Two delightful speakers graced the podium at the 2018 St. David’s Day luncheon of the Welsh Society of Western New England.
Speaker Helen Coates of the Copper Kettle Bakery
Helen Coates of the Copper Kettle Bakery described her journey from LLantwit Majorin the Vale of Glamorgan, watching her mum make Welsh Cakes, to Westwood, Massachusetts, where her dream of a bakery took shape. She began some years ago baking Welsh Cakes in her home kitchen after her mum passed away, delivering daily to local stores, and now she has commercial production with online sales and distribution in the continental US of 5 flavors. The freshly-made samples which she brought were simply delicious, and the make-your-own mixes were eagerly taken by everyone to try at home. Her determination to succeed and her affinity for Wales inspired us all, and we are so proud of her. www.copperkettlebakery.com
Speaker Margaret Lloyd of NY, who read her book of poetry about Women in the Mabinogi
Professor Margaret Lloyd of Springfield College presented a fascinating introduction to the Mabinogi Tales of medieval Wales, telling of the mythical woman Rhiannon who travels from the Otherworld on a white horse in search of her prince Pwyll. She finds him and they are married, but after their child is abducted, Rhiannon heroically accepts punishment herself to spare the lives of her midwives. Professor Lloyd reflects on Rhiannon as a noble woman of stature and strength in her beautiful series of poems recently published in Wales. Her passionate readings of several excerpts enthralled the audience, bringing alive the power, pathos, and relevance of these oldest of Welsh myths. Travelling on My Own Errands - Voices of Women from the Mabinogi, Gwasg Carreg Gwalch, Llanwrst, March 2017.
WSWNE President Susan Davies Sit, with our Welsh map of members' Welsh roots.
Host for the annual luncheon, held this year on Saturday, March 3rd, was the lovely Nutmeg Restaurant in East Windsor, Connecticut, with about 40 in attendance. Society president Susan Davies Sit opened the meeting with greetings from other Welsh societies from around North America, reviewed the many activities of the past year, and introduced new members.
The society is growing, enthusiasm is high, and the Welsh in the area are in good company. Come join us!
Members with Beth Roberts Brown in Welsh National Dress
Ed Brown in a Slate Quarryman's outfit with member Mark Spencer
By Mark Spencer, Member.
VIDEOS of talks by HELEN COATES and MARGARET LLOYD
