Keeping Granby beautiful
We would like to thank all those amazing people with green thumbs who have provided us with the beautiful plantings on the roundabout on Route 10/202 and the garden in the front of the Community Gardens on Hungary Road. Also, a big thank you to all the volunteers who spent Earth Day cleaning up the litter on the roads in Granby. It is much appreciated!
Carol and Herb Hulbert
Support for Neumann
If experience, knowledge, and integrity are important in determining your vote for board of selectmen, then I ask you to vote for Mark Neumann. Mark has more than 20 years of experience on this board. He has also served in many other capacities in our town and community. Mark has lived in Granby his entire life. He has a deep working knowledge of each town department and understands what makes Granby a place we all love.
I have known Mark for almost 35 years. He served on the board of selectman during my ten years as First Selectman and consistently added value to our decision making. Mark is a trusted man of his word. He delivers on his promises and is most qualified to continue serving on this board. I personally have witnessed his good listening skills, sound judgement and dependability. I ask you to join me in supporting Mark Neumann for the board of selectmen.
John E. Adams
Support for Badeau
I am writing to support Andy Badeau for the Board of Selectmen. Andy, his wife Charlene, and their kids Guy, Rachael and Julia have been dear friends since nearly the day we moved to Granby, over 15 years ago. Andy is a prime example of what I think we all value about Granby—he quietly, respectfully finds ways to serve our community.
Andy is selfless. His interest in running for the BOS comes from a sincere desire to help where help is needed. An example is his work in maintaining the roundabout at the north end. Andy is a founding member of the group of volunteers that spends hours planting, weeding and trimming the landscaping in the center of the roundabout. Andy also serves on the Granby Zoning Board of Appeals—a board charged with finding solutions to specific building and zoning code issues.
Andy is experienced. His decades as a strategic account manager for Pratt & Whitney will be invaluable to tackling our greatest, recurring challenge: providing the best educational opportunities and public services we can, while minimizing the impact on taxpayers.
Andy is down to earth. He cuts his firewood (and helps me cut mine), he seals his driveway and he repairs his daughters’ cars.
Finally, Andy is approachable and genuine. He listens carefully to all viewpoints, makes reasoned decisions and Granby is his focus
This election, you can vote for up to four candidates for the BOS. Please cast one for Andy.
Mark Fiorentino
I, without hesitation, support Andy Badeau for the Granby Board of Selectmen in the upcoming election for town government.
A life-long Connecticut resident, Andy and his family have lived in Granby for nearly 25 years. Raising his family here, he actively supported his children’s growth and life experience with his involvement in their lacrosse, baseball and hockey sports activities. He also has served the Granby community both by being part of the roundabout landscaping volunteer group, as well as on the Granby Zoning Board of Appeals.
Beyond the desire to, and track record of, actively pitching in to help make Granby the great community we live in, Andy brings to the table work skills that are an excellent fit for the governing role and responsibilities of the board of selectmen. Business management expertise and experience are solid credentials for an individual looking to serve the town on its highest-level municipal decision-making body—they will serve us well.
My knowledge of and interaction with him over the years tells me that he is an excellent choice for the board of selectmen.
Please join me in voting for Andy Badeau on Nov. 4.
Mike Guarco
I am writing this letter in support of Andy Badeau for a position on the board of selectmen (BOS).
The Badeau and McWhirter families have been long-time friends through the many years our boys played ice hockey together from youth-to-high school teams. As hockey families, parents and families spend a lot of time together, traveling near and far for early morning and late-night games and this environment builds strong relationships. Andy, his wife Charlene and their three children—Guy, Rachael and Julia—each contributed to and supported hockey fundraisers, alumni games, chuck-the-puck raffles and so much more. Andy was the team videographer and Charlene published game programs for many seasons.
Andy and his family have heart, integrity and strong community ties. Andy is an honest citizen who consistently supports the team, is collaborative and is always genuine. He seeks to do the right thing in any situation—on the ice or in the community.
As a BOS candidate, Andy demonstrates the valuable qualities we would want in our town’s leadership. I will be casting my vote for Andy in the upcoming election. Please consider taking time to get to know him in the coming months. You will not be disappointed with what Andy can contribute to serving our community.
Greg McWhirter
Support for Woods
I write in support of Ann Woods’ candidacy for board of education. Ann is a 24-year Granby resident, and someone I have known for 15 years. We met as young mothers at the Granby Early Childhood Council playgroup and have been connected since. Ann’s lived experiences with residing internationally, working in the corporate setting, and studying communications and management give her a perspective that Granby can utilize on our board.
