake Breakfast. When thinking about ways to engage in your community that support your interests, also consider ways to promote your family values. Community meals offer implicit learning opportunities by providing an intergenerational environment for community members of all ages to share stories and make connections at the “kitchen table.” Community meals, like the annual all-you-can-eat Middlefield Fair Pancake Breakfast, raise funds that support community agricultural traditions! Served with local maple syrup and blueberries (Cash only). Middlefield Town Hall, Middlefield, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 9:30am-3pm – ART WORKSHOP/PRINTMAKING: Amanda Barrow is offering a monotype printmaking workshop! Have you ever wanted to make a monotype print? Monotype prints are one-of-a-kind prints, all unique! Imagine painting on a sheet of plastic, placing paper over it, then running it through my printing press. Voila, the image comes out on the paper in reverse to how you painted it. Have fun and play with water-based AKUA inks, brushes, stencils, and different papers to create your one-of-a-kind prints using my printing press. No experience necessary with the printing process; three students maximum per workshop means personal and attentive attention from the teacher. Space is limited and includes AKUA printmaking inks, paper, and materials. No experience necessary. Email for details and to reserve a spot: bridge.arts.1@gmail.com. Easthampton, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 11am-3pm – EASTER BUNNY/TROLLEY: Connecticut Trolley Museum annual Easter Bunny Fun Days takes place April 13-14 & 19-20 in East Windsor, CT. Motorwoman Cotton-Tail will be roaming the grounds and posing for pictures from 11am-3pm. Each child will receive an Easter Egg (filled with a surprise) upon completion of a Scavenger Hunt, Bunny Ear Craft and a visit to the Fire Truck Museum (on the same grounds). Take as many trolley rides as you’d like operated by period dressed motorman. Learn about the history of the museum, trolley cars, and artifacts. Visit their theater & gift shop. All activities and Fire Truck Museum entrance are included in admission ($13/Adults; $12/Seniors; $11/Youth (ages 4-12); $4/Children (under age 3). Visit www.ct-trolley.org for hours of operation. East Windsor, CT.
Sunday, April 14, 11am-4pm – EARTH DAY/FESTIVAL: The Springfield Museums will host an Earth Day Festival with hands-on, environmentally focused activities on the Quadrangle Green. There will be a wide array of environmental education exhibits, programs, and activities. Visitors will learn how they can become better ecological stewards, both locally and globally, and how to promote conservation through everyday actions. Visitors can also view a raptor demonstration and hear live music. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 12-3pm – VOLUNTEERING/PARK CLEAN-UPS: Discovery Yard Garden Volunteer Work Days. The Hitchcock Center is creating a Discovery Yard and Teaching Gardens, and they need your help. The Colleen Kelley Discovery Yard will include natural play structures, log balance beams, a play thicket, a StoryWalk path, and benches and picnic tables for visitors and families to gather. Please register. Hitchcock Center for the Environment. 413-256-6006, 845 West St, Amherst, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 12-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Leonardo’s 567th Birthday Weekend! Join the Berkshire Museum for a day of special activities to celebrate the life of Leonardo da Vinci, born on April 15, 1452. Can you innovate like Leonardo da Vinci? Using design thinking strategies, create and test contraptions based on simple machines. Docents will be on hand to answer questions and assist with the interactive components in the exhibit, Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion. Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South St, Pittsfield, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 1-2pm – MARINE BIOLOGY: Discovery Tank Program. Meet the creatures who live in tide pools in this hands-on gallery program. Experience a tide pool tank and learn about the wonders of hermit crabs, sea stars, sea urchins, and other crustaceans, right in your hands. Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South St, Pittsfield, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 1-3pm – DELTIOLOGY: PVMA Presents: The Secret World of Deltiology, the study of postcards! The field of deltiology has a loyal following-but what is it? The term – the study and collecting of picture postcards – was coined in 1945. Learn local deltiologists’ secrets. Why do they collect, what are they looking for, and where do they find the postcards they collect? After the program, help keep the art of postcard writing alive by sending a message to someone special on a complimentary stamped postcard and maybe catch the deltiological bug yourself! Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
Sunday, April 14, 1pm & 8pm – FILM STUDIES/JAPANESE: Princess Mononoke is a landmark of animation and a film by Studio Ghibli of unsurpassed power and beauty. An epic story of conflict between humans, gods, and nature, the film has been universally acclaimed by critics and broke box office records on its original release in Japan. Studio Ghibli’s output is unique in its consistency of the highest quality hand-drawn animation paired with emotionally resonant stories that consistently delight critics and audiences of all ages from all around the world. Daytime shows will be presented in English; Sunday evening shows in Japanese with English subtitles. Images Cinema. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street, Williamstown, MA.
