Thursday, February 28, 2013

"Mind melds" move from science fiction to science in rats

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The scientists call it a "brain link," and it is the closest anyone has gotten to a real-life "mind meld": the thoughts of a rat romping around a lab in Brazil were captured by electronic sensors and sent via Internet to the brain of a rat in the United States.

The result: the second rat received the thoughts of the first, mimicking its behavior, researchers reported on Thursday in Scientific Reports, a journal of the Nature Publishing Group.

Adding to its science-fiction feel, the advance in direct brain-to-brain communication could lay the foundation for what Duke University Medical Center neurobiologist Miguel Nicolelis, who led the research, calls an "organic computer" in which multiple brains are linked to solve problems solo brains can't.

If that sounds like an ethical minefield, several experts think so too, especially since Nicolelis is now working on brain-to-brain communication between monkeys.

"Having non-human primates communicate brain-to-brain raises all sorts of ethical concerns," said one neuroscientist, who studies how brains handle motor and sensory information, but who asked not to be named. "Reading about putting things in animals' brains and changing what they do, people rightly get nervous," envisioning battalions of animal soldiers - or even human soldiers - whose brains are remotely controlled by others.

That could make drone warfare seem as advanced as muskets.

Nicolelis's lab received $26 million from the Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for work on brain-machine interfaces, as this field is called.

The linked rat brains in the study built on 15 years of research in brain-machine interfaces. These interfaces take electrical signals generated from the brains of severely-paralyzed people and translate them into commands that move a mechanical arm, a computer cursor or even the patient's own arm.

Such work led Nicolelis to ask, can one brain decode the electrical signals generated by another?

The answer - at least for rats - was yes.

CODED SIGNALS

In one experiment, the Duke researchers trained rats destined to be message senders, or encoders, to press a lever when a red light above them turned on. Doing so earned the animals a sip of water. Rats intended to be message receivers, or decoders, were trained to press a lever when the scientists electrically stimulated their brains via implants.

The scientists next connected the rats' brains directly, inserting microelectrodes roughly one-hundredth the width of a human hair. Now when an encoding rat saw the red light and pressed the lever, its brain activity sped directly into the brains of seven decoder rats.

The decoders did not see a red light. Nevertheless, they usually pressed the correct lever and earned their after-work libation. The encoder rats got the same treat, reaping the rewards of their partners' success.

The encoder rat did not get that reward if a decoder rat goofed. In that case, the encoder rat, apparently realizing what had happened, seemed to concentrate harder on its task: it decided more quickly to choose the correct lever and quashed extraneous thoughts so as not to muddy the signal with, perhaps, daydreams about escaping the lab or pressing the wrong lever.

As a result, the signal got louder and sharper, and the decoder rats made fewer mistakes.

"The encoder basically changed its brain function to make the signal cleaner and easier for its partner to get it right," Nicolelis said.

Videos of the experiments are available at www.nicolelislab.net, and the paper is at http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/srep01319

The researchers also trained pairs of rats to distinguish a narrow opening from a wide one using their whiskers. The animals learned to poke a water port on the left side of the chamber with their nose if they sensed a narrow opening, and a port on the right if they sensed a wide opening.

As with the lever press, when the brain waves that signified "narrow door" traveled from the encoder rat to the decoder rat, the latter usually poked the correct port.

In these experiments, the rats were in Nicolelis's lab at Duke and their brains were connected by long, thin wires. To show the reach of brain waves, the scientists re-ran the experiments with encoder rats in Natal, Brazil, and decoder rats at Duke. The brain signals traveled over the Internet. But even with the resulting noise, the mind melds usually succeeded.

'COMPLETE FANTASY'

Some other researchers were not impressed. For one thing, the Internet aspect is not novel: in a previous study, electrical activity in the brain of a monkey at Duke was sent via the Internet and controlled a robot arm in Japan.

Neurobiologist Andrew Schwartz of the University of Pittsburgh, a leader in the field of brain-computer interactions, said that "from a scientific/engineering point of view, this is of limited interest." Brain-machine interfaces "have moved far beyond this."

"It's cool that the stimulus came from another brain" rather than an electrical device, agreed bioengineer Douglas Weber of Pittsburgh. But "many labs have shown that animals can detect electrical stimuli delivered to the brain. This paper simply shows that the animals can detect electrical stimuli... from another rat's brain. There is nothing unexpected or surprising."

The Duke team sees the study as a step toward what lead author Miguel Pais-Vieira calls "a workable network of animal brains." They are currently trying to link four rats' brains and (separately) two monkeys' brains, each in what Nicolelis calls a "brain-net."

"Wiring brains together to accomplish something useful strikes me as a fantasy," said neuroscientist Lee Miller of the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, whose brain-machine research is intended to help paralyzed patients move.

Asked how likely it is that one day human brains would be linked, Nicolelis said: "I wouldn't mind if, 100 years from now, people say two rats started human brain nets."

(Reporting by Sharon Begley; Editing by Jilian Mincer and Claudia Parsons)

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/mind-melds-move-science-fiction-science-rats-144950902.html

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Suggested Events for March 2nd ? 8th, 2013 | Hilltown Families

Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

Looking for a whiff of spring? Starting this Saturday, March 2nd, both Smith College Botanic Garden and Mount Holyoke College?s Botanic Garden spring flower shows open featuring hundreds of spring-blossoming bulbs! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

Suggest EventIf you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you?d like to let us know about, post your event on our ?Suggest An Event? page. The events below are ?suggested.? Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Enhanced PublicityServing Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Winter Bucket ListSaturday, March 2nd from 10am-4pm in Hampden County ? MUSEUM ADVENTURE: Happy 109th birthday, Dr. Seuss! ?Celebrate today with the Springfield Museums, home of the Dr. Seuss sculpture garden. ?Celebrations will take place all day long, including MYO Cat in the Hat bowties and birthday cards for Dr. Seuss, a chance to meet the Cat in the Hat himself, family science adventures, planetarium shows (additional charge), and a Dr. Seuss cake contest where visitors can vote for their favorite, most Seuss-est cake! ?413-263-6800. ?21 Edwards Street. ?Springfield, MA. ?($)

Saturday, March 2nd at 10:30am in Hampshire County ? FAMILY PERFORMANCE: Grammy-nominated folk musician David Grover performs this morning at the Jones Library! ?His beautiful music is unique amongst folk-style family music in that it speaks to people of all ages, and not just children. ?413-259-3090. ?43 Amity Street. ?Amherst, MA. ?(FREE)

Saturday, March 2nd at 1pm in Berkshire County ? MUSEUM ADVENTURE: It?s Family Curiosity Day at the Williams College Museum of Art! ?Visit the museum to learn all about art ? there will be gallery activities, artistic experiments, and lots of art projects! ?413-597-3131. ?15 Lawrence Hall Drive. ?Williamstown, MA.?

Saturday, March 2nd from 11am-12:30pm in Franklin County ? LITERACY: Families with kids ages 6+ are invited to take part in a 6-week workshop series with professional storyteller John Porcino at the Dickinson Library! ?Porcino will share beautiful children?s books with families, and the events are a celebration of stories ? each week will focus on a new theme. ?Registration required. ?413-498-2455. ?Main Street. ?Northfield, MA. ?(FREE)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Mark Your Calendars: March 16th Hilltown Families & Flywheel present another Saturday Morning Music Party in Easthampton!

Next Saturday, March 9th from 9am-12pm in Hampshire County? ? KIDS? STUFF SWAP: Northampton Dept. of Public Works is holding a Kids? Stuff Swap and Art Workshops, PopUp Artists? Shop and Environmental Info table at Smith Vocational School. Pre-registration.? 80 Locust St. Northampton, MA (FREE)?

