AEF Save the Date: Champions for Our Schools 2018! on March 17 at UMass Student Union Ballroom

Join Amherst Education Foundation for an evening of celebration, fun, and food as we honor the 9 principals of the Amherst Regional Public School District and community champion Florence Bank.

Principal honorees are Mark Jackson, Patty Bode, Diane Chamberlain, Derek Shea, Lisa Desjarlais, David Slovin, Margot Lacey, Jackie Mendonsa, and Nick Yaffe.

Doors open at 6:00pm with a cash bar followed by dinner and entertainment, including music and trivia.

Proceeds support AEF-funded grants in our public schools. If you are interested in sponsoring the event or being a Table Ambassador, please email AEF at amherstedfound@gmail.com. 

4th Annual Community Read at the Jones Library "On the Same Page 2016"

The Jones Library is holding its 4th On the Same Page community reading program, featuring the book Being Mortal:  Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande. The entire Amherst community is invited to read the book and participate in the related programming. A variety of programs are being offered to enrich the reading experience of this acclaimed bestseller and to encourage dialog about the themes the book presents, particularly aging and improving quality-of-life at the end of life.

This year, our community read will take place as part of a larger regional community read event, entitled Discussing Mortality:  A Community Conversation.  Dr. Atul Gawande's book Being Mortal has started a national conversation about the deep flaws in our society's current treatment of aging and dying people.  Using his book as a springboard and drawing on the rich resources of Cooley Dickinson Hospital, we will look closely at our goals for end-of-life care and being to plan how to bring about better outcomes for ourselves and our loved ones.

Events will be held at area libraries and other community locations from February through mid-April.  For a listing of participating libraries and community organizations and the programming being offered in the area, please click here.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

Click image to enlarge.

Friday, June 4th, will the last day to Save $10 on all summer sports camps. Thanks.

Amherst Leisure Services website: http://www.lsse.org.

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Summer 2010 at Amherst Ballet!
Children's Workshops  (for ages 5 – 10)
June 28 – July 2 and July 5 – 9, 9:30am – 3:30pm (attend one or both weeks)
Dance, art, choreography, prop and set design and construction.  Participants perform on the last day of the workshop in our very own studio theater!

Week #1: The Gods of the Vikings:  Favorite Norse Myths!  Learn more about Norse mythology as we create a performance based on the lives of the gods Odin, Thor, Loki, Freya and others.  We will make costumes, masks and props and create the choreography for our performance.

Week #2: Russian Folk Tales and Dance  Explore Russian folklore and learn the special character steps and dances seen in many well known classical ballets.  We will make our own vests and crowns and perform in costume.

Summer Teen Intensive  (for ages 10 – 18)
August 2 – 6 and August 9 – 13, 9:00am – 4:00pm (attend one or both weeks)

Week #1:  Classical Ballet Technique and Repertory from Swan Lake  Classes in ballet, pointe, character dance, theater, and workshop in costume design, construction and illustration.

Week #2:  Generation YouTube, Phase Two  Back by popular demand!  Join us as we explore the creation of dance for video.  Morning classes in classical ballet and Modern dance; during the afternoons we will travel to a variety of local spots and video our choreography on site.

Ballet Technique & Modern dance Classes  (for ages 12 – adult)
Weekday afternoons and evenings throughout the summer in our air-conditioned studio with state-of-the-art, sprung dance floor!

Amherst Ballet, 29 Strong Street, Amherst, MA 01002
Contact us for more information:  413-549-1555, info@amherstballet.org,
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Yoga for Kids, ages 10-12 M-W-F, 1-2 PM

June 21, 23, 25, 28, 30, July 1
6 classes for $66
Yoga Center Amherst
17 Kellogg St. (near Bart's and Rao's)
To Register: 256-0604/ www.yogacenteramherst.com

***************************************
The Fresh Air fund is in need of hosts for this summer. Host families are volunteers who open their hearts and home to a child from the city to give a fresh air experience that disadvantaged children never forget. There's lots of info on the Fresh Air Fund website here: http://www.freshair.org/the-fresh-air-fund.

***************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

**************************************
Yoga for Kids, ages 10-12M-W-F, 1-2 PM
June 21, 23, 25, 28, 30, July 1
6 classes for $66
Yoga Center Amherst
17 Kellogg St. (near Bart's and Rao's)
To Register: 256-0604/ www.yogacenteramherst.com
**************************************
Travel Soccer Team Tryouts. Travel Soccer Tryout information for the Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 seasons is now available at http://www.amherstsoccer.org.

