The FOFAH Board of Directors named Carol Komosa the 2023 Volunteer of the Year. She lives in Agawam and started working in the gardens two years ago. Carol is a dedicated volunteer at the Second Hand Shop in Suffield, as well. After she mentioned to a Board Member that she expressed interest in volunteering at Hilltop, she was invited to help in the gardens.

Carol cares for the two gardens; under the Creamery Sign and around the main flagpole. She is always cheerful and generous, making the gardens welcoming to both people and birds. We are so grateful that she and other volunteers donate their time and talents. Come and join the many volunteers that keep Hilltop a beautiful place for all.

On August 19, FOFAH hosted a dog Obedience Demonstration Morning. The program was organized and run by Kate Harding of the Rhode Island Schutzhund Club and Heather Hitchcock of Essential Canine.

In honor of National Dog Month, the event celebrated the awesome talents that dogs demonstrated especially those that benefit humans. It included demonstrations of obedience training, with a chance for attendees to have their own dogs learn a few new tricks, agility work, tracking and scent work. Many trainers from around New England brought their own dogs and joined in the demonstrations. It was a fun and informative morning.

Learning about Chickens

The Little Chicks held several educational hands-on sessions during August at Hilltop. Children ages 4-7 learned about the life cycle of chickens and eggs. Over 30 kids attended these classes. It was fun experience for the children and their caregivers. The sessions were lead by Janine Eitel, Suffield Agriscience Student.