Ann consistently pays attention to what is happening in our schools. As parents, it is easy to focus on our own children’s experiences but Ann also observes and considers the impact of local and national politics on schools. She attends school events, as many parents do, and also comes to board meetings to advocate about policy. Ann holds our administrators, our children, our teachers and also community members and parents, accountable for what happens in our schools—a rare quality in today’s climate. Since she decided to run for our board, she has asked tough questions and demonstrated a drive to learn about the responsibilities and the limits of our roles as board members. Being an effective board member involves separating personal wishes and experiences from overarching policy concerns, and I have the utmost confidence that Ann will be able to both acknowledge and delineate her own concerns from larger board considerations.
I hope that voters will come out in support of Ann and our other Democratic candidates for town office on Nov. 4!
Liz Harmon Barlow
As a sitting member of Granby’s board of education, I’m thrilled to see progress happening across our schools. Student achievement is climbing, more quality teachers are staying, and our district administration is prioritizing communication and building trust with our community. But times are uncertain, and this Nov. 4, Granby voters can ensure we build on this growth by keeping Ann Woods on the board of education and voting ROW A.
Ann is a mother of two great Granby school kids, has a successful career and is a life-long volunteer including teaching at her church and helping students in Junior Achievement. She was raised in a multi-cultural family and believes various perspectives generate more informed decisions and stronger outcomes for more people.
Like all board members, Ann is a Granby taxpayer, and she is also a single mom who lives, and firmly understands, the true value of practicality, sustainability and spending wisely. Lastly, Ann is a kind and empathetic human being with an open heart and mind. It’s an honor to work with Ann on the BOE and experience how deeply she cares and how hard she works to help our children and teachers. Please join me in voting for someone who believes all children deserve the best our community has to offer and has the values, knowledge and experience to keep our schools moving in a positive direction. Vote Ann Woods—Row A—Board of Education on Nov. 4.
Heather Lombardo
Support for Billig
I am writing to express my support for Andrew Billig in the upcoming school board election. As a dedicated educator for 19 years, Andrew has shown an unwavering commitment to students and the broader community. His passion for creating a safe, strong, and healthy learning environment is evident in his daily work.
Within the Chicopee Public Schools, Andrew serves on the instructional leadership team, collaborating with administrators and peers to address classroom challenges and improve teaching strategies. He has also mentored new teachers, offering guidance and support during the crucial early years of their careers.
Here in Granby, Andrew is an active volunteer and coach. Since 2021, he has led the Granbeast Little League and most recently assisted with Rovers’ soccer. Through coaching, he builds connections with parents and children, fostering confidence, resilience and teamwork among young athletes.
Beyond his professional and volunteer roles, Andrew is a supportive husband and father. His calm, level-headed demeanor, strong communication skills, and objectivity make him exceptionally well-suited for the board of education. I am confident his leadership, expertise and dedication will positively impact both our children’s education and our community.
Please join me in voting for Andrew Billig on Election Day.
Andrea Billig
This letter is in strong support of the election of Andrew Billig for the Granby Board of Education. I believe his unique skill set as a dedicated parent, educator and volunteer will add a valuable mindset and voice for Granby.
As the parent of two young children, Andrew understands the concerns that other working parents in Granby face every day—maintaining a strong educational core where our kids can learn in a safe, well-rounded environment. Andrew is a well-respected teacher who has worked in Connecticut as well as multiple towns in Massachusetts, which provides him with valuable knowledge as to how to deliver creative, new solutions to the challenges Granby faces.
Andrew has dedicated his time to serving the youth of our town both through Granbeast Little League and Rovers FC. In coaching with him, I have seen Andrew’s dedication to making kids into not just better players, but better people. He consistently teaches them with patience and understanding, but also a firmness that ensures they come away as improved athletes and teammates.
Andrew represents many of the things we typically look for in a member of the board of education—work ethic, collaboration, intelligence and a willingness to make the community better. He also brings experience not just as an educator, but one who can bring new ideas and a different perspective to the board. I strongly recommend that anyone who desires those characteristics to vote for Andrew Billig on Nov. 4.
Matt Brady
I am writing in support of Andrew Billig for Granby Board of Education. With nearly 20 years of teaching experience in public schools, he has a first-hand understanding of how impactful board decisions can be on the success of students within the district they serve. Andrew will bring to the board not only valuable insight for forward progress in Granby schools based on his successful tenure as a teacher, but he will contribute unyielding dedication and commitment. Continuing the positive momentum the board has demonstrated in the last year will be his priority.