Next Saturday, March 9th from 11am-2pm Berkshire County ? MAPLEFEST: Maple sugaring season has arrived once again, and Hopkins Memorial Forest host its annual celebration to usher in the new season. The celebration will allow people to both observe and take part in the maple syrup production process, from tapping a tree to checking out the finishing and bottling of the final product.? Participants will also be able to visit a working sugar house, assist with sap gathering, and taste the homemade syrup on pancakes and ?sugar on snow.? In addition, there will be demonstrations of old-time evaporating methods, dating back to the pre-colonial era, as well as maple sugaring exhibits, videos, and more. Intersection of Bulkley Street & Northwest Hill Road. 413-597-4277. Williamstown, MA (FREE)

Next Sunday, March 10th from 11am-3pm in Hampden County ? MAPLE HARVEST DAY: Storrowton Village Museum?s 8th annual Maple Harvest Day? will showcase the history and lore of maple sugaring in the Gilbert Farmstead?s front yard with Sugar Maple tree tapping, sumac spile making and sap boiling over an open fire, to educate the public about the origin and legend of the tradition. Inside the historic home, docents will demonstrate 19th century open hearth cooking at the cozy kitchen fireplace as well as quilting and spinning wool. 413-205-5051. Eastern States Expo. West Springfield, MA (FREE)?

BULLETIN BOARD

March 3

Teen Social Justice Workshop: How Did Young People Lead the Drive for Workers? Rights? Join Temple Israel (27 Pierce St.) in Greenfield on Sunday, March 3 from 12:30-2:30pm for the next in their series of teen social justice workshops exploring Jewish history and ethics. This week they will be learning about the essential role young people played in organizing the garment workers? strikes in New York City. There will be history, study of Jewish ethical identity as expressed across the spectrum of religious observance, critical thinking activities and a special segment on learning Yiddish workers? songs. Free and open to everyone. Refreshments will be provided. For more info contact Samantha Wood: cornerrobot@gmail.com. 413-522-3832

March 3

Come celebrate St. Patrick?s Day with the Celtic Heels Irish Dance Company at the Academy of Music Theatre, this Sunday, March 3rd, at 2pm. This vibrant performance will feature over 70 dancers of all ages as well as guest musicians Emerald Rae (a National Scottish Fiddle Champion) and Liz Simmons (a Honey Voiced Singer). Tickets are $12/adults, $10/seniors, $10/children and are available through the Academy of Music Theatre at www.academyofmusictheatre.com or by phone at 413-584-9032 ext. 105 (box office fees may apply). Join in the fun of the jigs and reels with your children at this toe tapping hand clapping afternoon of family fun!

March 9

Piti Theatre presents 4th Annual SYRUP: One Sweet Performing Arts Festival on Sat., March 9 at Memorial Hall in Shelburne Falls. Family show at 2pm with Piti?s ?To Bee or Not to Bee,? leading U.S. mask artist Larry Hunt of Masque Theater, children?s mask parade, syrup tasting, free Real Pickles and more! Evening show at 7pm for ages 8+ with Masque Theater?s 20 mask variety show, juggling/comedy with national touring actor Jack Golden, brother-sister duo June and the Bee. Family show $5, Evening $12/$8 under 16. Fri., 3/8: paper pattern mask making workshop for grades K ? 5, 4:30 ? 5:30 pm at Mem. Hall. Children can be in next day?s mask parade. Sun. 3/9: Mask Movement for ages 15+ at Hart Yoga, 1-4pm. info@ptco.org, www.ptco.org/shows/syrup

Beginning Feb 25

FMC Ice Sports offers a fun and unique learning environment for all ages. Participants in our Step 1 Learn to Skate programs are taught the basics of ice skating without relying on skating aids. This method of teaching increases a skater?s independence on the ice and encourages their learning of balance and maneuverability. Students eventually graduate to our Step 2 and Step 3 programs that focus on the more sport specific skills required in hockey and figure skating. FMC Ice Sports programs can be found at the Smead Arena in Springfield and the Collins Moylan Arena in Greenfield. Class information and registration are available online at www.fmcicesports.com or by calling 1-888-74-SKATE.

Advertise your Summer Camp with Hilltown FamiliesMARKET YOUR SUMMER CAMP: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, Hilltown Families is offering camps and programs a chance to partner with us in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. On Sunday, March 24th, Hilltown Families will be featuring camps in the region on Hilltown Families with a special post titled: 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Find out more about our marketing package and early bird discounts HERE.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your community event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

MotherWoman is coming to the Hilltowns, offering two support groups to Hilltown mothers. ?The first group meets on Mondays in Ashfield at St. John?s Corner House from 11am-12:30pm, offering a free, safe, confidential drop-in group for mothers of infants & young children a place to feel heard, valued, understood, nurtured and energized. ?Expectant mothers welcome. Free childcare is available for children up to age four. Contact Anna Westley for more info at 413-625-6948. A second group will be hosted by the Cummington Family Center at the Cummington Community House on the 2nd Thursday each month from 10-11:30am. ?Contact Stacey Mackowiak for more info at 413-634-8853. ?More info on both at www.itavillage.com.

Volunteers wanted for Salamander Tunnel Maintenance Day in Amherst on a Saturday in March (determined by the weather). One of Amherst?s many claims to fame are the Henry St. amphibian tunnels, North America?s first, designed to direct spotted salamanders under the road, thus avoiding the tires of passing autos. All are invited to ready the tunnels for the annual spring migration. The Hitchcock Center for the Environment will be raking leaves, shoveling sand and debris, clipping brush, repairing plastic mesh fences, pounding in wooden stakes, and picking up litter and will have some tools and gloves available for families to help out (but please bring your own if you have them.). All ages are welcome! FREE ? Please call 413-256-6006 to be added to the call/email list to volunteer.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
March 2nd-8th, 2013

Saturday ? Sunday
Monday ? Tuesday ? Wednesday ? Thursday ? Friday

Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter

Berkshire Family Fun

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ? On-going Events

Saturday, March 2nd, 2013

?Cross-country ski at Notchview in Windsor, go sledding at JFK Middle School (Northampton, MA), and in late winter, have breakfast at a maple sugar shack in the hilltowns.? ? Mimi Kaplan

6-10am ? FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including the Hilltown Family Variety Show and Spare the Rock. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.

Hilltown Family Variety Show9-10am ? HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. - Guest DJ Julianna Bright, the Portland based artist and musician and mom with the kids? music moniker Cat Doorman gathers together a passel of tunes from her family?s record collection, dotting the playlist with a few tunes from her recent release Cat Doorman Songbook. Other songs hop from Andalusia to Paris, from the 1930?s through today with a common thread of playfulness and joy. - Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcast anytime. Click here to see over 5 years of archived shows.

10am-8pm ? AUDITIONS: Youth ages 13-19 are invited to audition for Barrington Stage?s Youth Theater production of Disney?s The Little Mermaid, Jr. ?Auditions are by appointment only, and those interested in being part of the show should prepare at least 16 bars of two contrasting songs from published Broadway shows, and must also bring a headshot. ?Auditions will take place at Barrington?s Stage?s mainstage. ?413-499-5446. ?30 Union Street. ?Pittsfield, MA. ?(FREE)

9-11am ? PLAYGROUP: South Berkshire Kids, Community Healthy Programs, and the Montessori School of the Berkshires are offering families a special playgroup this morning! ?Kids will enjoy playing with learning materials, making art, and enjoying music and stories. ?413-637-3662. ?21 Patterson Road. ?Lenoxdale, MA. ?(FREE)

9am-1pm ? CRAFTS: Learn to do your own pisanski ? a traditional Easter activity done in eastern Poland and Ukraine. ?Pisanski is the art of dying eggs ? but not with the usual cloudy dye tablets! ?Pisanski eggs are made using wax and brilliant colored dyes in order to create beautiful and intricately decorated eggs that are true works of art. ?Open to ages 12+, the workshop will be lead by local pisanski artist Carol Kostecki. ?Hosted by the Wistariahurst Museum. ?Registration required. ?413-322-5660. ?238 Cabot Street. ?Holyoke, MA. ?($$)

