Details: cache-fra-eddf8230157-FRA 1746489660 384083081 Share on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInSIMSBURY CT (WFSB) - A fire destroyed a commercial building in Simsbury Saturday night into Sunday morning Officials said there was heavy fire in the building when they arrived “It’s like a giant bonfire,” said Cliff Silva “That’s the first thing I thought of: A giant bonfire.” Cell phone video shot by Silva was shared with Channel 3 Silva said he arrived at work around 11 p.m on Saturday night and saw massive flames and dozens of firetrucks They responded to each side of the building “Pretty impressive with the amount of flames that were coming out of there,” he said “[There are] old buildings up and down this street so you know it’s going to take a long time before it goes out.” “We initiated an aggressive interior attack but we were forced back by the fire conditions,” said Chief Todd Myers Temperatures in the teens made for icy and tough conditions in which firefighters had to work “Each business is like its own separate entity with its own entryway “[It] made it very difficult to get a hold of the fire and finally put it out.” hot spots remained and reignited large sections of the building so I’ve got to give firefighters in the area credit,” said Paul Crispo They lost their businesses and their livelihoods.” Crews began the process of demolishing the building on Sunday morning The community is now coming together to try and find new locations for the businesses affected a hair salon which had been open for 10 years Owner Jackie Jeffko is still getting used to the realization that she has to start from scratch There is a GoFundMe for the Shades Above hair salon to help with repairs David Richman sold the property several years ago and remained close with the small business owners he rented to stepped in and are trying to help the business owners get back on their feet “We’ve had property owners reaching out offering reduced rents the community has really come together,” said Executive Director Sarah Nielsen Fire officials said no one was inside the building at the time of the fire The fire marshal was said to be investigating A commercial building containing multiple businesses was destroyed in a fire that started on Saturday night in Simsbury The Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company responded to the report of a fire at 730 Hopmeadow St. “The first arriving fire officer discovered a heavy volume of fire coming from one of the first-floor occupancies,” said Todd M chief of the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company said in a release on Sunday “Additional assistance was immediately requested from neighboring towns.” Firefighters from Avon, Canton, Bloomfield (Bloomfield Center Fire Department), Granby (Lost Acres Fire Department) and Farmington (Tunxis Hose Co. 1) responded to help battle the blaze “Firefighters initially began to attack the fire from within the building but were forced to withdraw several times due to heavy fire conditions,” Myers said which contains business including Journey of Yoga Allstate Insurance and MC Tutoring LLC On Sunday morning the fire was in the “overhaul phase,” meaning firefighters are inspecting the area for hidden hotspots The fire remains under investigation by the Simsbury Fire Marshal’s Office ©2024 Hartford Courant. 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Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 2024 at 11:16 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The world-renowned International Skating Center of Connecticut recently released images of its new expansion set to open in spring 2025 The town's zoning board approved the project last June CT — One of the town's biggest attractions and one that when it opened 30 years ago drew international attention unveiled renderings of what their new expansion would look like The 25,000-square-foot expansion is expected to be finished and operational by the spring of the new year at the facility "As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of our facility we couldn’t be more excited to offer our athletes and partner associations this exciting upgrade to ISCC," wrote the center on social media recently The Simsbury Zoning Commission last June unanimously approved a 25,175-square-foot expansion of the International Skating Center of Connecticut the zoning board June 17 approved a "site plan amendment" for the expansion half-size rinks to join the two full-size rinks that serve both figure skaters and ice hockey players statewide "The new space will include two mini-rink surfaces providing athletes with NCAA and professional level amenities and resources," wrote the skating center on Dec "The mini rinks will expand our ice footprint enabling specialized training opportunities for our hockey players The ISCC was officially approved in 1994 and it immediately served as a training facility for Ukrainian figure skating icon Oksana Baiul who won the 1994 Olympic gold medal as the rest of the world was enthralled with the infamous Tonya Harding-Nancy Kerrigan scandal The 17-plus acres of land where the center operates is owned by the Town of Simsbury while the facility itself is owned by BMW Sports LLC which is the listed applicant for the project The rinks will be on the west side of the building and allow for more users to have increased ice time for various skating programs It is home to Simsbury High School's ice hockey program as well as several figure skating programs and other youth hockey leagues The ISCC also hosts public skating events as well From July 1: 'Major Expansion Approved At Skating Center In Simsbury' Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. 