Recent Stories

Bumble bees—the queens of the pollinators

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!

Of hummingbirds, hawk moths and ephemerals

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.

Letter Writing

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

Home maintenance reminders

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.

Raspberry Spinach Salad

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!

Drummer writers once again score big!

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.

Roberts addressed the United Nations

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.

Drumrolls

Andrew La Croix, of Granby and a student at Kingswood Oxford School, received the Googins Award for distinguished service in forensic union after excelling in formal debate, and the Fortiter Prize for displaying courage and perseverance.

Smoke alarms and batteries available

Granby’s Fire Marshal’s Office has developed a free smoke alarm testing and replacement program. With a quick call or email, they will come out and check your detectors free of charge. They offer replacement of battery-operated alarms and batteries free of charge for residential

Tobacco Valley Teachers Federal Credit Union awards scholarship

The Tobacco Valley Teachers Federal Credit Union (TVTFCU) is pleased to announce the recipient of its 2024 Scholarship Award. Congratulations to Thomas Kennedy of Granby Memorial High School, who received an award of $1,000. After graduation Thomas will continue his education in heavy construction equipment technology.

Meet the new Chamber staff

Rebecca Taylor as the newest members of the Chamber staff. These talented individuals bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the team, and the positive impact they will have on our community.

Chamber Golf Classic a resounding success

The Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Golf Classic on Friday, June 7, at picturesque Simsbury Farms. Against the backdrop of a perfect 75 degree, partly cloudy day, 94 players on 24 teams came together for a day of camaraderie, competition and charity.

Meet poetess Bernadette Gentry

If you live in Granby and read The Granby Drummer, then you surely recognize the name Bernadette Gentry. She’s the voice behind the thoughtful, sometimes whimsical but always pleasing poems published each month for her community to enjoy.

A Challenging Experience

Recently, I experienced some major health issues, was hospitalized, and spent some time in rehab. In the nursing home I also had to use a wheelchair. There were so many other people using them that, after a while, I no longer noticed the chairs, just the people sitting in them.

Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce hosts annual meeting and awards

On May 23, the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce gathered at the picturesque Holcomb Farm in Granby for its annual meeting and awards reception. This event is a testament to the dedication and hard work of its esteemed members and sponsors, whose unwavering support forms the foundation of our shared success.