9am-3:30pm ? CRAFTS: Make winter-themed crafts today at the Holyoke Public Library! ?Crafts are drop-in and will be available as supplies last ? try some sketch art or make a snowflake ornament! ?413-322-5635. ?Maple Street. ?Holyoke, MA. ?(FREE)

9:30am-4pm ? HISTORY: Old Sturbridge Village is hosting Native American Weekend! ?Along with the village?s ongoing opportunities to learn about life and culture in early New England, this special weekend offers families a chance to learn about Native American history and cultural traditions, something often left out of studies of American history. ?The village hosts Native American doctress Molly Geet, who will share winter stories and tales of Native American maple sugaring, snowshoeing, and more. ?There will also be flute-making demonstrations, and demonstration of other traditional crafts and skills. ?The event is a great way for families to supplement their studies of American history, and to build knowledge about the rich history of Native American traditions and their influence on the development of New England culture. ?800-733-1830. ?Sturbridge, MA. ?($)

10am-12noon ? OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Take a snowshoe trek at Bartholomew?s Cobble! ?Join the Trustees of Reservations in exploring the beautiful fields, forests, and streams of the cobble. ?413-229-8600. ?Weatogue Road. ?Sheffield, MA. ?($)

10am-12noon ? LIBRARY ADVENTURES: The Edwards Library hosts a Dr. Seuss birthday celebration for children of all ages. ?There will be Seussian stories read by local moguls, arts and crafts to make and even a birthday cake and punch! 413-529-9480. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA (FREE)

10am-12noon ? FAMILY DANCE PARTY: Shake, rattle, and roll to some great tunes at the 2nd annual Family Dance Party at the Northampton Center for the Arts! ?The event is a fundraiser for Nonotuck Community School, and will feature DJ Joan Holliday from 93.9 The River. ?Great fun for families ? start off the weekend on an exciting note! ?17 New South Street. ?Northampton, MA. ?(<$)

10am-1pm ? OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Snowshoe through the Windsor Jambs State Forest with Mass Audubon and Aimee Gelinas of Tamarack Hollow! ?The three mile trek will help participants learn about the unique ecology and landscape of the area. ?Registration required. ?413-584-3009. ?Windsor, MA. ?($)

10am-2pm ? ART: Artspace?s annual Pottery and More seconds sale takes place today at Greenfield High School! ?The event is a great opportunity to view and buy some pieces from talented local artists and artisans. ?Lenox Avenue. ?Greenfield, MA. ?(SALE)

10am-2pm ? PREGNANCY: ?Dani Fine Photography will be hosting an event to celebrate motherhood and pregnancy at their studio in Thornes Marketplace, featuring a dozen businesses, complimentary services, and samples. ?Northampton, MA (FREE)

10am-3pm ? MUSEUM ADVENTURE: Explore the art of Asia at the Smith College Museum of Art?s Free Family Day! ?Families can visit the museum?s current exhibit, Collecting the Art of Asia, to learn about artistic techniques and traditions from a handful of Asian cultures. ?There will be drop-in activities throughout the day, too! ?It?s a great chance for families to learn about art appreciation and world cultures. ?413-585-2760. ?Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. ?Northampton, MA. ?(FREE)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: Visit Mt. Holyoke?s Talcott Greenhouse for the botanic garden?s 2013 bulb show! ?With a Mediterranean theme, the show features a wide variety of spring-blooming bulbs, as well as other beautiful flowering plants and shrubs. ?Families can learn about unique types of plants, and a visit to the show can be used to supplement studies of biodiversity and plant anatomy. ?413-538-2116. ?50 College Street. ?South Hadley, MA. ?(FREE)

10am-4pm ? MUSEUM ADVENTURE: Happy 109th birthday, Dr. Seuss! ?Celebrate today with the Springfield Museums, home of the Dr. Seuss sculpture garden. ?Celebrations will take place all day long, including MYO Cat in the Hat bowties and birthday cards for Dr. Seuss, a chance to meet the Cat in the Hat himself, family science adventures, planetarium shows (additional charge), and a Dr. Seuss cake contest where visitors can vote for their favorite, most Seuss-est cake! ?413-263-6800. ?21 Edwards Street. ?Springfield, MA. ?($)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: The Smith College Botanic Garden?s annual spring bulb show begins today! ?Visit the garden to see beautiful flowers and to learn about the growing process of bulbs. ?Pair a visit to the show with a family study of how plants grow and compare seed growth to bulb growth. ?413-585-2740. ?16 College Lane. ?Northampton, MA. ?(DONATION)

10:30am ? FAMILY PERFORMANCE: Grammy-nominated folk musician David Grover performs this morning at the Jones Library! ?His beautiful music is unique amongst folk-style family music in that it speaks to people of all ages, and not just children. ?413-259-3090. ?43 Amity Street. ?Amherst, MA. ?(FREE)

11am-12noon ? KIDS? PERFORMANCE: Bowey the Clown visits Spectrum Playhouse today! ?Enjoy Bowey?s silly jokes and tricks. ?413-394-5023. ?20 Franklin Street. ?Lee, MA.

11am-12:30pm ? LITERACY: Families with kids ages 6+ are invited to take part in a 6-week workshop series with professional storyteller John Porcino at the Dickinson Library! ?Porcino will share beautiful children?s books with families, and the events are a celebration of stories ? each week will focus on a new theme. ?Registration required. ?413-498-2455. ?Main Street. ?Northfield, MA. ?(FREE)

11:30am-1pm ? NUTRITION: The Storrs Library hosts Kids Cuisine, a fun, nutrition-focused workshop where kids will learn about making healthy (yet still delicious!) choices about food. ?Participants will get to prepare lunch and some snacks, too! ?Admission is granted by a donation for the local food bank. ?413-565-4181. ?693 Longmeadow Street. ?Longmeadow, MA. ?(DONATION)

12noon-3pm ? PROM PREP: Cenderelli?s Consignment Boutique is hosting a special event for teens preparing for prom season: ?Prom for Pennies!?? The shop sells clothes of all kinds, but the focus for the event is the dress selection ? families can buy gently used dresses on the cheap! ?Recycled dresses are a practical way to go for prom ? much cheaper than new dresses, and buying consignment is a great way to find unique, interesting clothes. ?There will also be a raffle for prom-related prizes and information on prom-related services available locally. ?413-540-0693. ?480 Newton Street. ?South Hadley, MA. ?(SALE)

12noon-4pm ? SOCIAL STUDIES: Have you ever wished that a book would converse with you, instead of just laying there waiting to be read? ?What if checking out a book meant getting your questions answered rather than searching through pages? ?Visit Williams College?s Human Library! ?Instead of checking out books, patrons will check out actual people, who have been pre-designated to talk about specific topics ? mainly based on unique life experiences. ?Visitors to the library can check out their human books for 15-20 minutes each, and will be able to gain firsthand information from each interaction. ?880 Main Street. ?Williamstown, MA. ?(FREE)

12:30pm ? HIKE: Join DCR MassParks staff and Great Barrington Trails & Greenways volunteers for a guided hike along the Benedict Pond Loop Trail in Beartown State Forest. The hike is an easy 1.7 miles, about 1.5 hours in duration. For Ages 12 and up. Meet at the day-use parking lot near the boat ramp on Benedict Pond Road (off Blue Hill Road). 413-528-0904. Monterey, MA (FREE)

1pm ? MUSEUM ADVENTURE: It?s Family Curiosity Day at the Williams College Museum of Art! ?Visit the museum to learn all about art ? there will be gallery activities, artistic experiments, and lots of art projects! ?413-597-3131. ?15 Lawrence Hall Drive. ?Williamstown, MA.?