2025 at 6:27 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}This architectural rendering shows what a proposed 300-unit apartment building could look like at the Simsbury Commons shopping area on Bushy Hill Road (Town of Simsbury/Northpath Investments)SIMSBURY CT — The owners of a once-busy shopping plaza in Simsbury this week formally unveiled plans to build a large apartment building there Northpath Investments, which owns the Simsbury Commons shopping center at 50 Bushy Hill Road unveiled those plans during a preliminary presentation to the Simsbury Zoning Commission on Monday four-story apartment building that would feature 300 units of multi-family housing That building would be erected on the Simsbury Commons site which is anchored by a Stop & Shop Supermarket and features a movie theater According to a letter signed by attorney T.J is challenged by regional and national market conditions," wrote Donahue the developer is seeking a zone change from business to one that would allow for residential/mixed-use development That zoning change would require a formal application then a site plan process following the same format would be required residential development fits with that area "The location in Simsbury is a vibrant location right on a significant Residents of the new development would be able to walk to nearby businesses and attractions such development falls in line with Simsburgy's plan of conservation and development is also in line with a state report stating an acute need for additional residential sites in the greater Hartford area The zoning board Monday discussed the situation via an "informal presentation," meaning no formal procedural steps were taken but the general development plans were unveiled to the board Representatives of the applicant were on hand Monday to discuss this project Zachary Chaplin of Stonefield Engineering & Design out of New York spoke before the commission on Monday about the project the industry has changed drastically post-pandemic with foot traffic in brick-and-mortar establishments slow there's definitely a lot of opportunity," Chaplin said "We're seeing trends for these larger shopping centers of just vacancies and retail struggling." Chaplin went over the building's plans and specifics to commission members Simsbury Zoning Commission Chairman Bruce H Elliot admitted such a project of this size might cause some concern among residents Elliot said a four-story building is large for Simsbury "I'm not sure if you've toured Simsbury and you may not know what it's like," he said to Chaplin He said the town's apartment buildings are usually three stories or two at the most Elliot did say the developers are "heading in the right direction here," regarding their plans but he warned of likely resident opposition there are a lot of people in Simsbury who don't want to see any more apartments," Elliot said None of the discussions of commission members Monday was binding meaning ultimate approval or disapproval would rely on testimony from yet-to-be-filed applications For the preliminary plans from Northpath Investments on the project, click on this link. 2025 at 11:33 am ETWorld champions Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov of Russia at the World Figure Skating competition in Edmonton Both eventually settled down in Simsbury and they were on the ill-fated plane that crashed into the Potomac River (AP Photo/Dave Buston)Evgenia Shishkova and Vadim Naumov of Russia perform during free skating in the pairs event of the NHK Trophy International Figure Skating Competition at Nagoya central Japan (AP Photo/Shizuo Kambayashi)Search and rescue efforts are seen around a wreckage site in the Potomac River from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)A boat works the scene near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport CT — Multiple media reports have identified a couple with strong Simsbury ties as being on board the American Airlines jet that crashed into the Potomac River in Washington Authorities said Thursday morning that no survivors are expected from the jet or the military helicopter that collided with it near Reagan National Airport Two former Russian figure skating stars from the 1990s who once worked at a Simsbury skating center and may have lived in the town were on board Russian nationals who moved to Simsbury in the 1990s are presumed dead after the plane crashed after colliding with a helicopter The husband-and-wife team were champion pairs skaters in the 1990s competing in both the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville and the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer but the couple did earn a bronze medal in the 1993 World Figure Skating Championships and won gold in the 1994 World Championships the second-most prestigious competition behind the Olympics Citing Russian media sources, Newsweek reported Naumov was 55 and Shishkova was 52 Figure Skating Championships and the couple was part of a large delegation with ties to U.S Newsweek reported the couple had a home in Simsbury while Fox 61 — citing a 2007 NewEngland.com feature story on the couple — reported they moved to Connecticut in the late 1990s It was unclear whether the couple remained in Simsbury While Newsweek reported they owned a home there Fox 61 indicated they were working for a skating club out of Boston CT Insider also reported the couple lived in Simsbury According to the Dec. 21, 2007 article on NewEngland.com, the couple turned professional in 1998 and, eventually, settled down in Simsbury to work at the International Skating Center of Connecticut in their new hometown The couple also had a son in his early 20s a Simsbury High School graduate who is a figure skater himself and now lives in Massachusetts Fox 61 reported the couple formerly worked at the ISCC in Simsbury as coaches the ISCC put Simsbury on the map when 1994 Olympic gold medalist Oksana Baiul moved to Connecticut and trained there Baiul won the gold medal at a time when the whole Nancy Kerrigan-Tonya Harding saga dominated the news back in the 1990s continued to attract top-level talent in both skating and coaching evidenced by Naumov and Shishkova's arrival shortly after Baiul Patch has reached out to officials at the ISCC regarding the couple's affiliation with the center A Sikorsky spokesperson provided WFSB 3 with the following statement on Thursday morning “We are deeply saddened and send our condolences to those that lost loved ones We have offered our support to the investigation and our customer For the full Fox 61 report, click