Andrew has served our community in many ways over the years his family has grown here in Granby, including as a softball and soccer coach/mentor. Andrew is known to exhibit incredible patience and a positive forward-thinking attitude to both his players and their parents, which will absolutely translate to how he will function on the board. Instead of pointing fingers and focusing on negative outcomes, he will collaborate and advocate with his peers to bring more impactful and realistic change.
Please find the time on Nov. 4 to cast your vote for Andrew Billig to serve on Granby’s Board of Education.
Jennifer Christensen
I am writing in strong support of Andrew Billig for the Granby Board of Education. As both a high school teacher in another school district and an active volunteer in our own community, Andrew brings a rare combination of professional expertise and local involvement.
His experience in the classroom gives him first-hand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our Granby students and teachers. Andrew understands curriculum, student needs and the importance of supporting teachers to create a thriving learning environment.
I have coached with Andrew, he has been a dedicated volunteer, coaching in our Granby/East Granby Little League and giving hours to support our youth to build character, teamwork and community pride. His willingness to roll up his sleeves, get involved and lead by example speaks volumes about the kind of board member he will be.
Our schools deserve leaders who not only understand education, but also care deeply about our town, our families, teachers and, most importantly, our children’s future. Andrew Billig is exactly that kind of leader. I encourage my fellow residents to join me in voting for Andrew Billig for the Granby Board of Education.
Stephen M. Simard
I am pleased to endorse Andrew Billig as a candidate for the Granby Board of Education. Andrew is not only an accomplished professional, but also a genuinely good person whose character and dedication will serve our schools well.
A lifelong educator with 19 years of classroom experience and a master’s degree in secondary education, Andrew brings a deep understanding of how policy decisions affect teachers and students alike. As a coach, he models teamwork and perseverance for young people, and as a parent of Granby students, he understands the hopes and concerns of local families firsthand. During the challenges of COVID remote schooling, Andrew reached out personally to parents to offer guidance and support, demonstrating true dedication to students’ well-being and family needs.
Andrew will provide thoughtful leadership, a collaborative spirit and a steadfast commitment to high-quality education for every child. Granby would benefit greatly from his insight, energy and deep understanding of education. I encourage my fellow residents to vote for Andrew Billig in the upcoming election so that our community can gain a thoughtful new voice on the board of education.
Aaron Wyzik
Support for Nolan
I am pleased to endorse Donna Nolan for re-election to the Granby Board of Education (BOE). Donna is completing her first term on the BOE, and I had the privilege of serving alongside her from 2021 to 2023. During this time, I witnessed her commitment to student achievement while maintaining fiscal responsibility. She has worked tirelessly to advocate for the students, staff and teachers of Granby Public Schools.
In her first term, Donna played a pivotal role on the Superintendent Search Committee, helping select Superintendent Cheri Burke in 2023. She also served as the BOE representative on two major building committee projects at Granby Memorial High School: the installation of the new roof and the renovation of the commons area. Her leadership was instrumental in bringing both to completion.
A Granby resident for nearly 15 years, Donna and her husband raised three children, all graduates of GMHS. As a parent, she understands the importance of a strong, supportive school district. During the challenges of COVID, Donna stepped up as a long-term substitute teacher at GMHS, gaining valuable insight into daily school operations. She now teaches at St. Mary’s School in Simsbury.
Donna’s dedication, experience and deep community ties make her an invaluable asset to the board of education. Granby will continue to benefit from her thoughtful leadership in a second term. I strongly encourage you to join me in voting for Donna Nolan for the board of education on Nov. 4.
Kristina Gilton
Lucky. That is how I describe how fortunate Granby is to have Donna Nolan serving on the board of education. In this letter of support, I will not focus on Donna’s long and impressive resume as a college athlete, lawyer, teacher, mother of three, GMHS alumni, and tireless volunteer for all things Granby. I will focus on why Granby needs a tenacious and smart advocate for our students and taxpayers in her seat.
Every year the Granby BOE faces increasing federal and state mandates. Donna understands and respects the property tax burden on all of us, balanced with the need to provide a quality education and extracurricular activities to our students. Donna calls it like she sees it. She is a rarity in a world of people afraid to share their real opinions and do what is right. Granby is lucky that Donna wants to volunteer her time and talent on the board of education. Please re-elect Donna Nolan.
Melissa Migliaccio
I support Donna Nolan’s re-election to the Board of Education. I encourage everyone to vote for Donna this election because she will fight to put students first and make decisions that are both fiscally responsible and student centered.
I had the privilege of working with Donna on the BOE for several years. During that time, I came to admire Donna’s common-sense, no-nonsense approach to important decisions that the board faces. Donna is trained as a lawyer and is a teacher by profession. Those experiences and skill sets are critical to ensuring that our school district is strong. Donna is well aware of the need to support teachers in the classroom so that student learning and achievement is always at the core of what our schools do.