Please be advised the tryout pre-registration form is due by Saturday May 29.  http://www.amherstsoccer.org/Travel%20Tryouts%2010-11.htm

Here is the Tryout Schedule:

2010-2011 Travel Soccer Age Brackets:
U-9 – Born on or after August 1, 2001
U-10 – Born on or after August 1, 2000
U-11 – Born on or after August 1, 1999
U-12 – Born on or after August 1, 1998
U-13 – Born on or after August 1, 1997
U-14 – Born on or after August 1, 1996

2010-2011 Travel Soccer TRYOUT SCHEDULE                      

ALL TRYOUTS WILL BE HELD AT CROCKER FARM SCHOOL IN AMHERST

ATTENDANCE AT TRYOUTS IS MANDATORY

Tuesday June 1 - U9 BOYS               5:30 – 8:00pm
Wednesday June 2 - U9 GIRLS         5:30 – 8:00pm
Thursday June 3 – U10 BOYS           5:30 – 8:00pm
Friday June 4 – U10 GIRLS              5:30 – 8:00pm
Monday June 7 – U11 BOYS            5:30 – 8:00pm
Tuesday June 8 – U11 GIRLS           5:30 – 8:00pm
Wednesday June 9 – U12 BOYS       5:30 – 8:00pm
Thursday June 10 – U12 GIRLS        5:30 – 8:00pm
Monday June 14 – U13 BOYS          5:30 – 8:00pm
Tuesday June 15 – U13 GIRLS         5:30 – 8:00pm
Wednesday June 16 – U14 BOYS     5:30 – 8:00pm
Thursday June 17 – U14 GIRLS        5:30 – 8:00pm

Please note we are short girls for the U-11 and U-12 soccer teams. We'd love to keep girls' soccer in Amherst, so if your daughter was born between 8/1/99-8/1/00 or 8/1/98-8/1/99 and has played soccer before or has a love of the game, please consider having her try out at the times mentioned in this blog. Please e-mail me (Dianec711@comcast.net) if you have any questions about this competitive, fun travel league. Thanks!

**************************************

Pioneer Valley Bike Week. This is the perfect time to get out of our cars and try bicycling to work, school, on errands, and for fun. All around the valley, there will be group rides, free bike workshops, bike breakfasts, film screenings, and many more ways to get involved, learn new skills, and have some cycling fun!
Click here for event listings: http://www.massbike.org/aboutus/pioneer-valley-chapter/pioneer-valley-bike-week/

***************************************
Boy Scout Open House. The Boy Scouts of America is now 100 years old. Come join Boy Scout Troop 500 Amherst to see how Scouting is evolving as it enters its 2nd century. We are having an Open House for prospective scouts and their families Tuesday, May 25 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at the South Congregational Church, 1066 Southeast Street, Amherst.  Troop 500 has a 50+ year history in Amherst working with school-age boys (grades 5-12).  Troop activities are organized and run by the boys, including weekly meetings, monthly campouts, and projects in the community.  Our Scouts learn practical outdoor skills and develop leadership skills while having a lot of fun.  Scouts who join before June 15 can attend summer camp with us at Camp Wanocksett in NH. For more information, contact Scoutmaster Bob Cowles at (413) 665-8968.
***************************************
The Fresh Air fund is in need of hosts for this summer. Host families are volunteers who open their hearts and home to a child from the city to give a fresh air experience that disadvantaged children never forget. There's lots of info on the Fresh Air Fund website here: http://www.freshair.org/the-fresh-air-fund.

***************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
**************************************

Travel Soccer Team Tryouts. Travel Soccer Tryout information for the Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 seasons is now available at http://www.amherstsoccer.org.

Please be advised the tryout pre-registration form is due by Saturday May 29.  http://www.amherstsoccer.org/Travel%20Tryouts%2010-11.htm

Here is the Tryout Schedule:

2010-2011 Travel Soccer Age Brackets:
U-9 – Born on or after August 1, 2001
U-10 – Born on or after August 1, 2000
U-11 – Born on or after August 1, 1999
U-12 – Born on or after August 1, 1998
U-13 – Born on or after August 1, 1997
U-14 – Born on or after August 1, 1996

