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Becoming More Aware
Of the bears, a local artist, a local realtor, and more!
The Farmington Valley
February 27, 2025
If you’re new here. Welcome! If you’ve been here before, don’t worry. We still love you too! And welcome back!
When was the last time you were aware of life around you? When was the last time you stopped and felt the world around you. The warmth of the sun on a cold day. The brightness of the colors even on a day in mid winter?
Allowing yourself to see, to feel, to hear is almost a super power. And in today’s newsletter we welcome an artist highlight who carries that super power. We talk about slowing down, and we support our community as one.
Not as left or right, not as one or the other. But together as community. So what do you say we dive in!
As always, keep shining!
~The Farmington Valley Team
Table of Contents
Who Is Suzan?
We are delighted to feature local artist Suzan Scott in this month's newsletter.
Admirers of her work for years. Suzan is based in northwest Connecticut, Suzan is renowned for her abstracted landscape paintings that capture the interplay of light, color, and atmosphere.
Her work often begins outdoors, where she meticulously observes and sketches natural scenes, focusing on the patterns and relationships between elements. Back in her studio, she transforms these observations into evocative artworks that invite open interpretation.
Suzan's art has been showcased in numerous solo exhibitions, including recent shows at the Gilbert Gallery in Farmington and Five Points Center for the Visual Arts in Torrington. She is an active member of the local arts community, contributing to organizations such as the Arts Alliance of Woodbury and the Washington Art Association.
We had some questions for Suzan so we could share a bit more information about her and her work that you might not be able to just find online.
When did you realize you wanted to become an artist and how has your work evolved over time?
I always wanted to be an artist, even as a young child. I was fascinated by making images. That fascination has never faded.
Over time, my style has gone through phases, beginning as imaginative drawings then more representational, now the work is simpler and more abstracted. I reference landscape, and the natural world around me but the work has become more personal. My work expresses my personal interpretations and reactions to what I see and experience of the world around me.
What other artists have inspired you the most?
Artists influences initially Van Gogh, Monet, Constable, later Sol Lewitt, Joan Mitchell, Mark Rothko, Wolf Kahn. Art movements Ab Ex and Minimalism.
What is your medium of choice?
Acrylic mixed media. I like the way it handles and the ways that it can be mixed with other media for a variety of effects.
How do you know when a piece is finished?
When nothing else is needed. I often let it rest, wait a few days or more before deciding.
What is the biggest challenge you have ever run into on your artistic journey?
That would be more of a mental or intellectual process than a technical one. I can feel when I'm ready for a new way to express what I see or feel, and then I need to find my way to it. I explore and that takes some time and experimentation.
What’s something exciting right now in your life or your art?
I journal daily and part of my art process comes from my writing. I never know what will come up in the page. Lately I've been writing "broken color" but that's not how I currently work so I'm intrigued.
If you could create a dream art piece, without any boundaries, what would it be?
A multi panel piece, immersive, a forest. Almost life size trees. Deep woods. Atmospheric. Creating the sense that there is more than the eye can see.
Is there anything else in your life you want people to know about you or your artwork?
I am inspired anew every day by nature. Every day I'd different. Each day offers a chance to explore.
How can people find your work?
I mainly exhibit in Connecticut galleries, In group or solo shows.
To explore more of Suzan's work or to schedule a visit to her 438W Studio Gallery in Torringford, please visit her website at suzanscott.com.
Be Bear Aware: Essential Safety Tips for Farmington Valley Residents
As spring approaches, black bears in the Farmington Valley become more active, leading to increased sightings and interactions. To ensure both human and bear safety, it's crucial to adopt BearWise practices.
Preventing Bear Encounters
Bears are primarily attracted to food sources. To minimize attractants:
Secure Garbage: Store trash in airtight containers within a garage or sturdy building. Only place bins outside on the morning of collection.
Remove Bird Feeders: Especially from late March through November, as birdseed can lure bears. Opt for natural plantings to attract birds without feeders.
Protect Outdoor Grills: Clean grills thoroughly after each use and store them in a secure location to prevent bears from being drawn by residual odors.
Supervise Pets: Always keep dogs on a leash during walks and supervise them when outdoors. Unattended pets can provoke defensive reactions from bears.
What to do if you encounter a bear
While black bears are generally not aggressive, it's important to know how to respond during an encounter:
In Your Yard: From a safe distance, make loud noises, shout, or bang pots and pans to scare the bear away. Once it leaves, remove any potential attractants.
On a Trail: If you see a bear before it notices you, stand still, don't approach, and enjoy the moment. Then move away quietly in the opposite direction. If the bear is aware of you, back away slowly; do not run, as running may trigger a chase response.
If Approached: Stand your ground. Make yourself look bigger by raising your arms and jacket, and shout loudly. If the bear continues to approach, be prepared to use bear spray if available.
Stay informed
Regularly check your yard for bears before letting out your dog. If you encounter a bear that poses a threat or has entered your home, contact local authorities or the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) at 860-424-3333.
