With years of experience behind Kayla Diggins, her jump into opening a storefront for her women’s clothing business, Harper James, has been more than she ever could have dreamed. “I opened the doors in March 2024 and it has truly been the most amazing experience. While it has only been months, the love and support thus far has made me so excited for the future to come.”
FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR PAYTON NORTH
A few years ago, I wrote a column in our weekly newspapers that I titled, “The most valuable gift can be the gift of time.”
And as I sit down to write the classic, “giving season is approaching,” column, I have been reminded of those words once again. I started off 2024 questioning my purpose a bit – or more so – questioning what made me happy.
There are the classic answers: my family, my friends, my dogs. But at my core – what makes me happy? What gives me joy?
This year, I’ve realized that I’m someone who feels a great sense of pride in helping others. So, I have thrown myself into volunteer work. Many weekends I take a shift at Whispering Horse Therapeutic Riding Center, a nonprofit, working with folks of all ages and disabilities to achieve their independence through a variety of therapeutic goals. Up until about a month ago, I was volunteering every week for Valley Eye Radio, a nonprofit that works to keep Pioneer Valley residents informed and connected to their communities by being a 24/7 accessible source of local news for those who are blind or visually impaired. I took a step back from Valley Eye for a short bit as I prepared for a busy work season, and for a few new opportunities that have come my way.
I have joined the Spirit of Springfield Board of Directors, a private, non-profit organization that creates and produces events that enhance the quality of life of those in Springfield by providing people with a sense of community, civic pride and opportunities for celebration. The YWCA of Western Massachusetts has also welcomed me as a Board of Directors member. The YWCA works to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families and strengthen communities. Finally, I’m a member of the marketing committee for the Springfield Boys and Girls Club, helping the nonprofit with their upcoming Festival of Trees celebration, and other marketing opportunities to assist the club in growing and thriving.
W hy do I share all of this, other than to apparently write out my resume?
Being involved with these groups has already taught me so much. I’ve made at least 100 new connections this year alone, just by putting myself out there a smidge. It’s also given me a sense of purpose.
Sure – I have my day job over here at The Reminder where I do feel a level of fulfilment in the work we churn out every week. It’s an honor to do the work we do.
That said, I feel as though I’ve pigeonholed myself as someone who is only known for her job. In my circle of friends and family, I’m known for being a hard worker – which I take great pride in.
But – I don’t want to be known just for my work ethic. I want to be known as someone who gives back. Someone who has her own busy schedule of priorities – but doesn’t hesitate to see outside of herself, who looks at the big picture and works to make her own small dent in helping the community.
A new (to me) endeavor that I am particularly excited for, is the upcoming charity season for Toy for Joy. The Salvation Army, Reminder Publishing and The Republican have partnered this holiday season in promoting Toy for Joy – a 102-year-old charity that takes monetary donations through the Salvation Army to buy an age-appropriate toy and book for well over 3,000 children in need across Western Massachusetts.
The need for support is greater than ever, and we would be honored to earn your donation. Head to give.salvationarmy.org/toyforjoy for more information.
W hen you’re reflecting on the new year and taking stock in 2024 – take a beat and think about what you want to be remembered for. In a season that is so focused on giving things –where can you make your biggest impact?
Thanks for reading, and Happy Thanksgiving, Payton North, executive editor
Payton North
EDITOR
Lauren LeBel
CREATIVE
Beth Thurber, Manager
Susan Bartlett . Sophia Kelleher
Leigh Catchepaugh . Lorie Perry
ADVERTISING
Scott Greene, Manager
Jeanette Lee . Roxanne Longtin Miller
Terry O’ Donnell . Evan Marcyoniak . Lisa Nolan
Matt Mahaney . Paula Dimauro . Andy Shaw
Shannon Bliven . Paul Poutre
Carolyn Napolitan, Sales Assistant
Curtis Panlilio, Operations Director
Fran Smith, General Manager
443B Shaker Road, Denslow Road Entrance East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Tel: 413.525.6661
Send local story ideas to: Lauren LeBel: llebel@thereminder.com
Connecticut Cat Connection has helped find forever homes for 10,000 stray cats and kittens for almost four decades.
The rescue efforts started with one person taking in one stray at a time. Soon, volunteers began helping and working with other rescue organizations and became an official shelter in 2003 called Cat Haven.