2010-2011 Travel Soccer TRYOUT SCHEDULE                      

ALL TRYOUTS WILL BE HELD AT CROCKER FARM SCHOOL IN AMHERST

ATTENDANCE AT TRYOUTS IS MANDATORY

Tuesday June 1 - U9 BOYS               5:30 – 8:00pm
Wednesday June 2 - U9 GIRLS         5:30 – 8:00pm
Thursday June 3 – U10 BOYS           5:30 – 8:00pm
Friday June 4 – U10 GIRLS              5:30 – 8:00pm
Monday June 7 – U11 BOYS            5:30 – 8:00pm
Tuesday June 8 – U11 GIRLS           5:30 – 8:00pm
Wednesday June 9 – U12 BOYS       5:30 – 8:00pm
Thursday June 10 – U12 GIRLS        5:30 – 8:00pm
Monday June 14 – U13 BOYS          5:30 – 8:00pm
Tuesday June 15 – U13 GIRLS         5:30 – 8:00pm
Wednesday June 16 – U14 BOYS     5:30 – 8:00pm
Thursday June 17 – U14 GIRLS        5:30 – 8:00pm

Please note we are short girls for the U-11 and U-12 soccer teams. We'd love to keep girls' soccer in Amherst, so if your daughter was born between 8/1/99-8/1/00 or 8/1/98-8/1/99 and has played soccer before or has a love of the game, please consider having her try out at the times mentioned in this blog. Please e-mail me (Dianec711@comcast.net) if you have any questions about this competitive, fun travel league. Thanks!

**************************************

Pioneer Valley Bike Week. This is the perfect time to get out of our cars and try bicycling to work, school, on errands, and for fun. All around the valley, there will be group rides, free bike workshops, bike breakfasts, film screenings, and many more ways to get involved, learn new skills, and have some cycling fun!
Click here for event listings: http://www.massbike.org/aboutus/pioneer-valley-chapter/pioneer-valley-bike-week/

***************************************
Boy Scout Open House. The Boy Scouts of America is now 100 years old. Come join Boy Scout Troop 500 Amherst to see how Scouting is evolving as it enters its 2nd century. We are having an Open House for prospective scouts and their families Tuesday, May 25 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM at the South Congregational Church, 1066 Southeast Street, Amherst.  Troop 500 has a 50+ year history in Amherst working with school-age boys (grades 5-12).  Troop activities are organized and run by the boys, including weekly meetings, monthly campouts, and projects in the community.  Our Scouts learn practical outdoor skills and develop leadership skills while having a lot of fun.  Scouts who join before June 15 can attend summer camp with us at Camp Wanocksett in NH. For more information, contact Scoutmaster Bob Cowles at (413) 665-8968.
***************************************
The Fresh Air fund is in need of hosts for this summer. Host families are volunteers who open their hearts and home to a child from the city to give a fresh air experience that disadvantaged children never forget. There's lots of info on the Fresh Air Fund website here: http://www.freshair.org/the-fresh-air-fund.

***************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

In case your kids haven't already informed you yet,  

The Amherst Rotary Community Fair is taking place this weekend!

May 6, 2010 - May 8, 2010
The Fair will run Thursday, Friday, and Saturday - May 6th, 7th, and 8th.d

Hours will be:
4-10pm Thursday
2-10pm Friday
10am-10pm Saturday

Rides, games, food, and fun at the annual Amherst Town Fair. Presented by Amherst Rotary Club. On the Amherst Town Common.

Of course, the Amherst Rotary Club will be selling hamburgers, hot dogs, and French fries with all the fixings. So Shut your TVs off and come out to celebrate spring with your friends and neighbors at the Amherst Community Fair!

ALSO AT THE FAIR: buy your Multi-Arts raffle tickets and Crocker Farm Playground t-shirts in support of the ongoing push to raise money for the new playground at Crocker Farm!

Location: Amherst Town Common

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

The Amherst League of Women Voters giant book sale will take place on the Amherst Town Common, this Friday, April 30 and Saturday, May 1 from 9 am to 7 pm and Sunday, May 2 from 11 am to 4 pm. The book sale is one of the oldest and largest in New England. It serves as the major fund raiser for the League and helps finance voter service programs and publications. For information call 253-0633.

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

*************************************************** 
Mad Science of Western New England is offering an afterschool program at Fort River school beginning Wednesday April 28th through June 9th, 1:20-2:20pm for students in Kindergarten through 5th grade.  The session is "System 3," and is $98 for the 7-week offering.

For program information and to register, contact Mad Science at 584-7243 or visit their website at:  http://www.madscience.org/locations/westnewengland/afterSchool.aspx

***************************************************
1st Annual Sustainability Festival. A fun new family-oriented festival comes to Downtown Amherst!

The first Annual Amherst Sustainability Festival will be held on Saturday, April 24 from 10-4 in Downtown Amherst. The new festival, a combined effort of the Town’s Shade Tree Committee, Energy Task Force, Department of Public Works, and Chamber of Commerce, is all about sustainability for future generations. Families will find interesting activities at Kendrick Park, on the Town Common and in between (participation in a local merchant green scavenger hunt could net great prizes from Amherst businesses!). Face-painting, earth-themed story-telling, and human gyroscope rides are free and the solar-powered sound stage will feature children’s theater and music. Find more information in the Amherst Bulletin and on the Town of Amherst’s website.