Monday, April 15, 9am-12noon – ARTS & CRAFTS: Intergenerational workshops at the Art Garden. Start spring break off with Edit Cunhã who will be leading a workshop on creating twig people. Fashion people out of natural twigs and dress them in leaves, pods, fabric, beads, shells, paper and more. The Art Garden. 413-625-2782. 14 Depot St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
Monday, April 15, 9am-12noon – COMPUTER CODING: Make fun animations and games with Scratch at Holyoke Codes. Learn how to make animations and tell stories, code a game controller, keep track of score, add extra powerups, and more. Make your own art and design characters for your projects. Learn about math concepts such as variables and functions and computational thinking ideas such a conditionals and iteration while building a fun game! They will have options for people new to Scratch as well as more experienced coders. Ages 9+.Holyoke Codes. Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center. 100 Bigelow St, Holyoke, MA.
Monday, April 15, 9:30am-4pm – REVOLUTIONARY HISTORY: On Patriots’ Day at Old Sturbridge, visit the Sturbridge militia as they drill on the common, learn about medical card during the Revolutionary War time period, meet a “Loyal” American soldier and a Minuteman, watch cannon firing demonstrations, and more! Special programs and activities throughout the day will invite visitors to experience the sights and sounds of our colonial ancestors as the Revolutionary War began. Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, MA.
Monday, April 15, 10am-3pm – BOTANY/WILDFLOWERS: Wildflower activity station at Mt Greylock. Spring wakes a fantastic array of colorful forest dwellers called Spring Ephemerals. These delicate blossoms, although short-lived, herald in the wildflower season. Learn what to look for before heading out to catch a glimpse of this glorious, yet fleeting display! This engaging activity station also offers participants a hands-on experience to plant flower seeds. Designed as a self-guided family activity with intermittent sessions led by a Park Interpreter. Free for all ages. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.
Monday, April 15, 10:30am-2:30pm – AERONAUTICS/ROCKETS: Straw Rocket Challenge at NEAM. Are you a rocket scientist? Find out by building and launching a straw rocket using our specialized NEAM rocket launchers. New England Air Museum. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Rd, Windsor Locks, CT.
Monday, April 15, 12-3pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Learn in Motion will be at Look Memorial Park! Attractions are open daily! Grab the kids and enjoy a day out in the park. This event is free. Vehicle parking fee applies. (Or, get your season pass and park for free every time you visit!). Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 9am-12noon – COMPUTER CODING: Make fun animations and games with Scratch at Holyoke Codes. Learn how to make animations and tell stories, code a game controller, keep track of score, add extra powerups, and more. Make your own art and design characters for your projects. Learn about math concepts such as variables and functions and computational thinking ideas such a conditionals and iteration while building a fun game! They will have options for people new to Scratch as well as more experienced coders. Ages 9+. Holyoke Codes. Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center. 100 Bigelow St, Holyoke, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 9:30-10:30am – NATURE-BASED LEARNING: Nature Sprouts at The Bement School. Children and their families are invited to spend mornings connecting with nature through stories and hands-on activities. Nature Sprouts is a meaningful way to build a sense of discovery and wonder, learn about colors, shapes, textures, and more! Ages 3-5, accompanied by a parent/guardian. FREE. Every Tuesday 9:30-10:30am, April 2-May 28. Meet at Pine Hill, 55 Old Ferry Road, Deerfield MA. RSVP and questions to Jill Craig at jcraig@bement.org or 413-774-4209. Deerfield, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 10am-2pm – CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS: Come hang out with the Northampton Police Department at the park today! Attractions are open daily! Grab the kids and enjoy a day out in the park. This event is free. Vehicle parking fee applies. (Or, get your season pass and park for free every time you visit!). Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 10am-3pm – ORNITHOLOGY/PHENOLOGY: Bird migration station game. Explore 25 activity stations highlighting the helpers and hazards that migratory birds encounter on their long-distance journeys. Designed as a self-guided activity or may be led by a Park Interpreter. Rain or Shine – this is a great outdoor activity or will be held indoors in the event of inclement weather. Free and ideal for ages 8 and up. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.
