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It's Celebration Time!
by Ray Pioggia, FOFAH Board Member
The Friends of the Farm at Hilltop has reached a 20 year milestone!
In 2000, the Town of Suffield was offering two sub divided parcels of the historic property. At a town meeting, Suffield voters decided that the farm should be owned by a farmer. It went that way all fair & square, against the proposal that a not-for-profit group could manage the property with good intentions.
Two. days later the winner decided in their best interest to back out of the deal. BAM!
This photo of the founding FOFAH members was taken at our "Birth Day" celebration party for the organization. From left to right: (front ) Howie Orr, Janet Banks, Laura Dillman, Our honored guest, former Hilltop owner Betty Stroh, and John G. Smith. (back row) Eileen Moncrief, Ellie Binns, Bob Borg, Anne Banks, Bill Moncrief, Laurie Tavino, Ray Pioggia, Richard Binns.
Over the years, many numerous and highly valued folks have served this all-voluntary group, as board members, advisors, and literal "hands on" volunteers for projects and events. Many local businesses have generously made "in-kind" donations of their services too.
We have, and continue to strive for being fully self sustaining through the generosity of supporters, and with home grown agri-business, and educational programs.
A few of our Executive members and ardent esteemed supporters including Jan Banks, Tom
Wardell, Joanne Sullivan, Betty Stroh, and June Cook, (niece of Hilltop founder G.M. Hendee) have passed on, leaving their legacy, but for the selfless contributions ALL have made, we are, every one of us, proud to share the "bounty" of this wonderful Community Resource.
Thank You dear "friends!"
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