***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

*************************************************** 
Mad Science of Western New England is offering an afterschool program at Fort River school beginning Wednesday April 28th through June 9th, 1:20-2:20pm for students in Kindergarten through 5th grade.  The session is "System 3," and is $98 for the 7-week offering.

For program information and to register, contact Mad Science at 584-7243 or visit their website at:  http://www.madscience.org/locations/westnewengland/afterSchool.aspx
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(Click on image to enlarge.) 
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MULTI-ARTS TASTE OF THE ARTS. Multi-Arts invites families to join our fun day of artistic activities: face painting interactive story telling, and circus for little ones, create 3-D artwork, play along your instrument (easy music for sight reading), theatre improvisation, or learn flamenco dance. At 3:30 Show time: Come and enjoy “Piece of Pie,” a fun and entertaining show about a circus and its clowns, performed by a group of talented children.

For a detailed schedule of events, visit www.multi-arts.org.

EVENT DETAILS

WHAT: Interactive Festival of the Arts
WHEN: Saturday, April 10, throughout the day
WHERE: Barnes and Noble bookstore in Hadley

 --
Contact: Catalina Arrubla (carrubla@gmail.com)
Executive Director
Multi-Arts

***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
(Click on image to enlarge.) 
***************************************************
MULTI-ARTS TASTE OF THE ARTS. Multi-Arts invites families to join our fun day of artistic activities: face painting interactive story telling, and circus for little ones, create 3-D artwork, play along your instrument (easy music for sight reading), theatre improvisation, or learn flamenco dance. At 3:30 Show time: Come and enjoy “Piece of Pie,” a fun and entertaining show about a circus and its clowns, performed by a group of talented children.

For a detailed schedule of events, visit www.multi-arts.org.

EVENT DETAILS

WHAT: Interactive Festival of the Arts
WHEN: Saturday, April 10, throughout the day
WHERE: Barnes and Noble bookstore in Hadley

 --
Contact: Catalina Arrubla (carrubla@gmail.com)
Executive Director
Multi-Arts

***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Come dance with us at the Northampton Family Dance! Join us for our last dance of this season on Sunday, March 21, from 3 - 5 PM at First Churches, 129 Main St., Northampton (use Center Street entrance). Tim Van Egmond calls, with music by Susan Janssen & Becky Miller. Come enjoy easy, fun dances for children and families, from traditional American to international folk. All dances are taught, so no dance experience is necessary. Admission is $4 per person for ages 3 and up, free for ages 2 and under, $15 maximum per family. The Northampton Family Dance is held on the third Sunday of the month, November through March. For more information, please call Judy Stern (parent of Fort River third grader) at (413) 256-2613.
***************************************************
All are invited to attend a conference, Saving Our Schools: Defending Public Education, on Saturday, March 27, at UMass-Amherst in Thompson Hall, Room 102. Parents, students, community leaders, educators, activitsts, policy makers and anyone interested in the education and welfare of our children is encouraged to come. Pauline Lipman, author of High Stakes Education: Inequality, Globalization, and Urban School Reform, will be the keynote speaker. The event is co-sponsored by Citizens for Public Schools and the Public Higher Education Network of Massachusetts (PHENOM). Come discuss public education funding, charter schools, high-stakes testing, privatization, education for Democracy, vocationalization and teachers under fire. To register online, click here. For more information, call 413-687-8150.
***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Music Together® for Valley Families:
March 9 -19, 2010: Free sample classes of Music Together® for Valley Families, offering this internationally recognized parent/child music enrichment program at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Amherst, All Saint’s Episcopal Church in South Hadley, The Congregational Church Parish House in Belchertown, The South Deerfield Congregational Church and the new Intergenerational class at Birch Manor Nursing Home in Chicopee. Each semester 45 minute classes meet for 10 weeks as participants share songs, instrument play, rhythm chants, and movement activities in a relaxed, playful, nonperformance-oriented setting. Call (413) 259-9400 or see www.valleymusicgroup.com for more information. Please call for class times and to reserve a space.

