Granby Drummer | September 2021

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Volume LII, No. 1 • September 2021

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Busy fall ahead with municipal elections, Kearns School proposal and bridge repairs Welcome back, Granby! Summer has passed, a much better summer than last year—unless you’re a farmer.

Unfortunately, COVID is still making its impact. Stay safe, mask up if in doubt, own and help protect your We will all neighbor. get through this, as farmers will get alk our through the temperaby Jim Lofink ture swings, wet/dry periods and surge of mildews this year. Mother Nature is still the most potent force on the planet!

Read on, and throughout the paper, for town news.

Search for a Town Manager is still underway. At least 18 applicants have responded, and the Board of Selectmen (BOS) is still actively engaged in the selection process and hoping to reach a conclusion early this fall.

Municipal elections will be in November. Both major parties have endorsed slates of candidates, with several contested seats that provide voters with a choice. It is good to have so many people interested in helping serve our community. Please get informed and exercise your right, and responsibility, to vote Nov. 2. More in this issue!

Granby bear feeding ordinance is now in effect. The BOS passed a new ordinance that took effect Aug. 4 prohibiting the intentional feeding of bears. Residents that are identified as unintentionally feeding bears will be educated and, if necessary, warned. If feeding continues after that warning,

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these residents may then be treated as intentional feeders. To residents cited with intentional feeding, the ordinance carries a $250 fine for every day that intentional feeding continues. As a part of the ordinance, bird feeders may only be used from Dec. 1 through March 31, unless using Nyjer, thistle or other bird feed that is widely recognized as not desirable to bears. No violations were being processed at the time of this writing.

If you would like a bear-resistant trash container, put your name on the waiting list at DPW (860-653-8960).

Former Kearns School development plan. While no offers are on the table, a developer is now working with the Town to develop an approach combining the Kearns property with an adjoining lot which currently hides the view of the school from Rtes 10/202. The five-acre triangle lot (across from the Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital) is bordered on the other sides by Canton Road and the Canton Road Extension to Kearns.

The town’s broker, Goman + York, interested a Connecticut developer, Mark De Pecol, who has experience developing senior living, assisted living and memory care facilities. De Pecolo now has control of the triangle property and has developed at least three conceptual plans that show the potential if both properties were combined into one mixed-use development plan. The BOS is working with various town agencies and our attorney to determine how development could move forward.

Road paving projects are in final stages. Barring weather delays, all

Town Hall Talk cont’d. on p. 4

Party nominations uncontested No September primary for Granby The Republican and Democrat Town Committees met in July to nominate candidates to stand for office in the Nov. 2 municipal election, and both parties found unanimous support for their slates.

The municipal ballot will have openings in 10 different boards and offices.

Voters will choose the First Selectman; four Board of Selectmen; three Board of Finance; three Board of Education; two Board of Assessment Appeals; three Planning and Zoning Commission and one Alternate; two Zoning Board of Appeals and two Alternates; and the Town Moderator. Granby will not have a primary on Sept. 14 as none of the party nominations were contested.

Public Lottery for Horizontal Ballot Order on Sept. 15 On Sept. 15 there will be a lottery to determine the horizontal ballot order of the candidates for Board of Selectman, Board of Finance, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals. The lottery will be held at 11 a.m. in the Town Hall meeting room and is open to the public.

Vigil for Racial Justice

A vigil was held in late spring on Granby’s green in memory of George Floyd. Sponsored

by Granby Racial Reconciliation, this was one of many opportunities the group provided to foster racial justice. See story on page 3.

Pictured above are, from l.: Denny Moon, Persephone Hall, Rose Mouning, Ken Mouning, Rob Lowe, Clark Pfaff and Todd Yonkman. Photo by Don Shaw

S&P’s AA+ rating gives Granby favorable financing on capital projects

By Carol Bressor & Kathy Norris This past July Granby’s town treasurer, John Adams, received word that Standard & Poor (S&P) Global Ratings reaffirmed its “AA+” credit rating and stable outlook for Granby’s $5 million series general obligation bonds that will fund the bridge and school projects approved by the town referendum back in late spring of 2019. This is a very favorable position in view of the toss and turns of today’s financial world. The bond credit rating has continually improved over the past 25 years, a reflection of the consistently strong fiscal management and financial condition of the Town of Granby.

Standard & Poor Global Ratings is a credit rating agency which issues ratings indicating how likely it is that public and private companies and governments will be able to pay back the debt they issue.

The S&P ratings range from a high of AAA down to D. The result of the AA+ rating is that the recent $5,000,000 General Obligation Bonds induced in a winning bid with a True Interest Cost of 1.54474 percent including a premium of $731,205 paid to the town at the time of purchase. The premium will be used to cover the costs of issuance and initial future debt payments.

In the opinion of S&P Global Rating, the high “AA+” rating assigned

to our 2021 20-year bond issue reflects the town’s strong financial operations, evidenced by continued positive general fund results and increased available reserves during the past few fiscal years. In other words, the conservative budgeting moves led by the Board of Finance and carried out by the selectmen and education boards, along with a strong property tax base, have contributed to the town achieving this designation.

S&P views the town’s financial management as adequate with generally conservative budget assumptions, including a five-year historical trend analysis. A formal 10-year capital improvement plan exists. The town’s basic debt-management policy limits debt service to no more than 10 percent of expenses.

Other factors cited in the S&P report included a strong economy: “ The town, with a population estimate of 11,279, is in Hartford County in the Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) which we consider broad and diverse.” The report further pointed out that the town’s grand list grew by 3 percent between 2019 and 2021 due to a stable real estate market with residential properties accounting for 80 percent of the tax base, followed by industrial property at 4.8 percent.

In S&P’s view, “Granby’s debt-andcontingency-liability is very strong.”

AA+ credit rating cont’d. on p. 3

Read the Drummer online at GranbyDrummer.com

Page 2 The Granby Drummer

September 2021

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING HIGHLIGHTS JUNE 8, 2021 Appointments to be Considered The board appointed Richard Alger, 15 Creamery Hill Road, to the Greater Hartford Transit District Board of Directors as Granby’s representative.

Affordable Housing Plan Committee The board voted (4-0-0) to create an Affordable Housing Committee.

The committee shall prepare an Affordable Housing Plan pursuant to the requirements of Section 8-30j of Connecticut General Statutes. Such plan shall be presented to the Board of Selectmen for review and approval to enable adoption prior to the July 2022 deadline. The committee composition shall consist of six members: one each from the Board of Selectmen, Commission on Aging, Development Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission, and two additional members from the public.

Solid Waste Fund Additional Appropriation for Bear Resistant Trash Barrels and Recycling Flyer Residents have been purchasing bear resistant barrels at a one-time fee of $230 since 2020 from the Department of Public Works (DPW) reports there is

currently a waitlist for them. To purchase 54 more barrels the cost would be 54 barrels at $235 and $3,050 for freight with a total cost of $15,740.

The level of contamination in the recycling stream is concerning. In the past year, two recycling loads were rejected resulting in the load being considered trash and the town being charged for tipping fees. DPW would like to prepare a flyer reiterating the recycling guidelines and include it in a future edition of the Drummer.

Other Business The board authorized an additional appropriation of $16,665 from Solid Waste Sanitation Fund balance to fund the purchase of 54 bear resistant trash barrels and printing of recycling flyer, and forwards this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

The board discussed an additional appropriation of $431,000 from General Fund Balance to fund fiscal year 2021-2022 OPEB Actuarial Determined Contribution. Ballard asked for clarification of the transfer figure of $431,000.

After much discussion with Smith and Finance Director Cheng, it was decided to table the discussion.

The board voted (4-0-0) to approve increases of Worker’s Compensation line item in Insurance Department and contribution to Dog Fund line item in Police Operations and Communications Department by $7,500 and forward this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

The board voted to authorize an additional appropriation of $25,000 from Communications Fund Balance to fund the service fees for upgrade to communications system, and forwards this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

The BOS, sitting as the Granby Water Pollution Control Authority voted (4-0-0) to approve a sewer allocation increase of 3,290 gallons per day for the development at 2 and 3 Murtha’s Way.

JUNE 14, 2021 The BOS authorized an additional appropriation of $431,000 from General Fund Balance to OPEB Fund for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 OPEB Actuarially Determined Contribution and forwards this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

The board ratified the Collective Bargaining Agreement United Public

Service Employees Union – Granby Public Works.

JULY 7, 2021 Small Playground additional appropriation The BOS budget appropriated $85,000 to improve the small playscape at Salmon Brook Park. Since the initial appropriation, the cost of equipment and services has increased significantly. Parks and Recreation is requesting an additional $5,000 to fund the remainder of the project.

The board authorized an additional appropriation of $5,000 from the Recreation Fund balance to fund the additional cost for the Salmon Brook Park Small Playground Project and forwards this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

Action pertaining to the Ordinance Prohibiting the Intentional Feeding of Bears The board voted (3-2-0) to amend the ordinance to Prohibit the Intentional Feeding of Bears. The last sentence in paragraph A under Exceptions should be changed to: Unintentional feeding MAY become intentional feeding if a written notice or warning is issued by any Authorized Enforcement Agent of the Town.

Ballard and King voted no.

The board voted (5-0-0) to amend the ordinance to Prohibit the Intentional Feeding of Bears. First, correct typographical errors in paragraph B under Prohibited Activity. Second, remove the second sentence in paragraph A under Exceptions to exclude composting.

The board voted (4-1-0) to adopt the ordinance to Prohibit the Intentional Feeding of Bears as amended. Ballard voted no.

Consideration of Establishing a Special Revenue Fund for the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Smith reviewed the request to establish a special fund for the money the town was awarded as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Granby is entitled to $3,405,503.39 of which $1,702,751.69 was received on June 22. The remaining balance will be received in June 2022.

The funds must be accepted by the town and spent in accordance with rules and regulations established by the federal government. The purpose of the funds is to recover losses to the town which resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Granby Town Manager shall disburse the funds in accordance with procedures with Town of Granby policy and grant requirements.

The board voted to establish a special revenue fund for the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA).

BOS cont’d. on p. 3

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 3

Examining racism, moving towards equity and a thriving community

By Cathy Watso

Dr. Chris Weber, right, provides guidance to LAFD members. Submitted photo

LAFD receives Loops Rescue System

By Allison Forsyth The Lost Acres Fire Department acquired a new piece of rescue equipment this year, one that horse owners hope will never be put to use. The Loops Equine Rescue System, as described from the website, is “a simplified compact lifting or drag system for horse owners, veterinarians, first responders or others to help a horse that is down or trapped.

The advantages to this system are that it lifts by the skeletal system, there are no knots, no J hooks, no metal bars and it fits in a small size duffel bag which can be carried without displacing other fire rescue equipment.”

On June 15, approximately 20 members of the LAFD trained on the new equipment with help from Dr. Chris Weber, DVM, and Britt, office manager at Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital, as well as local horse owner Allison Forsyth, and Sandy, a very patient horse.

The evening began with a video review, compliments of the handy QR codes placed throughout the instruction guide.

After some good Q & A between the firefighters and Weber, smaller groups worked through each type of rescue effort while Britt read from the instruction guide. Each person had the opportunity to apply the large green loops to the horse in various configurations depending on the rescue need: forward or rear assist, horizontal or rear drag, rolling a recumbent horse, and the most complex, a vertical lift.

The evening ended with a training session on how to halter a horse, thanks to the Davis family who donated two halters and lead ropes to the LAFD. The rescue system was donated in memory of Missouri, a beloved mount of a Granby Horse Council member, that passed peacefully from natural causes last spring.

AA+ credit rating cont’d. from p. 1 Total debt service is 5 percent of total governmental-fund expenses, and officials plan to retire just over 70 percent of direct debt during 10 years, a positive credit factor.

What does our “AA+” rating really mean? It means that we can finance our bridge and school projects at a more attractive interest rate and a lower total cost than if we had a less favorable rating.

To use a school analogy, if we had a “B” rating rather than an “AA+” rating, the projects would have been more expen-

sive for the town to undertake.

To quote Al Wilke, current member of the Board of Finance, “It’s more than a pretty picture. Coupled with the rating affirmation (AA+), this favorable financing reflects the wisdom of and incredible dedication to many years of patiently pursuing consistent conservative financial principles that place Granby in an enviable financial position among Connecticut’s 169 towns.”

BOS cont’d. from p. 2 During discussion, Neumann suggested the funds from ARPA be considered for recommendations from the Long Term Recovery Committee.

Town Manager Report Smith provided an update on the sale of Kearns School. There are currently two interested parties, and the town is awaiting written communication from both.

In response to an inquiry from Ballard, Kuhnly provided an update on the Town Manager search. The committee is in the process of reviewing applications from 18 individuals.

Selectman Reports Ballard reiterated his objection to the Ordinance Prohibiting the Intentional Feeding of Bears. Ballard believes further study and work should be done to address the issue.

Ratification of Collective Bargaining Agreement The board ratified the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the United Public Service Employees Union – Granby Public Safety Dispatchers and the Town of Granby.

To read the full minutes of these BOS meetings, visit granby-ct.gov/node/115/ minutes/2021

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In its first year, Granby Racial Reconciliation (GRR) provided many opportunities to foster racial justice in town.

As people committed to the ongoing work of racial reconciliation, GRR’s purpose was to raise awareness and continue the conversation on racial justice in Granby so our town can be a great place for everyone. In that spirit, GRR provided opportunities for such conversations in the local community. This was possible because of volunteer efforts, a rich collaboration with a local non-profit Nourish My Soul that provided the online platform for the 15-week Racial Equity Challenge, and financial support from community members, local faith communities, Granby Education Foundation, and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.

The Racial Equity Challenge began in April and wrapped up this summer. The challenge was the ambitious expansion of Food Solutions New England’s 21 Day Racial Equity Challenge. FSNE’s bold vision for the six-state region is to build the capacity to produce at least 50 percent of the region’s food by 2060 by supporting healthy food for all, sustainable farming, and fishing. Additionally, FSNE supports a shared set of values—democratic empowerment, racial equity and dignity for all, sustainability, and trust. Since Granby already has a large agricultural base, this 21-Day Challenge was recommended because food justice is tied to social justice. Approximately 60 people became members of the challenge. While participants delved into self-guided learning material, community-building activities included raising food for local charities in a community garden plot and the Garden of Gratitude at South Church; walks and talks; virtually viewing the movie Cracking the Codes; an informative Food Justice Panel Discussion; a The Granby Racial Reconciliation group raised food for local charities in this community garden plot.

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transformational Racial Equity Poetry workshop with Malik Champlain; and two powerful events with Kamora Herrington that bookended the challenge.

Although the official challenge is over, participants have continued access to the program. Expanding it from 21 days to 15 weeks, there is so much more to glean from the challenge lessons as participants saw how deep the reach of racism is and the many ways people can choose to make positive changes.

The faith task team of GRR provided a Vigil for Racial Justice memorializing the anniversary of George Floyd’s murder.

Through song, prayer, confession, lamentation and assurance, the hearts of those present opened to hold the grief and pain of the many black lives taken unjustly.

From a belief that building bridges one relationship at a time will lead to the healing of the great racial divide in America, the GRR Faith Initiative facilitated a powerful nine-week book study group based on Be The Bridge, which is written by Latasha Morrison and examines racism through a biblical lens.

Returning to its roots, GRR offered Courageous Conversations on Race at the Park on Aug. 21 with a discussion on Affordable Housing. Featured guests were Sara Bronin of Desegregate CT and Erika Frank of Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Pre-attendance viewing was the mini-documentary, Segregated

by Design, was recommended.

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Page 4 The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor In June, Granby lost a town treasure.

Carol Laun was the curator and archivist for the Salmon Brook Historical Society, a volunteer position she had held for decades. Although Carol was from Milwaukee, she took on the role of preserving Granby’s history as if her roots were here.

My first real contact with Carol occurred not long before the start of the pandemic. I attended a talk she gave about the origin of Granby’s street names. Afterward, I approached her about volunteering at the society, and we soon settled on a way I could help.

The job she gave me was to organize and label the society’s digitized photos.

This was not a job I could just sit down and do. It required Carol to identify the people, places or events in the photos.

Thankfully, this task was something we could work on remotely during the pandemic. I learned pretty quickly how much knowledge of Granby history Carol had, from straightforward facts to wonderful anecdotes about people long gone. Thankfully, much of that knowledge was passed on through the articles she wrote for the Drummer.

I am heartbroken to have lost someone I admired so much. Approaching Carol after her presentation was one of the best decisions I have made. I am so thankful to have known this remarkable person, who is an important part of the Granby history she worked so hard to preserve.

Sarah W. Langdon

Cultured Meat I was excited to learn an Israeli company, Future Meat Technologies, recently opened the world’s first cultured-meat factory. For those who don’t know, cul-

editorials, commentary & letters to the editor Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer.

tured meat is grown from cells, without slaughtering animals. The factory can make 500 kilograms a day of cultivated chicken, pork, lamb, and, soon, beef. That’s equivalent to about 5,000 hamburgers.

Despite such progress, the United States government should fund openaccess research to advance the field of cellular agriculture. Significant obstacles remain, like achieving cost parity and making whole-cut products.

Congress should support development of cultured meat for the sake of the environment, public health and animal welfare.

Jon Hochschartner

Democratic candidates I am excited to endorse the incredible slate of candidates from the Granby Democratic Town Committee for municipal elections on Nov. 2. We have EIGHT candidates running in competitive races for three boards: Board of Selectmen, Board of Education and Board of Finance.