on this link. For the full CT Insider report, click on this link. For the full Newsweek report, click on this link. For the full article on the Simsbury couple from NewEngland.com in 2007, click on this link. Details: cache-fra-eddf8230157-FRA 1746489716 384840569 2025 at 11:31 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}WorldAtlas.com has declared Simsbury to be Connecticut's 'friendliest' small town CT — A popular geography website has declared Simsbury to be the friendliest small town in the Land of Steady Habits According to WorldAtlas.com, Simsbury is representative of a Connecticut small town that inspires smiles and friendships The website cites several characteristics of Simsbury that make it "friendly." Among them: • Its farming/agricultural community: "Many of the farms welcome visitors eager to share some of their agricultural traditions," wrote WorldAtlas.com • Performing arts: " Simsbury’s residents have a deep appreciation for the arts with numerous opportunities to enjoy live music and theater performances," wrote the website the Hartford Symphony Orchestra makes the Simsbury Performing Arts Center its home for the Talcott Mountain Music Festival." • Outdoor recreation: "With 10 municipal parks and four state-run parks Simsbury has plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends," said the website • Culinary scene: "On any given weekend in Simsbury the local restaurants are filled with people eager to enjoy a meal in good company," wrote WorldAtlas.com For the full WorldAtlas.com report on Simsbury being Connecticut's Friendliest Small Town, click on this link. 2024 at 11:53 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A national company co-founded by a Simsbury native will open a new $5 million childcare/early childhood education facility on Hopmeadow Street CT — A local native and founder of a large early childhood education chain is building a large Located at 30 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury, "The Nest Schools" will open a new facility on property recently acquired by Miami-based real estate developer Fortec. the Simsbury Zoning Commission approved plans for the large but details about who was coming specifically were not ready to be announced The announcement of who was coming came last month when Fortec said a company co-founded by a Simsbury native was planning to operate a new early childhood education center there “The Nest Schools is committed to offering an innovative model of high-quality early childhood education in all of our schools,” said Simsbury native Jane Porterfield co-founder and president of The Nest Schools “As a native of Simsbury with over 40 years of childcare experience in Simsbury and Connecticut I am particularly excited about our expansion into this wonderful community we can now offer this to the Simsbury community making it an ideal location for The Nest Schools.” The Nest Schools has more than 50 locations nationwide the academic facility will serve approximately 220 preschool-age children and is expected to create 35 new jobs in the community “We are very excited to break into the Connecticut market with our project in Simsbury and honored to partner with The Nest Schools once again to bring its educational programs to this vibrant community,” said Pablo Marcelo Barreiro “This new development will allow parents to enroll their children in an exceptional academic institution offering innovative programming and we believe this collaboration will greatly benefit the families of Simsbury.” From April 24: 'Large Childcare Facility Approved In Simsbury' 2024 at 7:01 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A Simsbury commercial building Saturday night was destroyed by fire with the local community coming together in recent days to help those impacted no one was injured in last weekend's devastating fire at a Simsbury commercial building but local commerce has been dealt a difficult blow A total of 11 businesses on Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury were impacted with the local Simsbury Main Street Partnership now working to help them pick up the pieces The Saturday night inferno destroyed the building at 730 Hopmeadow St. though luckily there were no serious injuries one firefighter is reported to have suffered a minor injury a nonprofit business/tourism organization supporting local commerce said it is actively looking to assist and find space in town for those displaced "Simsbury Main Street Partnership and the Town of Simsbury has been in contact with the property owner and most of the businesses at 730 Hopmeadow Street to help them find immediate spaces for their businesses," wrote the partnership Monday afternoon "We want to support those impacted during this difficult time," continued the organization "We also want to warn everyone to be cautious about any donation/GoFundMe's unless they come directly from that business According to the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Co. the first-arriving units Saturday night "discovered a heavy volume of fire" coming from one of the first-floor units In a release issued over the weekend, SVFC Chief Todd M Meyers said once crews saw the scope of the blaze "Firefighters initially began to attack the fire from within the building but were forced to withdraw several times due to heavy fire conditions," Myers wrote "One minor firefighter injury was reported." Myers said several mutual aid units were called to the scene Bloomfield (Bloomfield Center Fire Department) Granby (Lost Acres Fire Department); and Farmington (Tunxix Hose Co Sunday, the SVFC released dramatic images of the conflagration showing heavy smoke and flames at the building It also reflected on a cold night and a tough battle the SVFC was dispatched to a report of a building fire The first arriving fire officer discovered a heavy volume of fire coming from one of the first-floor occupancies," wrote the SVFC Sunday "Firefighters were faced with heavy fire conditions and freezing temperatures while they worked through the morning hours." Simsbury firefighters also thanked all of the mutual aid partners that assisted