1-3pm ? WINTER OPEN HOUSE: Kick off maple season at Sheep Hill?s Winter Open House! ?Hosted by the Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation, the event will feature a winter ecology hike, animal tracking, sledding and snowshoeing, seasonal crafts, and maple treats! ?413-458-2494. ?Cold Spring Road. ?Williamstown, MA. ?(<$)

1-3pm ? DOG SHOW: Holyoke parks and Recreation?s second annual dog show ? Hot Dogs on a Cold Winter Day ? takes place today at Holyoke High School! ?All local dogs, regardless of pedigree, are invited to participate, and families can attend the show to see the well-behaved pups compete for titles like Best Mystery Mutt, Best Dog Trick, and Most Obedient! ?The event is part of Holyoke?s Winter Carnival ? registration forms are available for competitors online. ?413-322-5620. ?500 Beech Street. ?Holyoke, MA.?

2-3:45pm ? MOVIE: The Westfield Athenaeum screens the movie version of Dr. Seuss? The Cat in the Hat this afternoon ? celebrate Dr. Seuss? birthday by watching the film! ?Snacks and drinks provided. ?413-568-7833. ?6 Elm Street. ?Westfield, MA. ?(FREE)

3pm ? WOMEN?S HISTORY: Celebrate National Women?s History Month with Western Gateway Heritage State Park! ?The park is offering a special program on women?s role in the field of science throughout history. ?413-663-6312. ?115 State Street, Building 4. ?North Adams, MA. ?(FREE)

4-6pm ? LOCAL HISTORY: Throughout history, communities have grown and changed all over the world as a result of their physical surroundings. ?Our communities here in Western Massachusetts are not exception! ?Tonight, families can learn about the history of the town of Conway?s relationship with the South River at Conway Town Hall! ?The Historical Society and Historical Commission are presenting the talk, which will share lots of interesting information about the town?s past. ?Discussion will follow. ?413-369-4725. ?5 Academy Hill Road. ?Conway, MA. ?(FREE)

4:30-5:30pm ? FOOD: View beautifully decorated cakes and try out lots of different types of chili at the Holyoke Winter Carnival?s Chili Cook-off and Cake Decorating Contest! ?Cakes will not be for tasting, but visitors can see the unique, beautiful, and creative designs that competitors have made. ?Official judging of the contest will begin at 5:30pm. ?Takes place at Gateway City Arts. ?92-114 Race Street. ?Holyoke, MA. ?(FREE)

6-8pm ? FAMILY ACT OF KINDNESS: Show some support for a local family who lost their home to a fire ? Bread Euphoria is hosting a benefit concert, featuring Vince Snyder and the Rocky Hill Band! ?15% of the evening?s sales will be donated to the family, as well as proceeds from a silent auction and other donations. ?Enjoy a great evening out and help a local family in need! ?206 Main Street. ?Haydenville, MA. ?(FUNDRAISER)

8pm ? THEATER: Spring production at Bay Path College: Steel Magnolias, directed by Fred Sokol. The quintessential story of friendship and trust, Steel Magnolias serves up a southern slice of life. From weddings to divorces, babies to funerals, new beginnings to happy endings, they share each moment in their lives with grace, determination and perfectly coiffed hair. When tragedy strikes, it is to the familiar comfort of Truvy?s salon that the characters converge for solace and support. This is a terrific show for the entire family. ?413-565-1307. Mills Theatre, Carr Hall. Longmeadow, MA ($)

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Sunday, March 3rd, 2013

?My 3 and 5 yr old daughters and I LOVE to warm up inside the Smith College greenhouses! The bulb show in March is refreshing and vibrant. It?s fun to be in the humid greenhouses while its a winter wonderland outside.? ? Heather Johnson

Hilltown Family Variety Show7-8am ? FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. commercial-free family radio. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcast anytime. Click here to see over 5 years of archived shows.

10am-12noon ? AUDITIONS: Youth ages 13-19 are invited to audition for Barrington Stage?s Youth Theater production of Disney?s The Little Mermaid, Jr. ?Auditions are by appointment only, and those interested in being part of the show should prepare at least 16 bars of two contrasting songs from published Broadway shows, and must also bring a headshot. ?Auditions will take place at Barrington?s Stage?s mainstage. ?413-499-5446. ?30 Union Street. ?Pittsfield, MA. ?(FREE)

8:30am-3pm ? SUGAR SHACK: South Face Farm?s sugar shack is open for the season! ?Enjoy the best Sunday breakfast ever ? a big plate full of pancakes, doused in delicious local maple syrup! ?Learn about maple sugaring before visiting the shack to make the trip even more memorable. ?413-628-3268. ?755 Watson-Spruce Corner Road. ?Ashfield, MA. ?($)

9-11:30am ? COMMUNITY BREAKFAST: Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast this morning as part of Holyoke?s Winter Carnival! ?Students in Dean Technical School?s culinary program will be whipping up endless piles of pancakes for all to enjoy. ?413-244-6766. ?1045 Main Street. ?Holyoke, MA. ?(FREE)

12noon-5pm ? WINTER FESTIVAL: With the Thunderbolt Ski Race this weekend comes ThunderFest, an annual winter celebration featuring food, music, and fun! ?The event takes place at the visitors center in downtown Adams, and will feature live music all afternoon from the Northshire String Band (classic bluegrass) and the Rev Tor Band (original rock and covers). ?Eight local vendors will provide delicious warm foods, and families can visit the new ski museum, warm up around a campfire, and participate in other fun activities. ?4 Hoosac Street. ?Adams, MA. ?(FREE)

9:30am-4pm ? HISTORY: Old Sturbridge Village is hosting Native American Weekend! ?Along with the village?s ongoing opportunities to learn about life and culture in early New England, this special weekend offers families a chance to learn about Native American history and cultural traditions, something often left out of studies of American history. ?The village hosts Native American doctress Molly Geet, who will share winter stories and tales of Native American maple sugaring, snowshoeing, and more. ?There will also be flute-making demonstrations, and demonstration of other traditional crafts and skills. ?The event is a great way for families to supplement their studies of American history, and to build knowledge about the rich history of Native American traditions and their influence on the development of New England culture. ?800-733-1830. ?Sturbridge, MA. ?($)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: Visit Mt. Holyoke?s Talcott Greenhouse for the botanic garden?s 2013 bulb show! ?With a Mediterranean theme, the show features a wide variety of spring-blooming bulbs, as well as other beautiful flowering plants and shrubs. ?Families can learn about unique types of plants, and a visit to the show can be used to supplement studies of biodiversity and plant anatomy. ?413-538-2116. ?50 College Street. ?South Hadley, MA. ?(FREE)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: The Smith College Botanic Garden?s annual spring bulb show begins today! ?Visit the garden to see beautiful flowers and to learn about the growing process of bulbs. ?Pair a visit to the show with a family study of how plants grow and compare seed growth to bulb growth. ?413-585-2740. ?16 College Lane. ?Northampton, MA. ?(DONATION)

12:15-1:15pm ? ANIMAL STUDIES: Explore animal adaptations with the Hitchcock Center?s Helen Ann Sephton at the Leverett Library! ?Kids will learn about the ways that animals have adapted in order to survive New England winters. ?75 Montague Road. ?Leverett, MA. ?(FREE)

12:30-2:30pm ? TEEN: How did young people help to drive the movement for workers? rights? ?Learn about life as a young person in New York City during the garment workers? strikes with Temple Israel. ?The workshop will use a curriculum from the Jewish Women?s Archive, but teens are welcome to attend regardless of religious affiliation or level of Jewish education. ?Great for teens interested in social justice and/or the role of youth and young adults in cultural change. ?413-522-3832. ?27 Pierce Street. ?Greenfield, MA. ?(FREE)

1pm ? OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Explore Mount Tom and learn about how plants and animals have adapted to survive to cold, snowy winter here in Massachusetts! ?The program is sponsored by the Massachusetts DCR. ?Meet at the Stone House Visitors Center. ?413-584-6788. ?Reservation and Christopher Clark Roads. ?Holyoke, MA. ?(FREE)

1:30pm ? DOMINOES: Dominoes are a great way to pass time, and playing the game can help kids work on matching and number skills. ?Taken more seriously, dominoes can be a serious, competitive game! ?Holyoke?s Winter Carnival includes a domino tournament ? teams and/or individual players can sign up to participate in the fun but intense game! ?Registration begins at 12noon, and the tournament takes place at the Salsarengue Restaurant. ?413-320-3148. 392 High Street. ?Holyoke, MA.?