For the Board of Selectmen, Val Eastwood is an experienced First Selectwoman candidate who has already served Granby for many years. Val worked hard to get the Bear Feeding Ordinance passed over the summer and will bring her professional knowledge, skills and enthusiasm to the position of First Selectwoman. We are also endorsing Sally King (incumbent) and local business owner Fred Moffa for the Board of Selectman. Each are well-known, involved and experienced volunteers in Granby who will serve us well on the Board.

For the Board of Finance, the Granby Democrats are putting forward Jenny Emery, Audrey Lampert and Jim Lofink.

FIND US

These three bring a wealth of financial expertise, a strong commitment to Granby and a desire to improve Granby’s financial security for the long term.

For the Board of Education, the Granby Democrats nominated Monica Logan and Whitney Sanzo. They are raising their kids in Granby. As parents in the school system, they understand the need to keep our schools safe, inclusive and give all kids an excellent education whatever their path in life.

They will bring their professional skills and their compassion to the BOE and help create positive change.

Our Democratic candidates have already served our community in many ways: serving on local boards, volunteering in youth organizations and actively working to improve our community. Visit the Granby Democrats Facebook page for more information on the candidates, how you can meet them and ways to support their campaigns.

Granby is incredibly lucky to have these experienced and engaged residents stepping up to run for office.

Please vote Row A on Nov. 2, for our families, farms, businesses and our remarkable town.

Lynn Guelzow Chair, Granby Democratic Town Committee

The Granby Drummer A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1970. The Granby Drummer (ISSN 1547-1497) is published monthly except January and August by Citizens for a Better Granby at 11 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. It’s delivered free of charge to all Granby households and businesses. Out-of-town subscriptions are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Granby, CT, and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2021 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved.

CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary Jennifer Bell, Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Mindy Borrego, Carol Bressor, Carolyn Carter, Karen Cleary, Nancy Dudenhofer, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley

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The Granby Drummer reserves the right, without explanation, to reject any advertisement. Advertisers assume the responsibility for the content of all ads they submit for publication, including having authorization for all photos, trademarks and brand names used in their ads. The Granby Drummer will assume no liability for failure to publish an ad or for any typographical errors or omissions beyond the actual cost of the ad.

Reporters & Contributors Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Nell Gorbal, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, T. Johnson, Jim Lofink, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, Shirley Murtha John R. Nieb, Kristin Rice, Lisa Salazar, Pam Sherrer, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Merle Yoder, Sandy Yost

Town Hall Talk cont’d. from p. 1 planned paving projects will be completed by Labor Day, with only lane striping and curb blending projects to complete in early fall. This includes Barn Door Hills Rd, Bushy Hill Rd, Canton Street Extension, Case Street and Edgerton Road. With smooth roads, still watch your speed please.

Bridge work will close north part of Hungary Road. Removal and replacement of a bridge near the Suffield line is planned to start early September and will close a portion of Hungary Road through late November. Griffin Road bridge construction is well underway and the bridge may be re-opened in November. In early fall, the State plans to start utility work on the Town Center realignment project, which could impact traffic flows. Please check the DPW Facebook page (GranbyCT-Department-of-Public-Works) for details on these and other road work.

Let fall begin, and stay informed and engaged in your community. We do better, together. ­­—Jim Lofink

September 2021

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Check Town of Granby website or call Town Manager’s office to verify date, time, location, and get information on how to participate on Zoom, if needed.

Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 7, and Monday, September 20 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Monday, September 27 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Wednesdays, September 1 and 15 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Tuesdays, September 14 and 28 Inland Wetlands and Water, 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 8 Development Commission, 7 p.m., Monday, September 13

Please tell us if you find an error in this issue of the Drummer. We’ll attempt to correct it in the following issue. Leave a message at 860-653-9222 or send an email to: editor@granbydrummer.org

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Letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer. The length of letters will be held to 500 words and less. To be published, letters must be signed and include an address and phone number. This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff. Letters from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted with the letter. The Drummer reserves the right to edit and shorten letters, and to run them in any electronic form. Letters become the property of the Drummer. Email your letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 5 OpEd

Towards a slaughter-free America

By Jon Hochschartner I remember my first chicken harvest, as it was euphemistically called. It was 1999 and I was 12. In a video of the event, you can see me in my denim work jacket, gripping my neck in vicarious horror. There was a performative aspect to my reaction. But despite this, the slaughter was the first real instance of violence I had ever seen, so far as I can remember.

And it was horrifying. Undoubtedly, I had witnessed schoolyard scuffles, but nothing like this. Nothing that resulted in a bucketful of the lopped-off heads of living individuals, blinking in their apparent last moments of consciousness.

When it was over, I remember lying in the grass with my friends, publicly vowing to become vegetarian. This oath, of course, lasted a few days tops.

I think many people recognize there is something wrong with our treatment of animals. What they might not be aware of is an emerging technology that will make aligning our values and actions easier. I’m talking about cultured meat, which is grown from cells, without slaughter. It’s better for the environment, public health, and, of course, animal welfare.

This may sound like science fiction, but it’s not. Cultured meat has already been granted regulatory approval in Singapore, and is even available for home delivery. Meanwhile, an Israeli company has reduced production costs for a quarter pound of cultivated chicken to less than $4.

The environmental benefits of this new protein are manifold. The land, fresh water, and greenhouse gas emissions required to produce it are a tiny fraction of those necessary to raise animals. Meanwhile, there is no runoff of agricultural waste into rivers and

oceans, since cultured meat is produced in a closed system.

The public-health benefits of cultured meat are very important. It doesn’t require artificial growth hormones and unnecessary antibiotics. Since animals are removed from the process, the danger of zoonotic viruses making the jump to humans is eliminated.

The animal-welfare benefits offered by cultured meat should be apparent.

We kill over a trillion aquatic and land animals every year for food. The amount of suffering this represents is impossible to comprehend. To put it in perspective, only about 107 billion humans have ever lived, according to the Population Reference Bureau.

By my third harvest, in 2001, I was thoroughly desensitized to the violence.

Together with a girl I briefly dated, I wrestled a turkey into a large bucket with a small slit, just big enough for its neck to stick out from. I pinned the animals’ writhing body to the ground after its head was cut off with an axe, until the poor creature bled out.

From there, we brought the carcass through the methodical process of boiling, plucking, gutting and cleaning.

Somewhere, there’s a photo of me smiling, holding the corpse upside down, waving to the camera with a glovecovered hand smeared with blood.

While most people don’t participate in slaughter, I think many undergo a similar desensitization to animal suffering.

I think we learn the rationales for nonhuman exploitation in fits and starts.

This education—or more accurately, miseducation—probably takes place throughout our lifespan, with different answers formulated to meet our ideological needs at different times and places.

There’s nothing particularly nefarious in the process. Human violence against animals is just the way it’s always been.

Granby Congregational churches share vision for future

First and South Congregational churches have a long history in Granby and are now collaborating to potentially write a new chapter. What is known as First Church was established in 1736 as the Salmon Brook Society, and originally met in the home of Daniel Hayes. In 1834 the congregation built the current building on Route 189—the geographical center of town.

In 1872 a group of church members organized themselves as the Congregational Society of Salmon Brook, now South Church, and began worshiping in a building on the site of the present day VNA. That building burned in 1917 and the congregation built a new church to the south in 1918.

Now 149 years later, the two congregations are considering reuniting to form a new church.

In February, the congregations of the two churches voted, in separate meetings, to consider joining the congregations to form a new church in Granby. For many years the two churches, both members of the United Church of Christ denomination (UCC), have shared occasional worship services, church staff and various programs.

Now some 35 members from each church are working together in six teams to envision what a new church might look like.

The congregations are seeking ways to broaden outreach into the greater

I want to live in a world where this self-deception doesn’t feel necessary.

I don’t think our food system needs to accelerate global warming, heighten our pandemic risk, or be so cruel. Cultured meat can help address all these problems without noticeable dietary change.

That’s why I want the federal government to fund open-access research into cellular agriculture. Despite great progress in the private sector, there’s

Granby community. Both churches have groups actively working to carry out the mission of celebrating the lives and dignity of all people; lifting up the lonely and down in spirit; welcoming the stranger; treating others as we would want to be treated; and feeding, clothing and sheltering neighbors in need, both near and far.

A tag line of the UCC is “Everyone is welcome, no matter who you are or where you are on your life and faith journey.” The two churches are “open and affirming,” a designation that affirms that all services and sacraments are available to individuals regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, race, mental or physical ability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

A vote by the two congregations on whether to legally form a new church is expected to take place in 2022. In the meantime, folks are working together to consider how to best use existing properties, what programs will initially be offered, what staffing needs might be and perhaps most important, how a new church can fulfill some of the many needs in our community. If any of this sounds interesting, contact either church office (First 860-653-4537; South 860-653-7289) to learn more about these two historic churches in Granby and their growing vision for the future.

so much more work to be done in order to reach price parity with slaughtered meat and develop whole-cut products, like steaks and filets. I hope legislators will support this effort.

Jon Hochschartner is the author of a number of books, including The Animals’ Freedom Fighter: A Biography of Ronnie Lee, Founder of the Animal Liberation Front. He lives in Granby with his family.

Page 6 The Granby Drummer

Focus on Education

September 2021

Katan-Ensor Preserve opens

Jordan E. Grossman, Ed.D

Granby schools welcomes students, 23 new teachers and administrative staff I hope this finds you and your family well. It is with pride and incredible pleasure that I welcome you to what promises to be another fantastic year in the Granby Public Schools.

The Granby Public Schools (GPS) has the reputation of being a “flagship” school district for the State of Connecticut. It is the efforts of the entire school community with a commitment to excellence that continuously elevates our sights for student achievement and social emotional wellbeing. I am grateful to all of you and honored to be your Superintendent of Schools. Thank you for your continued support. It was so exciting to open the doors to the Granby’s schools with safety, equity and academic excellence for students and staff on Aug. 26.

On Aug. 23 I delivered the opening address and shared my vision for this school year that will focus greater attention on promoting student success by meeting the individual differences of all our students. This vision, along with countless decisions made throughout this year, will draw on the wisdom and knowledge of this outstanding school community.

Together we have built a school district that fosters relationships with students and enhances student confidence and achievement. We will continue to strive to meet the needs of each of our students

and challenge our students to reach their highest potential.

The community’s commitment to health and safety was evident last year as we stayed in-person for the duration of the year, and I have no doubt that this commitment will continue for the 20212022 school year.

This has also been a busy summer hiring new administrative and teaching staff. Please welcome the following outstanding educators. Administrative: Angela Ehrenwerth, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, Central Services; Brita Gotberg, Occupational Therapist; Barbara Trinks, Out-of-District Coordinator, Central Services.

Teaching: Aubrie Costas, Second Grade Teacher, Kelly Lane; Nicole Delude, Special Education Resource Teacher, Kelly Lane; Jessica Foskitt, Strings Teacher, Kelly Lane/Wells Road; Nicole Garfield, Second Grade Teacher, Kelly Lane; Alba Jaquez, Spanish Teacher, Kelly Lane/Middle School; Tara Peterson, Preschool Teacher, Kelly Lane; Rachel Porter, Preschool Teacher, Kelly Lane; Brianna Simonetti, First Grade Teacher, Kelly Lane; Kimberly Stryker, First Grade Teacher, Kelly Lane; Destiny Baldis, Fourth Grade Teacher, Wells Road; Sara Gildea, Special Education Resource Teacher, Wells Road;

On a picture-perfect summer day (July 31), the Granby Land Trust officially opened its Katan-Ensor and Old Messenger Road Preserves in West Granby. About 30 GLT members gathered for a seminal hike through the Katan-Ensor, Schlicht, and Garmany Preserves.

Sights included the cascading waterfalls of Mountain Brook, a farmstead that dates to the 1700s, huge glacial erratics, and a magnificent view to the east.

GLT President Rick Orluk opened the hike by expressing gratitude to the donors who made the preservation of this land possible, including Charlie and Joan Katan, who gave 28 key acres of land to the GLT in 2019; Bob Schlicht, who gave 94 acres of land to the GLT in 2005; and the Richard P. Garmany Fund which funded the purchase of two important parcels. Today, the Katan-Ensor Preserve serves as a gateway to hundreds of acres of GLT land. To learn more or to see a trail map, go to granbylandtrust.org and click on the “Trails” section. Parking for the Katan-Ensor Preserve trailhead is located at 61 Strong Road in West Granby (please drive slowly on Strong Road—thank you).

Photo by Don Shaw

Taylor Gouveia, Third Grade Teacher, Wells Road; Stephanie LaPointe, Special Education Resource Teacher, Wells Road; Elizabeth Asal, School Psychologist, Middle School; Louise Cull, Math Teacher, Middle School; Melissa Wabble, Physical Education Teacher, Middle School; Patricia Benton-Reger, English Teacher, High School; Rachele Martin, Social Worker, High School; Sarah Schackner, Math Teacher, High School; and Emily Stross, Social Studies Teacher, High School.

Please be assured that the Granby Board of Education and Granby Public Schools’ staff are committed to providing the best possible education for our students moving forward. I urge you to view our district website —granbyschools. org— to learn more about the school district.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns at 860-844-5260 and follow me on Twitter @GranbySuper

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS JUNE 2, 2021 Present: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Melissa Migliaccio, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, and Jacob Scotto and Jack DeGray (Student Representatives) Absent: David Peling and Brandon Webster.

Superintendent’s Announcements • Kindergarten enrollment is continually being monitored. There are currently 122 students registered with seven Open Choice slots. If all seven Open Choice students register, the number will be 129 (125 projected).

• Will apply for the America Cares Grant fund of $516,901 with a portion of these funds devoted to student learning recovery for the next two years.

• As part of receiving the grant funds, there will be a Granby Public Schools’ Reopening Task Force Committee Meeting to solicit feedback on the year and what the committee feels is needed for next year. A lot is still unknown about mitigation strategies; however, we need to start planning.

Revision to 2021-2022 School Calendar Superintendent Jordan Grossman described changes that had to be made to next year’s calendar after collaboration with the teachers’ union and administration. The new school schedules have been added to the calendar reflecting an additional 10 minutes to the school day.

Migliaccio inquired if virtual conferences will continue and Grossman said, yes, it is a matter of scheduling but will be reviewed. The board approved the revisions to the 2021-2022 school calendar as recommended by the Superintendent.

Fresh Picks Food Service Contract Amendment The board approved the amendment to the Fresh Picks Food Service Contract for the 2021-2022 school year as recommended by the Finance/ Personnel/ Facilities Subcommittee. Emery said this was reviewed at the last Finance Subcommittee Meeting and that the contract was renewed with the only change in the terms relates to imposing the consumer price index. Emery said the district is pleased with the work of Fresh Picks.

Granby Equity Team Presentation Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Parsons and Jacky Paton, science teacher and Steering Committee Member of the Granby Equity Team (GET), updated the board on the Anti-Racism/Anti-Bias Plan. At the core of the Team’s work is building consciousness, responsiveness and advocacy around critical race and equity issues. A steering committee was established with staff members as well as two liaisons from the Connecticut Center for School Change that is essentially the heart of GET. Members plan all the meetings and make sure there is a through line in the work of the group. GET includes stakeholder groups such as other staff members, community members, parents, and students who meet virtually monthly for two hours. The idea is that the groups will network and branch out and eventually break into everything that the team is trying to do.

Paton reviewed the action items for building consciousness to increase faculty, students and families awareness and understanding of the impact of racism, bias and marginalization on student experiences and outcomes.

She noted there were four sessions of professional development for teachers on equity; distribution of an equity and inclusion survey; and a book discussion with Debby Irving attracting more than 100 participants. Reviewing action items for building responsiveness this year to increase schools and district leaders capacity to actively lead for equitable opportunities, experiences and outcomes for students, Parsons said that protected time and space was established for regular equity-based discussions. A webpage was created with book lists and resources addressing equity. Supports were established for Open Choice students to foster relationships to attract and retain students. For the action steps taken to build advocacy and increase agency and action to actively address issues of racism and equity in Granby Public Schools, Parsons said a Vision of the Graduate was developed with an equity perspective and accessible to all students; engagement with the YMCA on the 21-Day Equity Challenge; a curriculum audit was conducted with an equity lens; and, a plan was created to expand the Bridges Program facilitated by students for students. Parsons said the district is very excited about participation in the teacher residency program; a candidate has been matched with a Wells Road teacher mentor for next year.

At the last GET meeting last week most of the of time was spent gathering feedback on each of the action steps. The team will meet to review the feedback and make any changes to the plan. Completed action items will be noted and a revised plan will be brought forward to the Board in the fall.

Fiorentino asked for definitions of the terms “tools and toolkit” under building consciousness to review lesson development and curriculum and effective time for teachers. Paton said the toolkit, suggests how teachers tackle difficult conversations with students.

Emery asked for a perspective or comment from the committee on how to keep the momentum of the community support going. Parsons said the committee continues to balance what is building that consciousness and responsiveness and are prepared to engage in the work.

Fiorentino asked student representatives if they had noticed any changes in school. Jack DeGray said he was on the Task Force in 8th grade and attended the Bridges meetings through the high school. He said it was a helpful experience for him and helped to change his perspective. Paton said she has had more teachers request to join. She said being one of the very few non-white members of the staff, she received a high percentage of support from staff members, so she personally sees a lot of change.

Fiorentino thanked Parsons and Paton and said a great measure of the team’s success would be if a year from now students say they are talking about these subjects.