Through March 22, 2010: It is registration time for Spring classes at Music Together® for Valley Families, offering weekly sessions of this internationally recognized parent/child music enrichment program. Locations are at The Congregational Church Parish House in Belchertown, All Saint’s Episcopal Church in So. Hadley, in Amherst at Immanuel Lutheran Church, at The South Deerfield Congregational Church and the new Intergenerational class at Birch Manor Nursing Home in Chicopee. Each semester 45 minute classes meet for 10 weeks as participants share songs, instrument play, rhythm chants, and movement activities in a relaxed, playful, nonperformance-oriented setting. Classes are held on various days and times. Call (413) 259-9400 or view their web site: www.valleymusicgroup.com to register and receive more information.
***************************************************
Come dance with us at the Northampton Family Dance! Join us for our last dance of this season on Sunday, March 21, from 3 - 5 PM at First Churches, 129 Main St., Northampton (use Center Street entrance). Tim Van Egmond calls, with music by Susan Janssen & Becky Miller. Come enjoy easy, fun dances for children and families, from traditional American to international folk. All dances are taught, so no dance experience is necessary. Admission is $4 per person for ages 3 and up, free for ages 2 and under, $15 maximum per family. The Northampton Family Dance is held on the third Sunday of the month, November through March. For more information, please call Judy Stern (parent of Fort River third grader) at (413) 256-2613.

***************************************************

Amherst Monte Carlo Night. Some of you may know that the Amherst High Athletic teams are supported primarily through athletic fees and through fundraising by the teams and by the Amherst Hurricane Boosters (a volunteer group of parents).  Next year, this will be even more true as our district looks to move more athletic support to revenue lines due to the proposed budget cuts.

This is where you can help!  Each year, the Amherst Hurricane Boosters hosts a gala event--Monte Carlo Night--to raise money for all the athletic clubs.  This year's event will be held on March 13th and is a true night on the town.  Complete information on Monte Carlo night can be found at http://www.amherstmontecarlo.com/ Tickets ($25 in advance and $30 at the door).

P.S. The Amherst Hurricane Boosters are now on Facebook...become a fan!

***************************************************

Family Outreach "Salute to Families"

***************************************************
Where magic happens:
Improv. class with Multi-Arts, a safe and positive environment.
Amherst High School.
Begins this Thursday 5-6 pm. Room 112

Film class
Amherst High School.
Thursdays from 4-5, room 112

For more info visit: www.multi-arts.org
***************************************************

All are invited to attend a conference, Saving Our Schools: Defending Public Education, on Saturday, March 27, at UMass-Amherst in Thompson Hall, Room 102. Parents, students, community leaders, educators, activitsts, policy makers and anyone interested in the education and welfare of our children is encouraged to come. Pauline Lipman, author of High Stakes Education: Inequality, Globalization, and Urban School Reform, will be the keynote speaker. The event is co-sponsored by Citizens for Public Schools and the Public Higher Education Network of Massachusetts (PHENOM). Come discuss public education funding, charter schools, high-stakes testing, privatization, education for Democracy, vocationalization and teachers under fire. To register online, click here. For more information, call 413-687-8150.

***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Romance Flamenco: March 5 & 6. For information and to buy tickets online visit: http://web.me.com/multi.arts/Ines_Arrubla/Inés.html.
 

Click on image to enlarge.

***************************************************

Music Together® for Valley Families:
March 9 -19, 2010: Free sample classes of Music Together® for Valley Families, offering this internationally recognized parent/child music enrichment program at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Amherst, All Saint’s Episcopal Church in South Hadley, The Congregational Church Parish House in Belchertown, The South Deerfield Congregational Church and the new Intergenerational class at Birch Manor Nursing Home in Chicopee. Each semester 45 minute classes meet for 10 weeks as participants share songs, instrument play, rhythm chants, and movement activities in a relaxed, playful, nonperformance-oriented setting. Call (413) 259-9400 or see www.valleymusicgroup.com for more information. Please call for class times and to reserve a space.

Through March 22, 2010: It is registration time for Spring classes at Music Together® for Valley Families, offering weekly sessions of this internationally recognized parent/child music enrichment program. Locations are at The Congregational Church Parish House in Belchertown, All Saint’s Episcopal Church in So. Hadley, in Amherst at Immanuel Lutheran Church, at The South Deerfield Congregational Church and the new Intergenerational class at Birch Manor Nursing Home in Chicopee. Each semester 45 minute classes meet for 10 weeks as participants share songs, instrument play, rhythm chants, and movement activities in a relaxed, playful, nonperformance-oriented setting. Classes are held on various days and times. Call (413) 259-9400 or view their web site: www.valleymusicgroup.com to register and receive more information.
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Multi-Arts Program For Teens: Get that creative energy focused and share it with the world.

1. Join a team of young writers and produce plays to be performed this summer.
2. Be part of a video production workshop: "create a movie to be watched by the whole world".
3. Learn to tap your strengths to move around the world: Improvisation with Multi-Arts.