Learn More on the website with our Being Bear Aware Section:
Welcoming a Top Connecticut Realtor - Tara Rahmy
We are delighted to introduce Tara B. Rahmy, a realtor with over 20 years of experience in the Connecticut real estate market. Based in Avon, Tara serves clients throughout the entire state.
Tara's unwavering commitment to addressing each client's unique needs, combined with her marketing expertise, extensive market knowledge, and positive attitude, truly sets her apart. Her persistence, patience, and sharp negotiating skills consistently lead to smooth transactions and favorable outcomes for both buyers and sellers.
Her diverse clientele ranges from national and international relocation clients to first-time homebuyers, empty nesters, and older adults. Regardless of their situation, all clients receive Tara's expert and attentive service, 24/7 availability, prompt responses, and genuine enthusiasm for providing the ultimate real estate experience.
What inspired you to dive into the world of real estate?
I was ready for a career change and I knew had the persistance, positivity and negotiating skills that were crucial. I also knew that helping people was integral to who I am! With a diverse backround in public relations, marketing, sales, interior design and social service becoming a REALTOR was the perfect next step for me!
What have been the biggest challenges along the way?
I was ready for a career change and I knew had the persistance, positivity and negotiating skills that were crucial. I also knew that helping people was integral to who I am! With a diverse backround in public relations, marketing, sales, interior design and social service becoming a REALTOR was the perfect next step for me!
What would you say people love most about you/your business?
My clients know they are not just numbers to me . They totally trust me and know I truly care. That is extremely important as they make profound life changes and need an expert guide by their side to help them move through the process of selling and/or buying. Every client feels like they are the only client because I give them time! They know they are in good hands before, during and after the sale!
What is something people may not know about your business but should?
I worked in a Family Service agency for 12 years when my children were young. We did many programs for older adults and their families. I have enhanced that knowledge to serve the special transition needs of older adults and their families!
Do you have any moments that really stand out to you as a realtor?
This past year I had quite a few clients that were going through significant and very difficult life challenges and changes. I provided quite a bit more extra help, but was happy to do it and proud that all of them were able to move forward.
For more information or to get in touch with Tara, visit her website at https://tararahmyhomes.com.
Calendar Of Events
click the below link to find our new calendar of events
Wildlife Photos Of The Week
Both photos taken by V. Moors of a bear already coming out to play.
Both these photos taken by C. Ogle. Looks to be the same chunky one.
Simsbury Job Openings
THE FARMINGTON VALLEY WEBSITE
Welcome to The Farmington Valley: Your One-Stop Community Platform
We are thrilled to introduce you to The Farmington Valley, a dynamic platform designed to connect homeowners and business owners within our vibrant region. Our mission is to foster a thriving community by providing a centralized hub where you can easily discover local businesses, access essential resources, and share your stories.
Dear Community Members,
We are thrilled to introduce you to The Farmington Valley, a dynamic platform designed to connect homeowners and business owners within our vibrant region. Our mission is to foster a thriving community by providing a centralized hub where you can easily discover local businesses, access essential resources, and share your stories.
Discover Local Businesses
Finding trustworthy local services and products has never been easier. Our comprehensive directory allows you to search for businesses across various categories, ensuring you find exactly what you need right here in the Farmington Valley. Whether you're seeking home improvement professionals, health and wellness services, or unique local shops, our platform connects you with businesses that make our community special.
Access Essential Resources
Beyond business listings, we offer a wealth of resources to support both residents and entrepreneurs. From community events and educational workshops to health services and artistic endeavors, The Farmington Valley is your go-to source for information and opportunities that enrich our collective well-being.
Build Connections
At the heart of our platform is the desire to build meaningful connections. We encourage you to share your experiences, participate in discussions, and engage with fellow community members. By working together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone thrives.
Join Us Today
Explore The Farmington Valley and become an active participant in our growing community. Together, we can share local stories, connect with trustworthy businesses, and build the community where it's needed most.
Warm regards,
The Farmington Valley Team
Discover Local Businesses
Finding trustworthy local services and products has never been easier. Our comprehensive directory allows you to search for businesses across various categories, ensuring you find exactly what you need right here in the Farmington Valley. Whether you're seeking home improvement professionals, health and wellness services, or unique local shops, our platform connects you with businesses that make our community special.
Access Essential Resources
Beyond business listings, we offer a wealth of resources to support both residents and entrepreneurs. From community events and educational workshops to health services and artistic endeavors, The Farmington Valley is your go-to source for information and opportunities that enrich our collective well-being.
Build Connections
At the heart of our platform is the desire to build meaningful connections. We encourage you to share your experiences, participate in discussions, and engage with fellow community members. By working together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone thrives.
Join Us Today
Explore The Farmington Valley and become an active participant in our growing community. Together, we can share local stories, connect with trustworthy businesses, and build the community where it's needed most.
Warm regards,
The Farmington Valley Team