Superintendent Contract Approval The board approved the Superintendent’s Contract effective July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2024. Thrall said Grossman met or exceeded all the goals of his evaluation. The motion passed unanimously.

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 7

Lights! Camera! Action! Introducing the new GMHS TV Studio

By Kim Becker With visionary thinking from the Granby Public Schools and strong financial backing from the Granby Education Foundation (GEF) and Al Wilke, a state-of-the-art TV studio will be built at the Granby Memorial High School beginning this fall.

The $100,000 project will be primarily funded by GEF, including a generous $10,000 donation from Al Wilke, a former GEF board member. The TV studio space will accommodate a news desk, as well as professional quality sound, lighting, filming and editing equipment.

Wilke, the catalyst for this innovative project, challenged Superintendent Dr. Jordan Grossman to develop a gamechanging STEM program in partnership with GEF. Together with help from GMHS technology teachers Tim Barnett and Nick Gaeta as well as Jenn Parsons,

assistant superintendent, the TV studio idea quickly progressed. “STEM is so important in today’s world no matter what career you may be in,” said Wilke.

“Students need hands-on experiences using technology, developing skills like writing in a real-world context, and seeing the connection between STEM and the arts.”

The studio provides a unique blend of technology and arts education. It will be incorporated into the current high school curriculum through classes— such as Journalism, Sports Marketing, and Principles of Speech and Communication—and with a new school news channel and the Bears Broadcasting Club. Additionally, technology classes will have a hand in building the studio set this fall.

The studio allows GMHS to showcase the many talented artists, actors, musicians and athletes through featured

The GEF is proud to fund the new state-of-the-art TV studio at Granby Memorial High School. From left to right: Jennifer Parsons, assistant superintendent; Sarah Thrall, chair of Granby Board of Education; Al Wilke; Kim Becker, chair of Granby Education Foundation; Timothy Barnett, GMHS technology teacher; and Mike Dunn, GMHS principal. Submitted photo

productions. In the future, students may even be able to collaborate on community projects such as public service announcements and highlight reels of community events.

This innovative space builds on the success of a 2020 GEF grant for digital video cameras and computer equipment that livestreamed athletics and arts events over the past school year. Many people, including family and friends from across the country, watched their students play in livestreamed games and perform at

arts events like Coffeehouse.

The Granby Education Foundation, an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, funds educational initiatives that expand community involvement in education, enrich creativity and capabilities in teaching, and encourage interest in educational opportunities for Granby residents of all ages. Since its founding in 2000, the GEF has raised more than $700,000 in cash and pledges in support of education.

State mandated revaluation to begin in September The Granby Assessor’s Office is preparing for the state mandated revaluation and has contracted with the appraisal firm Vision Appraisal Technology to assist the Assessors revaluation for Oct. 1, 2022. The company will work with the assessor’s office to make the 12-month process successful.

Revaluation is designed to eliminate inequities that may arise in assessments because different properties experience appreciation or depreciation at varying levels over time. Once complete, citizens will be taxed only their fair share of the cost for essential community services.

The purpose of revaluation is to value all property by similar standards at the same point in time.

Data collection, the first phase of the project, is scheduled to begin in September. A data collector from Vision Appraisal will visit each property and physically measure the exterior of every property in town. The inspection will take approximately 10–15 minutes.

Due to current health concerns the data collector will only be measuring the exterior of your home and any outbuildings on your property.

All Vision Appraisal representatives

will carry proper identification and their automobiles will be listed with both the Assessor’s Office and the Granby Police Department. It is suggested that homeowners request identification of anyone at their door.

As part of the process, the Assessor’s Office will also compile information about the property from existing assessment records and previous house-to-house visits in the form of a Data Mailer that will be mailed out in the future.

If you have any questions, please call the Granby Assessor’s Office at 860844-5311. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

New assessments will not be available until November 2022. Once established, a notice of new values will be mailed to all property owners. All property owners will be given an opportunity to attend an individual informal hearing for the purpose of discussing any issue regarding the assessment process and valuation issues.

Granby’s Assessors thank you for reviewing this information. A successful revaluation project must have the understanding of the process and the cooperation of property owners.

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Page 8 The Granby Drummer September 2021

SPOTLIGHT ON

GRANBY ARTISTS

Insight into the creative process

firing and finding the pots that went in Name: Avis Akers Cherichetti as fragile creations have become hard Medium: Pottery objects that will be around for centuries.”

Address: 31 Barndoor Hills Road, She enjoys hearing from people in Granby Granby who use her pieces in their daily Phone: 860-841-8675 lives—it keeps her emotionally, as well Instagram: @avischerichetti financially, sustained. One of her small Website: honeyhillpottery.us pots was even carried to the top of Mt. Email: hhpots@sbcglobal.net Everest and returned to her. She is also Member of Granby Artists since: appreciative that artists in Granby sup2002 (charter member) port each other, acknowledging that the Avis Cherichetti grew up in a family choice they all made—to be artists—was that made things. Her mother quilted and the right path. her father was a woodworker In addition to being a so she grew up knowing it charter member of the was acceptable to be an artist.

Granby Artists AssoShe discovered the medium ciation, Cherichetti is a of clay during her second member of the Women term of college and was so Artists Collective and taken by it that clay became maintains art center her primary focus. and art museum memThe process of making is berships in the region. what inspires Cherichetti She was awarded an most with her pottery. She Individual Artist Felsays, “It is the limitations lowship from the Greater of the materials used, the Hartford Arts Council tools available, and my own and has a bowl in the skill—or lack thereof—that Cherichetti’s stoneware permanent collection of keeps me interested in the teapot with bamboo handle the Slater Museum. She next creative possibility.” taught for 23 years at She appreciates the conExpressions Pottery Workshop, an adult stant challenges of the medium with the pottery cooperative in East Granby, where extraordinary choices of clay bodies, she is still an active member. construction techniques, the range of surface finishes (color, texture, or glaze) Name: Bill McGonagle as well as the many final firing choices.

Medium: Woodworking No matter which technique she uses, she Phone: 603-848-4453 tries to convey her joy of the process in Email: mcgonaglebill65@gmail.com all her work.

Member of Granby For Cherichetti, clay Artists since: 2020 is a very freeing meWhat inspired you to dium. She likes to work become an artist? in three dimensions, I turned a walnut manipulating it without cookie jar when I was someone else specifyin junior high school ing the parameters or and loved the process, trying to duplicate nathe feel and smell of ture. And once fired, the the wood as I worked it. object is not reversible.

Sadly, I did not return to “The giving up to the woodturning until I reheat and fire excites me tired. The feelings I had each time I open the lid about this art form/craft from a finished firing.” were quickly rekindled She adds that the most as I began taking lesexciting part of her sons at the Homestead artwork is “opening Bill McGonagle turns a project on Woodworking School in the kiln after the bisque his lathe. Submitted photos Newmarket, N.H.

What made you choose your primary medium?

I primarily work with local hardwoods such as maple, cherry, walnut, apple, and ash and to a lesser degree black birch and oak.

Tell us about a satisfying art accomplishment you have had.

While living in New Hampshire, I was a member of the Guild of New Hampshire Woodworkers and the Granite State Woodturners. A satisfying accomplishment came as a part of a critique session organized by the Granite State Woodturners. The club invited a wellknown and accomplished woodturner to critically examine members’ pieces. His compliments and assessment of the wood turned pieces I presented did wonders for my confidence as a developing artist.

What is your most exciting aspect of being an artist?

The most exciting aspect of my art form is the look and feel of a finely finished piece. The depth and variations of color in the grain patterns are always intriguing. The satin-like feel of a platter or bowl once it is sanded to perfection —or as close as nature allows— is truly inspiring. I apply a fine wax finish to my pieces that provides a wonderful tactile experience for whomever is touching it.

One of Bill McGonagle’s favorite pieces.

In Memory Of…

Monty, Heather Jayne Gibson, 65, wife of Charles Monty, June 12 Ash, Otheia (Martin), 64, wife of Philip Ash and the late Peter Gardner, June 17 Laun, Carol Anne Marquardt, 87, wife of F. David Laun, June 20 Miller, Jeffrey Robert, 38, June 23 Maher, Robert J., 80, husband of Nancy (Stupak) Maher, June 26 Neisheim, Elaine H., 69, June 27 Ware, Allison Beth Kallman, 53, wife of Michael Ware, June 28 Schlichting, Donald James, 80, husband of Christine (Kaminski) Schlichting, July 1 Sellers, Lady Margaret McLeod, 92, wife of the late John Sellers, July 8 Marieni, Gino Joseph, 96, husband of the late Olga Torchio Marieni, July 9 Brown, Richard Edwin, 84, husband of the late Carol (Lombardo) Brown, July 11

Council, Norman Martin “Marty”, 67, husband of Katie (Dunnington) Council and former husband of Cindy Skelton and Judith Faust, July 11 Lynch, Christine “Chris” Pryor, 81, wife of the late Michael Joseph Lynch, July 16 Babcock, Dorothy Hunter, 95, wife of the late Clair Parkhill Babcock, July 21 Olsen, Nancy Louise (Gillis), 93, wife of the late James “Jim” Franklin Olsen, July 24 Francolini, Robert “Bob” Anthony, 80, husband of Margaret “Molly” (Savage) Francolini, July 29 Dlubac, John Francis “Doober”, 79, husband of Karen (George) Dlubac, August 9 Bielomyza, Geraldine Joann (Sutak), 77, wife of Henry Bielomyza, Jr., August 13

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September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 9

GAA Open Studio Tour returns Oct. 16 & 17

By Lori Catlin Garcia Members of the Granby Artists Association are excited to again offer the annual Open Studio Tour on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 16 and 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants have been working hard for many months creating beautiful works of fine art and functional pieces to wear, adorn your home and give as gifts. A flyer and map of the tour will be in the October issue of the Drummer, and additional information is available at granbyartists.org Maps can be picked up at Northwest Community Bank.

In prior years, the tour has attracted several hundred visitors who experienced and purchased art in the settings where it was created. Several members will show their work in their home studios, and Lost Acres Vineyard will host three artists this year. An incredible array of media will be represented including watercolor, oil and egg tempera paintings, functional and decorative pottery, glassworks, jewelry, chainsaw carving and paper flowers.

The tour is also an educational event, as participating artists will do demonstra-

Avis Cherichetti showing pottery in her studio. Submitted photo

tions and discuss how their work is made.

Mark Gottlieb and Annukka Ritalahti (Silver Street Glass) will showcase their processes in glassblowing, flameworking and stained glass. Avis Cherichetti and Linda Yurasevecz will converse with guests about their diverse work including high temperature fired stoneware from oxidation, reduction and soda fired kilns as well as Raku and Saggar pieces.

Painters Alex Anisimov, Sally Sargent Markey, Laura Eden, Doug Williams and George Mattingly will present fine art in

Books ready for browsers. Submitted photo

Annual Book Sale is Sept 24–26

By Brian Tomasino

Glassblowing demonstration at Silver Street Glass. Submitted photo

a variety of mediums. Sue Canavan will share her beautiful paper flowers. Also isplayed and for sale will be jewelry (glass/sterling/ Granby Oak earrings)

by Lori Catlin Garcia, decorative glass items by Annukka Ritalahti and watercolors and Fimo jewlery by Sally Sargent Markey.

Visitors are asked to wear masks, and follow other posted COVID precautions, such as using provided hand sanitizer, at each venue.

The Granby Artists Association is proud to be an active member of the community, sponsoring a variety of activities throughout the year in addition to the Open Studio Tour. The group also sponsors a scholarship program for a Granby Memorial High School graduating senior.

Volunteer opportunity

Writers needed Do you like to write?

The Drummer is looking for a few writers to cover stories about Granby and its residents. Email us at editor@granbydrummer.org or leave a message at 860-653-9222.

Drummer

The

Your hometown volunteer newspaper.

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autographed books, CDs, DVDs, records, puzzles, games, learning toys, and other The 38th annual Friends of Granby book related items for purchase.

Public Library (FOGPL) book sale will The sale starts on Friday, Sept. 24 from be held Friday through Sunday, Sept.

5–8 p.m. An entry fee of $5 gives Friday 24–26 at Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury evening shoppers the first peek and best Road in West Granby. selection of the sale.

Thanks to all the Saturday hours are donors who have 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Mark your calendars! kept our volunteers Sunday from 11 a.m. busy throughout the Friday, Sept. 24, 5-8 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. On Sunsummer collecting, day, there are no set Saturday, Sept. 25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. inspecting, and sortprices, reasonable doing books for the big Sunday, Sept. 26, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. nations are accepted sale. A lot of time for however many and effort goes into items you would like putting this event toto stock up on. gether and it is, by far, FOGPL’s biggest Federal, state or town health guidelines fundraiser. Proceeds from the book sale on the status of the pandemic may impact help support the Granby Public Library the book sale. The goal is to keep staff, programs, museum passes, books, volunteers, and patrons safe, and we will DVDs, and special events. continue to adapt policies in line with the Whether you’re a bargain hunter, book latest guidance as the sale approaches. worm, or just like to see what treasure For more information on the sale, you may find, there is something for please see granby-ct.gov and go to the everyone. Besides all categories of both Friends of GPL under the government hardcover and softcover books, there are link, library services, then the about link. coffee table, vintage, first editions and

Page 10 The Granby Drummer September 2021

GRANBY EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Republican Town Committee selects candidates for November elections

ENRICH ENERGIZE ENGAGE: LIFELONG LEARNING

GRANBY EDUCATORS HONORED

Throughout the 2020-2021 school year donations were made to the Granby Education Foundation (GEF) in honor of the educators shown below. As part of the GEF’s mission is to encourage educational excellence, the Foundation is thrilled to recognize the efforts of these individuals. Please join the GEF in congratulating them and applauding their hard work and dedication to the Granby community.

Honoree

Donor Name

All Granby Teachers Destiny Baldis Colleen Bava Meghan Bavol Marie Caruso Brianna Clough Mike Dunn Silvie Fluckiger Pauline Greer Jordon Grossman Kristen Lecco Scott MacDonald Grace Matthews Steven Migneault Kim Narciso Parents & Families of Granby Kimberly Quinn Rodney Scudder Lindsay Sessions Laura Smith Cathy Stahl Sarah Thrall

Edith Vassar The Willerton Family The Willerton Family Amanda and Brandon Webster Amanda and Brandon Webster Amanda and Brandon Webster The Hollister Family Amanda and Brandon Webster The Willerton Family The Willerton Family The Willerton Family The Hollister Family The Sandridge Family Amanda and Brandon Webster Sara Pomponi The Granby Board of Education The Hollister Family The Hollister Family The Willerton Family Amanda and Brandon Webster Amanda and Brandon Webster Chris and Kim Lo Presti

Left to right: John Adams, Eric Myers, William O’Leary, Sarah Thrall, Mark Neumann, Mark Fiorentino, Donna Nolan, Dorcus Forsyth, Al Wilke, Bob Lindeyer. Not pictured: Kelly Rome and James Tsaptsinos. Submitted photo

At a caucus on July 22, Granby Republicans endorsed the following candidates for the town elections on Nov. 2: Mark Fiorentino for First Selectman, Mark Neumann and Kelly Rome for Board of Selectman, Donna Nolan and Sarah Thrall for Board of Education, James Tsaptsinos and Al Wilke for Board of Finance, Eric Myers for Planning and Zoning Commission, Bob Lindeyer for Zoning Board of Appeals, William O’Leary for Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate, Dorcus Forsyth for Board of Assessment Appeals, and John Adams for Town Moderator.

Voters can contact any of the candidates by sending an email to granbyrtc@gmail.com

RTC scholarship awarded From l.: Eric Myers, RTC co-treasurer; Mark Lockwood, RTC vicechair; Jordan Rijkse; Dave Peling, RTC scholarship committee chair; Mark Fiorentino. RTC chair; and Sarah Thrall, RTC secretary.

Submitted photo

At its meeting on July 22, the Granby Republican Town Committee awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Jordan Rijkse, a 2021 graduate of Granby Memorial High School who demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership and community involvement. Jordan will attend Boston College this fall to study biology and pre-medicine. He also plans to serve in the university’s Army ROTC program.

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Norman Martin "Marty" Council Norman Martin “Marty” Council, 67, of West Granby, CT, beloved husband, father and brother, passed away at Hartford Hospital on July 11, 2021.

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Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Marty was the son of the late Norman A. and Marie (Whitman) Council. As a young man, Marty lived in Somer’s Point, NJ, and Birmingham, AL, where he married Cindy Skelton and had son, Joshua Council. Marty moved to the Philadelphia area in his mid-20’s, where he met and married Judith Faust and had son, Zachariah Faust Council, and then in 1989 met and later married Katherine “Katie” Dunnington and settled in Lansdowne, PA. Marty was a man of many talents and interests. His work focused on supporting people with serious and persistent mental illness to integrate into the community as a therapist, grant writer, residential and day program director, executive director, assistant professor, consultant and adjunct professor. Marty was also a writer, a musician, a student of history and the Constitution, a politician and an artist. One of his proudest achievements was serving the community of Lansdowne, PA, in various roles, including as President of the Borough Council.

In 2004, Marty moved to West Granby, CT, and at the age of 52 became a stay-at-home dad after the birth of his daughter, Hannah Josephine Council, and was active in the local community.