that night The Simsbury Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the blaze and anyone with information is asked to contact Simsbury Fire Marshal Patrick Tourville at 860-658-1971 To view photos released by the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Co. of the blaze, click on this link. 2025 at 12:45 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The Canton-based Farmington Valley Health District is hosting a six-week program for those afflicted with chronic illnesses CT — A regional health department serving several towns will host a six-week workshop starting Monday The program is called "Live Well" and it is being hosted by the Canton-based Farmington Valley Health District, which serves the towns of Avon "Live Well" classes, which are free, will take place on Mondays from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Simsbury Senior Center in Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury. and the classes will take place weekly every Monday through April 21 The "Live Well" style of classes was developed at Stanford University in Palo Alto and it focuses on coping techniques and lifestyle changes to manage medical conditions "Live Well" is especially useful for those with chronic medical issues like diabetes The classes are also useful for those caring for someone with those conditions classes will delve into techniques to deal with stress along with ways for those afflicted to communicate their issues with family It also will focus on healthy eating and exercise options call Kathleen Marschall of the Simsbury Senior Center at 860-658-3200 Simsbury's roots date back to the mid-17th century when it was settled as one of the first western outposts beyond the Connecticut River Valley. Its strong sense of patriotism was evident during the Revolutionary War with nearly 1,000 residents stepping up to serve in support of the young country That same pioneering spirit persists today with a tight-knit community that thrives through rural farming traditions and local support for the arts and culinary scene Are you looking for a place in Connecticut where community spirit shines You will find it in the friendly town of Simsbury Simsbury, located in northcentral Connecticut is home to a thriving agricultural community with more than ten farms scattered throughout the surrounding areas eager to share some of their agricultural traditions along with hosting a variety of seasonal events guests can enjoy activities like a sunflower stroll the farm also hosts chef-to-farm dinners that consist of a chef-designed Make sure to stop by the farm on the weekends to enjoy live music in the afternoons Whether travelers are new riders or more experienced Folly Farm Show Stables is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon horseback riding which the Patricelli Family has owned for over 40 years is situated at the foot of Talcott Mountain and spans 175 acres Friendly instructors offer visitors the chance to learn about the horses and go horseback riding Flamig Farm is popular with families and includes a farm animal petting zoo Some of the animals children can interact with and feed include pigs Visitors can also enjoy pony rides and tractor rides Simsbury’s residents have a deep appreciation for the arts with numerous opportunities to enjoy live music and theater performances the Hartford Symphony Orchestra makes the Simsbury Performing Arts Center its home for the Talcott Mountain Music Festival allowing visitors to relax on the lawn while enjoying the music The festival's highlight is the special 'Celebrate America!' concert on the 4th of July The company specializes in Gilbert and Sullivan operettas while also presenting light operas from other composers each spring There are several other venues to check out for live band performances Some of the beloved venues in town include the Old Well Tavern With 10 municipal parks and four state-run parks Simsbury has plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends it became the first fully wheelchair-accessible state park in Connecticut Bikers can also explore a trail that winds past white pines The park additionally provides opportunities for swimming The Pinchot Sycamore is a popular picnicking site home to the oldest and largest tree in the state standing around 100 feet tall with a circumference of over 28 feet this spot not only offers a nice place to relax in the tree's shade but also serves as a launch site for kayaks and canoes the local restaurants are filled with people eager to enjoy a meal in good company serves innovative dishes crafted by Chef Tyler Anderson The restaurant features three dining areas: The Dining Room a formal space with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the falls; The Tavern casual setting with stone walls and a welcoming chimney; and The Loft an intimate event space with a private entrance Plan b Burger Bar Simsbury is another highly recommended dining option This burger bar serves burgers made from 100% Certified Black Angus beef It also has 14 rotating drafts and a selection of high-quality bourbons Although there are many historic towns in New England and Connecticut Simsbury’s strong sense of patriotism and community involvement truly sets it apart from the rest and hole-in-the-wall music venues are just a few parts of the friendly community that has a way of bringing people together By the time you finish your tour of Simsbury photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com Gorman's estate donated $2.3 million to McLean (McLean of Simsbury)Avon resident Wesley Evans is the first recipient of the Robert Gorman Memorial Scholarship which was created through a $2.3 million donation to Avon Dollars for Scholars from the estate of the lave Patricia B CT — Two massive donations from a late Avon woman's estate are benefitting a Simsbury elderly living facility and an Avon-based scholarship program The estate of Patricia B. Gorman (1932-2023), a long-time resident of Avon, recently donated two $2.3 million each to both the McLean Fund in Simsbury and the Avon Dollars for Scholars (ADFS) " Gorman’s significant gift has honored