Tuesday, April 16,10:30am-2:30pm – KINETICS/KITES: Kites in Flight at NEAM. Create a mini paper kite and take it for an indoor flight in their exhibit hangars. New England Air Museum. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Rd, Windsor Locks, CT.
Tuesday, April 16, 11am – KIDS THEATER: The Pineapple Project at the museum! The Pineapple Project is an original theater piece for kids ages 3-8 and their caregivers that explores the gender creativity in all of us. Written and performed by Mal Malme and Becca A. Lewis, The Pineapple Project is an interactive thirty-minute play that is a “fun, heartfelt way to open up a conversation about gender with kids and families.” The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 1pm – STORYTIME: Special Storytime with Mordicai Gersteinat at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. Join Caldecott Medal winner Mordicai Gerstein as he reads from his new book, I Am Hermes!, a brilliant, hilarious graphic novel about the mischievous, fun-loving messenger of the gods. Gerstein will also discuss his creative process, give a drawing demonstration, and share original artwork. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 6pm – SOAP MAKING: Who doesn’t need soap? Handcrafted soaps are useful gifts to give and extra special if you made it yourself! During April Vacation, come by the library and learn a new skill and the science behind soap making. Ages 5+. Call the library to register. Edwards Public Library. 413-527-9480. 30 East Street, Southampton, MA.
Tuesday, April 16, 7:30pm – SOLO PERFORMANCE/HOLOCAUST: The Tattooed Man Tells All. A solo performance by Keith Langsdale, The Tattooed Man Tells All was written by Peter Worstman and directed by Ellen W. Kaplan and was woven from interviews the author conducted with Holocaust survivors in Vienna in the 1970s. Audiences will embark on an emotional and historic journey to understanding the Holocaust through first-hand accounts. This free program is co-sponsored by the Smith Department of Theatre, the Jewish Studies Program, and the Smith College Lecture Committee. The performance will be held at Smith College in the Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts, 122 Green Street. Northampton, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 9am-12noon – COMPUTER CODING: Make fun animations and games with Scratch at Holyoke Codes. Learn how to make animations and tell stories, code a game controller, keep track of score, add extra powerups, and more. Make your own art and design characters for your projects. Learn about math concepts such as variables and functions and computational thinking ideas such a conditionals and iteration while building a fun game! They will have options for people new to Scratch as well as more experienced coders. Ages 9+. Holyoke Codes. Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center. 100 Bigelow St, Holyoke, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 10-11:30am – TRANSPORTATION: Touch a Truck! Annual free, fun community event for the whole family. Featuring big trucks and vehicles to explore. Children will have a chance to see and learn about a fire truck, police car, and ambulance. Other vehicles to study will be a school bus, tractors, and construction vehicles. Held in the parking lot behind The Family Center. 210 State Street, North Adams, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 10am-12pm – PARENTING WORKSHOP/NUTRITION: Nutrition Workshop for parents, grandparents, and caregivers with Joanna Martin. Free childcare. Hilltown Family Center. 413-667-2203 x311. 