Marty is survived by his wife, Katie Dunnington; his sons, Zachariah Council and wife Elizabeth, and Joshua Council; his daughter, Hannah Council; three sisters, Karen Sisk, Bonnie Council and Andrea Mathews; a step-brother, Roger Macartney and his wife Mary Ellen; a step-sister, Debbie Lauderback and her husband John; several nieces and nephews, and many special friends.

A memorial service for Marty was celebrated on August 7, 2021, at the Hayes-Huling & Carmon Funeral Home of Granby. Donations in Marty’s memory may be made to the Granby Education Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 351, Granby, CT 06035. To share a memory or condolence message with Marty’s family, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com.

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 11

PLANNING & ZONING MEETING HIGHLIGHTS JUNE 8, 2021 P&Z voted to approve the application seeking a 24-lot single-family residential subdivision for property located at 76 West Granby Road, R30 Zone

JUNE 22, 2021 The commission voted unanimously to approve an application for a garage in excess of 1,000 square feet for property located at 33 Strong Road.

The commission approved an application seeking a Site Plan modification and Special Permit under Zoning Regulations to allow a residential use/caretaker apartment in conjunction with a commercial use, for property located at 369 North Granby Road, subject to the specified conditions.

JULY 13, 2021 P&Z approved the renewal of a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 9 for earth excavation for Tilcon, Inc. for property located at 536 Salmon Brook Street.

The commission is considering the adoption of a cannabis moratorium to

allow time to consider whether such establishments should be prohibited or regulated. The town attorney has prepared draft language for the commission’s consideration. To establish a moratorium, the commission needs to amend the Zoning Regulations. The commission decided to refer the proposed moratorium to Capitol Region Council of Governments and hold a special meeting in August to consider the amendment.

The Department of Transportation is planning to start the Granby Center intersection project this fall.

JULY 27, 2021 P&Z approved an application for a 1-lot re-subdivision to create one additional building lot, for property located at 91 Hungary Road, with specified conditions.

The commission approved an application for a Special Permit for a garage in excess of 600 square feet and within 100 feet of the street for property located at 27 Barn Door Hills Road, R2A Zone, as proposed.

To read the full minutes of these P&Z meetings, visit granby-ct.gov/node/219/ minutes/2021

Granby Public Library is fine-free The Granby Public Library, with support from the Granby Public Library Board, is happy to announce that the library is no longer charging overdue fees for most library materials.

We are proud to be following the practice of many libraries around the country and around the state, removing this potential barrier to library services.

This change is a part of an institutional movement from libraries nationwide, guided by the recommendations of the American Library Association, in an effort to increase free public access to library services and to encourage patrons to use this valuable community resource.

Studies show library fines disproportionately impact society’s most vulnerable, such as those in low-income situations and people on fixed incomes, and they often discourage library use.

In addition, fines limit patron access to materials, prevent staff from focusing on patron service and support, and reinforce outdated library stereotypes.

Ultimately, fines do not support the mission of libraries to provide free access to diverse ideas, materials, and experiences and to enhance the quality of life in our

community.

Going “fine free” does not mean that patrons don’t have to bring items back to the library. Everything checked out will still have a due date, and materials will still need to be returned in order to ensure all patrons have the chance to use them. Materials can be renewed if there are no holds for other patrons. If an item is not returned in a timely manner, or is returned damaged, patrons will still be charged for their replacement. A few items, generally those with limited quantities or time-constraints, such as “Rapid Reads,” museum passes, and items checked out through Interlibrary Loan, will still have overdue fines associated with them.

The Granby Public Library is excited to move forward with this inclusive and welcoming model of service for our community. Join us during Library Card Month as we welcome all citizens of Granby to the library to get their (free) library card, share thousands of resources with their community, and take advantage of all of the services the library provides.

MAPLE VIEW FARM SPECIAL PERMIT APPROVED The Granby Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously July 13, to approve The Brewery at Maple View Farm’s application to modify its Special Permit for the existing farm store and farm brewery. The changes include hours, events, music, sale of alcoholic beverages, and illuminated signs for the property located at 192 and 198R Salmon Brook Street. The Special Permit now includes the following conditions: The normal business hours of operation shall be 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days per week.

Light music is permitted inside the brewery building, on the patio, and on The Brewery Lawn. Light music is any music played or performed at a level at which persons not located in the brewery building, on the patio, or on The Brewery Lawn can hold a conversation without unreasonably raising their voices. Light music is permitted between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m., seven days per week.

Non-light music is permitted on the patio and on The Brewery Lawn and shall be restricted to a maximum of six days per calendar year. Non-light music is music played or performed at a level above the level described for light music.

Non-light music is permitted between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. The Granby Zong Enforcement Officer shall be notified in writing/email seven days prior to any such non-light music event.

Farm activities, including but not limited to banquets, weddings, and other parties are permitted during normal business hours. If music is used, it must conform to the above conditions.

Outdoor farm activities outside the normal business hours of operation are limited to six per calendar year. Outside of normal hours is limited to 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. If music is used, it must conform to the above conditions. The Granby ZEO shall be notified in writing/email seven days prior to any such outdoor farm activity.

There is no limit to the number of events held inside the brewery building.

If a temporary outside tent or other such structure will be used on the property, it is limited to six building permits per calendar year. The tent shall be located on The Brewery Lawn and may not remain on the property for more than four consecutive days.

In addition to beer, The Brewery may sell Connecticut-made alcohol.

The service area for the brewery includes three temporary service areas on The Brewery Lawn.

The parking area is limited to farm fields; no parking is permitted in front of existing farm fences running parallel to Rte. 10/202. Parking areas will not change from gravel/dirt/grass. A parking plan shall be provided to the Granby ZEO seven days prior to non-light music events and outdoor farm activities. The parking plan shall outline the parking areas to be used, number of cars that can be accommodated, and any other practices that will be used to control parking and traffic flow, such as parking attendants, signage, lane and space striping, etc.

The sign on Rte. 10/202 will conform to sign regulations and be lit with downward facing lights. Driveway “Enter” and “Exit” signs will be similarly lit with downward facing lights. A sign permit is required for the proposed signs.

No additional permanent outside lighting fixtures are approved. Temporary lighting for events may be considered and approved by staff.

The use of the property and facility for the production, sale and on-site consumption of beer and the above outlined events are permitted only in conjunction with the operation of the farm and the business shall be operated by the owner of the property or the children or siblings of the owners of the property.

To read the full minutes of the P&Z meeting, visit granby-ct.gov/sites/g/ files/vyhlif3171/f/minutes/pz_minutes.07-13-21.pdf

“Be led by the dreams in your heart.”

— Roy T. Bennett

South Church: Serve God With Gladness Join us some Sunday to discover how living faithfully can make a world of difference. We are an Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome!

September Worship Schedule September 5, 9:30 a.m. at First Church September 12, 9:30 a.m. at South Church September 19, 10:00 a.m. at First Church September 26, 10:00 a.m. at South Church 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org

—we hope to see you again very soon!

Page 12 The Granby Drummer September 2021

Public Works Trash holiday: Monday, Sept. 6, Labor Day, is a holiday for Paine’s Inc. All trash/recycling pickups will be delayed by one day the week after the holiday.

Transfer Station extended hours: The Transfer Station will be open Wednesday mornings from 8 a.m. until noon beginning Wednesday, Sept. 15.

The extended hours will be in effect through Wednesday, Nov. 17.

Textile recycling: the textile recycling program has changed, as follows: Residents will be required to go to SimpleRecycling.com OR call Customer Service at 1-855-835-5068 to schedule a pickup.

Pink bags will no longer be provided.

Residents will use their own bags or boxes to leave their clean, dry items.

(Pink bags will be available at Granby DPW while the supply lasts).

The material is to be left at your front door.

Simple Recycling accepts clothing, shoes, accessories and small household items. Call the number above with any questions.

Shred-It: A paper shredding event will be held at 52 North Granby Road from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 2.

East Granby Public Library and the East Granby Land Trust Story Trail

Proof of Granby residency is required.

Documents are shredded on site.

Bear barrels: We are accepting names for the bear barrel waitlist. If interested, contact Public Works at 860-653-8960.

There is a one-time fee of $230 for the barrel.

RecycleCT: Do you have questions about what can and cannot go in your recycling bin? Now you can simply check your phone. Download the Recyclect app and you can look up whether an item is recyclable anywhere, any time.

Hungary Road bridge work: The tentative plan is for work to begin on the Hungary Road Bridge near the Suffield line in early September. Work will require the bridge to be closed until November. Please plan accordingly.

Yard Waste: Yard waste cannot be placed in your trash or recycling barrel.

Yard waste has been banned from curbside barrels since 1998. Grass, leaves and brush should either be composted onsite or brought to the Granby Transfer Station.

Hazardous Waste: The next hazardous waste collection will be Saturday, Oct. 16.

The Story Trail in East Granby is again open at the East Granby Land Trust’s Ian Clark Preserve. Family hikers are welcome to explore this half-mile loop and enjoy a children’s story. This story trail helps build children’s interest in reading, while encouraging healthy outdoor activity for children and their families. Stories will be updated with the seasons, offering a new experience for repeat visitors.

From mid-August to mid-October, When Grandpa Gives You a Toolbox, by Connecticut author Jamie L.B. Deenihan, will be featured on the story trail.

An original story to be written and illustrated by the East Granby Public Library’s Young Writers Club will debut from mid-October to Nov. 30. Details regarding the children’s writer workshop are available at egpl.org

Kylie Hart, of East Hartland, was named to the dean’s list at Norwich University for the spring semester.

The following students received degrees from Quinnipiac University in May: Kaelyn Ludwig, from East Granby, received a master of health science in advanced medical imaging and leadership; Kevin Forbes, from Granby, received a master of business administration; Carissa McIntire, from Granby, received master of science in business analytics; Alexis Westcott, from Granby, received master of health science/ physician assistant; and Brianna Dorbuck, from North Granby, received a bachelor of science in behavioral neuroscience.

The following students graduated from Endicott College in May: Sydney Warchol, from East Granby, received a master of education, autism and applied behavior analysis; Samuel Kuhnly, from Granby, received a master of business administration; and Michael Spence, from North Granby, received a bachelor of science, nursing.

The following students were named to the dean’s list of Endicott College for the spring semester: Sarah Bennett, of Granby; Mackenzie Dowd, of North Granby; Ryan McNeill, of North Granby; and Erica Presbie, of North Granby.

Susan Gordon Calhoun Heminway, 83, died at home February 6, 2020 of complications from Parkinson’s Disease. Sue was a strong supporter of Granby and its citizens. All are welcome at a celebration of her full and servicefilled life on Saturday, Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, Granby. Local COVID guidelines will be observed.

Drumrolls

Memorial for Susan Heminway (1936–2020)

Story Trail visitors can earn chances to win a prize each time they visit by entering the raffle at the end of the trail.

Winners, drawn monthly, will receive a gift card or prize from one of these local organizations: Cake Gypsy, Deep Roots Street Food, East Granby Land Trust, East Granby Public Library, East Granby Parks and Rec, Grassroots Ice Cream, Han Asian Cuisine, La Figata, Riverside Reptiles Education Center, Table 570 Asian Fusion and @ The Barn.

The Story Trail will be on display until the end of November at the East Granby Land Trust’s Ian Clark Preserve located directly across from 140 Kimberly Road. The Story Trail is brought to you by the East Granby Public Library and the East Granby Land Trust.

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 13

In Town Focus Free Art Exhibit

Granby Artist Association member Alexander Anisimov invites the public to the Sept. 1 through 26 art exhibition, End of Summer, at 2 Park Place Gallery, downtown Granby.

Granby Men’s Breakfast

The next Granby Men’s Breakfast will be in person on Friday, Sept. 10 at the Senior Center. The guest speaker is Yard Goats Baseball Community Engagement Manager Tom Baxter. This in-person event will require attendees to be members of the Senior Center, and registered, either on-line or the day of the breakfast. Breakfast is at 8:30 a.m. and the speaker begins promptly at 9:30 a.m.

Men of any age interested in joining the Granby Men’s Breakfast Group should send their contact information to gmensbkfst@gmail.com to be added to the invite list for the next breakfast meeting.

Registrars Calendar

Absentee Ballot Applications are being collected now by the Town Clerk for voters who know they will be away from home on Nov. 2. The form is available at Town Hall or at sots.ct.gov Sept. 15 Public Lottery for Horizontal Ballot Order will be held in the Town Hall Meeting Room at 11 a.m.

Oct. 1 Absentee Ballots become available for Nov. 2 Election.

Volunteer Needed

Conscientious individual for position of Granby Men’s Breakfast Membership Captain to maintain the membership roll, send out meeting notices, etc. Basic familiarity with word processing, spreadsheet, and email is necessary. For information, contact Duncan Rowles at d.rowles@cox.net or 860-653-4484.

SBHS News

Research Library at Salmon Brook Historical Society is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon or by

Out of Town

Noble and Cooley Center for Historic Preservation Museum re-opens The Nobel and Cooley Center for Historic Preservation Museum (NCCHP) at 42 Water Street in Granville is pleased to announce that the museum will re-open in September for tours on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, from 12 to 3 p.m. In addition, two Living History programs have been scheduled: Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. Sheryl Faye will present her “Eleanor Roosevelt—The First Lady of the World” program.

Learn about Eleanor’s life from difficult childhood to First Lady, distinguished columnist, UN delegate and beyond. In her historical one-woman shows, Faye uses multi-media to immerse her audience in the life and times of her subjects—an incredible theater performance.

Sept 29 at 6:30 p.m. “The Ne’er Do Well’s,” led by historian Dennis Picard, will tell stories and perform tunes that were commonly heard around New England town greens from 1650-1885.

Camp music is a style where the musician allows the tunes and lyrics to come through by interpreting that music as it would have been done by the common man of the period, without the frills of over instrumentation. Prepare to tap your toes!

NCCHP Living History programs are free for members; $5 donations from other guests are requested to help defray costs. Light refreshments will be provided after the program. Visit ncchp. org for updates.

Quilts and the Underground Railroad On Wednesday, Sept. 15, Connecticut resident Jan Doyle will present Quilts and the Underground Railroad: Fact or Fiction? Doyle’s lecture includes stories of secret codes, hidden messages, and forbidden talk.

The lecture is Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. in Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury. Sign-in begins at 6:45 p.m. Guests are welcome for a guest fee of $10.

Doyle leaves it up to each person to evaluate the evidence she provides and draw their own conclusions. “What makes my presentation unique are the historical facts juxtaposed with handmade quilts and the storytelling feature.

It’s great fun when I use a bonnet, and transform into ‘Auntie Jan’.”

Doyle has her own show, Wyse Talk, on cable and YouTube. and has appeared on Good Morning CT. Doyle’s website is wyseworks.net/

appointment by calling 860-653-9713.

Research Fee is $25 per hour.

Museum Store is open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Merchandise available includes books, maps, mugs, notecards, jigsaw puzzle and many more Granby items. View items for sale at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com Fall Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the society’s grounds. Please contact Dave at 860-653-3965 for vendor information.

Flea Market donations to the society will be accepted Tuesday and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon beginning Aug. 31.

Due to space constraints, please hold all large items to be donated until Sept. 28.

We look forward to welcoming our many vendors back along with our amazing patrons.

Membership to Salmon Brook Historical Society offers many benefits including free tours, newsletters, annual dinner in April, Christmas house tour and wassail party in December and the opportunity to

The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations.

Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

learn and help preserve Granby history.

The society welcomes everyone—you do not need to be a Granby native, own an old house or be old. However, you do need to care about the history of Granby.

Visit salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com or stop by the museum on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon for an application.

Women’s Breakfast

Save Wednesday, Oct. 6, for the Granby Women’s Breakfast’s longawaited gathering, with breakfast starting at 8:30 a.m. and program beginning at 9 a.m. Ginny Apple, master wildlife conservationist, will talk about animals that forage, hunt and play after the sun goes down. See next month’s Drummer for more details. Cost $4 per person. Call Corinne Dickerson, 860-653-9891, and the Granby Senior Center, 860-844-5352, and let them know that you will be attending this interesting program.

@

by e-mail:

editor@granbydrummer.org

Hungary Road Closure Work on Hungary Road Bridge is scheduled to begin in early September. This bridge is located on the northern end of Hungary Road near the Suffield line.

During the work, the bridge will be removed and this section of Hungary Road will be closed. It is anticipated the closure will last until late November. Please plan accordingly.

East Granby Public Library Events Please register for all events online at egpl.org, or by calling 860-653-3022 or visiting the library.

Fun with Ryan SanAngelo: Saturday, Sept. 19, 1 to 2 p.m. for ages 3 to 9. Join cool guy and performer Ryan SanAngelo and hear him read his book Spaghetti Eddie and move your body to his fun, lively music.

Tie-Dye Fun: Monday, Sept. 20, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. for ages 10 and up. Join us as we tie-dye tote bags and play games.

Participants are welcome to bring another item of their own to tie-dye. Outside on our patio weather permitting. Feel free to register with a friend!

Author Talk with Kristin Harmel: Thursday, Sept. 9, 7 p.m. via Zoom.

Bestselling author of The Book of Lost Names, Kristin Harmel, shares her gripping new historical fiction novel, The

Forest of Vanishing Stars. In this virtual event, Kristin Harmel will be in conversation with Patti Callahan Henry about writing with a hint of magic.

Community Read: Saturday, Sept.

18, 1 p.m., in person at the library or via Zoom. The library is proud to present a community-wide read of What Unites Us by Dan Rather. Books are available at the library. The Community Read is possible through a generous grant from the American Library Association.