When:
Video: Thursday 4:00 p.m.
Improv: Thursday 5:00 p.m.
Playwriting: Friday 3:15 p.m.

Where: Amherst High School. Workshops starts: March 4 through May 27. The cost of each workshop is $120. Choice of two is $200. (Financial Aid available) To register, please send payment with your contact information (your name, child's name & age, phone, email address) to: Multi-Arts, P.O. Box 108, Hadley MA 01035. www.multi-arts.org


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Amherst Monte Carlo Night. Some of you may know that the Amherst High Athletic teams are supported primarily through athletic fees and through fundraising by the teams and by the Amherst Hurricane Boosters (a volunteer group of parents).  Next year, this will be even more true as our district looks to move more athletic support to revenue lines due to the proposed budget cuts.

This is where you can help!  Each year, the Amherst Hurricane Boosters hosts a gala event--Monte Carlo Night--to raise money for all the athletic clubs.  This year's event will be held on March 13th and is a true night on the town.  Complete information on Monte Carlo night can be found at http://www.amherstmontecarlo.com/ Tickets ($25 in advance and $30 at the door).

P.S. The Amherst Hurricane Boosters are now on Facebook...become a fan!
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Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Multi-Arts Program For Teens: Get that creative energy focused and share it with the world.

1. Join a team of young writers and produce plays to be performed this summer.
2. Be part of a video production workshop: "create a movie to be watched by the whole world".
3. Learn to tap your strengths to move around the world: Improvisation with Multi-Arts.

When:
Video: Thursday 4:00 p.m.
Improv: Thursday 5:00 p.m.
Playwriting: Friday 3:15 p.m.

Where: Amherst High School. Workshops starts: March 4 through May 27. The cost of each workshop is $120. Choice of two is $200. (Financial Aid available) To register, please send payment with your contact information (your name, child's name & age, phone, email address) to: Multi-Arts, P.O. Box 108, Hadley MA 01035. www.multi-arts.org
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Amherst Survival Center Family Night
Want a night off from cooking? Join us this Monday February 15th, as the Amherst Survival Center hosts Family Night. Come with the kids for supper, fun activities, and collage art crafts. Open to everyone! Drop-in between 4:30-6:30, supper is served 5:00-6:00. Access to all our free programs, including free groceries and free clothing, is available.

Black History Month Lunch Community Event
Looking for something to do as a family? Come celebrate Black History Month this Wednesday, February 17th, 12-1 pm. Held at North Congregational Church Parish Hall (1199 North Pleasant Street), put on by the Amherst Survival Center. Delicious food, friends, and music. Free and all are welcome! Call 549-3968 x 202 for more information.

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Northampton Family Dance. Come warm up and have fun at the Northampton Family Dance! Join us for our fourth dance of the season on Sunday, February 21, from 3 - 5 PM at First Churches, 129 Main St., Northampton (use Center Street entrance). Kari Smith calls, with music by Linda Henry, Bob Snope, and Emma Snope. Come enjoy easy, fun dances for children and families, from traditional American to international folk. All dances are taught, so no dance experience is necessary. Admission is $4 per person for ages 3 and up, free for ages 2 and under, $15 maximum per family. The Northampton Family Dance is held on the third Sunday of the month, November through March. For more information, please call Judy Stern (parent of Fort River third grader) at (413) 256-2613.
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ARHS Nordic Ski Program. Amherst Regional High School now has a Nordic ski program, and you can help support it - by skiing. Each Wednesday during the month of February, the program is presenting all-comers sprint races at Northfield Mountain. Snow permitting, the races start at 3:30 p.m. These are true sprints: the course is just one-kilometer long, a flat loop in the field between Route 63 and the Northfield Mountain main building. The races are sorted by age groups and heats, with the top two finishers in each heat advancing to a final round, while there's a consolation round for everyone else.
Register in advance at http://nordicsprint.eventbrite.com/ or on race day by 3 p.m. at the ski center. Entry fee is $5 ($3 with a Northfield Mountain pass), or sign up for the whole series for $30 ($18 with pass).

Technique will alternate between classic on the first and third Wednesday and freestyle on the second and fourth. This week's races are the second in the series.

For more information, call Northfield Mountain at 800-859-2960 or visit www.firstlightpower.com/northfield/ccski.asp.

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Have a Creative Year with Multi-Arts: Multi-arts Summer Camp registration is now open. There is a $50 discount per child, when you pay in full by February 28. Full tuition refund with cancellation before June 1, 2010. You can register at www.multi-arts.org.


***************************************************

Amherst Monte Carlo Night. Some of you may know that the Amherst High Athletic teams are supported primarily through athletic fees and through fundraising by the teams and by the Amherst Hurricane Boosters (a volunteer group of parents).  Next year, this will be even more true as our district looks to move more athletic support to revenue lines due to the proposed budget cuts.

