The Suffield Observer owes its existence to a large number of volunteers, as well as other friends who send us news and photos (and opinions!), so we get together occasionally to give thanks. Selected volunteers are given particular recognition with the Sam Award, named after our founder, the late Sam Fuller. This year’s recipients are Kacy Colston, Mel Chafetz, Jane Shipp, and Alice Dahms. The award recognizes “outstanding service, loyalty, and dedication in the production of our community newspaper.” The Observer truly appreciates their commitment.
This year, the party, held on April 28 in Suffield Academy’s Centurion Hall, had special significance because this is the paper’s twentieth anniversary year: our first printing was May 1999, and we haven’t missed an issue since. The party was a welcome opportunity for the paper’s large group of volunteers, some meeting for the first time, to get together and enjoy some wine and a nice buffet by Cameron Culinary. It was also the occasion for a large group photo.