Recent Stories

Exotic Pet Series – Part One

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.

Local nurseryman wins prestigious award

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.

Heaven’s End

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.

Simpson painting made permanent in Waterbury museum

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.

Art Foundation donates portraits

The Sylvia Davis Patricelli Art Foundation recently donated two portraits painted by Patricelli to a West Hartford church and a local country club.

Mark Williams wins award

As January arrives each year, The Granby Drummer submits articles published during the preceding year to the Connecticut Press Club’s annual communication contest. Writers, editors and other media professionals across Connecticut vie for awards in over 60 categories.

Save the Date

Granby’s annual Empty Bowls dinner will be held on Friday, March 28, 5 to 7 p.m. in GMHS cafeteria. All proceeds benefit the Granby and Hartland food banks. See March issue for details!

Winter is here!

December view of the North Marsh on the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve in North Granby.

Feathered visitor—or hunter?

John Dewey photographed this broad winged hawk sitting on a plastic owl, watching birds at the feeder at his house on Hungary Road. It was taken during one of January’s many windy days so its feathers were ruffled from the wind.

Granby Artists hold show, recognize sponsors

The Granby Artists Association (GAA) presents its Third Annual Season of Joy show at Lost Acres Vineyard from Dec. 3 to 31. Meet the artists at the opening reception on Sunday, Dec. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Thank You to our loyal Advertisers!

As we wrap up 2023, we want to send a sincere message of appreciation to our advertisers for a year of unwavering support.

Granby traffic: A historic complaint

r the past couple years, many people have groused about the construction in the center of town, taking detours down streets such as Copper Hill, Griffin Road and Hungary Road, and increasing traffic through neighborhoods.

Meet me at the Center — December 2023

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.

Seniors Job Bank expands services

The Seniors Job Bank (SJB) has expanded its reach and offerings by investing in strategic planning, IT upgrades, improved administrative services and fundraising efforts to offer more job opportunities and more efficient systems and processes.

Breakfast Groups enjoy meals, speakers

Conservationist Ginny Apple spoke to 43 members of the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group on Nov. 1.
At the Nov. 3 Granby Men’s Breakfast, the live demonstration of the Granby Grunts Robot was not to be missed!

Social Services

Winter season is fast approaching. There are steps you can take to make sure you are prepared.

Join the Granby Land Trust

It’s membership renewal time! September marked the start of the Granby Land Trust (GLT) membership year. If you haven’t yet renewed your membership, please do.

News from Town Hall

Fall is in full swing in Granby, and along with chilly temps and leaf clean up, it brings Election Day, completed projects from Public Works, and updates from the Building Department.

F.H. Cossitt Library to be reimagined

Throughout the coming winter, the F.H. Cossitt Branch Library will close and undergo a transformation sure to impress all.