9 Russell Rd, Huntington, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 10am-3pm – SLED DOGS: Spring Vacation Day: Sled Dog Camp! Get a taste of summer this spring. Hilltown Sleddogs also offers week-long overnight & day summer sled dog camps. Alaskan Huskies await campers in an Alaskan style dog yard. Kids get sled dogs for the day in which to bond, play, & learn to mush at a touring & racing kennel located on 18 acres of hiking trails along the Westfield River run by award-winning mushers. “My daughter loved the camp, really bonded with her dog and plans to return next year. Hilltown Sleddogs is one of Pioneer Valleys’ unique treasures!” “Marla’s expertise with animals & children is unmatched.” HilltownSleddogs@gmail.com, 413-296-0187, 1-Day Wed., April 17, 10am-3pm, Ages 7-16, $90 Sign-up online www.hilltownsleddodgs.com/camps. West Chesterfield, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 10am-3pm – ZOOLOGY/BEARS: Learn about our native black bears and what it means to “hibernate” with a storybook, video and a bear den building craft activity! Designed as a self-guided activity with intermittent sessions led by a Park Interpreter. This program is free for all ages. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 10:30am-12:30pm – STEM: Playful Engineers Traveling MakerSpace program is a hands-on, STEM-focused workshop where participants design, build, test, and play with Rube Goldberg “machines,” plus domino constructions, exploding popsicle-stick snakes, and other remarkable engineering explorations. Best for ages 3-11. Monson Library. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street, Monson, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 10:30am-2:30pm – PHYSICS/PARACHUTES: Parachute Drop at NEAM. Learn the science of parachutes while building and launching a weight-bearing parachute. Will yours land in the drop zone? New England Air Museum. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Rd, Windsor Locks, CT.
Wednesday, April 17, 11am – ORNITHOLOGY/BIRDS OF PREY: Get a close-up look at owls and other birds of prey with Tom Ricardi, a licensed rehabilitator and wildlife biologist, and learn about the great work being done at the Mass Birds of Prey Rehabilitation Facility, which cares for injured birds. Then visit the exhibition Illustrated Owls: A Who’s Hoo from the Museum’s Vault following the program! The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 11am-2pm – CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS: Firefighter Day with Northampton Fire Rescue at the park! Attractions are open daily! Grab the kids and enjoy a day out in the park. This event is free. Vehicle parking fee applies. (Or, get your season pass and park for free every time you visit!). Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA. Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 12-12:30pm – ECOLOGY/VERNAL POOLS: Webinar: Wicked Awesome Puddles. Fundamentals of Vernal Pools. Vernal pools are wicked cool habitats found throughout Massachusetts. These ephemeral ponds provide critically important habitat for a remarkable diversity of wildlife species. Massachusetts has some of the most robust protection for vernal pools in the nation, yet they are nonetheless often lost or impacted by development. This webinar will take an overview of the ecological functions and values of vernal pools with an eye toward understanding the importance of protecting & ID’ing along with regulations. Free online webinar.
Wednesday, April 17, 3:30pm: MUSIC/PIRATES: Snackbeard Concert. Musical tales of pirate adventure for kids! Gold, Ghost Ships and Krakens-get yer sea legs on! Fun for ages 4-10. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 6:30pm – GEOGRAPHY/ARCTIC: Realm of the Polar Bear, The Norwegian Arctic, a speaker series with Amy Dane. Take a virtual cruise around the island of Spitzbergen – or as much as can be navigated given ice conditions. Walk through the landscape, encounter the wildlife and be on the lookout for the colorful flora that populates the tundra. Visit some of the few and far-between settlements whose inhabitants brave this cold and often bleak part of the world and learn about the strong-willed pioneers who jockeyed for first place and even paid with their lives to reach their destination. Join others at the library for what is sure to be an interesting talk for self-directed & lifelong learners. Westfield Athenaeum. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street, Westfield, MA.