Afternoon at the Movies: Wednesdays at 1 p.m. at the library.

Sept. 1: Chasing Waterfalls Sept. 8: The Last Letter from your Lover Sept. 15: 12 Mighty Orphans Sept. 22: Queen Bees Sept. 29: Roman Holiday

Page 14 The Granby Drummer September 2021

Social Services The focus of the Social Services Department is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents. For more information about any of the following programs, contact Director Sandy Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Granby Local Assistance Program

Granby residents facing financial hardship may access funds once in a 12-month period. The gross household income cannot exceed 60 percent of State Median Income, unless extenuating circumstances can be documented.

Elderly (65+) or Disabled Renters Rebate Applications for the Renters Rebate program will be accepted through Oct. 1. Maximum income guidelines are: $45,800 for Married Couple; $37,600 for Single.

Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2020. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible.

Renters Requirements (not comprehensive): Must have rented in Granby, CT during 2020 and currently reside in Connecticut.

Provide proof of rent paid in 2020. (e.g., rent receipts from landlord or cancelled checks).

Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2020 for electricity, gas, water and fuel.

Bring in proof of income. For example, Form SSA 1099, pensions, etc.

Resources and Services

Childcare: Additional resources and information regarding childcare can be found at the Office of Early Childhood at 1-800-5050-1000 or visit ct.gov/oec/ site/default.asp

Child Welfare Resources: Tools for supporting virtual times for families and child welfare workforce tools are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at cwig@ communications.childwelfare.gov Domestic Violence: If you need help or just someone to talk to, please visit CTSafeConnect.org or call or text 888774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.

Housing Resources and Utility Assistance Eversource: Contact our office for help with this or contact Eversource directly at 800-286-2000 Legal and Financial Information Legal Help: Greater Hartford Legal Aid is available to answer your questions about benefits that may be available to you, as well as other legal issues. For more information visit ghla.org/ You can also visit Statewide Legal Services at slsct.org or by calling 860-541-5070.

Mental Health and Emergencies: If you are experiencing a true medical emergency or crisis, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency room. You can also access mobile crisis services by dialing 211.

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800273- 8255 When it Builds Up, Talk it Out, a campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833-258-5011 or talkitoutct. com

Barred owl repeat visitor to Granby home Marty Wilmot took this photo in late July when she saw a large bird flying low across the back lawn. She thought it might be a hawk but then it landed on a large rock in a small pond and stayed for quite a while, possibly looking for frogs.

About a week later the barred owl again flew into the yard, perched on a branch and started a slow, continuous call. After a time, another owl flew across the yard and landed on a branch. The two then proceeded to call, presumably to each other.

Rent Assistance: For those struggling with rent payments Unite CT assists households in the 80 percent of area median income range. For Granby, the income limit for single renters is $54,950; two persons is $62,800.

Applications require both a renter and landlord component and is completed on-line at portal.ct.gov/DOH/DOH/ Programs/UniteCT Unemployment: Guidance on applying for Unemployment can be found at dol. gov/ or by calling 860-263-6000.

Food Resources

Granby Food Pantry: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street. Food Pantry Hours: Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. to Noon and Thursday, 2 to 2:30 p.m. Before using the Granby Food Pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-844-5350 to schedule.

Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen: Free meal available as drive up to pick up service every Wednesday, 3 to 5 p.m. at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome Mobile FoodShare: Every other Tuesday, 1:30–2 p.m. Please park behind South Congregational Church and Visiting Nurses Building only. Please remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather cancellations, visit foodshare.org Weekend Snack Packs: Located at First Church, 219 North Granby Rd., North Granby. Every Friday, 3-4 p.m.

Modeled after Hands on Hartford’s Backpack Nutrition Program, each bag will contain nutritious non-perishable snack packs for the weekend. Please enter church parking lot via North entrance on Stratton Road. Exit via North Church Road. Questions: Call First Church Granby at 860-653-4537.

SNAP: FoodShare will continue to facilitate SNAP applications by phone. For help with SNAP call 860286-9999 ext. 104. This process will take approximately 30 minutes and FoodShare will mail you a packet to sign and return.

As a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, I can help you navigate. With a goals based approach, Morgan Stanley has the expert resources and experience, to help keep your plan on the right track.

Advice matters.

Call us to learn more.

© 2020 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. FAS011 CRC 2644035 07/19 CS 9635814 09/19

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Q. I have been told I need a crown on a tooth. Is there a quicker way than the traditional two visits?

A. Yes, in the past, the process of making

an onlay or crown involved a series of appointments in our office, with a temporary crown for weeks, followed by the fabrication of the restoration in a dental laboratory.

Today, we have modern technology called CAD-CAM that allows us to custom create tooth-colored restorations, crowns and veneers right here in our office. In a single appointment we can prepare your tooth, create the restoration, and bond it in place!

The advantages of using the CAD-CAM fabrication technique include: •

Extremely accurate restorations can be produced

•

The procedures can be completed in a single appointment

•

There are no messy impressions

•

No temporary crowns that might fall off or be sensitive

•

The restorations are tooth-colored and natural looking, and they’re bonded in place.

The procedure involves the use of a special optical camera which is used to record the exact dimension of your prepared tooth. After we carefully design the restoration, we select an appropriate size and shade of porcelain to match your teeth. The material is placed into a miniature milling machine, followed by a special oven, and in less than 30 minutes, it’s carefully and meticulously shaped into a beautiful, custom restoration that fits your tooth precisely.

This revolutionary CAD-CAM unit allows us to preserve more healthy tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength! Patients are amazed at this incredible technology and can watch the entire process right in front of them.

The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%!

At the Granby Dental Center, we offer “Smile Vision,” which allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with whiter, straighter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION! If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com

Where is Your Plan Taking You? The path to achieving your goals isn’t always straight.

TOOTH TALK

Granby Dental Center…remember the Center Have you missed your last dental visit? Making sure you get to your preventive cleaning visits is the best way to keep your dental health in check and lower your costs as well!

Thomas D. Sullivan First Vice President Financial Advisor 433 South Main Street Suite 100 West Hartford, CT 06110 1-800-243-3154 thomas.d.sullivan@ms.com morganstanleyfa.com/willowgroup NMLS# 1853511

Call now for your appointment 860-653-3220.

Michael A. Ungerleider, DMD Vipasha Desai, DDS 41 Hartford Avenue, Granby 860-653-3220 Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com ADVERTISEMENT

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 15

CT Valley Views CTVV interviews Connecticut Conference of Municipalities

L-R: Rev. Henry Brown, Co-Founder of MUAV; Susan Patricelli Regan, Host of CTVV and Henrietta Beckman, President of MUAV

CTVV walks Hartford’s streets with Mothers United Against Violence The most critical areas of need in Connecticut are its urban cities where violence impacts not only the perpetrators’ hope for a better life but the innocent youths who lose their lives. Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT Valley Views, interviewed Rev. Henry Brown, co-founder of Mothers United Against Violence, President Henrietta Beckman of MUAV and Deborah Davis, program and development manager for MUAV, to enlighten the public on the continuing need to address the issues of crime, poverty, lack of education and basic human necessities in these communities.

See this illuminating segment on ctvalleyviews.com and follow the efforts of Mothers United Against Violence on muavct.org

Drumrolls Physical education major Maddee McGee, of Granby, was named to the dean’s list at Eastern Connecticut State University for the spring semester.

The Accounting Scholarship Foundation of the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants (CTCPA) recently presented GMHS student Spencer Bennett, of Granby, with a High School Scholarship at the CTCPA Accounting Scholarship Foundation Awards Night.

O’Brien

Nurserymen Open Garden Days September 3, 4 & 5 Dwarf & Compact Ginkgos for Golden Fall Color September 17, 18 & 19 Our Favorite Seedpod, on the Japanese Woodland Peony

CCM is the state’s largest, nonpartisan organization of municipal leaders, representing towns and cities of all sizes from all corners of Connecticut, with 168 member municipalities.

Its common mission is to improve everyday life for every state resident.

It shares best practices and objective research to help local leaders govern wisely. It advocates at the state level for issues affecting local taxpayers and pools buying power to negotiate more cost-effective services for communities.

Susan Patricelli spoke with CCM’s veteran president and CEO, Joe Delong, who discusses at length the status of the organization’s accomplishments and 2021/22 objectives. CCM is a valuable resource for Connecticut’s citizens and districts for its array of support departments managed by accomplished professionals. If you are unfamiliar with

L-R Susan Patricelli Regan and Joe DeLong, president and CEO of CCM

CCM, you may want to visit ccm-ct. org and refer your mayor, first selectman or town manager to CCM’s website.

There are cost savings to be realized for the many challenges faced by your town with CCM’s assistance.

See this segment on your local PATV channel’s airing schedule or always available on ctvalleyviews.com

Interview with activist Lori Hopkins Cavanaugh Lori Hopkins Cavanaugh is a political pundit and activist who has the courage to question the status of our state’s and country’s current cultural trends and administrative overreach. Her recent vocality and bodacious stances are evidenced on Gary Byron’s WDRC morning radio show. Cavanaugh’s out-of-mainstream opinions have incurred both supportive vocal responses and physical threats.

Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT Valley Views interviews this outspoken patriotic lightning rod in a segment that viewers will not want to miss. See it on ctvalleyviews.com Cavanaugh welcomes questions and comments via email to lorionliberty@gmail. com

Is your septic sick of you being home?

Time for a cleaning.

September 24, 25 & 26 Unique Conifers, for the Winter Garden

Hours: Friday 10-5; Saturdays 10-5; Sundays 10-5 (On Above Dates Only) Also by Appointment – Please Call Ahead Directions: From Granby Ctr., Jct. Rte 10/202 & Rte 20; West on Rte 20 to first light; Right on Rte 189 North; 1 ½ miles, Right onto Wells Rd; #40 Wells Road, ½ mile on Right 40 Wells Road Granby, CT 06035 • (860) 653-0163 • www.obrienhosta.com

ROBERT CARTER PAINTING QUALITY COMES FIRST • Interior • Exterior • Insured • Written Estimates

860-653-5859 RobertCarterPainting.com

20 Pendleton Rd. Granby, CT 06035 CT Lic. # 00559744

Page 16 The Granby Drummer

September 2021

Emerald Springs Equine Services up and running

By Shirley Murtha The horse farm at 31 Wells Road has sprung back to life as a non-profit organization whose mission is to help traumatized individuals, such as veterans, front-line workers and the grief-stricken, to deal with their trauma. Its title, Emerald Springs Equine Services, tells you that horses are an integral part of this process, but not in the way you might be thinking.

The trauma-informed care provided by the licensed therapists at Emerald Springs is not about getting clients up on the horses as physical therapy; instead, it helps them to find a way to conquer their stress, to develop “self-regulation” in the words of its founder and president Dr. Victoria Fleming, by developing a deeper relationship with these sentient beings.

Fleming is New England born, but lived in the mid-west for 37 years. She graduated from Indiana University in 1995 with a PhD in Educational Psychology and masters in counseling. After practicing outside the Chicago area for 17 years, Fleming made the move to Connecticut during the pandemic to be near her son and his wife who were about to have their first child.

While getting to know the area, a local clinician introduced her to Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, and after some research and visits to practicing farms, she was hooked. She and her son Steve Fydenkevez, who is now vice president of the Granby organization, decided it could be something that they could take on together.

Fleming’s practice, North Shore Counseling, opened its doors to provide trauma-informed care for all and the non-profit organization Emerald Springs Equine services was founded so that all who need services could receive them,

regardless of their ability to pay.

Some clients find their way to the farm from the Veterans Administration in Connecticut and Senator Richard Blumenthal’s office, but most hear about it by word-of-mouth. Fleming was eager but unable to start group programs during the pandemic but, with restrictions lifting, groups are set to begin in the fall.

After signing up for an appointment through the on-line portal or by phone, the next step is a private interview with Fleming in a comfortably furnished room adjacent to the large indoor arena. During this initial conversation, Fleming works with the client to set personalized goals and decide if an individual or group experience would best meet their needs.

Although there is no predetermined number of meetings for individual sessions, Fleming encourages a minimum of three; she notes that a dozen is typical. Groups run in six-week cycles.

The next step is for the client to choose the horse that will be his or her partner in therapy. Clients meet the horses as they graze peacefully in their various fields or paddocks. Some clients are so anxious that they worry they may choose “the wrong” horse; Fleming reassures them that there is no wrong horse, to just follow their instinct.

Fleming notes that because trauma often causes chaos and drama in the clients’ personal lives, building a safe relationship with the therapy horse enables them to develop important self-awareness and regulation skills. Assisted by Fleming, the clients identify traumatic events that trigger unhealthy reactions. Using skills they practice with the horse, they are better able to cope and self-regulate in times of stress.

For those interested in more intensive work, Fleming is in the process of installing large trailers on the property

Emerald Springs president, Victoria Fleming and her son, Steve Fydenkeviz, vice president.

Photos by Shirley Murtha

to accommodate overnight or weekend retreats.

Emerald Springs Psychotherapy is not just for military veterans and first responders; it is for anyone who is suffering from traumatic experiences.

Fleming’s clients include those who have strained marital or familial relationships, have experienced great loss and its associated grieving, are having difficulty coping with life stage changes or may be survivors of substance abuse.

Many of the horses in the program have been rescued themselves, in one way or another. Barn manager Rachel Fleury has procured several feral mustangs made available through the Bureau of Land Management, while others were in less-than-ideal circumstances and in need of a good home. Armed with a college degree in the equine profession and plenty of experience, she gentles them into the friendly creatures so integral to the Emerald Springs program. Some clients may choose to linger on a bench in what Fleming calls the Mary Garden.

A statue of Mary is surrounded by rose bushes in a quiet place on the property.

This gives a client the time to process what they have experienced before they head back out into the world at large.

Drumrolls

At the American Legion State Convention in July, GMHS 1980 graduate Jim Groskritz-George was named commander of the year for the State of Connecticut.

George was awarded the recruiter of the year for the state, and placed fourth nationally in the recruiter category.

Matthew Russ Heller graduated magna cum laude from Saint Michael’s

T

This all sounds like, and is, a serious sobering process, but Fleming is not all work and no play. She is a vibrant outgoing personality whose love of her profession is evident, and perhaps to keep herself balanced and have a bit of fun, she is a member of the Tori Manion Band. The group plays classic rock covers; she sings! She says singing is the perfect metaphor. “Everyone has a story.

Everyone has trauma to various degrees.

Our ability to survive and find our voice after hard times, that’s a triumph everyone can experience. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy can be a vital first step for people in that process.”

The Mary Garden, a spot of quiet reflection on the Manion Farm

College with a B.A, in media studies and digital arts.

Saint Anselm College student Claire E. Newhall, a fine arts major in the class of 2022, was inducted into the Tau Chapter of the Delta Epsilon Sigma National Scholastic Honor Society for the 20202021 academic year. Newhall was also named to the spring 2021 dean’s list.

Horse manager Rachel Fleury (r.) with therapy pony Chico, a rescue from Chincoteague.

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September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 17

Open Farm Day returns to Granby!

By Heather Lombardo

www.granbyag.org

One of Granby’s most beloved events is back: Open Farm Day, a free experience for Granby and surrounding communities, will be held on Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. After planning was paused in 2020 due to pandemic safety concerns, the Granby Agricultural commission is thrilled to resume this fun family event.

Over a dozen participating Granby farms will showcase their goods and offer fun, informative attractions including wagon rides, apple picking, plant dividing demos, barn and dairy operation tours, pony rides, beekeeping demos, sheep shearing, equestrian demos and veterinarian talks. Kids will enjoy the farm animals and adults the beer and wine tastings!

A testament to Granby’s thriving agricultural community, two new farms have been added to the Open Farm Day line-up: Addison Farm, an organic hemp grower on Wells Road, and Coward Farm, where pumpkins and tobacco are grown on North Granby Road. You can see the full farm line-up on GranbyAg.org and elsewhere in this issue of the Drummer.

Another new addition to Open Farm Day 2021 is a key sponsor, the Granby Land Trust, a local organization committed to acquiring and preserving prime agricultural land for use by some of our town’s most treasured farms. Farm visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about GLT during Open Farm Day or by visiting GranbyLandTrust.org The Granby Drummer is also a key sponsor and longtime supporter of Open Farm Day. Contributing sponsors are Salmon Brook Veterinarian Hospital, Horses & Hounds and Granby Family Eye Care.

A map listing participating farms and a schedule of events will be provided at each farm. That and other information can also be found on granbyag.org and in this edition of the Drummer. You can follow Granby Ag on Facebook and Instagram.

See you on Open Farm Day! and a hay bale throwing contest with prizes for all ages.

Lyric Hill Farm 134 Hungary Road, Granby lyrichillfarm.com

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Lyric Hill is a small family farm dedicated to sustainable growing practices and educating the public. It uses fresh milk from a herd of Alpine dairy goats and a variety of herbs and wild harvested botanicals grown and collected on the farm to make soaps and other eco-friendly, farmbased products. The farm store is open yearround. On Open Farm Day, Lyric Hill visitors can meet the goats and watch the milking process, learn how to use and preserve fresh herbs and flowers, observe the soap making process and browse Lyric Hill’s handcrafted products for sale.

Sweet Pea Cheese/House of Hayes 151 East Street, North Granby Check us out on Facebook

Maple View Farm 192 Salmon Brook Street, Granby mapleviewhorsefarm.com

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Maple View Farm is a long-standing working farm on 50 acres in the center of Granby. The farm is home to horses, pigs and chickens in addition to the farmers who, for four generations, have farmed the property. The pasture-based operation provides meat, veggies, eggs and

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other local products to neighbors through the Farm Store. The on-farm Brewery offers beer brewed with local and farm grown ingredients.