The shelter continued to grow and is now the Connecticut Cat Connection located at 40 Stevens Mill Rd. in Windsor.
Founder and Director Marianne Vieweg is passionate about helping her feline clients find loving homes. Expanding into the current shelter has enabled her to find homes for 70 cats last month alone.
The present shelter is housed in three rooms and has an infirmary, laundry, exam and storage rooms.
Volunteer Jean Sapula said she and Vieweg hope to keep expanding to help as many cats and kittens as possible.
“Our shelter is constantly filled and we dream of expansion in the future to help more animals,” said Sapula. “In addition to the animals in the shelter, we have approximately 60 more cats and kittens in foster homes.”
The shelter holds between 40 to 50 animals at a time,
all cared for by volunteers.
“Our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization and keep it running,” said Sapula. “We have folks of all ages, bringing their skills to our organization. Our cleaning and care crew consists of over 100 volunteers, but we always can use more, as many perform double duties, such as working in the shelter and transporting cats to veterinary visits, medical care, or adoption counselors, to name a few positions.”
Vieweg welcomes all volunteers, but especially needs people with medical backgrounds for cat care, as well as volunteers for fundraisers, office staff, handymen/women, even landscapers for the grounds. Anyone wishing to help should apply online at CTCatConnection.org.
Many people associate “kitten season” with spring, however, Sapula said seasons don’t seem to matter anymore.
“Now we are finding kitten season extended for most of the year, and larger populations of strays, due to people not spaying or neutering their outdoor cats. Our cats come from a variety of situations: surrenders from people in dire situations, loss of jobs, housing, illness that want their animals taken care of and contact us, but our waiting list can be long,” Sapula said. “We receive calls
from realtors or landlords, finding animals left behind or dumped outside and we have helped in hoarding situations as well.”
W hen a cat or kitten is brought to the shelter, staff try to get a detailed intake on their background, such as medical history and behaviors, so the best home can be found. Sometimes, that information is not available, but staff do their best to observe behaviors and exam the felines. Once accepted for adoption, potential owners can view animals online and apply to adopt.
“Our adoption counselors will vet the applications and get back to the interested parties within a week,” Sapula said. “With approval, a person may make an appointment, or stop in during our open hours, which include nights and weekends to visit with our adoptable pets. Our adoption fee covers the price of the neuter/spay, vaccines and microchipping.”
The CT Cat Connection does not receive any state or federal funding and relies fully on donations from the public.
“As it’s been said, it takes a village, and a village of animal lovers, our volunteers, past adopters and others just to keep us in business,” said Sapula. “With increases in veterinary bills, unexpected medical expenses and energy costs, we really could use a great deal of help, especially if we want to expand our present organization to accommodate the number of requests we receive for surrender animals.”
Unfortunately, CT Cat Connections’ staff has seen its share of animal abuse.
“ We have seen some horrible cruelty done to some of these cats, they have been stabbed, shot, with imbedded pellets in their bodies and still these cats show an uncanny ability to continue to love and have sweet dispositions,” Sapula said. “We are sad when we have cats who are incredibly shy and scared, as they take much longer to get adopted, but it brightens our day when an adopter takes a chance on one of these pets or is willing to take on an older cat – even one with medical conditions – and gives that cat a very special forever home. Seeing our hard-to-place cats flourish in their new homes is what makes our day. Since Marianne began rehoming these beautiful animals, she is responsible for getting at least 10,000 cats/kittens adopted, which is amazing.”
ANYONE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING OR VOLUNTEERING CAN APPLY AT CTCATCONNECTION.ORG.
VISITORS ARE WELCOME AT THE CONNECTICUT CAT CONNECTION, 40 STEVENS MILL RD. IN WINDSOR, ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY FROM 12-3 P.M. AND TUESDAY-THURSDAY FROM 5-6:30 P.M.
