Recent Stories

People

Jeff Sturgeon: a local new author

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Jeff Sturgeon has called North Granby home for more than 20 years. A proud Navy veteran and retired correctional lieutenant, Sturgeon’s life has been defined by service, discipline and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. He and his wife of 33 years, Jennifer, raised their daughters, Danielle and Gabrielle, here in Granby.

In Memory of...

Sally Carr Smith

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Sally (Carr) Smith, 89, of Granby, CT, beloved wife of the late Walter H. Smith, passed away at her home on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Sally was born on July 7, 1936, In Winthrop, MA, daughter of the late Preston A. and Annette E. (Sears) Carr.

Events

Holiday gift sale and book gift tree at Granby Library

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For the month of December, the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries will have several tables set up for gift giving this holiday season. The sale begins Monday, Dec. 1 at the Granby Public Library and will continue during regular open hours throughout the month while supplies last.

Animal Talk

Common Toxin Series: Chocolate

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Most people who have pets know that chocolate is toxic to dogs. It is the most well-known toxin as well as a very common one. Chocolate is also toxic to cats, though we do not see our feline friends ingesting chocolate as often as our pups. But why is chocolate toxic?

NOT WANTED

Mays, Shoulds and Musts

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May is the number one month for gardening, and that means decisions! What to add, what to subtract, what to divide—and how to cope with the relentless multiplication of invasive plants.

Great Outdoors

Bumble bees—the queens of the pollinators

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Most people know that bees are one of the most important pollinators of not just our pretty flowers, but also many of our important food crops. You are probably picturing a cute little honeybee perched on the edge of a blossom right now, and you would probably be surprised to learn that it’s not the little honeybee that is the best at pollination but rather the big ole bumble bee!

Great Outdoors

Of hummingbirds, hawk moths and ephemerals

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Years ago, I received a phone call from Melissa, my cousin in Philadelphia. It was early May and she wanted to know about a baby hummingbird hovering over a small patch of flowers. After 27 years of tending to my hillside garden in Vermont, I knew the “baby” was actually a hawk moth, also known as sphinx moth.

People

Letter Writing

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Today, we communicate by texting or email. In my day, it was through writing letters.

People

Home maintenance reminders

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Homeowners sometimes forget to conduct maintenance on the systems that keep homes running smoothly. The majority of appliance manufacturers have recommended practices for cleaning and repairing their products, so they function efficiently and effectively. Below are some reminders and tips.

Great Outdoors

Raspberry Spinach Salad

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I found this recipe a few years ago and it gets rave reviews wherever I serve it. Quick, delicious and nutritious—it doesn’t get better than that. And it’s a beautiful and colorful way to celebrate our new awakening in springtime!

Drumrolls

Drummer writers once again score big!

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The Connecticut Press Club, founded in the 1970s, is comprised of writers, editors, authors and other media professionals. Each year media outlets throughout the state are invited to submit pieces of their published work in a variety of categories. In January, the Drummer submitted 15 articles written by its volunteers in 2024 for consideration—and in April were notified that 12 of its writers received awards.

People

Roberts addressed the United Nations

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On March 22 Dave Roberts spoke about The Future of Service at the United Nations, linking the relationship between Lions International, the United Nations and The United Nations Association of the USA.

People

Customers donate to women’s shelter

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March was the month for honoring successful women. Rosia Kennedy, program coordinator at the Granby Stop & Shop, wanted to show support for brave women going through tough times at the Abused Women’s Shelter in Springfield.

Town/Govt

FY26 Budget Issue

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Special Budget Issue included alongside the April 2025 issue of The Granby Drummer

About Town

April is budget time

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If it’s April, then the FY 26 budget vote is right around the corner. That vote will occur on Monday, April 21. You can vote in town hall during the hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Absentee ballots are also available from the town clerk. Securing an absentee ballot is a process, so I encourage anyone who needs one to call the town clerk at 860-844-5310.