Wednesday, April 17, 6:30-8:30pm – TEENS/SOCIAL: Escape Room: Teens Only. Join the library after closing time in the deserted Children’s and YA department for an escape room. The library basement will transform under challenges to test your mind and your friendships. Completely free, candy and pizza provided. Ages 13-18 are eligible. Sign-ups are required. Call 413-587-1010, email ehill@forbeslibrary.org, or sign-up in person at the library. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 10am-12noon – CREATIVE-FREE PLAY/OUTDOOR ART: Chalk Art with Lindsay Fogg- Willits from Art Always at the park. Attractions are open daily! Grab the kids and enjoy a day out in the park. This event is free. Vehicle parking fee applies. (Or, get your season pass and park for free every time you visit!). Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 10:30am-2:30pm – AERONAUTICS/PAPER AIRPLANES: Paper Airplane Challenge at NEAM. Use your imagination to construct a far-flying paper plane from a variety of materials. Will your creation go the distance? New England Air Museum. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Rd, Windsor Locks, CT.
Thursday, April 18,11am-4pm – POETRY: Poem in your Pocket Day. Celebrate National Poetry Month with the whole family on this special day at the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst, MA! In addition to free admission to all who can recite an Emily Dickinson poem from memory, visitors can join in on a variety of activities, including the making of your very own poetry notebook or poetry wreath, and participation in a writing workshop for budding poets. Carry your favorite poem in your pocket and share it at their “selfie station” using #pocketpoem. Emily Dickinson Museum. 413-542-8161. 280 Main St, Amherst, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 1pm – STORYTIME: Special Storytime with Robin Riding at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art “Do you suppose, way down deep, there are mermaids fast asleep?” Join author Robin Riding as she reads from her new book, Mermaids Fast Asleep, a stunning and lyrical bedtime picture book that looks at how mermaids sleep in the sea. Riding’s storytime will conclude with a musical puppet show! Book signing to follow program. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 2pm – NATURE-BASED LEARNING/MINDFULNESS: Springtime is a magical time at Mount Greylock, when everything in nature begins to wake up, bloom and be born. Birds are making nests, wildflowers waking and rivers are rambling. Join a local naturalist and meander softly and quietly along the wooded trail on a unique Mindful Outdoor Experience. When we allow ourselves the time to breathe, notice and relax, we can truly take in the sights, smells, sounds, textures and feelings of the forest. By bringing greater awareness to all of our senses, we can explore and be fully immersed in this extraordinary spring awakening! Please dress appropriately for early spring weather conditions and wear sturdy boots as trails may be muddy, wet and/or still icy in spots. Meet at the Visitor Center. Free and open to all ages. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 3:30pm – KIDS BOOK CLUB: Magic Tree House Book Club. Read the 14th book in the Magic Tree House Series, Day of the Dragon King, and come prepared to time travel in Ancient China with Jack and Annie. “Who would burn books? Jack and Annie find out when the Magic Tree House whisks them back to ancient China. There, a powerful emperor called the Dragon King has ordered that all books be burned. Will Jack and Annie be able to save at least one book? Or will they be captured by the emperor’s soldiers?” Book-related activities and a craft included. Greenfield Public Library. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street, Greenfield, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 6-8pm – EVENING STORYHOUR: Books before Bedtime PJ Party at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. See the Eric Carle Makes a Book exhibition in your PJs, and don’t forget to bring along your favorite stuffed animal! In addition to bookmaking, storytime, films, and milk and cookies, guests can get drawings of their stuffed animal by local artists. An adult must accompany children. Reservations recommended. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6336. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
Thursday, April 18, 6:30pm – EVENING STORYHOUR: Working caregivers will appreciate a Pajama Story Time, an opportunity to enjoy a community storyhour after work hours. Kids get to wear their P.J.’s, bring their favorite snuggly, and listen to stories, sing songs and make a craft! Ages 3+. Chicopee Public Library. 413-594-1800. 449 Front St., Chicopee, MA.