these two nonprofit organizations — which in different ways share a similar goal to help and care for people in the community — and will impact their ability to carry out their missions for generations to come," reads a release by McLean a Simsbury-based assisted living/senior housing community said such a donation was within Gorman's character Gorman’s donation is unprecedented and speaks volumes about the way she felt about McLean Her family benefited from services provided by our Health Center and even though memory care was never needed for her family she felt very strongly about supporting this program for others following the care she provided to her mother at home," said Lisa Clark Gorman Memorial Fund is an endowed fund that will allow our dementia programs to continue to serve our community in perpetuity Gorman’s legacy is that of a true philanthropist someone who gives selflessly to improve the lives of others McLean is honored and grateful to receive these funds." Gorman Memorial Fund at McLean is to provide adult day services on campus for individuals with memory disorders The fund will provide program tuition and respite care for those with financial need; fund the Memory Care Volunteer Program and Care Consulting Program; and offset the cost of professional help for bathing and other activities of daily living to provide relief for individuals and their caregivers Gorman’s bequest also benefits the Avon Dollars for Scholars program establishing the Robert Gorman Memorial Scholarship The Robert Gorman Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Patricia Gorman’s late brother only the interest earned on the principal of the ADFS bequest may be used to award scholarships to seniors meeting the criteria established by Patricia Gorman The Robert Gorman Memorial Scholarship will be awarded as a multi-year scholarship to a qualified student pursuing a degree in engineering the qualified student must have competed on one or more of the Avon High School sports teams and "demonstrate traits of honesty The award will be paid out in equal payments over each recipient’s four years in college Because the award is based on the interest earned on the principal of the original bequest the total amount available to be awarded to each recipient will vary by year The first recipient of the Robert Gorman Memorial Scholarship is Wesley Evans an Avon High School graduate now attending the University of Alabama majoring in architectural engineering Evans plans to enter the homebuilding/residential construction industry after college In addition to meeting the criteria for his major Wesley was captain of the AHS crew team and is known by peers and teachers for leading by example “Avon Dollars for Scholars is so pleased to make this award totaling $40,000 over four years to such an outstanding student Wesley and his family live in a house in Avon that was designed and built by Robert Gorman,” said Mardelle Peña State Sen. Lisa Seminara “Fabulous news and such inspiring generosity I know I speak for people of all ages in Simsbury and Avon when I say ‘thank you’ to the Gorman family for their enormous and selfless spirit of giving," she said "As a former Avon Board of Education member I know that the funding for ADFS will positively impact so many students The donation to McLean will help vulnerable individuals as well as their caregivers it makes me so proud to be a part of this giving community.” Established in 1971, McLean is a life plan community in Simsbury that offers independent living Avon Dollars for Scholars has been the local chapter of Scholarship America for almost 50 years Students graduating from Avon High School (or any other school as long as they are residents of Avon) are eligible to apply for an ADFS scholarship 2024 at 2:45 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Simsbury zoning officials recently approved a major expansion at the International Skating Center of Connecticut site in Simsbury expanding its capabilities to train figure skaters and ice hockey players CT — The international skating center that put Simsbury on the map in the mid-1990s when it hosted Ukrainian figure skating icon Oksana Baiul is growing The Simsbury Zoning Commission last month unanimously approved a 25,175-square-foot expansion of the International Skating Center of Connecticut, which is located at 1375 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury. It currently comprises 78,000 square feet and features 420 total parking spaces with no additional parking added to the project The ISCC was officially approved in 1994 and it immediately served as a training facility for Baiul Baiul won the 1994 gold medal in women's figure skating for Ukraine at a time when the whole Nancy Kerrigan-Tonya Harding saga dominated the news back then The 17 plus acres of land where the center operates is owned by the Town of Simsbury Zoning board members heard in-depth presentations about the addition the commission unanimously approved a resolution that had already been drafted by legal counsel the proposal submitted for legal review was approved "The application is approved as submitted with the changes and conditions," said Simsbury Zoning Commission Chairman Bruce Elliot we look forward to seeing some building down there." Work on the addition is expected to start sometime this year For the minutes of the June 17 Simsbury Zoning Commission, click on this link. For all documents from the 1375 Hopmeadow St. application for the International Skating Center of Connecticut, click on this link. 2025 at 11:38 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Planned water main maintenance in Simsbury in coming weeks will Impact service in several neighborhoods CT — Local water customers starting Tuesday might notice some changes in their service which is part of the water company's plan to clean and upgrade local water mains has announced a water main cleaning project in the Simsbury Regional System will ensure customers continue to receive the "highest quality water," according to the company The cleaning schedule for the first week of the project customers may experience temporary