Thanks to All

In imagining an event featuring the stories of those around us in the 250th year of our nation, we had an idea that hearing about the lives and origins of our neighbors would help us to better know one other—and be pretty interesting. But until we actually heard them, one after another, we hadn’t realized just how moving, fascinating, and sometimes even just plain funny, those histories would prove to be. It was truly transformative to listen to your wonderful narratives, delivered in your own words and voices. The effect the stories had on everyone who heard them was a recurring topic among those grabbing a bite in the kitchen. Whether listeners stopped in for a while, or stayed for several hours, or left and came back—as many did—all were entranced by what they heard.

While each of us has a unique history and our backgrounds differ in many ways, there was a common thread in the affection so many speakers expressed for a country that has traditionally welcomed people from around the world who sought to build new lives and be part of the American experiment. While our stories are singular, they also demonstrate that we are far more alike than we may realize.

A heartfelt thank you to all those who shared their stories, our volunteers and sponsors, and to everyone who came to listen.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Our Roots, Our Voices Steering Committee

Rebuilding a Barn

Sarah Voiland spoke on Saturday morning about the joys and challenges of being a local organic farmer. She and her husband, Ryan, who own Red Fire Farm in Granby, faced a heartbreaking challenge when their 100-year-old historic barn burned down in February 2024. In its absence, they have continued to keep their farm store open in a temporary spot, while making plans for a new barn and embarking on a fundraising campaign to help bring those plans to fruition. More information about the effort can be found at:

www.gofundme.com/f/help-build-the-barn-the-new-heart-of-red-fire-farm

Our Roots, Our Voices
in the News

Town Reminder
November 14, 2025
American Voices and stories shine in South Hadley (pg 2)

Full edition PDF:
https://townreminder.turley.com/tr-archives/TRM111425.pdf

Story PDF:
https://bit.ly/49kmFjp

Photography Exhibit

A special exhibit of documentary portraits by Northampton photographer Nikki Gardner was showcased in the Center Church’s Chapel. “Giving Voice: Immigrants share their stories” is a documentary portrait and audio storytelling project that delves into the realities of immigrants who have built new lives in this region. Organizers planned to intersperse recorded stories from “Giving Voice” with live stories during the 25 hours of Our Roots, Our Voices. The project was developed in 2024 with grant funding from Northampton Arts Council and Northampton Open Media through collaboration with nine participants who relocated to the Pioneer Valley.

Local History

Those signed up to tell their stories range from Gen Z college students to members of the Post War Generation members, as well as Millenials, Gen X, and Boomers. Each American story offers a different perspective on life in our country.

South Hadley historian Leo LaBonte shared his personal story on Friday night, as well as segments on Saturday about those who used to live in our area. Stan Prager, an historian with an interest in the intersection of history and technology, shared a story he has been researching about a Massachusetts resident.

25+HOURS | AROUND THE CLOCK |
5pm-Friday, November 7 to 6:00pm-Saturday, November 8, 2025
At Center Church-Fellowship Hall, 1 Church Street, South Hadley MA 01075
(accessible/elevator from street level)

EMAIL:
ourrootsourvoices@gmail.com

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