May 7, 2026: Flora and Future

In Haydenville, a microfarm is bringing colorful blooms to events and homes all over the baystate by doubling down on locally grown flowers. Flora Farm began with a much wider perspective, but has been focused on making their quarter acre of blossoms key to the floral needs of Western Mass and beyond. We talk with farmer Aspen Bey about the farm’s history, some of the challenges for younger farmers, and how their own history is being continued through the flowers they grow. We’ll also head to Longmeadow to meet the many teens organizing the Future Planet Fiesta. A festival only in its second iteration, the event is gathering ecologically minded school groups of all ages and community organizations to host a fun and information filled  gathering on the Town’s Common this Saturday, and we’ll hear from all of them the importance and cathartic nature of engageable action. And Congressman Jim McGovern  checks in with us still riding a high from Hampshire Pride, to explore the hidden costs and repercussions of the Iran war, his encouragement for folx to continue to be civically engaged, the draining of the social security funds and much more.