The Farmhouse, booked through Airbnb, offers guests a taste of what it is like to live on a working farm (rooster crow wake up calls and all).

On Open Farm Day, Maple View offers selfguided tours, pony rides from 1 to 3 p.m., farm picnic food, live music, “Ask the Farmer” sessions

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Lost Acres Vineyard 80 Lost Acres Road, North Granby lostacresvineyard.com

In the 1700s Lost Acres was a political noman’s land known as “the Wedge.” In the early 1800s, the Wedge’s free-spirited, cider distilling, hill farmers populated the area. At Lost Acres Vineyard, owners Kevin Riggott and Michelle Niedermeyer, continue this tradition with grape wine. A former apple orchard, Lost Acres Vineyard reclaimed this land in 2008, and is now home to five acres of wine grapes, contributing to the agricultural spirit and the natural beauty of Granby.

On Open Farm Day, the vineyard will have free samples of its new blueberry grape wine, Belden Brook Blue, and demonstrations with an old-style wine press. Visitors can take a winemaker’s tour of the cellar to learn about the winemaking process and sample fresh pressed grape juice.

Food by Avon Prime Meats will be available from 12 to 5 p.m.

Sepe Farm (sepefarm.com) sheep shearing team—Peter and Carolyn Sepe, Erin Sepe Pirro and Jonathan Pirro—will be at the vineyard to demonstrate fall sheep shearing, wool spinning and a felting craft for kids. Knitting classes

4

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The dairy cows at House of Hayes have moo-ved into the future with two state-of-the-art robotic milking units. It has now been four years since the robots were installed and have been well accepted by the cows. Come see the cows being milked from the viewing room open to the public. Sweet Pea Cheese at the House of Hayes milks a herd of dairy goats and processes milk, yogurt and cheese.

Open Farm Day activities at the House of Hayes include self-guided tours of the dairy and cheese-making facilities. Visitors can enjoy free bite-sized goat cheese samples. The retail store will be open selling pasteurized whole goat and cow milk, along with yogurt, feta cheese and chèvre, a goat cheese prepared according to the French tradition.

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Lost Acres Orchard 130 Lost Acres Road, North Granby lostacres.com

Since the ‘70s the Wutka family at Lost Acres Orchard has grown peaches, apples, quince and pears. In the fall, you can pick your own apples or buy them already picked. They also sell local winter squash, pumpkins and gourds.

The orchard’s kitchen staff stays busy all year round baking and selling their popular pies and a variety of baked goods and soups, quiches, jams and more. The orchard expands its hours during the fall fruit season giving visitors more time to enjoy lunch and hot apple crisp with ice cream on the front porch or select something to take home.

On Open Farm Day, enjoy complimentary wagon rides through the orchard. The bakery will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with pastries, pies, jams and more. Farmhouse Lunch available 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring wraps, salads, mac and cheese, hot apple crisp and other favorites.

(Visit LostAcres.com for full menu.)

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Granby Grange #5 212 North Granby Road (Route 189), Granby CTstateGrange.org

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The Grange is a venerable rural community organization and has been helping farms since 1875. On Open Farm Day, the Grange will offer a beekeeping and honey demonstration as well as Grange building tours, a vegetable stand, mum sale, teacup auction, balloon animals and raffle items throughout the day.

Addison Farm 37 Wells Road, Granby happyaddison.com

Addison Farm is one of Granby’s newest agricultural additions. In 2019, Andrew and Courtney Hurczyn along with their daughter, Addison, made the switch from corporate careers to organic farming and began a pesticide free hemp farm and CBD company located in the heart of Granby. Addison Farm uses their organically grown, pesticide free hemp to make their Addison Farm Full Spectrum CBD oil and lotion. The family also grows pesticide free vegetables offered for sale at their roadside farm stand. On Open Farm Day, Addison Farm will offer guided Farm tours, hemp and CBD presentations, Q & A sessions and will have CBD products on hand for purchase.

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O’Brien Nursery 40 Wells Road, Granby OBrienHosta.com

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O’Brien Nursery is known far and wide for its hosta offerings and has grown into a destination for unique shade perennials, in addition to a wide selection of conifers, special Japanese maples, and numerous dwarf Ginkgo selections. On open

Page 18 The Granby Drummer Farm Day, nurseryman John O’Brien invites the community to discover the pleasure of plants and explore an impressive six acres of display gardens. O’Briens will also feature hosta dividing demonstrations at 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.

Coward Farm 170 North Granby Road, Granby cowardfarms.com

The Coward Farm is Granby’s newest working farm. Located on the former Maplewood Farm land once owned by Dr. Forrest Davis and protected by a conservation easement (acquired with financial support from the Granby Land Trust, the Town of Granby and the State of Connecticut), John and Teresa Coward obtained the vacant dairy farm on North Granby Road and now grow tobacco and pumpkins. The tobacco grown at Coward Farm is sold to the U.S. Cigar manufacturer General Cigar, which manufactures cigars around the world. The pumpkins are sold at the Southwick Coward Farm.

On Open Farm Day, folks will get a tour of the farm, learn how tobacco is grown and cut, how a curing shed works and how the tobacco gets used for cigars. At press time, they were awaiting confirmation that a representative from the Cigar manufacturer would be on site.

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Clark Farms at Bushy Hill Orchard 29 Bushy Hill Road, Granby Bushyhill.com

Clark Farm at Bushy Hill Orchard in Granby is one of three farms run by the Clark family. Bushy Hill is a 75-acre farm/orchard growing apples, blueberries, peaches, plums, pears, nectarines, and vegetables. The farm is open seasonally, offering a farm to table café, the new Bushy Hill Cidery Pub, ice cream and a full bakery, including the famous apple cider donuts, plus pick your own apples and blueberries. The farm offers a great location for family outings and small events. There are many things to check out at the farm and farm store: sweet and hard apple cider pressed fresh from the farm, a variety of local products, and flowers from its Goodyear Farm location in Suffield.

On Open Farm Day you will have the opportunity to pick-your-own apples from 17 varieties, take a wagon ride, and sample those famous homemade apple cider donuts!

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Valkyrie Equestrian Center 175 Barndoor Hills Road, Granby ValkyrieEquestrianCenter.com

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Valkyrie Equestrian Center is heading into its 23rd year in Granby. The full-service boarding, lesson and show facility focuses on the care and well-being of both horse and rider. Valkyrie

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trains in hunter, jumper and equitation disciplines and accommodates both beginners as well as those with national competition goals. On Open Farm Day, guests can tour the barn, meet the horses and will be treated to a horse jumping demonstration at 1 p.m. and pony rides between 2 and 4 p.m.

Holcomb Farm CSA 111 Simsbury Road, West Granby holcombfarm.org

Holcomb Farm was a gift from siblings Tudor and Laura Holcomb to Granby in 1992 and continues as a town-owned historic property open to the public. Today, the Friends of Holcomb Farm (FOHF) operate Holcomb Farm as a working farm with fields full of fresh, chemical-free produce. The FOHF also maintains miles of hiking trails throughout the 312 acres, and is developing a Tree Trail in the fields to the east of Simsbury Road. The Friends of Holcomb Farm are committed to preserving this expansive green space through sustainable programming: sustainability in farming, woodlands management, and costeffective stewardship of the farm for the benefit of the Granby community. As part of its non-profit mission, and with the generous support of donors and granting agencies, the FOHF Fresh Access program provides a portion of its harvest to social service agencies in Hartford and Granby.

On Open Farm Day, experience a cooking demo from celebrity chef Chris Prosperi of Metro Bis, a wildlife exhibition, guided hikes and a “guess the garlic” contest.

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Angel Horses Inc. 12 Knollwood Lane, West Granby angelhorses.org

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The mission of Angel Horses Inc. is to provide a permanent retirement sanctuary for horses that have been teachers and healers in the therapeutic world. These special horses receive

nurturing, companionship and love for the rest of their days. In addition, this past year, Angel Horses Inc. partnered with other rescues to save three horses from the slaughter pipeline and provide them a permanent and peaceful home. These efforts are made possible through volunteers and generous donations. Angel Horses Inc. is also a place where humans can come to connect with these sensitive beings. On Open Farm Day, visitors can experience a farm tour and meet the horses, mini donkeys, goats and sheep that call the farm home.

Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital (Stationed at Angel Horse Rescue, 12 Knollwood Lane, West Granby) salmonbrookvets.com

Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital has been caring for farm families and their animals for more than 60 years. Dr. Milkey started the practice in 1953 on his horse farm on Hungary Road.

Since that time, the SBVH staff has forged long lasting client relationships based on progressive medicine and a fundamental concern for the wellbeing of all animals. Its fully equipped ambulatory trucks allow staff to provide both medical and surgical care for animals on the farm. It offers digital x-ray, ultrasound and endoscopy services at the farm as well as in the hospital along with general medical and lameness examinations and a full array of laboratory analysis. The depth of expertise with a ten-doctor practice and compassionate staff allows SBVH to provide the best in veterinary medicine for both farm and companion animals.

At Open Farm Day, the Salmon Brook ambulatory truck will be stationed at Angel Horse Rescue where visitors can meet one of the large animal veterinarians, see the equipment used to care for farm animals and watch Dr. Weber’s afternoon presentation on Equine Rescue techniques.

Open Farm Day is sponsored by The Granby Agricultural Commission and by:

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September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 19

What’s so great about Open Farm Day? Lots of things! Here’s what some of the participants have to say.

Andrew Hurczyn of Addison Farm: OFD is a great way to share agriculture with the local community. Often we go through our daily routine and overlook the fact that many of the products that we eat or use daily are grown or made on local farms by real people, your neighbors, working long hours. While we grow vegetables and have a flock of chickens to provide eggs to offer to the community, our main crop and business is our hemp. Crude oil is extracted from the hand-picked hemp flowers and formulated into our very own Addison Farm Full Spectrum CBD products. We can’t wait to share our passion and knowledge about these products with our visitors.

Pam and Steve Traun of Angel Horses: All of us at Angel Horses are looking forward to participating in OFD this year. This event provides an opportunity for those who don’t know who we are to visit and find out about our special animals. It also provides an opportunity for some students and parents who have participated or may participate in our Middle School after school club to be with the horses. We are grateful for the opportunity to have some interesting demonstrations: Rachel Fleury will do a therapy session with a horse, a veterinarian from Salmon Brook will show some exam techniques, and there will be some adorable mini horses.

Becky Clark of Clark Farms Bushy Hill: The part I like best about OFD is getting to have good conversations with the visitors. Our days are normally so hectic that we hardly have time to get to know our customers. I’m sure we will have a lot of questions about the making of the hard cider, and it will be nice to be able to explain the process. I also love that families can have a nice day here, walking through the orchard and visiting the animals. Everyone loves the goats!

Teresa Coward of Coward Farms: For us, being a new and different kind of farm in town, OFD presents the opportunity to meet local people and explain what tobacco farming entails. We look forward to showing people around and answering questions.

Jenny Emery for Holcomb Farm: Engaging the community in this town

2021 Granby Open Farm Day Events Open Farm Day Events • Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021 10:00 AM

10:30 AM

11:00 AM

11:30 AM

12:00 PM

12:30 PM

1:00 PM

1:30 PM

Ask the Farmer - Meet in Front of Horse Barn

1. Maple View Farm

2:00 PM

2:30 PM

3:00 PM

3:30 PM

4:00 PM

3pm: Hay Bale Throwing Contest. Prizes in 4 categories: Men 13 and up, Women 13 and up, Kids 12 and under, Kids 12 and under

Ask the Farmer Meet in Front of Horse Barn Live music 11 - 2pm

Live music 3 - 6pm

All day: Self-guided tours, farm picnic food, new beer release 2. Lyric Hill Farm

Meeting and milking the goats

Using and preserving fresh herbs and flowers

Soap making process

All day: Farm store open, visit with animals and tour farm 3. Sweet Pea Cheese/ House of Hayes

4. Lost Acres Vineyard

All day: Self-guided tours of the dairy and cheese-making facilities, free goat cheese samples, farm store open

Knitting class (preregistration required)

Sepe Farm kids felting activity

Sepe Farm sheep shearing demo

Knitting class (pre-registration required

Wine cellar tour

Sepe Farm wool spinning demo

Sepe Farm sheep shearing demo

Pre-register for knitting classes at GranbyAg.org or http://www.morehousefarm.com/product/ Granby-classes)

All day: Wagon rides, and bakery open 9-5

5. Lost Acres Orchard

Farmhouse lunch available 10:30-3:30

All day: Beekeeping demonstration, building tours, vegetable stand, mum sale, teacup auction and raffle items, balloon animals.

6. Granby Grange

All day: Farm tours, learn how tobacco is grown and cut, how a curing shed works and how the tobacco gets used for cigars.

7. Coward Farm

8. Addison Farm

Guided farm tour, hemp & CBD presentation, Q & A*

Guided farm tour, hemp & CBD presentation, Q & A*

Guided farm tour, hemp & CBD presentation, Q & A*

All day: CBD products available for purchase, farm stand open * Meet in driveway next to red barn for tours 10:45 - Hosta dividing presentation

9. O'Brien Nursery

11:45 - Hosta dividing presentation

All day: Discover the pleasure of plants - explore six acres of display gardens!

All day: Apple picking, wagon rides, cider donuts, farm store and Bushy Hill Cidery open

10. Clark Farm

Jumping demonstration

11. Valkyrie Equestrian Center

Pony rides 2pm - 4pm

All day: Barn tours - meet the horses!

Cooking demo with celebrity chef Chris 12. Holcomb Farm Prosperi of (CSA barn 111 Metro Bis Simsbury Rd)

11am: Guided hikes of the Friends of Holcomb Farm's growing Tree Trail (Meet at main campus of Holcomb farm 115 Simsbury Rd)

1pm: Guided hikes of the Friends of Holcomb Farm's growing Tree Trail (Meet at main campus of Holcomb farm - 115 Simsbury Rd)

10am - 2pm: CT DEEP Wildlife exhibit

13. Angel Horses

Farm tour meet the animals

Healing light demonstration from Miniature horse Rachel Fleury of demonstration Alchemy Equine

by Mary Adams Bodywork All day: Meet Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital's large animal vets, explore the ambulatory truck and watch a presentation on equine rescue techniques

treasure and supporting the broader agricultural community are key priorities of the Friends of Holcomb Farm, and OFD allows us to do both, and also to emphasize our model of sustainability.

We farm without chemicals, organically enriching the soil as needed; we seek grants and donations to support providing a portion of the food we grow to people who otherwise would not have access; we build and maintain hiking trails and the new Tree Trail so people can experience the historic landscape—all with an eye toward permanent preservation. If OFD allows one more family to discover this community resource for its next hike, entices one more Granby student to pursue a career in agriculture or other environmental endeavor, or encourages one more donor to support our efforts to make our food available to people in need, then it is all worth it.

Susan Accetura of Lost Acres Orchard: We love OFD! It’s always great to see new faces. I think the best part is that it opens up farms that many people would

not normally see. We always encourage our visitors to check out the other places participating.

Nancy Butler of Lyric Hill Farm: My favorite part of OFD is being able to give visitors a glimpse of daily life on a small farm and offer information on raising animals and plant growing methods. It is my hope that people will be inspired by visiting our wonderful local farms to try to raise their own animals or grow plants for beauty or food. I love to see little kids get excited about interacting with the animals or getting to sit on a tractor. You never know who might decide to become a vet or farmer because their parents took them to a farm!

Kate Bogli of Maple View Farm: We love participating in OFD! I think it’s really important for visitors to get to talk to farmers and be able to walk around the farm to see how everything works.

OFD is a great opportunity for farmers to show off their hard work, to talk to customers for an extended time, answering questions you might not have time or opportunity to do on a regular business day. Farms are unique, as they are not just working to create food and fiber on the land, but also, they often have so much history tied up in the land they farm. Getting kids involved and speaking to them frankly about where their food comes from is one of my favorite parts of OFD. John O’Brien of O’Brien Nursery: We here at the nursery enjoy OFD because it’s fun to open visitors’ eyes to what is going on here. It’s amazing how often we hear, “I drive by all the time and never realized all this is back here!” It’s great that Granby has so many unique farms to showcase on this day. ­—Compiled by Shirley Murtha

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Page 20 The Granby Drummer

Meet me at

the bridge

By Faith Tyldsley

Simsbury’s heart beats here Here come the hikers, cyclists, photographers, artists and birdwatchers.

Mothers sit and visit, children explore, families picnic, businesspeople meet clients, senior citizens mingle. Dogs step out with their humans. Yoga and Tai Chi classes flow. The community green space at the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge and adjacent Hop Brook Landing Park is a great meeting spot.

This year, 2021, marks a quarter century since an iron bridge was transformed to become the Flower Bridge we celebrate today. Happy Silver Anniversary to Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge!

On the bridge: color, movement and memories A succession of 72 flower boxes and 32 hanging baskets bloom along the bridge in colors as varied as royal purple and lime green. An additional 14 column baskets adorn Hop Brook Landing Park, and a cottage garden thrives at the east end of the bridge. River breezes and vibrant blooms engage in a swaying dance. Each container includes an engraved plaque,

Enjoying the bridge.

nestled within the foliage. Plaques are personalized by their sponsors with a family name, in honor of a loved one, or with a quote.