2pm - CULTURAL STUDIES: Get in the spirit of St. Patrick?s Day this afternoon ? the Academy of Music hosts Celtic Heels Irish Dance Company! ?The group will be accompanied by Emerald Rae, a Scottish fiddle champion, and the performance is sure to provide lots of hand-clapping, toe-tapping traditional Irish entertainment. ?413-584-9032. ?Main Street. ?Northampton, MA. ?($$)

2pm ? THEATER: Spring production at Bay Path College: Steel Magnolias, directed by Fred Sokol. The quintessential story of friendship and trust, Steel Magnolias serves up a southern slice of life. From weddings to divorces, babies to funerals, new beginnings to happy endings, they share each moment in their lives with grace, determination and perfectly coiffed hair. When tragedy strikes, it is to the familiar comfort of Truvy?s salon that the characters converge for solace and support. This is a terrific show for the entire family. ?413-565-1307. Mills Theatre, Carr Hall. Longmeadow, MA ($)

2pm ? FILM FESTIVAL: Miyazaki Festival. Throughout the month of March and into April, Amherst Cinema celebrates the singular storytelling vision of Hayao Miyazaki, with restored 35mm prints of his most treasured films, presented in their original Japanese with English subtitles.? Today they will screen ?Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind? from 1984 (PG).? 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA ($)

4pm ? COMMUNITY DINNER: Cajun traditions and Italian food mix tonight at the Holyoke Winter Carnival?s spaghetti dinner! ?Zydeco Connection will perform music straight from Louisiana, and the pasta will be plentiful. ?Takes place at the Elks Lodge. ?250 Whitney Avenue. ?Holyoke, MA. ?($)

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Monday, March 4th, 2013

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: The Smith College Botanic Garden?s annual spring bulb show begins today! ?Visit the garden to see beautiful flowers and to learn about the growing process of bulbs. ?Pair a visit to the show with a family study of how plants grow and compare seed growth to bulb growth. ?413-585-2740. ?16 College Lane. ?Northampton, MA. ?(DONATION)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: Visit Mt. Holyoke?s Talcott Greenhouse for the botanic garden?s 2013 bulb show! ?With a Mediterranean theme, the show features a wide variety of spring-blooming bulbs, as well as other beautiful flowering plants and shrubs. ?Families can learn about unique types of plants, and a visit to the show can be used to supplement studies of biodiversity and plant anatomy. ?413-538-2116. ?50 College Street. ?South Hadley, MA. ?(FREE)

5:30-7pm ? COMMUNITY DINNER: Hope and Olive hosts Soup and Games Night tonight to benefit programming at the Montague Public Libraries! ?Enjoy a delicious dinner, some great games, and help to support important community opportunities. ?413-863-3214. ?44 Hope Street. ?Greenfield, MA. ?(DONATION)

6pm ? SCIENCE: Older students interested in interesting and obscure science can learn fascinating facts at OEB Science Cafe events! ?This month?s topic is animal communication. ?Hampshire College?s Sarah Partan will share information on everything from the meaning of squirrels? tail waving to the challenges that urban birds face in mating. ?Takes place at Esselon Cafe. ?99 Russell Street. ?Hadley, MA. ?(FREE)

6-7pm ? LOCAL HISTORY: The Wistariahurst Museum is hosting a lecture series on the history of transportation in the Pioneer Valley! ?Tonight?s lecture is on the role of Westover Field in the Cold War. ?Author Steve Jendrysik will speak about the three-decade relationship that local communities had with the US effort in the Cold War as a result of the Air Force?s presence in Western Massachusetts. ?Best for older students, the event can help to supplement studies of modern American history. ?413-322-5660. ?238 Cabot Street. ?Holyoke, MA. ?(<$)

6-7pm ? CHEMISTRY: The Williston Library is hosting their annual Chemistry Passport event tonight! ?Kids can learn from Mt. Holyoke students all about electromagnetic radiation outside of the visible spectrum. ?The workshop will include a look at infrared technology and its use in the field of art history and art restoration! ?Registration required. ?413-529-1605. ?9 Park Street. ?Easthampton, MA. ?(FREE)

7pm ? FILM: Amherst Cinema screens, ?Anita O?Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer,? as part of the Jazz a la Mode Film Series! ?The film tells the life story of the iconic jazz singer, whose unique style inspired an entire type of jazz to be born. ?413-253-2547. ?28 Amity Street. ?Amherst, MA. ?($)

ONGOING FOR MONDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: At the South Hadley Family Center. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11am ? STORYTIME: At the MN Spear Memorial Library, sponsored by the Community Network for Children through June 2013! 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: At the Williamstown Youth Center! Sponsored by Childcare of the Berkshires. 413-458-5925. 270 Cole Avenue. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10am-12noon ? PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Easthampton Family Center at the Flywheel space in the Old Town Hall building. 413-527-5496. Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10:30am-12:20pm ? ICE SKATING: Smead Arena offers a public skating session this morning ? great for families with kids who are still learning to skate, daytime skating sessions offer low-key and less crowded ice time. Open ice times take place at the same time Monday-Friday. 413-781-2599. 1780 Roosevelt Avenue. Springfield, MA. (<$) ?
  • 11am ? 12:30pm ? SUPPORT GROUP: There is a new MotherWoman group forming in the Hilltowns! Today is the first meeting, which will take place at St. John?s Corner. The support group is for pregnant and postpartum mothers, and childcare is available for kids up to age 4. Meetings will be weekly. 413-625-6948. 469 Main Street. Ashfield, MA. (FREE)
  • 2:30-4pm ? PLAYGROUP: Toddler group (siblings welcomed) at Shima Boutique. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
  • 2:30-5pm ? TEEN/TWEEN: Meekins Library?s Teen/Preteen Time takes place this afternoon! Teens can visit the library to hang out with friends, work on homework, play games, use computers, and check out awesome new books, movies, and music. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 3:30-4:30pm ? BREAK DANCE: Learn to break like a b-boy! The Lichtenstein Center for the Arts offers a weekly break dance class, taught by Joshua McHugh, accomplished dancer and dance teacher. 413-499-9348. 28 Renne Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. ($) ?
  • 3:30-5pm ? ANIME: The Springfield Central Library hosts Anime and Manga Club on Monday afternoons! Kids enthusiastic about the popular Japanese style of animation and cartooning can visit the library to read new manga and watch great anime! 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 5:30-7pm ? SCRABBLE: Enjoy an evening of friendly Scrabble at the Berkshire South Regional Community Center! Open to anyone ages 8+, the game night offers families an opportunity to practice fair play and basic sportsmanship while allowing kids to expand their spelling, vocabulary, and basic practical math skills. Sponsored by Bobbie Halig and Jenny and Adam Hersch. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 5:30pm ? PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires holds gym group at the Haskins Center! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 6-7pm ? MUSIC: Learn to drum, Afro-Carribbean style! The Lichtenstein Center for the Arts offers a weekly drum class, lead by Aimee Gelinas of Gaia Roots. Drums available to borrow. 28 Renne Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. ($) ?
  • 6-8pm ? BIRTH CIRCLE: Gathered Resources of Women (GROW) offers a drop in support group for pregnant women and their support team to explore the different aspects of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Hosted at Shima Boutique. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
  • 7pm ? MOTHER SUPPORT: MotherWoman bi-monthly meetings at Cradle, 3rd floor of Thornes Marketplace. 413-341-5282. Main Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
  • 7-8:30pm ? TEEN: Visit Longmeadow High School for open gym time! Basketball equipment will be provided by Longmeadow Rec Dept, and the event is open to anyone ages 13-20. Runs through 11/12. 413-565-4163. 95 Grassy Gutter Road. Longmeadow, MA. ($) ?