Money is tight for all of us and our teachers are called upon to do more with less. That is why it is so important to have someone like Donna on our board of education to keep the decisions and dollars focused on what is truly important for student success.
Please join me this fall in voting for Donna Nolan for the Board of Education.
Rosemarie Weber
Support for McCord
We are writing to express our strong support for Kent McCord as a candidate for the Granby Board of Finance. We have known Kent for 20 years and can confidently say he brings integrity, dedication, sound judgment and financial expertise that will greatly benefit our community.
Kent is the kind of person who listens carefully, thinks things through and always looks for solutions that are fair and balanced. He brings deep knowledge of finance and budgeting, but what stands out even more is his integrity and steady, level-headed approach. We’ve seen these qualities firsthand—through his professional accomplishments, his leadership with the Granby Marquis and his involvement on local boards.
He values hearing different perspectives and making well-informed decisions based on facts and long-term impact. These are exactly the qualities we need on the board of finance: analytical thinking, creative problem-solving and a strong commitment to Granby’s future. Outside of his professional and civic involvement, Kent is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking and biking on Granby’s many trails and open spaces—a reflection of his deep appreciation for the town and its natural beauty.
On Election Day, we hope our fellow Granby residents will join us in voting for Kent McCord. We’re confident he will serve with integrity, diligence and a true commitment to keeping Granby strong for years to come.
Amy and Troy Milbrandt
Support for Proctor
I first met Toby Proctor through our shared volunteer work in town, and it was immediately clear how deeply committed he is to serving the community. He’s consistently stepped up to take on a wide range of volunteer roles, dedicating his personal time to making Granby a better place for everyone. Toby brings energy, thoughtfulness, and a genuine sense of civic responsibility to everything he does.
As a candidate for the Board of Finance, Toby’s approach is refreshingly pragmatic. He’s running as an unaffiliated candidate. While he’s expressed concern about the divisiveness of the national two-party system, he also appreciates the importance of working together at the local level—a spirit reflected in his endorsements from the Granby Democrats, the Forward Party, and the Independent Veterans of America. Toby’s background as a corporate financial analyst and budget planner gives him the tools to tackle Granby’s fiscal challenges head-on. He’s passionate about protecting the town’s rural character and excellent schools, while also exploring smart ways to grow the tax base and reduce the burden on property owners. He’s not just focused on the short term—he’s thinking ahead, looking for long-term strategies that will keep Granby thriving.
I support Toby’s candidacy and believe his experience, integrity, and commitment to the town make him an outstanding choice for the board of finance. Granby would be lucky to have his thoughtful leadership and financial expertise guiding its future!
Jill Small
Support for Becker
Granby is fortunate to have many residents who volunteer time and energy for the good of our town. One of these is Kim Becker, who is running for the board of selectmen.
I know Kim from serving with her on the Granby Commission on Aging. She is also on the board of the Granby Ambulance Association, chairperson of the Granby Education Foundation, and president of the board of Stony Hill Village. She has been a long-time advocate for schools, GAA and seniors. Having lived in Granby for 17 years and raised two children here, Kim is well versed in town government and nonprofits. She knows our community and believes all of our residents deserve to be heard and respected.
I am very proud to endorse Kim for the board of selectmen. Granby is lucky to have her knowledge, passion, and commitment to working to improve things for our town. She will be able to do even more if she is elected to the BOS. Please join me in voting for Kim Becker for BOS in the Nov. 4 election.
Ellen A. Thomson
Support for Democratic candidates
Granby faces new challenges and changing times. Like many small towns, we pride ourselves on being a family-friendly place to raise our kids and build strong, life-long friendships. As we look to the future, we see headwinds beyond our control. Our state is facing potential cuts to previously secure funding—things like special education reimbursement and support for infrastructure projects. With looming uncertainties as to whether federal and state resources will continue, we need to plan for the future, prioritizing our values as best as we can.
I believe that we need town leaders that can creatively plan for the future during these changing times. For that reason, I endorse the Democratic slate of candidates running for town boards in the Nov. 4 election.
We are fortunate to have people willing to serve that bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise and community service. The candidates running for the town operating boards—selectmen, finance and education—have the experience and commitment to Granby that we need during these changing times. I encourage you to get to know them as I have at our community events, through our website (granbydems.org) and in the special election supplement to the Drummer. Our candidates will also be canvassing in town and would love to talk to you about your concerns and ideas on how to keep Granby the Pride of Valley for years to come.
Lynn Guelzow