low pressure This discoloration results from the temporary disturbance of the water flow which stirs up naturally occurring minerals that settle in water mains Aquarion recommends customers store water in their refrigerators for drinking and cooking customers should refrain from washing laundry customers should run their cold-water faucets until the water appears clear 2024 at 1:40 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}If December is the season to be jolly January is the season to dump those natural Christmas trees Many towns have policies regarding how to properly dispose of those trees CT — With Christmas well established in the calendar's rearview mirror this is the week many of us take down our trees In Simsbury, residents' contracted trash haulers pick up live (residential) Christmas trees curbside, with local officials recently reminding folks what to do. All Waste will pick up trees on your trash collection day during the week of January 27-31 Paine’s will pick up trees on your trash collection day during the week of January 20–24 People are asked to remove all lights and ornaments before disposing of their trees To reduce the chance of trees becoming frozen to the ground or buried in snow people should put their trees out no earlier than the night before People should place their trees next to their trash barrels and leave the barrel curbside (even if it has been emptied already) until the tree is collected "Your barrel will serve as a marker for which hauler should pick up your tree as this service may not be completed by your normal driver," wrote the Town of Simsbury Condominium and Association Residents should check with their associations or management companies Simsbury residents may drop off their live trees (free of lights and ornaments) at the Simsbury Landfill and Recycling Center at 66 Wolcott Road for no fee The facility is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m it will cost $5 per tree to dispose of them The collision between a jetliner and a military helicopter on Jan including two Russian skating legends with close ties to nearby Simsbury and the ice skating center in that town a special vigil for skating victims of American Airlines 5342 will take place Monday for on-ice vigils to "honor the lives and legacies of the victims of the recent American Airlines Flight 5342 disaster." This event will be streamed live via LiveBarn. "Feel free to bring a sign of remembrance in memory of the lives lost," wrote West Hartford vigil organizers From Jan. 30: 'Skating Legends With Strong Simsbury Ties On Ill-Fated Plane: Reports' 2025 at 12:14 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Maximus Konopka scored a 10-0 major decision victory over Brayden Soleau of East Lyme/Norwich Tech to win the state crown at 190 lbs CT — Simsbury High School had a wrestler claim a state championship at the CIAC State Open Saturday at the Floyd Little Athletic Center Maximus Konopka scored a 10-0 major decision victory over Brayden Soleau of East Lyme/Norwich Tech to win the state crown at 190 lbs The Trojans compiled 80.5 points to place seventh in team competition which was won by Xavier for the fourth straight season Complete results may be found here Details: cache-fra-eddf8230157-FRA 1746489768 385226678 2025 at 8:23 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A relay team and a thrower from Simsbury High School brought home state crowns from the CIAC Class L indoor track and field championships Tuesday CT — A relay team and a thrower from Simsbury High School brought home state titles for the Trojans at the CIAC Class L indoor track and field championships Tuesday at the Floyd Little Athletic Center The girls 4 x 800 relay team of Emma Horniatko Sophia Smith and Kylie Ritchie emerged victorious more than 13 seconds ahead of their nearest competitor The girls compiled 47 points to place third among the 20 teams which scored points Windsor won the division for the ninth straight season with a whopping 93 points senior Marshall Potter captured the shot put championship with a heave of 59 feet The boys team placed 13th overall with 12 points Complete results may be found here 2025 at 6:37 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Simsbury's Stop & Shop has a new way to process bottle/can returns with users able to get their rebates immediately or let it accumulate in something similar to a bank account SIMSBURY, CT — Simsbury's Stop & Shop and CLYNK have partnered on a new recycling program in Connecticut In order to address the low rate of bottle redemption across the state Stop & Shop and CLYNK Tuesday opened up a new recycling system at the West Simsbury Stop & Shop at 498 Bushy Hill Road The goal of this new program is to increase recycling access and sustainability efforts across Connecticut collects bags full of redeemable beverage containers from the redemption center in the Stop & Shop parking lot It then processes them using high-tech barcode scanners that instantly credit the deposits to a Stop & Shop customer’s account The materials are then sold to manufacturers to help close the recycling loop and prevent more waste from ending up in landfills and our oceans CLYNK offers customers two ways to redeem their containers: "Grow Your Balance" or "$5 Instant Payment." "Grow Your Balance" customers can collect containers without counting let their balance accumulate in the CLYNK app and withdraw up to $99.99 per transaction when they're ready customers can use the "$5 Instant Payment" option by counting exactly 50 containers per bag and redeeming their instant $5 voucher at any Stop & Shop register For more information on CLYNK and its system, click on this link. 2025 at 12:48 am ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A Simsbury High School wrestler won his weight class crown the Trojans placed fourth at the CIAC Class L divisional championship meet Saturday CT — A grappler from Simsbury High School turned in a championship performance at the CIAC Class L divisional wrestling meet Saturday at Wilton High School Maximus Konopka pinned Brayden Soleau of East Lyme in 3:46 to capture the 190-lb