COOL STUFF JUST OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR
BOTANIC GARDEN AT SMITH COLLEGE 16 COLLEGE LANE NORTHAMPTON, MA
NOVEMBER 2-17 • 10AM - 4PM DAILY
Each fall as colors fade outdoors, a riot of color erupts indoors in the Lyman Conservatory at the Botanic Garden of Smith College. The annual show features an extraordinary display of blooms in a variety of shapes and colors. This fall show has been a popular college and community tradition since the early 1900s and showcases the hybridizing experiments of the horticulture class. The public gets to vote on their favorites. Suggested donation: $5
For more information visit: garden.smith.edu
EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION'S BETTER LIVING CENTER 1305 MEMORIAL AVENUE · WEST SPRINGFIELD , MA NOVEMBER 16 • 9AM - 5PM | NOVEMBER 17 • 10AM - 4PM
The 36th Old Deerfield Holiday Sampler Craft Fair features over 200 juried crafters, designers and artists! Meet all of the 200 Old Deerfield crafters in person and ask about their process. Explore a miniature New England village, circa 1897, preparing for the holidays.Ongoing craft demonstrations will be available for viewing. Free family craft activities all weekend. Visit with Santa! Vote fro the most festively decorated booth at the show. Admission: $8; 12 and under -free.
For more information visit: deerfield-craft.org/index.php/holiday
VANISHED VALLEY BREWING CO. 782 CENTER STREET · LUDLOW , MA NOVEMBER 16 • 12 PM - 5 PM
A celebration of food, fun and fall! Get ready for an unforgettable day at Vanished Valley Brewing Co's. Fall Food Truck Festival. They're bringing together an incredible selection of food trucks, local artisans, and live music! With plenty of food options, cozy fire pits, and a laid-back vibe, it's the ideal setting for a family outing, a day with friends, or even a casual date. Enjoy everything that fall has to offer in one of the most welcoming atmospheres around!
For more information visit: vanishedvalley.com/events
With years of experience behind Kayla Diggins, her jump into opening a storefront for her women’s clothing business, Harper James, has been more than she ever could have dreamed.
“I opened the doors in March 2024 and it has truly been the most amazing experience. While it has only been months, the love and support thus far has made me so excited for the future to come,” said Diggins. “There is so much consideration and care that goes into curating our offerings behind the scenes. The store’s opening has allowed us to carry more lines such as Z Supply and Free People, making shopping these popular brands more accessible to Western Massachusetts. We try to work with other small businesses in the United States for many of our accessories. It is truly one of my favorite parts of what I do, being able to treasure hunt for special pieces and bring them to our clients.”
Harper James caters to a wide range of women seeking high-quality, trendy and classic styles that become wardrobe staples for its customers. Although the online store had a more limited range, the physical store appeals to anyone from students at The Williston Northampton School to Diggins’ own mother. After receiving several
requests, Diggins is even looking into carrying a small selection of men’s clothing.
“I work to curate the clothing and accessories we offer to appeal to different generations and body types. Truly a little something for everyone,” said Diggins. “I am beyond grateful for everyone who has supported Harper James and proud that I have been able to create a space one can feel beautiful and confident in. It means the world to me hearing that a piece purchased at Harper James has become someone’s favorite and I hope to be able to offer that experience for many years to come.”
With a focus on customer service, Diggins often goes out of her way to make the shopping experience special, opening on closed days for clients in a pinch or dropping off an order for a special event.
“ When designing the store, I wanted to create a space that felt welcoming, yet elevated. It is important for my guests to experience something special where I am always there to welcome you,” explained Diggins. “We make shopping fun and stress free. I love seeing mothers and daughters or groups of friends enjoying their time together. We are so lucky to be a part of that. Nothing is more rewarding than happy patrons.”
Diggins’ childhood interest in fashion brought her to a degree in fashion and retail merchandising at Lasell College. After graduation, Diggins worked her way through the industry, starting at a boutique, and then working in the wholesale aspect of the business, a job that allowed her to represent many different clothing and accessory brands throughout New England. When the coronavirus pandemic hit, Diggins found herself reconsidering what she wanted to accomplish in her career.
“I had always dreamed about owning my own boutique, so in March 2022, I launched Harper James online. It was a day that would change my life,” recalled Diggins. “Up until this point, I had always felt a little behind in my career path, but soon realized everything I had experienced was leading me to the store.”
For the next two years, Diggins operated the store mostly online with some local pop-up shops, but she developed a more permanent presence in the summer of 2023 when Harper James earned its very own spot inside Olivia Pearl, a home décor shop housed at 106 Cottage St.
