The Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce (GSCOC) held its Annual Meeting on May 1 at Holcomb Farm, drawing more than 75 local small business owners and community members. The evening celebrated the region’s entrepreneurial spirit, recognized key leaders and ushered in the chamber’s leadership for the upcoming year.
GSCOC Executive Director Ray Lagan, along with past President Tim Baker of Metric Financial LLC, kicked off the event. During the business meeting, the chamber confirmed its current board of directors, many of whom are serving the second year of their existing term or extending their tenure by one year. Continuing members include Pam Broderick (Coldwell Banker Realty), Jamie Savva (Town of Granby), George McGregor (Town of Simsbury), Brian Guarco (State Line Holdings), Bob Marx (Landmark Tours and Cruises), Rob Pancoast (Windsor Federal Savings), Andrew St. Onge (Northwest Community Bank) and Bernadeta Eichner (Liberty Bank).
Newly nominated to serve two-year terms were: Steve Couchon (Evans Automotive), Rachel Festa (Keller Williams) and Heather Whitman (Selig Jeweler).
The chamber also announced its officers for the 2025–26 term: President Joe Beale (Thomaston Savings Bank); First Vice Presidents Lou George (Hassett and George, P.C.), Mary Anne Guarco (State Line Propane and Oil), Lindsay Sanchez (Westfield Bank) and Dan Correia (DKC Associates); Treasurer Scott Goetjen (HarperWhitfield); Secretary Kathy Underleider (Granby Dental Center); Past President Tim Baker (Metric Financial LLC).
Several individuals were honored in recognition of excellence within the community.
• Business Leaders of the Year: Joe O’Grady, Holcomb Farm (Granby) and Kelle Becconsall of ISCC (Simsbury).
• Educator of the Year: Kristin LaFlamme, 5th Grade Teacher at Wells Road School, Granby, presented by Granby Superintendent of Schools Cheri Burke.
• Public Servant of the Year: Tom Roy, Director of Simsbury Public Works.
• Scholarship Recipient: Melinda Uanino, graduating senior from Simsbury High School.
The evening was supported by Presenting Sponsor PeoplesBank. Patrick McGillicuddy presented on the bank’s commitment to the community. Guest speaker, State of Connecticut Director of Tourism Rachel Lenda presented an engaging slideshow highlighting Connecticut’s attractions and economic opportunities.
The chamber extends special thanks to Presenting Sponsor PeoplesBank, Gold Sponsor Mitchell Auto Group and Bronze Sponsors The Granby Drummer, Northwest Community Bank, Westfield Bank, and Windsor Federal Bank.
The event showcased the strength and collaboration of the Granby-Simsbury business communities, as it continues to grow and thrive through shared vision and local support.
Submitted by Rebecca Taylor