Friday, April 19, 10am – ORNITHOLOGY: Zoo Discovery Day at the park! Learn about Birds of Prey with Tom Ricardi. Attractions are open daily! Grab the kids and enjoy a day out in the park. This event is free. Vehicle parking fee applies. (Or, get your season pass and park for free every time you visit!). Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Friday, April 19, 10:30am – STORYTIME: Special Storytime with Susan Verde. Author Susan Verde’s I Am Human shows it’s okay to make mistakes while also emphasizing the power of good choices by offering a kind word or saying “I’m sorry.” Verde will lead a guided meditation in Bobbie’s Meadow after the storytime. Book signing to follow program. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
Fridays, April 19, 10:30-11:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES/STORY HOUR: Learn about our wildlife neighbors, fish, who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. Meet in the Great Hall. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
Friday, April 19, 11am-3pm – EASTER BUNNY/TROLLEY: Connecticut Trolley Museum annual Easter Bunny Fun Days takes place April 13-14 & 19-20 in East Windsor, CT. Motorwoman Cotton-Tail will be roaming the grounds and posing for pictures from 11am-3pm. Each child will receive an Easter Egg (filled with a surprise) upon completion of a Scavenger Hunt, Bunny Ear Craft and a visit to the Fire Truck Museum (on the same grounds). Take as many trolley rides as you’d like operated by period dressed motorman. Learn about the history of the museum, trolley cars, and artifacts. Visit their theater & gift shop. All activities and Fire Truck Museum entrance are included in admission ($13/Adults; $12/Seniors; $11/Youth (ages 4-12); $4/Children (under age 3). Visit www.ct-trolley.org for hours of operation. East Windsor, CT.
Friday, April 19, 1-2 pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Rae Griffiths of Teaching Creatures, brings amphibians, reptiles, and a mammal or two to celebrate the new season. Rae uncovers what animals were doing all winter and what they are up to now that spring has arrived. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
Friday, April 19, 1:30 – CREATIVE-FREE-PLAY/STEM: Have y’all heard about the building workshop, ImagArena? It’s a Massachusetts-based enrichment program which combines the spirit of an art program, the materials of a building workshop, and the framework of a video game to provide an experience that engages everyone! During April Vacation Week, the Forbes Library will be offering this imagination experience for kids ages 5+. To see a workshop in action, check out this ImagArena video. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
Friday, April 19, 2pm – NATURE-BASED LEARNING/MINDFULNESS: Springtime is a magical time at Mount Greylock, when everything in nature begins to wake up, bloom and be born. Birds are making nests, wildflowers waking and rivers are rambling. Join a local naturalist and meander softly and quietly along the wooded trail on a unique Mindful Outdoor Experience. When we allow ourselves the time to breathe, notice and relax, we can truly take in the sights, smells, sounds, textures and feelings of the forest. By bringing greater awareness to all of our senses, we can explore and be fully immersed in this extraordinary spring awakening! Please dress appropriately for early spring weather conditions and wear sturdy boots as trails may be muddy, wet and/or still icy in spots. Meet at the Visitor Center. Free and open to all ages. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.
Friday, April 19, 5:30-7:30pm – HERPETOLOGY/NATIVE SPECIES: Spring Salamander & Frog Search with Mass Audubon. Spotted salamanders and wood frogs spend their days under logs, stones, and other forest-floor objects, venturing out only on cool, moist evenings. Search our woods and wetlands for these fascinating nocturnal animals, and learn about their interesting lives. An adult must accompany children. Dress for the weather with long pants, long sleeves, and boots. Preregister. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA.
Friday, April 19, 7:30pm – CLASSICAL THEATER/SHAKESPEARE: The Tempest. Neither a comedy nor a tragedy, The Tempest is a magical and spiritual experience that focuses on many different aspects of love or lack thereof: romantic, fraternal, and love of drink to name a few. This show takes audiences on a tempestuous journey as we set the stage between the 1st and 2nd World War; a time when the great globe itself was facing such tumult and fear of complete destruction and annihilation. Will we succumb to technological advancements or will the heart, will love win in the end? Shakespeare Stage strives to provide artistic enrichment in the Pioneer Valley and beyond. Through passionate performances, involvement from the community, and the pursuit of dramatic growth and excellence, we contribute to the increasing importance of the arts and theatre for our neighbors. Performances will be held at the Flex Space at Northampton Center for the Arts. 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA.

References: Art. 413
 Art. 413
 Art. 413
 Art. 413
 Art. 413
 Art. 413