“ When Olivia Pearl unfortunately decided to close it became apparent 106 Cottage St. would be the perfect location,” noted Diggins. “We all know how difficult it can be sometimes to shop for clothing. I work to create a space that feels inclusive and comfortable. I am always happy to help with styling, or maybe suggest a piece you might not have considered. With the opening of the shop, it is the first opportunity I’ve had to really build relationships with customers and now have regulars.”
In addition to clothing choices, Harper James also hosts events to create a sense of community. In the past, the store has seen a floral workshop, a Pilates class and participated in several Cottage Street events. Diggins looks forward to the first holiday season in the new store and hopes to host a holiday toy drive and gift wrapping fundraiser.
“The support thus far has truly blown me away. I would not be here without the help from family, friends and everyone who has gotten to experience the shop,” shared Diggins. “Harper James is a new and evolving brand and we cannot wait to see what is yet to come. I am blessed to have the opportunity to do what I love and plan to be here for many years to come.”
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT EVENTS AND OFFERINGS, AS WELL AS CLOTHING AND ACCESSORY SELECTIONS, CAN BE FOUND ON THE STORE’S WEBSITE, HARPERJAMESCLOTHING.COM.
HARPER JAMES IS AT 106 COTTAGE ST., NORTHAMPTON, AND IS OPEN THURSDAY THROUGH SUNDAY, 12-5 P.M. AND SATURDAY, 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M.
“Hi
On a Ludlow farm, turkeys run freely, hand fed on healthful grains and extra vegetables. Minimally processed, they have more meat, less water, and extra taste found only in tradition. No antibiotics, animal by‑products, hormones, or additives are used. — Jeanette & Paul Johnson Liberty Family Farms
Thanks to everyone involved for making our go local marketplace a success!
Whether a professional athlete or just learning a sport, “practice makes perfect” many coaches tell their players.
By definition the phrase is “a form of encouragement for someone to continue to do something many times, so that they will learn to do it very well.”
The great Vince Lombardi once said, “Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.” And, when you think about what he said, it makes sense. Because if you are not practicing the right skills correctly, you will never be perfect, even though pure perfection is hard to achieve for anyone.
But perfection isn’t what MassConn United or M/CU Training Center in Agawam is all about — it is about “perfect practice” for them.
Trained in early childhood education at Springfield College, Shad Hanrahan purchased the facility six years ago with just that in mind.
“My goal was to have a place where athletes could train on- and off-season for all sports and provide them with a quality environment to up their game,” said Hanrahan, who after 18 years helping to run eight child care centers owned by his family, was looking for something different to do.
“ We provide training for everyone and anyone with any ability whether the sport they choose is new to them or they are looking to improve their skillset in the off season,” Hanrahan said.
From beginners to pro, M/CU Training Center is a one-
stop shop to improve your game — whether ice hockey, field hockey, baseball, softball, lacrosse, golf or soccer. They employ top local trainers and their knowledge, skills and training to develop programs that will make you a better player no matter what your skill level. Their small player-to-coach ratio clinics allow them to focus on each individual athlete’s needs.
M/CU Training Center has two 45x80 smaller ice sheets, 45x100 indoor turf, three batting cages, 45x100 roller hockey/slash boxed field, five golf simulators and a full gym setup.
“Hockey is definitely our main business, it’s year-round for us. There are not many places like ours where you can get ice time for an affordable price and quality training throughout the year,” Hanrahan said.
A s the saying goes, “You can’t just step out on the ice and skate.” It takes plenty of patience and practice –think how many people you see taking a tumble on the ice when learning — alongside strong ankles and good balance.
Among the many hockey programs offered at M/CU to help skaters gain confidence on the ice and learn the skills necessary to play a good game of hockey are: Hockey Tots (year round), Hockey Night Skills Clinic Session 2, Adult Learn to Play Hockey (both year round), Full Day Summer Hockey Clinic (2025), Spring 3v3 Hockey League (2025), Eight Week Summer Hockey Training (2025), and the Learn to Skate Drop-In sessions to help participants get more comfortable on the ice, which
takes place every Sunday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. (year round).