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Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: Visit Mt. Holyoke?s Talcott Greenhouse for the botanic garden?s 2013 bulb show! ?With a Mediterranean theme, the show features a wide variety of spring-blooming bulbs, as well as other beautiful flowering plants and shrubs. ?Families can learn about unique types of plants, and a visit to the show can be used to supplement studies of biodiversity and plant anatomy. ?413-538-2116. ?50 College Street. ?South Hadley, MA. ?(FREE)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: The Smith College Botanic Garden?s annual spring bulb show begins today! ?Visit the garden to see beautiful flowers and to learn about the growing process of bulbs. ?Pair a visit to the show with a family study of how plants grow and compare seed growth to bulb growth. ?413-585-2740. ?16 College Lane. ?Northampton, MA. ?(DONATION)

6pm ? FILM: The Berkshire Athenaeum is hosting a film series titled, ?Cinema of Law: The Law as Seen by Hollywood Movies.? ?The series will include well-known movies with law-related themes, each one introduced by a member of the Berkshire Bar Association. ?Tonight?s screening is The Last Campaign, a documentary about a West Virginia Supreme Court justice?s 2004 campaign for re-election. ?Best for older students interested in law! ?413-499-9480. ?1 Wendell Avenue. ?Pittsfield, MA. ?(FREE)

6-8pm - PARENT WORKSHOP: The Collaborative for Educational Services is offering a parent workshop titled, ?The Active Child.? ?Taking place at the Palmer-Monson Family Network, the workshop is designed for parents with kids who are very energetic and high-spirited! ?Parents will learn tips and tricks for dealing with children?s behavior, as well as strategies for creating a positive home environment! ?Registration required. ?413-570-3061. ?4 Springfield Street. ?Three Rivers, MA. ?(FREE)

ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

  • 9am-12noon ? PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center. 413-545-0865. 428 Student Union Building (Campus Center Way). Amherst, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:30-10:30am ? PLAYGROUP: The Community Health Coalition hosts Toddler Steps Playgroup at the CHP building. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
  • 9:30-11am ? PLAYGROUP: At Farmington River Preschool for kids 5 and under, sponsored by the Community Health Coalition. 413-664-0104. 555 North Main Road. Otis, MA. (FREE)
  • 9:30 or 11am ? STORYTIME: The Westfield Library hosts storytime for kids 6 months ? 3 years today. Registration required. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: At the Belchertown Family Center! 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:30-11:30 ? PLAYGROUP: It?s Baby Day at the South Hadley Family Center! 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10am ? STORYTIME: At the Berkshire Athenaeum! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10am ? STORYTIME: At the Dickinson Library! 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11am - PARENT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a mother?s group for Spanish-speaking moms at Brightwood Health Center. 413-796-8365. 380 Plainfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Preschool playgroup learning experiences at the Haskins Center! Takes place on the lower level. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11am ? STORYTIME: At the Greenfield Library. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Palmer-Monson Family Network. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ?10am-12noon ? PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Easthampton Family Center at the Flywheel space in the Old Town Hall building. 413-527-5496. Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10:15am ? STORYTIME: At the Lanesborough Library! Stories, crafts, and music for all ages. 413-499-5981. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10:15am-12:15pm ? SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a Postpartum Support Group for mothers. The group is a safe space for those adjusting to motherhood and is lead by trained facilitators. Takes place at Berkshire Children and Families. Childcare available. 413-253-8990. 220 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10:30-11:30am ? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: Visit the Great Falls Discovery Center for Kidleidescope, an environment-themed program for kids! Interactive learning opportunities and crafts always included. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10:30am ? STORYTIME: Springfield Central Library?s preschool storytime takes place this morning. 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 11am ? STORYTIME: The Lenox Library offers storytime for kids 18 months-3 years. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 2:30-6pm ? TEEN: The Belchertown Teen Center is open this afternoon, offering a safe, drug-free, semi-supervised environment where kids can play games, socialize, watch movies, etc. 413-323-8728. 66 State Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 3:30-5pm ? PARENT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a support group for young mothers and expecting women between the ages of 13 and 19. Group meetings are held bi-weekly and are drop-in. Babies welcome! Takes place at Mercy Care Holyoke. 413-886-0410. 306 Race Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
  • 4pm ? READING: Do you ever wish that you could recommend your favorite books to other library visitors? The Forest Park Branch Library invites Forest Park Reads, a special series where families can read new books (or chapters of books) and then rate them using a star system so that other library visitors can choose great new things to read! Takes place on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 413-263-6843. 380 Belmont Avnue. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
  • 5:30pm ? PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by Childcare of the Berkshires in the gym at the Abbot School. 56 North Country Road. Florida, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 6:30pm ? BREASTFEEDING: The La Leche League of North/Central Berkshires meets every third Tuesday at The Montessori School of the Berkshires. 21 Patterson Road. Lenox Dale, MA. (FREE)
  • 6:30-8pm ? MUSIC: The Berkshire South Regional Community Center hosts a free ukulele group tonight! Beginners and kids without any knowledge of music reading can join in ? the class will teach basic chord progressions and styles of playing from around the world. Registration requested but drop-in is OK. Sponsored by Bobbie Hallig and Jenny and Adam Hersch. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ?

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Wednesday, March 6th, 2013

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: The Smith College Botanic Garden?s annual spring bulb show begins today! ?Visit the garden to see beautiful flowers and to learn about the growing process of bulbs. ?Pair a visit to the show with a family study of how plants grow and compare seed growth to bulb growth. ?413-585-2740. ?16 College Lane. ?Northampton, MA. ?(DONATION)

10am-4pm ? BOTANY: Visit Mt. Holyoke?s Talcott Greenhouse for the botanic garden?s 2013 bulb show! ?With a Mediterranean theme, the show features a wide variety of spring-blooming bulbs, as well as other beautiful flowering plants and shrubs. ?Families can learn about unique types of plants, and a visit to the show can be used to supplement studies of biodiversity and plant anatomy. ?413-538-2116. ?50 College Street. ?South Hadley, MA. ?(FREE)

10:30-11:30am ? MUSEUM ADVENTURE: The Norman Rockwell Museum hosts Kids Create, a special art-making event for preschool kids and their accompanying adults. ?Kids can create masterpieces of their own, while helping their young brains to grow! ?413-298-4100. ?9 Route 183. ?Stockbridge, MA. ?(<$)

6-7:30pm ? PARENT WORKSHOP: Author Bill Corbett offers parents advice on some of the challenging behaviors that kids present. ?Titled, ?Positive Solutions for Getting Children to Cooperate,? the workshop will offer tips, strategies, skills, and more. ?Registration required. ?413-637-3662. ?21 Patterson Road. ?Lenoxdale, MA. ?(<$)

7pm ? FILM FESTIVAL: Miyazaki Festival. Throughout the month of March and into April, Amherst Cinema celebrates the singular storytelling vision of Hayao Miyazaki, with restored 35mm prints of his most treasured films, presented in their original Japanese with English subtitles.? Today they will screen ?Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind? from 1984 (PG).? 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA ($)

7pm ? TEENS/DATING: A community event for teens to promote safe and healthy dating relationships takes place Monument Mt. Regional High School Auditorium. Deana?s Educational Theater will put on a one-woman play, The Yellow Dress, based on true stories of victims of domestic? violence, including a young woman from Massachusetts named Deana. The play? raises awareness about healthy and unhealthy relationships and helps to identify? the early warning signs of dating violence. This thought-provoking production? will move students and adults alike. 413-443-5951. 600 Stockbridge Rd. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)

