Recent Stories

People

Don Shaw gives CNN an interview about Jimmy Carter

By |

Granby resident Don Shaw received a call on Dec. 30 while he and wife Peggy were packing food bags at Granby Congregational Church’s Open Cupboard Pantry. It was from the CEO of Habitat for Humanity of North Central Connecticut, telling him that representatives of the Isa Soares Tonight show that airs on CNN International in London wanted to interview him about his experiences and memories of working with former President Jimmy Carter who had died the previous day.

Fun & Rec

Winter activities at the YMCA

|

As winter settles in and we count down the days to the return of warm summer rays, the Y is here to brighten the season. We’ve rounded up an exciting array of activities for families, youth and adults to keep you warm, happy and engaged during these cooler months.

People

Girl Scouts help local dogs

|

Recently, local Girl Scout troops sewed blankets and made knotted dog toys for the Connecticut Humane Society. It was an instant success for the animals.

History

Granby and the First Amendment — Part 4

|

In part three, we saw that Connecticut’s harsh response to the religious Awakening drove New Lights south for continued revival in those colonies. Back in Granby, a decade of contention by two independent God-fearing sides ended in peace under the guidance of a new pastor, Joseph Strong.

Animal Talk

Exotic Pet Series – Part One

By |

Over the next few months, I will be covering topics related to exotic pet ownership. These articles will include information and data on ownership of reptiles/amphibians, small mammals and birds. Exotics can be fun and rewarding to keep as pets but typically have very specific needs depending on the species.

Drumrolls

Local nurseryman wins prestigious award

By |

On Nov. 21 John O’Brien received the 2024 Gustav A.I. Mehlquist award, the highest honor given annually from the Connecticut Horticultural Society at the society’s annual meeting. Established in 1987 the award honors Mehlquist’s extraordinary contribution to horticulture.

NOT WANTED

Heaven’s End

By |

This may be the last picture of the grandparent Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) at Holcomb Farm. A notable tree by any definition, three feet across, it was probably intentionally planted decades ago directly across the field from the Holcombs’ front door.

The Arts

Simpson painting made permanent in Waterbury museum

By |

Local artist William (Bill) Simpson has had one of his charcoal drawings accepted into the permanent collection at the Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury. The piece, Fishing with Nick, was a visitor favorite during the 2022 Juried Members Show at the museum, so much so that Simpson was invited to return it and three additional drawings in December 2023 as part of a group show titled Connecticut Artists Depict Trees and Forests.

Town/Govt

Public Works

|

Trash Holiday: Monday, May 29, Memorial Day is a holiday for Paine’s. All trash and recycling pickups will be delayed by one day the week after the holiday.

Health Notes

Cool down your diet this spring

|

As the weather warms up, we begin to think of lighter foods. Eating light and choosing foods wisely carries the benefit of fighting inflammation in our bodies.

Events

Sponsor an American flag

|

It’s that time of year when sleeping perennial flowers bloom, trees sprout their leaves, grasses are beginning to green up, and people emerge from their homes to spend time outside. Another special event occurs in May: the Granby Lions Club, assisted by the Town’s Public Works Department, posts dedicated American Flags on the utility poles throughout the center of town.

Events

GMHS Grad Night Party needs support

By |

As seniors at Granby Memorial High School count down to graduation day, Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation (an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that organizes a substance-free Grad Night celebration for GMHS graduates), is busy planning the big event.

Town/Govt

Social Services

|

The Social Services Department’s focus is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents.

Events

NEAM offers travel opportunities

|

The New England Air Museum is thrilled to announce a series of exciting travel opportunities for aviation enthusiasts that will take place throughout the coming year. The trips, which are designed to give participants a unique insight into the world of aviation, will take them to some of the most exciting and historic destinations across the United States.

In Town Focus

In Town Focus

|

Memorial Day Flags and Poppies on Sale, Community Kitchen Offering Meals Again, Annual Vigil for Racial Justice, Camera Club, Women’s Breakfast, Healthcare Day, Men’s Breakfast, and SBHS News

Fun & Rec

Parks & Recreation

|

Registration for these popular summer programs is now open. View program and event details online at GranbyRec.com and register early as sessions sell out – make sure to secure your camper’s spot.

People

Granby Parks and Recreation hires special events coordinator

|

Jamie Savva, special events coordinator, has joined the team at Granby Parks and Recreation to help plan, coordinate and execute special events for the town as well as private events and weddings at Holcomb Farm.

Great Outdoors

The Garlic Farm: Moving forward, while looking back

|

More than three decades ago, long before the term organic entered the popular lexicon, The Garlic Farm opened in West Granby. Over the years it transformed from a small weekend farm stand to a full-time operation offering dozens of vegetables as well as a community share program.

People

Women’s Breakfast Group set to celebrate 20 years in 2024

|

Brought together by a shared love for Granby, the Women’s Breakfast Group will celebrate 20 years in 2024. Every month from September to June the women gather to enjoy a breakfast cooked by volunteers, to share conversation and to enjoy a program of music or presentations. The program, which costs $5 to attend, welcomes women of all age groups.

People

Granby chapter of UNICO celebrates 20 years

|

The local chapter of UNICO is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The largest Italian-American service organization in the United States, UNICO is an acronym for Unity, Neighborliness, Integrity, Charity, Opportunity.

People

Street light repair along Rte 10/202 going well

|

As reported in the April issue, Granby is repairing street lights in the historic district. Town electrician Mike Antonucci gets a helping hand from Granby Public Works employees Keven Slyne, and Hunter Stone.

Fun & Rec

Meet me at the Center — May 2023

|

Please visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check your Center Life Newsletter for a complete listing of the health services, support groups, clubs, and ongoing activities.

Browse & Borrow

Browse & Borrow — May 2023

|

Registration is required for many of the library’s programs. To register, follow the links on the library’s website or call the library. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter on the website or by telephone.

People

Granby author debuts children’s book

|

Granby resident Mary Munson recently released her debut children’s book, Love Will Turn You Around, published by Gnome Road Publishing, and illustrated by Australian native Kate Talbot. The book, which hit bookstores on April 4, is a heart-warming story that focuses on social-emotional mental health, early childhood reading and math skills, finding joy and showing love to others.

Events

Juneteenth festivities expanded for 2023

|

Granby Celebrates Juneteenth will again fill Salmon Brook Park with music, speakers, education, food, and celebration. This second event, on Saturday, June 17, from 3:30 to 9 p.m., will be bigger and better than last year—and we’re counting on the weather to cooperate! Rain date is June 18.