Ice rentals are $125 for one hour to skate with family, friends, or all alone if you choose; 1 on 1 Lessons are $150 for a 50-minute session; Team Rentals are $150 for one hour, Eight Week Package is $425 (year-round six-to-eight-week sessions); and Vacation Camps during Christmas, February, April and Summer are $350.
M/CU also offer their unique 413 Hockey Program, a progressive approach to a combination of athletic training and education for hockey players in grades 6-9. The program consists of a full school year of education and hockey training. It is designed for players to study and train intensively for one school year to prepare them to move onto a traditional brick and mortar school with an elite hockey program.
“This a great opportunity for a hockey player who is focused ongoing to the next level. Our academy allows the player to participate with any team they choose and receive high quality training throughout the season. They will also have yoga, gym and film review sessions,” Hanrahan said, noting to keep an eye out on their website for future Demo Days, where for free you can stop in and check out what it is like to attend the 413 Hockey Program.
O ther programs to check out on the M/CU website include: Veterans Day 1v1 Training, Intro to Lacrosse (March 2025), Rep City (March 2025), Summer Field Hockey (2025), Field Hockey Training Sessions 8 (November), 1v1 Private Training (year round), Summer Turf Burn Field Hockey League (2025), Hard Knocks Baseball Academy (keep checking website for updates), Full Plate Group Training (year round), and Softball Lessons (year round).
For golfers who miss the links during the colder, snowy months, M/CU has five state-of-the-art golf simulators where you can play up to 18 holes. Thanks to software you can be transported to digitally replicated golf courses such as iconic Pebble Beach, Pinehurst and St. Andrews. Simulators work by recording your swing to help you improve your game — including ball speed, spin, launch angle and more. It is $50 per hour and M/CU also offers league play.
I f baseball or softball is your game, M/CU Training Center has three batting cages.
They offer two pitching and hitting membership packages. The Hall of Fame at $120 per month gives you unlimited cage access, $125 clinics, discounts on trainings, and you are allowed one free guest pass — $20 per additional player. They consider the All-Star membership their best value for $40 per month with $20 hour cage rental, $10 for half-hour cage rental, $125 clinics, discounts on trainings, and you are allowed one free guest
pass — $30 per player. If you prefer not to invest in a membership, hourly cage rentals are $45, half-hour cage rentals are $25, clinic pricing is $175, and trainings are $85 per hour. They also offer team training rentals.
Strength and conditioning are important when playing any sport and M/CU offers a program to help athletes perform at their highest level with small group coaching for all fitness levels for ages 11-22, and tailored workouts toward each athlete’s physical ability.
“ Whatever sport you participate in and want to reach the next level, strength and conditioning plays a vital role. In conjunction with Full Plate Strength and Conditioning out of Westfield, we provide an opportunity to help reach your goals and prepare you for your optimal potential. From following a weekly workout routine to advising you on your diet, Full Plate is there every step of the way,” Hanrahan said.
After successfully working with children for many years at his family’s day care center, Hanrahan brings that background and more to M/CU Training Center.
“I’m trying to get the best out of the kids who come here. And we are affordable, so everyone can participate,” Hanrahan said, who has coached many youth teams including lacrosse, baseball and basketball.
C hris Connors, who coaches Girls’ Varsity Hockey at Pope Francis Preparatory School in Springfield, agrees.
“ We consider M/CU a second home for us. Shad and his staff promote a family atmosphere here since he took over ownership in 2017. I have known Shad for years and he is a class act. His center is state-of-the-art, and he tailors his business toward the youth. Shad is so hospitable and operates a one-stop shop which parents and athletes love. We even hold our team parties and dinners here, especially at Christmastime,” Connors said about using the facility for the team’s skills practices, fitness workouts and more.
And for the really fun part of M/CU, they open their facility for children’s birthday parties starting at $400 for a two-hour block of time and the unlimited use of their ice rinks, roller rink, batting cages, indoor lacrosse/soccer fields. They have tables and chairs that can be used and you provide everything else, although they will provide décor, or you can bring your own. They also open their space for corporate and local fundraisers. M/CU TRAINING CENTER IS LOCATED ON 153 SPRINGFIELD ST. IN AGAWAM. HOURS
Soul warming Polish Food at the Delicatessen Restaurant & Sandwich Shop Belvedere of East Windsor, served hot with indoor seating or packaged to take home. We also deliver! (With online orders only). Pierogi, kielbasa, kapusta, stuffed cabbage, soups, pastries, potato pancakes, in-house smoked pastrami and brisket sandwiches.