This is where you can help!  Each year, the Amherst Hurricane Boosters hosts a gala event--Monte Carlo Night--to raise money for all the athletic clubs.  This year's event will be held on March 13th and is a true night on the town.  Complete information on Monte Carlo night can be found at http://www.amherstmontecarlo.com/ Tickets ($25 in advance and $30 at the door).

PS. The Amherst Hurricane Boosters are now on Facebook...become a fan!
***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Northampton Family Dance. Come warm up and have fun at the Northampton Family Dance! Join us for our fourth dance of the season on Sunday, February 21, from 3 - 5 PM at First Churches, 129 Main St., Northampton (use Center Street entrance). Kari Smith calls, with music by Linda Henry, Bob Snope, and Emma Snope. Come enjoy easy, fun dances for children and families, from traditional American to international folk. All dances are taught, so no dance experience is necessary. Admission is $4 per person for ages 3 and up, free for ages 2 and under, $15 maximum per family. The Northampton Family Dance is held on the third Sunday of the month, November through March. For more information, please call Judy Stern (parent of Fort River third grader) at (413) 256-2613.
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Click on image to enlarge.

***************************************************
ARHS Nordic Ski Program. Amherst Regional High School now has a Nordic ski program, and you can help support it - by skiing. Each Wednesday during the month of February, the program is presenting all-comers sprint races at Northfield Mountain. Snow permitting, the races start at 3:30 p.m. These are true sprints: the course is just one-kilometer long, a flat loop in the field between Route 63 and the Northfield Mountain main building. The races are sorted by age groups and heats, with the top two finishers in each heat advancing to a final round, while there's a consolation round for everyone else.

Register in advance at http://nordicsprint.eventbrite.com/ or on race day by 3 p.m. at the ski center. Entry fee is $5 ($3 with a Northfield Mountain pass), or sign up for the whole series for $30 ($18 with pass).

Technique will alternate between classic on the first and third Wednesday and freestyle on the second and fourth. This week's races are the second in the series.

For more information, call Northfield Mountain at 800-859-2960 or visit www.firstlightpower.com/northfield/ccski.asp.

***************************************************

Have a Creative Year with Multi-Arts: Multi-arts Summer Camp registration is now open. There is a $50 discount per child, when you pay in full by February 28. Full tuition refund with cancellation before June 1, 2010. You can register at www.multi-arts.org.


***************************************************

Amherst Monte Carlo Night. Some of you may know that the Amherst High Athletic teams are supported primarily through athletic fees and through fundraising by the teams and by the Amherst Hurricane Boosters (a volunteer group of parents).  Next year, this will be even more true as our district looks to move more athletic support to revenue lines due to the proposed budget cuts.

This is where you can help!  Each year, the Amherst Hurricane Boosters hosts a gala event--Monte Carlo Night--to raise money for all the athletic clubs.  This year's event will be held on March 13th and is a true night on the town.  Complete information on Monte Carlo night can be found at http://www.amherstmontecarlo.com/ Tickets ($25 in advance and $30 at the door).

PS. The Amherst Hurricane Boosters are now on Facebook...become a fan!
***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
ARHS Nordic Ski Program. Amherst Regional High School now has a Nordic ski program, and you can help support it - by skiing. Each Wednesday this month and next, the program is presenting all-comers sprint races at Northfield Mountain. Snow permitting, the races start at 3:30 p.m. These are true sprints: the course is just one-kilometer long, a flat loop in the field between Route 63 and the Northfield Mountain main building. The races are sorted by age groups and heats, with the top two finishers in each heat advancing to a final round, while there's a consolation round for everyone else.

Register in advance at http://nordicsprint.eventbrite.com/ or on race day by 3 p.m. at the ski center. Entry fee is $5 ($3 with a Northfield Mountain pass), or sign up for the whole series for $30 ($18 with pass).

Technique will alternate between classic on the first and third Wednesday and freestyle on the second and fourth. This week's races are the second in the series.

For more information, call Northfield Mountain at 800-859-2960 or visit www.firstlightpower.com/northfield/ccski.asp.

***************************************************
Have a Creative Year with Multi-Arts: Multi-arts Summer Camp registration is now open. There is a $50 discount per child, when you pay in full by February 28. Full tuition refund with cancellation before June 1, 2010. You can register at www.multi-arts.org

P.S.
We still have space in our Fort River After School Fridays: a 10 weeks Art & Theater Workshop: The fun will end with a great production (grades 1 to 6). Click here for more details.