including a runner-up performance by Coleman Finn at 138 lbs. enabling Simsbury to place fourth in team competition with 154 points Complete Class L results may be found here 28 and March 1 at the Floyd Little Athletic Center in New Haven 2025 at 2:24 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}A 43-year-old Manchester resident was charged by Simsbury police in a fatal accident last August that killed a 61-year-old motorcyclist from Granby CT — A Manchester man has been charged with vehicular homicide in connection with a fatal collision in Simsbury last August that claimed the life of a Granby motorcyclist According to the Simsbury Police Department, Melvin Pineda was charged with negligent homicide with a motor vehicle and failure to drive in the proper lane at 9:27 p.m Pineda was taken into custody on $125,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on Feb police said Pineda was driving a pickup truck that collided with a motorcyclist on Route 189 in Simsbury with the motorcycle rider being killed in the accident of Granby was killed when the 2016 Yamaha motorcycle he was riding collided with a Ford F350 pickup being driven by Pineda the department received several 911 calls at about 6:04 a.m that Tuesday regarding a motor vehicle crash on Hartford Avenue (Route 189) and its intersection with Main Street in the Tariffville section of town Callers reported a two-vehicle accident involving a motorcycle The SPD said responders immediately began treating Ferreira at the scene and he was then taken to St From Aug. 15, 2024: 'Granby Man ID'd As Victim In Fatal Simsbury Motorcycle Crash' 2025 at 4:00 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Brutally cold weather this week has Simsbury officials offering tips to residents about how to cope SIMSBURY, CT — With the peak of the ongoing cold snap going on all week, Simsbury officials have announced localized, cold-weather protocols. The State of Connecticut activated its severe cold weather protocol from 6 p.m due to extremely low and brutally frigid temperatures during this time frame "Due to the upcoming expected low temperatures the Town of Simsbury and the Department of Community and Social Services would like to remind residents of the best practices to stay warm," wrote the town in an announcement Tuesday Residents are asked to visit the following link for additional details on preparedness: https://www.ready.gov the Simsbury Public Library is open during normal business hours should people need a warming center during this time Library hours are Monday to Thursday 9:30 a.m or if you or someone known is at risk due to the extremely low temperatures call the Simsbury Community and Social Services Department at 860-658-3283 between the hours of Monday 8:30 a.m Should you or anyone you know need shelter For more information on cold weather tips and what Simsbury residents should do, click on this link. Simsbury Public Schools are hosting a special open house event on Saturday to show the public the $39 million project "After five years of planning and two years of construction we are celebrating the completion of the expansion and renovation project at Latimer Lane School," wrote Simsbury Superintendent of Schools Matt Curtis "Please make some time that day to get a look at this transformed educational setting featuring brand new community spaces (media center cafeterias) and significantly updated classroom spaces." The open house will feature guided tours that will take place every 15 minutes during the event "We are incredibly grateful for the community’s support of this project – we hope you’ll be inspired as you see the results," wrote Curtis Work at Latimer Lane School in the Weatogue section of Simsbury wrapped up shortly after the start of the school year Funding for the project was approved in 2021 and 2023 and it includes a new addition renovations also targeted the main office and the nurse's suite The project's completion marks the end of a long post-pandemic odyssey for Latimer Lane School Voters initially said "yes" to a $36.7 million appropriation for a building expansion project in 2021 supply chain/inflation bugaboo bit the town resulting in the town going back to voters for another $2.26 million in 2023 Work on the project has been ongoing since December 2022 From Sept. 3: 'Simsbury School Addition 'Ahead Of Schedule' Did you know Connecticut was named one of the seven safest states in the US by WalletHub for 2025 Ranked for having the second-lowest personal and residential safety risk nationwide there are many other reasons why The Nutmeg State (with its famous nickname derived from the resourceful inhabitants who created and sold wooden nutmegs) is a wonderful destination to spend your golden years Whether you prefer the historic gems of Newtown or the beautiful beaches of Westport dive into a world of hidden wonders and explore the safest towns in Connecticut for senior living With an annual crime rate of 14.63 per 1,000 residents (according to CrimeGrade.org) There were only eight offenses made against society and 62 against people for 2022 as per the Crime in Connecticut Annual Report by the Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection UConn Health is also located in the heart of town and offers comprehensive care in various specialties in addition to primary care To surround yourself with gorgeous greenery and rich history, Simsbury is the place to be. This quiet, picturesque town, home to four extraordinary state parks and a lovely New England-style downtown area is a magnificent retirement spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike A hike up Talcott Mountain State Park will take you to the 165-foot-tall Heublein Tower for jaw-dropping panoramic views over the landscape Grab a coffee and admire the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge an exquisite example of a 19th-century metal truss stretched over the Farmington River the Simsbury Farms Golf Course offers a serene setting to practice your aim Ranked the safest city in Connecticut by SafeWise in 2024 there is no place you will feel more secure to call home than Ridgefield The crime