“The earth laughs in flowers.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.”

– Lady Bird Johnson Some plants are chosen for those with limited vision, using flowers with vibrant colors and distinctive textures. Parrot’s beak (Lotus berthelotii) is a stunning tropical plant with red, orange and yellow blooms specially chosen for its soft textured foliage. Lamb’s ear (Stacys byzantina) is well known for its wooly, velvety leaves.

Merganser hen and ducklings.

Photo by Rich Warters

Often, birds build their nests in boxes, baskets and in the bridge’s girders. Butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, wasps and beetles love this stop on the pathway for pollinators. Great blue heron fish in view of the bridge, visiting from the rookery downriver. Bald eagles make regular flyovers and ducks paddle along. It’s a symphony of flora and fauna.

Looking back to 1892 The iron bridge seen today was constructed in 1892, with a narrow one-lane roadway designed in an age before motor vehicles. Once cars began to cross the bridge, long-time Simsbury residents

September 2021

remember that etiquette was “first come, first served.” Stand-offs occurred when a driver started across the bridge out of turn. No doubt some interesting negotiations took place when two vehicles met in the middle!

The design, manufacture, and construction of the 1892 bridge, described as “a unique example of 19th century metaltruss bridge construction,” was overseen

by John E. Buddington, an engineer from New Haven. Of note, Buddington was a controversial figure. He was known to criticize the work of other engineers, who in turn described his designs as “eccentricities.” Despite this long-ago drama, Buddington’s 129-year-old bridge still stands today. It spans 183 feet with a 12-foot roadway, and is suspended 18 feet over the Farmington River.

A town struggling with change The bridge became impassable in 1955, following the historic flooding caused by hurricanes Connie and Diane. Once waters receded, it required ongoing repairs. Simsbury residents began to debate the future of their bridge: To renovate the old bridge or to build a new one?

Simsbury was proud to be incorporated as Connecticut’s 21st town in 1670, but also knew that modernization was key to growth and prosperity. Would a new bridge support the needs of the growing town or forever alter life in this historic community?

Monarch on strawflowers.

Discussions continued for decades until finally, in March 1983, taxpayers voted to approve the expenditure of local funds for a new bridge. In 1992, the new Drake Hill Bridge, just a few hundred feet north of the original bridge, was opened to 20th century traffic.

Saving the old bridge… and restoring it Now a different debate arose, as citizens grappled with what to do with the old bridge. Some felt that it should be demolished. Others, with wise foresight, submitted an application on behalf of the bridge to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The bridge’s

Flower Bridge cont’d. on p. 21

Silver Anniversary of Simsbury’s Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge 1996-2021

Photo by Ali M. Vassigh

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 21

Flower Bridge cont’d. from p 20 protection was ensured in 1984 when the NRHP deemed it a “historic place worthy of preservation.”

In the 1990s, Anita Mielert, a Simsbury selectman at the time, secured a government grant to restore the bridge. The Federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Act of 1991 stipulated that, if the town paid 20 percent of the cost, its grant would cover the remaining 80 percent.

The restoration took place in 1995.

Lead paint was removed and bracings were replaced under the bridge. The structure was given a fresh coat of paint and a new wooden deck was installed. The full cost for restoration was $472,000. Happily, the bridge re-opened to pedestrian and bicycle traffic, but this was not the end of the story!

Debut of the Flower Bridge In 1996, Simsbury resident Dominique Avery energized town officials, local businesses and citizens with her passionate call to develop a community garden on and around the historic Old Drake Hill Bridge. A visit to the acclaimed Shelburne Falls Bridge of Flowers, planted in 1929 in northern Massachusetts, inspired Avery to similarly beautify the old iron bridge back home in Simsbury.

“She [Avery] contacted all the town organizations that had anything to do with gardening and tourism, the relevant town agencies and local garden center for an exploratory meeting. She outlined her vision: “… a veritable ‘Hanging Gardens of Babylon’ with thousands of flowers spilling from window boxes and hanging baskets.” (Flower Bridge records, 1996) In the summer of 1997, the first phase of Avery’s vision took form with just four flower boxes. From the start, this

Amber and Charlie enjoy the cottage gardens on a Sunday afternoon.

was a shared community project, with Simsbury high school students constructing the boxes, local garden centers donating flowers, and volunteers planting them.

Since that first summer, the Flower Bridge has grown exponentially and now boasts 118 containers. Flower Bridge cochairs Deeg Mackay and Sharene Wassell note that there is a waiting list for future sponsors. But Avery’s vision has been realized with every available space filled with stunning flower boxes and baskets.

How does it all work?

Jan Lintner is the lead designer for the 104 flower boxes and baskets on the Flower Bridge and has held this position for 12 years. Marilynn Palmer designs the recently added 14 column baskets in Hop Brook Landing Park.

Each fall Lintner presides over a design review to assess each plant’s bloom time, color and adaptability to bridge conditions. It is interesting to note that

On Memorial Day weekend, Jan Lintner and Tom Gauvin moved baskets from Pickin’ Patch to the bridge.

Photo by Deeg Mackay

full glory throughout the summer, and on the same plant may respond differently into September or even October, dependdepending on which side of the bridge it ing on the timing of the first hard frost. is growing, due to varying wind and sun Dedicated volunteers come every day to conditions. During these reviews, decikeep the containers and cottage garden sions are made to phase out some plants impeccably maintained and photo-ready and introduce others. In 2020, petunias for the newly engaged couples, wedding were retired because they are difficult to parties, and everyone who visits. maintain. This year, strawberries were introduced – a success story! Little red Connection fruits peeking from the foliage of comOnce upon a time, in a small town panion plants give called Simsbury, Burgers on the Bridge visitors a cheery surthere was a river. As Wednesday, Sept. 8 4-6:30 p.m. often happens with prise. (rain date Sept. 9) As winter apriver towns, people proaches, the bridge This community cookout, catered by lived on both sides. takes on a festive Fitzgerald’s Foods, is the annual fun- A bridge spanned air, when evergreens draiser for the Flower Bridge. Tickets the river, connectand red bows take are sold on-site. Burgers, hotdogs, ing people with each center stage for the veggie burgers, beer, wine, soda, other and with their cold months ahead. and water are available. Desserts are town. As time passed, In December, Lintner served on the bridge itself. What a the bridge grew old orders next summer’s fabulous way to hold a fundraiser: and its future was unplants from Pickin’ friends, food and flowers! certain. But the town Patch, a 350-year-old worked together to family-owned and save the bridge and operated farm in Avon. Baskets are create a new kind of connector: a place planted at the farm in April, where they full of life with deep roots, open skies stay for two months to get a head start in and framed in flowers. the shelter of a greenhouse.

Connections are powerful life supports.

On Memorial Day weekend, the preMake a call or send a text this week to a planted baskets and individual plants for special person in your life. All you need the boxes are transported to the bridge for to say are five little words, “Meet me at installation. The Flower Bridge is in its the bridge.”

Photos by Faith Tyldsley except where noted.

Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge (ODHFB), Inc. is a tax-exempt non-profit corporation under Section 501(c) (3).

Find the Flower Bridge: 1 Old Bridge Road, Simsbury, CT 06070 simsbury-ct. gov>>Visit<<Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge Facebook @OldDrakeHillFlowerBridge Reserve use of the bridge for a special event: Contact the Simsbury Culture, Parks and Recreation Department at 860-658-3836. Fee: $50.

Become a volunteer: Contact Jan Lintner at 860-651-0180 regarding gardening and administrative opportunities.

Drumrolls The following students graduated from the University of Connecticut in December 2020 and May 2021: From East Granby: Antonia Anderson Curtis, Jolie Elizabeth Berger, Susan J. Chang, Aleksandar Dokmanovic, Megan M. Fitzsimons, Noah Cyrus Greer, Christopher Milton Jacobs, Elizabeth Marie Jacobs, Rebecca Jun, Samuel Rand Kilby, Alisha

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Kumar, Sarah Elizabeth Martin, Jason Michael Reese, Sarah Soucy and Dillon Tyman; from Granby: Jon Robert Antkowiak, Jessica May Askew, Sarah Linda Carson, Benjamin Florian, Jonah C. Garcia, John Francis Kelleher, Kelly-Anne Elaine Moffa, Julia Arlene Moody, Alexander Isaiah Murray, Rose Luong Nguyen, Heather J Payton, Igor I. Serebriakov, Nickolai Serebriakov, Emma Lauren Sheahan, Trevor Moran Smith, Samuel T. Spak, Rachel Sullivan, Steven Walsh and Jordan Lindsey Weber; from North Granby: Grant Dorman, Sarah Jan Fede, Gage James Fiorentino, Zachary Flanagan, Nicholas Dominic Mazzucco, Abigail Young Phillips and Brendan Matthew Sayers; from West Granby: Krista Mitman.

The following students were named to the dean’s list at the University of Connecticut for the spring semester: from East Granby: Kyle Archibald, Aleksandra Fiedziukiewicz, Rachel Griffin, Tiffanie Hill-Moreau, Elizabeth Jacobs, Madeline Moore and Noah Swanson; from Granby: Jon Antkowiak, Sarah Cusano, Jimmy Gnesda, Samantha Gove, Lauren Grashaw, Adam Kinsley, Amelia Mezger, Kelly-Anne Moffa, Erin Moody, Julia Moody, Jacob Payton, Madeline Peling, Dwaritha Ramesh, Emma Sheahan, Katherine Smith, Samuel Spak and Mackenzie Stahl; from North Granby: Grant Dorman, Sarah Fede, Abigail Phillips and Andrew Phillips.

Page 22 The Granby Drummer

September 2021

Waypoints

By Mark Fiorentino

There being no rule to the contrary, I laughed hysterically at Dorman’s tangled mess. Photos by Mark Fiorentino

Fishing Rules of Etiquette You might think my fishing buddies and I have a certain level of sophistication and refinement. At a minimum, you’re thinking, enough to establish rules of etiquette that govern our behavior when we are out on the boat together.

Rules that prohibit, or at the very least, discourage, inappropriate behavior.

If you were actually thinking about this: 1) no offense, but COVID may have kept you cooped up too long; and 2) you don’t know my fishing buddies very well.

I, on the other hand, facing a looming deadline, had no choice but to think about it. I thought and thought. But, as I racked my brain, all I could come up with were rules that we should have. Rules governing things like: Smelly Jelly Smelly Jelly is a fish attractant, a product you use to coat your lure or bait with the hope that some combination of its smell and chemical make-up will entice fish to bite more and/or hold on longer.

In theory, there is nothing wrong with fish attractants, except Smelly Jelly is a particularly putrid brand. To get a sense of how putrid, you need not move past its name. Say it slowly: “Smelly… Jelly,” with the emphasis on “Smelly.” Other popular brands have names like Baitmate Dip, BANG, Gulp Alive and Hog Tonic.

Take my word for it, it’s gorge-retching. But because there is no rule against it, my friend Dave regularly uses, and often spills, his favorite jar of it. I have nearly vomited days after fishing with him merely walking past my boat.

Common Courtesy Imagine this scene. My buddies and I stop for coffee and a bagel on the way to the lake. We are all partial to pumpernickel bagels, but the bagel shop always has a very limited supply. As we get out of the truck in the parking lot, almost before the truck comes to a complete stop, I purposely trip my friend John.

He executes a perfect gymnast’s role and tackles me. Dave, seeing us so engaged and sensing an opportunity, bolts for the shop’s front door. John and I disengage

and race to beat him to the door, where we all push each other to be the first inside.

We, of course, would never act that way for a bagel. But we routinely do such things for a big fish. Or, even the prospect, no matter how remote, of a big fish.

The key to catching big fish is often making the perfect cast when you first reach a new fishing spot. And the key to a perfect cast is often timing and having the right casting angle. So, naturally, we jockey to be in position to make the first cast. Whoever is steering the boat will approach in a way that best cuts off all angles but his own. As the boat begins to slow, and most times long before an accurate cast can be made by anyone, everyone rushes to cast around, past and over each other. This usually results in, best-case scenario, spooked fish, and worst case, severely tangled lines.

Flatulence Believe me, there are times when I almost instituted a flatulence rule on the spot. There have also been times when I thought about putting such a rule in writing and making my buddies actually sign something before they board the boat. But I never actually do it because, frankly, if you’re not going to have a rule prohibiting Smelly Jelly, what would be the point?

Empathy Back in the bagel shop. If Dave dropped his wallet, and if when he bent over to pick it up, his shorts slipped down just enough to expose a little butt crack, you would not expect the rest of us to laugh hysterically. Nor would you expect us to point out his mishap to everyone else in the shop. And on this point, you would be right (I think).

But there is no such restraint when we’re fishing together. I have laughed until I cried seeing things like Dorman with his line tangled so badly that he would undoubtedly miss significant fishing time trying to fix it. And heaven forbid if you should lose a big fish that everyone saw right at the boat. If you do, you are likely

to be subjected to some combination of mocking, lecturing and scorn.

Which brings me to the one rule we do have: Manning the Net On its face, the rule is simple. If you hook into a fish that you think is worthy of assistance landing, you say —or yell— forcefully and clearly: “NET.” The person closest to you is then required to stop whatever they are doing, grab the net, and properly land your fish.

But, being who we are, the rule isn’t without nuances. There can be no hesitation or ambiguity in your declaration. “net.”

“Net?” “This could be a nice one.”

“Can someone grab the net?”

All of these authorize, and will result in, everyone on board ignoring you. They also prohibit you from complaining about losing a big fish, and from even claiming you hooked one at all.

And you must take great care to never, ever call for the net when you have hooked an unimpressive fish, or worse yet, a sunken tree branch. Two things will happen. First, for a period of at least an hour, everyone will ignore your calls for the net. And second, you will be subject to ridicule for no less than the rest of the trip, and possibly for weeks to come.

For a complete understanding of this, see the discussion above regarding our lack of rules governing empathy.

Luckily for me, a buddy unfamiliar with the rules fell for: “This is a big weakfish.”

Drumrolls Samantha Gove, of Granby, a freshman psychology and sociology dual major at University of Connecticut, was named to the spring dean’s list.

Jacob Audet and Nicole Gosselin, both of East Granby, were named to the dean’s list at the University of New England for the spring semester.

Andrew Main, of Granby, graduated summa cum laude in May from the University of Rhode Island with a double major B.A. degree in criminal justice and journalism.

Sydney Faye Longley, of East Granby, graduated from Saint Michael’s College with a B.S., Summa Cum Laude in mathematics and education studies.

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September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 23

Making streets safer for non-drivers Bicyclists, walkers and runners all have a right to use Granby’s roads, and drivers are legally and morally obliged to exercise care. But accidents and near misses still occur and each side blames the other.

The focus here will be on what measures bikers, walkers and runners can take to improve their personal safety. The most important measure is to be alert and mindful of where you are in relation to traffic and potential hazards.

• Plan your road use for times of the day that roads are least trafficked, and there is good light. It’s no fun to bike or run along Route 20 during the morning commute!

• Use a rear mirror when biking, mounted on your handlebar or your helmet.

Don’t be surprised by what is behind you.

• In low light, use lights on your bike, or carry a flashlight if walking or running.

Make sure the lights are bright enough to be seen at some distance.

• Always walk or run facing traffic—on the left side of the road.

• Always bicycle with traffic—on the right side of the road.

• If listening to music, keep volume low enough that you can hear traffic or others calling warnings.

High-vis gear has become very popular with bicyclists, and for good reason. In fact, brighter, high visibility clothing for all non-drivers using the roads, such as walkers and runners, would improve their safety. Combine high-vis clothes with reflective strips, especially on lower limbs that are moving such as on pedals, running shoes and lower ankles. Drivers have a much better chance to see you and recognize what you are doing.

Expect that some drivers are distracted so watch for weaving vehicles, cars or trucks that aren’t moving over to pass you with an adequate margin, traffic entering from side roads that (more often than not) won’t grant you the right of way. Sure, those drivers are in the wrong but let the police deal with the bad drivers.

Your personal safety is your top priority. Stay alert and stay alive.

What’s for Supper?

Prosciutto Balsamic Peach Chicken

By Pamela Scherrer One of my favorite places to get recipe ideas is Halfbakedharvest.com and this month I am sharing a recipe from that site.

I made it for the first time tonight, it was fast and easy and so delicious. The recipe calls for using one skillet that can go from oven to stovetop, but you can also bake the wrapped chicken with the peaches and olive oil and shallots, remove the peaches and chicken to a plate, and pour the remaining juices with shallots into a skillet on the stovetop to finish recipe. The recipe calls for burrata, a cheese like mozzarella with a soft center. I might try just using ricotta cheese next time, personal preference.

Ingredients 4 chicken cutlets, or 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally to make 4 Salt and pepper 4 teaspoons fig preserves or jam 8 thin slices of prosciutto 2 small shallots, cut in half 2-4 cloves garlic, minced 2 peaches, cut into 10-12 wedges 2 Tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (you can use dried in a pinch) 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 Tablespoon salted butter Pinch red pepper flakes ½ cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup dry white wine 2 balls burrata cheese, at room temperature, cut into 4 pieces ½ cup fresh basil, chopped Directions Preheat oven to 425. Grease an ovensafe skillet with olive oil.

Season chicken with salt and pepper.

Spread each cutlet with 1 teaspoon of fig jam and wrap with 2 slices of prosciutto,

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum place in skillet. Arrange the shallots, peaches and thyme around the chicken.

