Recent Stories

The budget—managing the beast

Board of finance members often hear, “why does the mill rate seem to always go up while in most years rates don’t change for federal and state income taxes? From the revenue perspective, this reflects that the income base to which state and federal tax rates apply generally increases annually as income levels and taxable population steadily rise.

Minutes for Town Meetings

This issue of the Drummer does not have Highlights of the various Granby board and  commission meetings.

For those interested in reading the full minutes, please visit the Granby town website, granby-ct.gov, and click on the green Agendas and Minutes button.

Granby Food Bank

We currently need: Jarred spaghetti sauce, Canned meat ravioli, Canned chicken/chili, Knorr rice/pasta sides, Brownie/cake/cookie mixes, Applesauce/pineapple, Progresso soups, Bar soap/dishwashing soap, Tea/coffee

Environmental policy deserves facts, not spin

Last month, an opinion piece criticized my record on environmental issues. I agree with the writer on one important point, protecting our environment is essential—future generations depend on it. But her piece misrepresented my voting record. Legislators should be scrutinized, but that scrutiny should be based on facts, not selective scoring or political spin.

PFLAG chapter launching in Granby

A new chapter of PFLAG is being established this month to serve members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families and friends. The group’s first in-person meeting will be an informal cookout on Sunday, June 22 at 3 p.m.

Container Garden Workshop

The workshop will be held Saturday, June 7, 2 to 4 p.m. at The Whisk’s new location, 15 Hartford Avenue, Granby.

Browse & Borrow — June 2025

Registration is required for all library programs unless otherwise indicated. To register, visit granby-ct.gov/Library, and click on “Register for a Program” or call the library at 860-844-5275. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter. For the most updated information on dates and programs, refer to the library’s online calendar.

Granby Artists Association 2025 All Members Show

The Granby Artists Association presents its annual All Members Show at East Granby Public Library from June 5 to June 26. Since 2002, the association has worked to create a vibrant and supportive community for the arts in Granby. This show features work by your favorite artists as well new people, including Granby high school students, which brings an exciting diversity to the 2D and 3D presentations.

Chamber held its annual meeting, awards ceremony

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.

Jammin’ For Jake: GMHS students organize benefit concert for beloved peer

The students of Granby Memorial High School are coming together in a powerful show of support for one of their own. On Friday, June 20, from 6 to 9 p.m., GMHS will be the site of a special benefit concert for Jake Rossi, a cherished senior currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

Meet me at the Center — June 2025

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

An American soldier remembered

I recently found a small book, The American Soldier’s Creed, in my grandfather’s papers. My grandfather, Elmer C. Vreeland, proudly served in WWI and the creed (reprinted in this article) depicts the ideals for which his generation was fighting.

A twist on the usual coleslaw for your next barbecue

So delighted to share this recipe—I made it many moons ago for a Cook sister’s gathering and birthday celebration for our mom. Horseradish is a great addition, just enough to add spice and flavoring but not enough to send tears down your face! This is a perfect salad for summer gatherings or barbecues, and might taste even better the next day—if there is any leftover.

Community Garden kicks off!

The Granby Community Garden, located at 79 Hungary Road, officially launched its growing season on May 3 with its annual work day, drawing a strong turnout of returning gardeners and enthusiastic newcomers alike.

June’s Gifts

In the park June greets us with her roses.
Their beautiful colors and sweet scents give us Hope and Peace.

A tree for Tom Nystrom

Many readers will remember Tom Nystrom. His life was full of service to the Town of Granby: Boy Scout troop leader, senior van driver, Sunday school teacher, 100-time blood donor. He drove the Marquis of Granby bus and won the Granby Congregational Church chili contest.