Hilltown Families Weekly eNewsletter (Aug 17th-24th, 2012)

SLEEP WORKSHOP: Awaiting the arrival of a new baby? Join other expectant parents for a sleep workshop, "Sleep for Expectant Parents," on Monday, Aug. 20th from 6-8pm in Hampshire County. This workshop will offer a look into the world of sleep science and its clear implications for families. Learn why sleep is essential for your newborn and hear concrete strategies to help you and your baby develop healthy sleep habits in the first months of life. Recommended by area pediatricians and obstetricians. Led by Beth Grams Haxby Ed.M. and held at The Center for Midwifery at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, MA. Cost: $20.00 payable by cash or check. Call or email to register: 413-348-6273 or beth@sleepandparenting.com.

CALL FOR YOUTH PHOTOGRAPHERS: Western MA youth photographers ages 8-18 are invited to participate in an upcoming exhibit titled, "Places We Live, Play & Learn: Narratives of Life by Western Massachusetts Youth Photographers." Hosted by Hilltown Families with the support of the Cummington Cultural Council, the exhibit will be on display at the Cummington Community House Gallery in the rear of the Cummington Community House during the month of September 2012. Exhibit gives youth an opportunity to explore their towns and document their findings both in images and a written narrative. Great summer learning opportunity! Participation is free and open to all youth living in Western MA. Deadline for entry: Aug 27, 2012. More info and entry forms here: Call for Youth Photographers.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including DIY posts, seasonal cooking, and community-based educational opportunities. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. See your event, camp, workshop, business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter. Find out more about our Enhanced Publicity options and how we can help with your marketing.

BENEFIT CONCERT: The Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRWC) proudly presents "Goodnight Irene"; a benefit concert for the annual Source to Sea Cleanup. This powerful event, with singers from throughout the watershed, will bring communities together to celebrate resilience in the wake of Tropical Storm Irene. Join CRWC on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, MA, 7:00pm Tickets $10, on sale at CRWC Greenfield office. For other ticket sales locations, about the music and singers, and other details go to www.ctriver.org.

Carrie Healy writes, "The annual Shelburne Grange Fair will be held Saturday, August 25, 2012. The fair is an annual family tradition for many, and the Shelburne Grange #68 Fair Committee members invite you to participate in the exhibitions, enjoy the concessions, and family entertainment and activities throughout the fair day. For those interested in exhibiting handmade, handcrafted items, you should know that you do not need to be from Shelburne or a grange member - everyone is welcome! For an exhibitor handbook and entry information, call 413-625-6592."