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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Amherst Leisure Services Community Theater presents its final weekend of performances on Friday January 22nd - 7:30pm, Saturday January 23rd - 2:00pm & 7:30pm, Sunday January 24th - 2:00pm. Click here for more information.

***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Start 2010 creatively with Multi-Arts:

After school Fridays at Fort River.
A 10 weeks Art & Theatre Workshop: The fun will end in a great production (grade 1 to 6)
Click here for more details.

***************************************************
Come dance and meet new friends at the Northampton Family Dance! Join us for our third dance of the season on Sunday, January 17, from 3 - 5 PM at First Churches, 129 Main St., Northampton (use Center Street entrance). Brendan Taaffe calls, with music by Susan Janssen & Shirley White. Come enjoy easy, fun dances for children and families, from traditional American to international folk. All dances are taught, so no dance experience is necessary. Admission is $4 per person for ages 3 and up, free for ages 2 and under, $15 maximum per family. The Northampton Family Dance is held on the third Sunday of the month, November through March. For more information, please call Judy Stern (parent of Fort River third grader) at (413) 256-2613.

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Click on image below to enlarge.

.
***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.
***************************************************
Two Workshops to start 2010 creatively with Multi-Arts:

N'1 This weekend: Short and intense.
One-day Theatre: join us for a 3 hours of intense fun!
Click here for more details.

N'2 After school Fridays at Fort River.
A 10 weeks Art & Theatre Workshop: The fun will end in a great production (grade 1 to 6)
Click here for more details.

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Come celebrate the 2nd annual Empty Bowls dinner benefiting the Amherst Survival Center! On January 12th from 4pm-8pm at The Pub, choose a hand-crafted ceramic bowl made by a local artist and enjoy soups prepared by chefs at area restaurants. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. With your help, the Amherst Survival Center can continue to provide the services that our community so urgently needs. To purchase tickets, visit www.amherstsurvival.org or call 413-549-3968. Tickets are also available at The Pub and Hastings.

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Come dance and meet new friends at the Northampton Family Dance! Join us for our third dance of the season on Sunday, January 17, from 3 - 5 PM at First Churches, 129 Main St., Northampton (use Center Street entrance). Brendan Taaffe calls, with music by Susan Janssen & Shirley White. Come enjoy easy, fun dances for children and families, from traditional American to international folk. All dances are taught, so no dance experience is necessary. Admission is $4 per person for ages 3 and up, free for ages 2 and under, $15 maximum per family. The Northampton Family Dance is held on the third Sunday of the month, November through March. For more information, please call Judy Stern (parent of Fort River third grader) at (413) 256-2613.

***************************************************
Click on image below to enlarge.

.
***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.

Upcoming Community Events

Please note that these events are not sponsored by Parent Council.

Merry Maple Celebration. Friday, Dec. 4, 4-6pm. In front of Amherst Town Hall. This is a fun family event to kick off the holiday shopping season! Come watch the lighting of the Merry Maple, hear music, sing carols and get some delicious treats! More info here: http://is.gd/5bz09.

Holiday Open House. Please join us for a Holiday Open House and Art Sale featuring yummy treats, warm company, and a showing of beautiful handmade gifts by local artisans (two of whom are Fort River Parents): Rebecca Fricke (quilted fabric arts), Laura Woodworth (functional pottery), and Lisa Oram (beaded and glass jewelry).  You are welcome to spread the word and bring friends!  When: Sunday, December 6, 2009, Time:  1:00 – 5:00 pm, Where: Home of Lisa Oram, 195 Aubinwood Road, Amherst Questions: lo@lisaoram.com.

Multi-Arts Children's Theatre Show. The Twisted Story. December 12, at 11 am, Jones Public Library. The play is written by a 13-year-old, Alejandra Rojas, who is a Fort River Alumna. Cinderella, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast, Red Robin Hood and Sleeping Beauty in a 2010 setting. Come laugh and be be entertained by this creative, clever and funny story. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Catalina Arrubla, Director www.multi-arts.org.

***********************************************************************************

Fort River Parent Council will publish information about non-Parent Council sponsored events with the following conditions:

1. The event should be of interest to Fort River families.
2. The information should be sent to Ann McLaughlin at damclaughlin@comcast.net in the form of a short description.
3. Contact information (website or name, telephone and/or email address) must be included.

We add new information to the blog every Thursday during the school year. Please send your announcement no later than 5pm Wednesday for inclusion in the week's updates. Also note that we do not accept announcements of items or services for sale (with the exceptions of children's classes/lessons). Inclusion in this section does not imply any guarantees or endorsements by Fort River Parent Council or Fort River School.