7pm ? PARENT WORKSHOP: Great Barrington Waldorf High School hosts an evening talk, ?Keeping Ideals Intact,? with David Sloan. ?Author of ?Stages of Adolescents? and ?Life Lessons: Reaching Teenagers through Literature,? David will speak about fostering the natural idealism of youth as an antidote to cynicism and apathy. 413-528-8833. Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School Auditorium. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)

7pm ? PARENT WORKSHOP: Tim Hope presents a talk for preschool parents and guardians, ?Preschool Friendships: Supporting Your Child?s First Relationships.? ?Happens at The Little Red Schoolhouse. 413-253-5259. Amherst College.? Amherst, MA

PARENTS? NIGHT OUT

6-8pm ? FUNDRAISER: Spend the evening tasting delicious wine and microbrews (plus fancy sodas!) at Chandler?s Restaurant! ?The event is a fundraiser for the Tilton Library, and will also feature appetizers and a silent auction. ?Beverages will be provided by the South Deerfield Spirit Shoppe. ?Advance tickets suggested ? it?s a popular event! ?413-665-4683. ?25 Greenfield Road. ?Deerfield, MA. ?($$)

ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

  • 9am-12noon ? PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center. 413-545-0865. 428 Student Union Building (Campus Center Way). Amherst, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9-10:30am ? PLAYGROUP: The Palmer-Monson Family Network hosts infant and toddler play group! 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Bi-weekly in the community room at Becket Town Hall, sponsored by Community Health Programs. 413-664-0104. 65 Walker Street. Becket, MA. (FREE)
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: At the Lenox Community Center, sponsored by Community Health Programs. 413-644-0104. 65 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
  • 9:30am or 1:30pm ? STORYTIME: Fantastic Fours and Fives takes place today at the Westfield Library! Registration is required for storytime. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:30-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: At the Belchertown Family Center! 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:30-11:30 ? PLAYGROUP: At the South Hadley Family Center. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 9:45-11:15am ? SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts, ?Getting Real about Motherhood,? a support group designed to help mothers share the stress and adjustments of motherhood and work to find ways to feel renewed, valued, and energized. Takes place at the Amherst Family Center, in the basement of the Unitarian Society. Childcare available. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
  • 10-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: At the Wendell Free Library hosted by the Community Network for Children through June 2013. 978.544.5157. 7 Wendell Depot Road. Wendell, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10am ? STORYTIME: Preschool storytime at the Westhampton Library! 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10am - PARENT GROUP: Enjoy coffee and a chat with other parents at the Westhampton Library ? stop in after dropping kids off at school through the end of Sept.! 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11am ? STORYTIME: The Greenfield Library hosts Sunshine Storytime! 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ?
  • 10-11:30am ? PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Palmer-Monson Family Network. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ?Source: http://hilltownfamilies.wordpress.com/2013/02/28/030213030813/

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Lockhart adds on to spectacular first year - Orbit Media Online

Home ? Featured, Headline, Sports

26 February 2013 No Comment

First-year wrestler Rusty Lockhart has had a great year on the mats to say the least.

Earlier this week, things got better for Lockhart.

Over the weekend at Case Western Reserve University, Lockhart and the Muskies competed in a quad meet with Case Western, Thiel and RIT. Though the Muskies lost all their duals, Lockhart dominated his competition with two tech-falls and a pin.

After the stellar weekend going 3-0, Lockhart was named OAC Wrestler of the Week on Monday.

Then it got better.

On Tuesday, the first-year from Coventry High School in Akron was named 2nd Team All-OAC.

On the season, Lockhart is 16-6 with four pins and three tech-falls.

About the Author: John Clevinger (26 Posts)

I am a junior at Muskingum University, majoring in Journalism. Aside from calling Muskie Sports on WMCO, I write stories for the Black and Magenta, and am also the Sports and Recreation Editor. I love sports, especially baseball and hockey. I am a huge Cincinnati Reds fan and a Detroit Red Wings fan. In the fall, I support the Buckeyes of Ohio State and the Detroit Lions.


Source: http://www.orbitmediaonline.com/lockhart-adds-on-to-spectacular-first-year/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=lockhart-adds-on-to-spectacular-first-year

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Fiscal nightmare looms at 'bloated' Pentagon

By Tom Curry, National Affairs Writer, NBC News

While Chuck Hagel?s quest to become defense secretary was a long and painful ordeal, he?ll be facing a different kind of pain once he?s confirmed - likely on Tuesday - and replaces Leon Panetta at the Pentagon.

In addition to the spending cuts required by the Budget Control Act, which will trim the Defense Department?s budget resources by 8 percent in the current fiscal year, Hagel faces a nightmarish budget challenge.

He will be running a department with nearly 1.4 million people serving in uniform and nearly 800,000 civilian employees.

Hagel?s department is bigger than several major U.S. corporations, but its finances remain deeply troubled, obscure and impenetrable ? even to budget experts and even after more than 20 years of warnings from the federal government?s accounting watchdog, the Government Accountability Office.

Just two weeks ago, the GAO kept the Pentagon on its annual "High Risk List" of departments whose books are so mysterious and opaque that they're at high risk of fraud, waste and mismanagement.

Related: After seven-week struggle, Hagel poised for defense confirmation

Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images

Former Senator Chuck Hagel testifies before the Senate Armed Services Committee during his confirmation hearing to become the next secretary of defense on Capitol Hill January 31, 2013 in Washington, DC.

The GAO said that the Defense Department ?is one of the few federal entities that cannot accurately account for its spending or assets.? The report added, ?Without accurate, timely, and useful financial information, DOD is severely hampered in making sound decisions affecting its operations.?

As one specific example, the accounting watchdog cited the department?s supply-chain management which as of late 2011 had amassed $9.2 billion worth of excess inventory on hand and had already ordered $523 million worth of inventory which was purchased but likely unnecessary.

And the GAO noted that it had first put the Pentagon?s supply-chain management problem on its "High Risk List" in 1990.

Outside observers agree that the Pentagon?s finances are troubled and that it costs taxpayers too much money to get each aircraft carrier, missile, drone and other weapons system.

Retired Army Gen. David Barno, the former U.S. commander in Afghanistan and now a senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security in Washington, told a Council on Foreign Relations panel discussion earlier this month, ?We're delivering capability in the military sense for more and more overhead cost year after year after year? due to an ?egregiously inefficient Defense Department that's leaking money.?

He said the Pentagon?s method of operating is comparable to driving a 1985 Oldsmobile which is leaking oil, ?and every time we go out on the highway at 65 miles an hour, we come back after another day, there's more and more oil on the floor of our garage in the morning. And our solution has been to buy more oil, to put it in the engine and go drive it at 65 miles an hour.?

Members of the Senate Armed Services Committee engage in a sharp discussion regarding Chuck Hagel's nomination as defense secretary and his disclosure of personal income.

And Hagel himself said in August of 2011 that the Defense Department ?in many ways, has been bloated. Let's look at the reality here. The Defense Department's gotten everything it wanted the last 10 years and more.?

Despite the warnings from GAO and others, the Defense Department?s financial morass wasn?t a major focus of the questioning?last month at Hagel?s confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Hagel did field some queries on the department?s finances from Sens. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., Roy Blunt, R-Mo., and Angus King, I-Maine.

But apart from referring to the need for giving his subordinates in the Pentagon ?flexibility? and ?direction and expectations,? Hagel supplied little insight on what plans he might have in mind to make the Pentagon more accountable. And he more often asked questions than supplied answers.

Hagel did say that in both the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, Defense Department inspector generals had uncovered ?billions and billions of dollars that are unaccounted for. Corruption, fraud, waste, abuse, it really is quite astounding.?

But he added, ?When you think about the universe of money that went into both those wars, no one should be surprised.?