2 Lbs ground turkey
1 Cup stove top stuffing
2 Eggs
2 Stalks of Celery, diced
1/2 White onion, diced
Thanksgiving turkey seasonings of choice Salt and pepper
Gravy:
Pan drippings
2 Tbsp unsalted butter
2 Tbsp flour
2 Cups turkey stock, more or less depending on the consistency you’re looking for
Directions:
Looking for something yummy to bring to your thanksgiving festivities? Try this!
Preheat your oven to 375F. In a bowl combine all of your ingredients and mix well.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and start rolling out your meatballs. Bake your meatballs for 15-17 minutes. You can take the pan drippings and add them to a sauce pan with some butter flour and slowly add in some turkey stock to make gravy. Add to a crockpot to keep warm and bring them to your Thanksgiving event. Enjoy!
For the past 30 years, people of all ages and skill levels have come together to explore their artistic sides at Clay Mates. Founded by Susan Hevey in 1994, this paint-your-own pottery and ceramics studio has grown from humble beginnings into a beloved fixture in the community, offering workshops, events, and a welcoming space for anyone looking to try their hand at the craft.
Hevey’s love for art began early in her life. When she was in grade school, her favorite time of the day was when she was allowed to draw and paint. This passion stayed with her throughout the years, and in 1976, she was introduced to ceramics through her sister-in-law. Hevey loved seeing the pieces her sister-in-law made in ceramics class and, inspired by this, began taking classes herself.
“I idolized my ceramics teacher and how smart and talented she was. I was around 18 at this point, but I wanted to grow up to be just like her,” she said with a
laugh.
With Hevey now working nights at the local post office, her time at ceramics classes was cut short. However, her friends encouraged her to set up a small studio in her basement to teach them, and her husband bought her a kiln to get started. Eventually, the night shifts became too much with three children, and Hevey decided to leave her job and pursue her dream of opening her own studio. Clay Mates officially opened its doors in 1994, and since then, it has grown into a creative haven for the community.
“Clay Mates isn’t just a place to make pottery,” said Hevey. “It’s a place where you can express your creativity and make memories that will last for years. I strive to create an environment of fun and individuality, where there are no definitive expectations, and everyone can gain a sense of accomplishment that will inevitably lead to confidence and self-esteem.”
Hevey’s commitment to making Clay Mates welcom-
ing for everyone is clear in the variety of activities and events she offers. From birthday parties and field trips to ladies’ nights and work gatherings, the studio accommodates all kinds of celebrations. She keeps her prices as affordable as possible, offering a wall of kids’ projects for only $12 and birthday parties for $15 per child. Her handicap-accessible space can host up to 80 guests at a time.
Walk-ins are welcome at Clay Mates, and Hevey is often available to provide step-by-step guidance to those who need extra help. The studio also sells to-go kits for those who prefer to bring the creative experience home. The studio’s hours can vary, but Hevey ensures her customers stay informed by maintaining an updated calendar on her website, where they can easily check current hours and see the day’s events. Now that Clay Mates celebrated its 30th anniversary in October, Hevey is looking ahead to the future.
“I’m trying to clear out my basement to make space for pouring more of my own molds and would love to start specializing in creating my own ceramic pieces,” Hevey explained. “I’d also like to get some pottery wheels and offer pottery classes downstairs, if I can find someone to teach them.”
Despite rent increases, location changes, and other challenges along the way, Hevey continues to love what she does and treasures the people she meets. According to her, the most rewarding part of this work has been the connections formed with her customers.
“The kids will have a birthday party and come over and hug me, saying, ‘This is the best birthday party I’ve ever had,’” said Hevey. “Or I’ll be in the grocery store, and a little kid will recognize me and wave. It’s so heartwarming. I’m making a difference in people’s lives, and I cherish every day, every event, and every customer. I’ve never had a day where I dreaded going to work. Even if it’s mostly seven days a week, I find gratification in Clay Mates and the creativity it brings to everyone.”
A s Hevey looks to the next 30 years, it’s clear that Clay Mates will continue to be a place where art, community and joy come together.