rate here is 1.9 per 1,000 residents with only two offenses against people and 45 against property in 2022 according to the Crime in Connecticut Annual Report Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care has incredible reviews for the knowledgeable Set in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains The 60-acre Weir Farm National Historical Park dedicated to the legendary US Impressionist J find plenty of shops and restaurants to search for hidden new treasures and delight your taste buds one of the oldest contemporary art museums in America head slightly further east to Nod Hill Brewery Newtown was ranked second on the 10 safest cities in Connecticut list by SafeWise for 2024 The crime rate here is 9.0 per 1,000 people as per the Crime in Connecticut 2022 Annual Report Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care has a location on Main Street in Newtown with interactive activities designed for citizens to come together to boost their physical and a guidebook filled with helpful resources An aesthetically pleasing town with a quiet, rural-like atmosphere (yet a strong sense of community), you will fall in love with Newtown and its friendly neighbors. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Paugussett State Forest, a stunning site for hiking, fishing, and boating—surrounded by the Housatonic River and Lake Lillinonah Newtown has many well-preserved historic buildings a 1930 Georgian-style building listed on the National Register of Historic Places has a theater hosting live events and movies for low prices Experience the New England charm of Newtown Meeting House—its construction was completed between 1812 and 1873 Residents are also happy to live near Ferris Acres Creamery one of the best ice cream shops in America a quaint town blending rich history with modern-day magic The crime rate here is 17.2 per 1,000 people with only 22 crimes against people and 8 against society in 2022 (Crime in Connecticut Annual Report) Time travel to 1865 with a trip to Pine Grove Schoolhouse Enjoy a tranquil trail walk by the Farmington River in Fisher Meadows Discover the true meaning of relaxation at Imagine Float Avon, with its rural charm, local shops, and peaceful neighborhoods, is also conveniently close to Hartford Access the main amenities of living close to the capital city with Hartford Hospital (ranked one of the five best hospitals in Connecticut for 2024 to 2025 according to Newsweek and Statista) nearby Picture living in the perfect location—you might just end up in Westport With a crime rate of 18.05 per 1,000 residents (CrimeGrade.org) a shop-filled downtown area with a New England-style atmosphere and being less than two hours away from NYC Spend the summers soaking up the sun at Compo Beach with lovely views of Long Island Sound—especially at sunrise or sunset Sherwood Island State Park (the first state park in Connecticut) offers 235 acres of beach There is also mouth-watering seafood at local restaurants like the Black Duck Cafe and The Lobster Shack—which you can even have delivered to Compo Beach The Westport Center for Senior Activities organizes many fun classes and events and offers resources for meals Westport Urgent Care has a high 4.7-star rating thanks to the efficient and high-quality care For those who do not want to live far from the water, here is another coastal town to consider. With a crime rate of 8.1 per 1,000 people, Madison had only 10 offenses against people and two against society in 2022 as per the Crime in Connecticut Annual Report with its lush evergreen parks and beautiful beaches this town is truly a haven for nature lovers Hammonasset Beach State Park is a wonderful spot to walk by the shore and breathe in the fresh ocean air Search for treasures at RJ Julia Booksellers known for their diverse collection of books and relaxing atmosphere Find healing and guidance at Tea & Tarot Boutique and leave with fresh insights and a new-found perspective Make your way through the Madison Green Historic District seeing the structures range from colonial to modern Madison is a fantastic choice for those with any chronic health conditions Yale New Haven Hospital (the New Haven location) is a nationally-ranked hospital within 30 minutes of Madison According to the US News & World Report YNHH is ranked in America’s top hospitals for 11 adult specialties and is considered the best in Connecticut overall About 20% of the population in Farmington is 65 and older so you can find friendly neighbors with similar lifestyles to connect with as you try new activities together Especially since the crime rate is only 19.54 per 1,000 residents UConn Health and UConn John Dempsey Hospital are also here so there is close access to medical facilities in town With a sparkling river running straight through town and an abundance of green parks Discover the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail a gorgeous historic greenway stretching over 80 miles Unwind or try activities by the water in Winding Trails a non-profit community recreation center in a picturesque setting that brings residents together Learn about the town’s history at the Farmington Historical Society Treat your taste buds to the diverse dishes of Fork & Fire an American restaurant bar that uses fresh locally-grown ingredients and serves a wide range of beverages Torrington is a wonderful town for those who love being outdoors The crime rate is 30.81 per 1,000 residents In the case of emergencies or managing health conditions Charlotte Hungerford Hospital is a 109-bed facility with a 24/7 emergency room and offers resources for Advance Care Planning Burr Pond State Park is an aesthetically pleasing spot for hiking and biking—this is where the activity-filled Winter Festival 2025 will be held situated along the East Branch Naugatuck River Indulge in the town’s culture at Warner Theatre initially opened as a movie palace in 1931 See what gems you can find at New Brunswick Flea Market packed with antique goods and vintage items Sullivan Senior Center offers a variety of recreational activities and holiday parties—as well as fun trips to cultural sites