Recent Stories

Jeff Sturgeon: a local new author

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.

Sally Carr Smith

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.

Holiday gift sale and book gift tree at Granby Library

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.

Common Toxin Series: Chocolate

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?

75 years loving horses

Betty Hart, a Granby native, is pictured with a horse 75 years ago side-by-side with a photo taken this year by her granddaughter, Granby Police Officer Nichole Abalan.

The Weed-Enders House move, 50 years ago

Fifty years ago, an extraordinary achievement took place in Granby when the Salmon Brook Historical Society successfully moved the Weed-Enders House seven miles from its original location in West Granby to the society’s grounds. Built in 1790, the Weed-Enders House is one of the oldest homes in the area, and its relocation remains a remarkable feat in local history.

Prizes awarded to 14 artists at juried art show

There’s still time to see the “2024 Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty Art Show,” hosted by the Granby Land Trust (GLT) and the Granby Artists Association (GAA) at Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby.

Browse & Borrow — December 2024

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.

News in Vet Med

In the 2024 election, Colorado had a ballot question about adding a new position within veterinary medicine (Proposition 129). This would create a veterinary professional associate (VPA) and outline the proposed curriculum for the degree.

Invasive Action!

A potent team of Invasive Plant Activists (IPAs) converged on the Red Trail West at Holcomb Farm in November to continue repairing the damage borne of our love of intense fall colors (see photo).

Granby Lions’ year off to a good start

The Granby Lions Club started its new year on July 1 and is quickly approaching the halfway point of its year. Under the leadership of President Tony Cappelli, the club has had a busy and successful start, with a very busy December ahead.

Keep your real Christmas tree healthy and safe

It is that most wonderful time of the year—the holiday season. And with the holiday season coming upon us, we are in search of that most perfect Christmas tree. One that stands tall and festive, to be adorned with lights and ornaments, shining brightly in our home, the centerpiece of celebrations.

Bake cookies for gifts this holiday

Northern Connecticut had an excellent acorn mast year. Mast describes the acorns produced by oaks and other nut bearing trees in an unusually large number of acorns (or “mast”) as part of an irregular cycle.

Food donations filled police cruisers

Rosia Kennedy, Granby Stop & Shop’s fundraiser coordinator, invited the Granby Police Department and staff for a pet food and pantry food drive on Nov. 17.

Granby’s FY25 departmental work plans, continued

Last month, this column introduced a review of the departmental work plans for the Town of Granby. The departmental work plan focuses on functions over and above the daily operations with the overarching goal to move the town forward while introducing resiliency and efficiency into the operations of the town.

Dr. Flush recognized for leadership and mentorship

Donald Rethke, known affectionately as “Dr. Flush” for his contributions to NASA’s space toilets during the Apollo program, was recognized for his work with the award-winning GMHS Robotics team at a ceremony on Oct. 7.

Your Support Matters!

Last year at this time, the Drummer was operating in the “red” and you responded generously to help us finish 2023 in the “black.” This year, thanks to a lot of hard work, modestly higher advertising revenue, a successful PuzzleSlam fundraiser and a grant from the Granby Community Fund, we’re looking at breaking even in 2024.