Then he asked ?How do we fix it? What we do? How do we learn from this??

He added more questions later in the hearing, ?Why aren't we auditing these programs? Where's the accountability? That's certainly an area that we're going to have to take a look at.? And within days Hagel will have his chance to begin that accountability and to reduce the bloat he saw in his department.

This story was originally published on Tue Feb 26, 2013 4:34 AM EST

Source: http://nbcpolitics.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/02/26/17089943-fiscal-nightmare-looms-at-bloated-pentagon?lite

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Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Apple agrees to settle lawsuit over in-app purchases made by children

Apple agrees to settle lawsuit over inapp purchases made by children

Looks like Apple's set to put an end to the 2011 in-app purchase class action lawsuit filed on behalf of those whose children were spending a Smurphy amount of their money without account holder permission. According to the settlement, Apple could wind up giving a $5 gift certificate to upwards of 23 million customers. In matters where purchases total $30 or more, cash refunds may be awarded. The suit claims that Apple "failed to adequately disclose" the presence of in-app purchases in titles targeted at children, an issue Apple has since address by requiring passwords to be entered when making in-app purchases.

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Via: The New York Times

Source: Scribd

Source: http://www.engadget.com/2013/02/26/apple-in-app-settlement/

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Nick Lachey, Son Grace New Album Cover

Source: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2013/02/nick-lachey-son-grace-new-album-cover/

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Head of Mexico's powerful teachers' union arrested

FILE - In this Friday July 14, 2006 file photo, teachers' union head Elba Esther Gordillo gestures as she arrives to attend a meeting with education workers a day after being expelled from Mexico's Institutional Revolutionary Party in Mexico City. Gordillo, the head of Mexico's powerful teachers' union, was arrested at an airport outside Mexico City on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, for alleged embezzlement, with federal officials accusing her using union funds to pay for plastic surgery, buy a private plane and even pay her bill at Neiman Marcus. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills, file)

FILE - In this Friday July 14, 2006 file photo, teachers' union head Elba Esther Gordillo gestures as she arrives to attend a meeting with education workers a day after being expelled from Mexico's Institutional Revolutionary Party in Mexico City. Gordillo, the head of Mexico's powerful teachers' union, was arrested at an airport outside Mexico City on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, for alleged embezzlement, with federal officials accusing her using union funds to pay for plastic surgery, buy a private plane and even pay her bill at Neiman Marcus. (AP Photo/Dario Lopez-Mills, file)

FILE - This May 12, 2003 file photo shows Elba Esther Gordillo, then secretary general of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) speaks at a news conference with foreign correspondents in Mexico City. Gordillo, the head of Mexico's powerful teachers' union, was arrested at an airport outside Mexico City on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, for alleged embezzlement, with federal officials accusing her using union funds to pay for plastic surgery, buy a private plane and even pay her bill at Neiman Marcus. (AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo, File)

MEXICO CITY (AP) ? The head of Mexico's powerful teachers' union was arrested at an airport near Mexico City Tuesday for alleged embezzlement, with federal officials accusing her of using union funds to pay for plastic surgery, to buy a house in San Diego and even to pay her bill at Neiman Marcus.

Attorney General Jesus Murillo Karam said that Elba Esther Gordillo, who has led the 1.5 million-member National Union of Education Workers for 23 years, was detained in Toluca on charges that she embezzled 2 billion pesos (about $160 million) from union funds.

Gordillo, a colorful woman long seen as a kingmaker and power-behind-the-scenes in Mexican politics, was flown to the Attorney General's hangar in the Mexico City airport, where she asked to be checked by a doctor, Murillo told Milenio television.

Murillo said that Gordillo, 68, was in good health and awaiting transfer to appear before a judge. Two other people were also arrested but they were not named.

He told Milenio that the investigation started in December after Santander Bank alerted authorities to bank transfers in billions of pesos.

"We are looking at a case in which the funds of education workers have been illegally misused, for the benefit of several people, among them Elba Esther Gordillo," Murillo said earlier at the news conference announcing her arrest.

It marks the downfall of a woman who rose from school teacher to become one of Mexico's most powerful political operators, displaying her opulence openly with designer clothes and bags, bodyguards, expensive cars and properties including a penthouse apartment in Mexico City's exclusive Polanco neighborhood. She has been widely lampooned for her many plastic surgeries and depicted in political cartoons as ghoulish.

Meanwhile, Mexico's teachers are poorly paid and public education has long been considered sub-par.

Prosecutors said they had detected nearly $3 million in purchases at Neiman Marcus using union funds, as well as $17,000 in U.S. plastic surgery bills and the purchase of a million-dollar home in San Diego.

Assistant Attorney General Alfredo Castillo displayed a series of charts at the press conference with arrows detailing the allegations of illicit transfers from teachers' union accounts to personal accounts in the names of three union workers, Nora Guadalupe Ugarte Ramirez, Isaias Gallardo Chavez and Jose Manuel Diaz Flores, as well as a real estate company.

None were authorized to deal with finances. It wasn't clear if they were among those arrested.

"Between 2008 and 2012, there was systematic embezzlement of union accounts," Murillo Karam said.

Some funds eventually ended up in bank accounts in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Castillo said that in one case they transferred $1 million to a Swiss account for a company owned by Gordillo's mother. Those funds were then used to buy a million-dollar house in the island of Coronado in San Diego.

Her detention came a day after President Enrique Pena Nieto signed Mexico's most sweeping education reform in seven decades into law, seeking to change a system dominated by Gordillo in which teaching positions could be sold or inherited.

The overhaul was Pena Nieto's first major proposal since taking office Dec. 1 and was considered a political blow to Gordillo.

Gordillo had organized a string of protests by teachers against the reform, which moves much of the control of the education system to the federal government from the teachers' union. Gordillo was elected to another six-year term as union leader in October.

The reform creates a system of uniform standards for teacher hiring and promotion based on merit instead of union connections. It also allows for the first census of Mexico's education system, which Gordillo's union has largely controlled for decades, allegedly padding the payroll with thousands of phantom teachers.

So great is the union's control that no one knows exactly how many schools, teachers or students exist in Mexico.

For years, she has beaten back attacks from union dissidents, political foes and journalists who have seen her as a symbol of Mexico's corrupt, old-style politics. Rivals have accused her of corruption, misuse of union funds and even a murder, but prosecutors who investigated never brought a charge against her.

She was expelled from Pena Nieto's Institutional Revolutionary Party in 2006 for supporting other parties' candidates and the formation of her own New Alliance party.

Gordillo's arrest recalled the 1989 arrest of another once-feared union boss, Joaquin Hernandez Galicia, known as "La Quina." The longtime head of Mexico's powerful oil workers union, Hernandez Galicia was arrested during the first months of the new administration of then-President Carlos Salinas.

In 1988, he criticized Salinas' presidential candidacy and threatened an oil workers' strike if Salinas privatized any part of the government oil monopoly, Petroleos Mexicanos, or Pemex. On Jan. 10, 1989, ? about a month after Salinas took office ? soldiers used a bazooka to blow down the door of Hernandez' home in the Gulf Coast city of Ciudad Madero.

Like Gordillo, Hernandez Galicia's power was believed to represent a challenge to the president, and his arrest was interpreted as an assertion of the president's authority. He was freed from prison after Salinas de Gortari left office.

Murillo denied that Gordillo's arrest was politically motivated and said it could not be compared to Hernandez's case.

"This was a very clear investigation and we will have more of them," he said.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/3d281c11a96b4ad082fe88aa0db04305/Article_2013-02-26-Mexico-Union%20Leader/id-ed3b8782a9734cefa7c8b66b1498b991

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Tuesday, February 26, 2013

NVIDIA back with videos showing off gaming graphics at MWC 2013 ...

NVIDIA back with videos showing off gaming graphics at MWC 2013 | TalkAndroid.com
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