“I spend every day in the studio until late at night, glazing, firing, packing, and preparing orders. I’ll keep doing this as long as I can, as it brings me joy and brings our town’s local children happiness,” she said.
From teaching children how to paint their first pottery pieces to hosting adults for relaxing and creative nights, Hevey’s studio remains an integral part of Belchertown.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE - NO GOOGLING!
THIS IS THE FLAG OF WHICH COUNTRY?
[A] France
[B] Italy
[C] Germany
[D] England
WHICH ZODIAC SIGN HAS THE ARCHER AS ITS SYMBOL?
[A] Gemini
[B] Taurus
[C] Sagittarius
[D] Capricorn
[D] Bird A FALCHION IS A TYPE OF WHAT?
[A] Pepper
[B] Sword
[C] Rifle
HOW LONG DID RIP VAN WINKLE SLEEP?
[A] Twenty years
[B] Fifty years
[C] Eighty years
[D] One hundred years
HOW DO YOU SAY “HELLO” IN GERMAN?
[A] Hola
[B] Hello
[C] Hallo
[D] Holza
[A] Earth
[B] Mercury
[C] Venus
[D] Neptune WHICH PLANET HAS THE WEAKEST GRAVITY?
WHICH U.S. STATE IS KNOWN AS THE PALMETTO STATE?
[A] South Carolina
[B] Louisana
[C] Alabama
[D] North Carolina
THE FIRST IKEA STORE OPENED IN 1958 IN WHAT COUNTRY?
[A] Germany
[B] Norway
[C] Sweden
[D] Denmark
WHAT CHEMICAL ELEMENT GIVES THE BLOOD OF A LOBSTER ITS BLUEISH TINT?
[A] Copper
[B] Iron
[C] Magnesium
[D] Mercury
1150 WEST STREET AMHERST, MA
ATKINSFARMS.COM
From homemade pies and donuts to from-scratch decorated cakes for all occasions, Atkins Farms experienced bakers and decorators produce delicious products using high-quality ingredients. Their pies and cider donuts draw customers across New England.
631 CENTER STREET LUDLOW, MA RANDALLSFARM.COM
Pies and baked goods cooked up daily! There is always a new dessert to try at Randall’s. Try their specialty: chocolate cream pie made from scratch with homemade French pastry cream and chocolate ganache filling.
BAKERY
946 SULLIVAN AVENUE · SOUTH WINDSOR, CT ITALIANBAKERYSOUTHWINDSOR.COM
Guiseppina’s makes fruit, chocolate cream, lemon meringue, banana cream, key lime, cannoli, ricotta, and ricotta and Nutella pies. All of their products are made fresh daily. While your there, be sure to try some of their other Italian goodies like cakes, cookies, pastries, and stuffed breads!
757 MAIN STREET · WILBRAHAM, MA RICESFRUITFARM.COM
Rice’s is a Wilbraham staple with 10” pies baked fresh daily. In addition to traditional pies, they carry flavors like Fruit of the Forest (made with apple, rhubarb, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries) as well as Dutch Apple (crumb topping with caramel drizzle). Their bakery is sure to have something for the whole family to enjoy!
249 COLLEGE HIGHWAY · SOUTHWICK, MA BLOSSMINGACRES.NET
Blossoming Acres makes over 30 varieties of pies, and make apple cider donuts year round. All of their dessert pies are vegatarian. Their baked goods do not use preservatives and change with the season so keep stopping by to try something different!
17 MAIN STREET · FLORENCE, MA
FLORENCEPIEBAR.COM
Florence Pie Bar specializes in a variety of seasonal pies created with locally-sourced ingredients from Western Massachusetts. With sweet pies like Apple Pear Ginger Crumb, savory like their Cheesy Broccoli Handpies, and a little bit in between, you’re sure to find a flavor you’ll love!
540 SOMERS ROAD · EAST LONGMEADOW, MA THEAPPLEPLACE.NET
The Apple Place has a variety of baked goods available each day made right on their farm. Their 10” pies have a flaky tender crust, and fresh fruit fillings. Due to their popularity, ordering in advance is recommended. Be sure to try their apple cider donuts, cinnamon buns, muffins, scones, cookies, breads, quiches, and more!