Drizzle olive oil on the peaches and season with pepper. Roast in oven for 15-20 minutes, until chicken is cooked.

Take skillet out of oven and remove peaches from pan and put on a plate.

Put chicken back in oven and broil 1-2 minutes, just until prosciutto is crisp— watch closely as to not burn it. Remove from oven and put the chicken on the plate with the peaches. If you are using a different pan for stovetop, this is where you would pour the juices and shallots that were in the oven into the pan on stove. If you are using the same skillet on stovetop, just skip to next step.

Add the garlic, butter, red pepper flakes, wine and balsamic to the pan with the juices and shallots. Bring to a boil over high heat and boil 3-5 minutes, until reduced by half. Slide the chicken and peaches back into the pan and simmer 1 minute. Remove from heat and serve topped with peaches, burrata and basil, drizzle with remaining pan sauce.

Buon Appetito!

Drumrolls

Kyle Brandon Desjardins and Elizabeth Catherine Volg, both of North Granby, were named to the dean’s list at Wentworth Institute of Technology for the spring semester.

Quincy Williams, a history major from West Granby, was named to the dean’s list at Hamilton College for the spring semester.

Maxwell Toczydlowski, of North Granby, graduated with a BA in political science from Trinity College in May. Erin Kulcsar, of Granby, and Brianna Dorbuck, of North Granby, were named to the dean’s list at Quinnipiac University for the spring semester.

Samantha Lauren McAndrew, of Granby, graduated from Hartwick College.

Evelyn Brooke, of Granby, has received a scholarship from the Max Cares Foundation as she pursues her degree at Johnson and Wales University.

Samantha Cipkas graduated from SUNY Cobleskill with a bachelor of technology in animal science.

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Page 24 The Granby Drummer

September 2021

Historic Footnotes Carol Laun

Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society From 1977 until her death on June 20, 2021, Carol Laun shared Granby history in the Granby Drummer; first with columns for the Conservation Commission then in a collaborative feature called Granby Heritage and later in her column Historic Footnotes. As archivist and curator of the Salmon Brook Historical Society (SBHS), she was a font of knowledge that she shared unstintingly, writing several books as well as her monthly column. Her vivid depictions of the life, people and customs from Granby’s past were drawn from SBHS archives and her many interviews with area residents.

Of her writing style, Carol stated, “The study of history is the study of people. I don’t write a broad overview of events; my articles present a close-up view of one incident in the past. I try to make the people and the time come to life for the reader.”

The Drummer will continue to share Historic Footnotes with specially selected articles drawn from Carol’s past columns as a tribute to one whose words will forever preserve the rich history of our community.

First published September 1983

Photo (front and back) courtesy of the Salmon Brook Historical Society

Granby Heritage—The Granby Fair For any agricultural town, the harvest is the culmination of the year. Along with the harvest comes the annual Agricultural Fair, a time of excitement and exhilaration for the hard­working farm families.

Granby has had a Fair for at least 125 years. The earliest record found to date, lists the Committees for the Fair in 1859 which was sponsored by the Granby Agricultural Club. Some of the activities included a plowing match, draft cattle, fine arts and mechanics—which was not explained.

The name of the club changed to the Granby Farmers Club by 1867 and the Salmon Brook Historical Society has a paper authorizing a $5 Fair Premium payment to E. A. Holcomb. It is not known where the Fair was located then, but possibly it was held at the site of the present Town Hall, where Miles Gaines owned a race track or Trotting Park.

In 1895 the Granby Agricultural Society (another name change) bought 23 acres for a fairground on Rte. 20 east of Bushy Hill Road. Shares of stock were sold in the Society to finance this endeavor. A contemporary newspaper clipping states, “The Agricultural Society held their first fair this year, the track is in excellent shape.” Two years later the Society built a grandstand. The contract was given to Albert Gillette for $1,100. The long diagonal cross braces were specially imported from the south. The grandstand was later converted to a tobacco barn by Fred Colton and dismantled in 1980.

The fairs of the 1890s and early 1900s are still remembered by many Granby residents. Families started arriving at dawn to get choice locations for their exhibits of livestock, food and needlework.

Some prizes’ premiums went as high as $2, but far more important was the fame and glory of winning a blue ribbon.

Chores were temporarily abandoned as “everybody in town’ flocked to the fair. About this time ice cream cones and hot dogs were introduced, but many Granby parents would not allow their children to eat this 1890s “junk food,” hot dogs being considered “not fit for human consumption.” Mothers packed enormous lunches and the fairground turned into one huge picnic area at noon.

It was a time to socialize with neighbors and meet old friends.

The Granby Fairground also featured a bandstand for the Granby Brass Band, a baseball field in the middle of the halfmile racetrack and two horse barns for the racehorses. Exhibits were displayed under the grandstand and there was usually a row of “fakirs”, or pitchmen, with their games of chance.

The late Arthur Clark had happy memories of Fair time. He said, “The children had a holiday from school the second day of the Fair and just could not wait for it to come. People brought in their vegetables, baked goods, canned goods and handiwork to compete for premiums.

Men showed their livestock. One man used to bring 12 pair of oxen, 12 matched pairs of different sizes. There were fakirs and pitchmen and a side show with things like snake charmers. Hot dogs were sold and cider was just a nickel a glass.”

The sulky racing was very popular, and in 1898 a $300 purse was offered. In 1915 the Fair advertised $900 in purses; mile heats, the best 3 out of 5 heats to harness, and straw and stalls were free.

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announced that they had spent $500 to drive a well to keep the grounds and track sprinkled.

Spectators lined the rail to watch the high-stepping horses and their brightly clad drivers circle the dusty track. Harolidine, a black stallion in green; Alcantara Queen, a black mare in orange; Lade Elmore, a chestnut mare in yellow; and Toronto Belle, a black mare in light pink.

The more affluent paid 50 cents to sit in the shade of the grandstand. Although betting was not allowed, it is more than likely that a few dollars changed hands during the races.

One year as an Extra Added Attraction, a huge balloon was launched. A fire was built in the baseball infield to provide hot air for the 15-foot-high balloon. The stunt was so spectacular, it was repeated the following year. The crowd watched the balloon rise 100 – 300 – then 500 feet when it suddenly collapsed and plunged to earth hitting the bandstand as the musicians scattered in all directions.

Fortunately, there were no injuries, but that was the end of ballooning in Granby.

To be continued in the October issue

Food safety training returns On Saturday, Nov. 13, the First Congregational Church of Granby will host a food safety training class and certification exam. The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is recognized nationally and meets food service licensing requirements for the State.

The class has been arranged through the Connecticut Restaurant Association.

Instruction will be provided by Natalie Chavoya, who enthusiastically led 19 community members through the course material and exam this past June. Chavoya says, “We all know food safety is

essential for restaurants, but it is just as important for community events.”

If you are affiliated with an organization that would like to host food-based events, or if you are a budding food entrepreneur thinking about starting a business, then this certification is an important step. Cost of the class and exam is $140. Class size is limited and preregistration is required. Register for this class online: web.ctrestaurant.org/ events/ServSafe-Manager-In-PersonClass-Exam-November-13-Granby-608/ details

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 25

50th Granby Road Race—be a part of history!

By Anna Smith

It sounds as if it all started in David Bale’s kitchen one evening about 50 years ago.

David Bale, an avid runner, had developed the perfect running route and he had a great idea about how to share it—make it into a road race. So, he called his running buddy David Hildreth, and the Granby Track Coach Dennis Lobo to discuss the idea of turning this magical running route into a race. Victoria Bale-Saunders shared with the YMCA Granby Road Race Committee how she remembers Lobo, Hildreth and her father “in the kitchen at night after work talking about the race and planning for the race.”

The Granby Road Race was special from the beginning because of the novelty of having a local race, the quick turnaround time on race results, and how women were encouraged to race.

At that time, there were not that many road races, and the races that were around were certainly not a set mileage like our 10ks and 5ks that we know so well. There also were not as many runners as there are today and casual running was not a thing yet. In this running climate, the Granby Road Race was born.

The race founders were excited to see a huge participation in the first several years of the Granby Road Race. Not just any participants—elite runners were running their 6.4-mile course while training for the Boston Marathon and the Olympic Trials. The 6.4-mile race began right in front of Granby High school, coursed downhill on Route 10 to Canton Road before taking a turn into McLean Game Refuge for several miles of hilly trail

running, and then back onto Route 10 to finish on an uphill climb to the high school.

The town of Granby has always embraced the race and helped to make it possible. Volunteers from the community have always been aplenty. The Granby C.E.R.T., Granby Ambulance and Granby Police have supported the race course, and the Game Refuge has welcomed the Road Race through its trails.

Looking back at the race’s roots, it is interesting to see how much the race has changed over the years. That 6.4-mile race gradually morphed into a classic 10k or 6.2-mile race. The race did allow women to run—not a given at that time.

“They were encouraging everyone to run because they just loved running,” BaleSaunders commented.

In 1988, Dave Schupp, who had been playing a huge role in the logistics of the race, experienced the tragic death of his son, Dave Schupp, Jr., in whose memory the race is now run. Dave Jr. was killed by an automobile while running. His friends found solace in running the Granby Road Race in his memory and his memory continues to live on in this race. In 2012, Dave Schupp linked up the Granby Road Race and the YMCA as he thought the

race would be a wonderful fundraiser for an organization he felt strongly about.

The YMCA has embraced the Granby Road Race, added a 5k component to include more people, and is able to fund summer camps for children in the community with the proceeds.

The date of the Granby Road Race has also been adjusted a few times. Originally on Earth Day, it quickly made a debut on Memorial Day until more events pushed the road race to earlier in May. The race hung out on the first weekend of May for many years until the 2020 COVID pandemic pushed it to September. Last year, the 49th running of the Granby Road Race had quite a large turnout, in part because there were so few road races that year, much like the races originally run in the 1970s.

The progress of the race is fascinating as you take the time to look back at it. A small-town race for elite runners turned into a (still) small town race focused on inclusivity, healthy lifestyles, and community support. Dennis Lobo, the surviving founder of the race, is pleased that the race has continued and with what it has become. He suspects his cofounders would be pleased as well.

For more information about sponsorships and giving, please visit the YMCA

Participant in the 2020 Granby Road Race.

website at ghymca.org If you are interested in volunteering for this race please email Brian Liss at granbyroadrace@ GHYMCA.org Register today at ghymca.org/granbyroadrace

1971

FV Chorale returns to live rehearsals

50TH

ANNUAL

GRANBY ROAD RACE

Starts at the Granby Memorial Middle School

2021

Y R A S R E E E C V C I A A R R N L D I N A A A O R R T H / 8 Y T D 1 B A 0 N R 5 E B GRA 10K RO M

d Davi Chorale director Ellen Gilson Voth Submitted photo

The Farmington Valley Chorale announces its return to “safe and sound” in-person rehearsals starting Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. Now in its 51st year, the chorale has met virtually since the start of the pandemic. In announcing the return to in-person singing, artistic director Ellen Gilson Voth commented that “live music making is life-giving and energizing for us while we keep health and safety as a top priority.”

Chorale president Jerry Queen added that “strict safety protocols, including proof of COVID-19 vaccination, physical distancing and masking, will be followed.”

Rehearsals are held at Simsbury United Methodist Church, 799 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, from 7 to 9 p.m. No auditions required. For more information, email info@farmingtonvalleychorale.org

orial m e r. M J , p hup c S .

A

E T P E S AM

& D A Y O R 5K RDA SATU8:30

at the Granby Memorial Middle School Participation limited – REGISTER TODAY! Tiered pricing available – pick your entry fee!

#granbyroadrace To register go to active.com or GHYMCA.org/GranbyRoadRace For questions or registration, please email GranbyRoadRace@GHYMCA.org or call 860-653-5524 To support the Farmington Valley YMCA Annual Campaign.

Page 26 The Granby Drummer

September 2021

Parks & Recreation Director of Recreation and Leisure Services: Kristine Vincent, CPRP Recreation Supervisor: Daphne Shinder Program Supervisor: Terri Ziemnicki Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: GranbyRec.com Open 24/7 for program registration.

Granby Youth Soccer

This is a recreational league where the primary objective of the Youth Soccer Program is for the players to develop skills, learn good sportsmanship and above all, have fun. The emphasis is on self-improvement — to provide each player the opportunity to reach his/her own maximum potential development for the enjoyment of soccer. The emphasis is NOT on winning: each child will contribute to the “We, the Team” concept through equal and fair play.

FUNdamentals (Grade K-1) Co-Ed Program: This is a two-year program where different skills are introduced and built upon each year, preparing the child for game play with referees in Division I. This year professional soccer coaches will oversee the 1-hour sessions beginning at 12:15 p.m. (Gr. K.) and 1:30 p.m. (Gr. 1). There are no weekly practices for the K and 1st Grade levels.

U8/Grade 2, Co-Ed: Grade 2 practices on Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sept. 2–Nov. 4 and are run by Soccer Shots. Parent volunteer coaches will run the Saturday morning games from 9–10 a.m.

U10, U12 and U14, Not Co-Ed: There will be some local travel for grades 3-8. We participate in the Farmington Valley Recreation Soccer League at U10-U14 levels. Children are to be registered in their appropriate age/grade division. We are not responsible for practice or game cancellations due to conditions beyond our control. First game is Saturday, Sept. 11.

Toddler and Preschool Programs

Soccer Shots Mini-Toddlers: 8:15-8:45 a.m., Sundays, Sept. 19-Oct. 31 at Salmon Brook Park. Soccer Shots Mini is designed for 2-year-olds. It is a high-energy weekly program introducing young children to fundamental soccer principles such as using your feet, dribbling and the basic rules of the game. Through fun games, songs and positive reinforcement, children will begin to experience the joy of playing soccer and being active. Each child will receive a Soccer Shots jersey. No equipment is necessary. All COVID guidelines will be followed.

Super Soccer Shots: 9, 10 or 11 a.m. classes, Sundays, Sept. 19-Oct. 31 at Salmon Brook Park. Soccer Shots Classic 45-minute program for ages 3-5 is designed as an introduction to soccer. Soccer Shots Classic utilizes creative and imaginative games to focus on basic soccer skills like dribbling, passing and shooting.

We also highlight a positive character trait each session such as respect, teamwork and appreciation. All COVID guidelines will be followed. Soccer balls are provided during this 6 week program.

Jump Bunch Little Jumpers: 9:45-10:15 a.m., Mondays, Sept. 20-Nov. 15 at Salmon Brook Park. JumpBunch Little classes for ages 18 months–3 years are 30 minutes of structured fun. Classes open and close with obstacle courses and creatively scripted songs using ribbon wands, stretch bands, scarves, rhythm sticks, bubbles and maracas. Classes feature a different sport or fitness activity each week.

We strive to have little or no “sit and wait” time and children will have the chance to touch and experience each sport with their own piece of equipment each class. Sports may include lacrosse, paddle sports, field hockey, t-ball, basketball, soccer, football, track and field, golf, etc. Please have your child wear athletic clothes,

sneakers, a mask and bring a water bottle.

Caregiver must remain with their child.

Jump Bunch “Big Jumpers”: 10:30-11:15 a.m., Mondays, Sept. 20-Nov. 15 at Salmon Brook Park. Jump Bunch Big Jumpers classes for ages 3-5 are 45 minutes of structured fun.

Classes open and close with obstacle courses and creatively scripted songs using ribbon wands, stretch bands, scarves, rhythm sticks, parachutes, bubbles and maracas. Classes feature a different sport or fitness activity each week. We strive to have little or no “sit and wait” time and children will have the chance to touch and experience each sport with their own piece of equipment each class. Sports may include lacrosse, paddle sports, field hockey, t-ball, basketball, soccer, football, track and field, golf, etc.

Youth Programs

Chess Wizards One Day Chess Camp: 12-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 9 at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Chess Wizards has been teaching the game of chess since 2002.

For ages 6–12. Join us for tons of challenging chess lessons, exciting games, and cool prizes. You’ll improve your chess skills, meet new friends, and work out your most powerful muscle- your brain! Our camps include fun team chess games (like bughouse), recess time (of course), tournaments, and puzzles. Each camper receives a chess medal and puzzle folder. We include all of the materials necessary for your child to participate.

Farmington Valley Field Hockey League: 2:30-4 p.m., Sundays, Sept. 12-Oct. 24 at Granby High School Field. The Towns of Granby, Avon, Canton, Farmington, Simsbury, Harwinton and Wethersfield are part of the Farmington Valley Girls Field Hockey League. Teams will be formed in each town consisting of players in grades 5-6. Teams will practice one day each week in their respective towns and games will be played on Sunday afternoons in the various communities. Players will receive a reversible numbered jersey.

After School Programs

Field Hockey at Wells: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 7-Oct. 21 at Salmon Brook Park Band Shell. Join the fun while learning the game of field hockey. For grades 3-5, no experience necessary. Develop fundamental skills with drills and scrimmages designed to teach stick handling, passing, receiving, dribbling and basic game play. The program will be coached by Mrs. Laflamme.

Spirit Club at Kelly and Wells: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Thursdays, Sept. 30-Nov. 4. This program is being offered by All Star Certified Coaches from World Cup Connecticut. For grades K-5.

The participants will have a great time learning cheerleading basics, such as beginner tumbling, stunts and jumps.

PE Games with Mr. Migneault at Wells: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Mondays, Sept. 27-Nov. 22.

Students in grades 3-5 will be active and have fun participating in the PE activities such as The Game, Capture the Flag, Climbing Wall and Tchouk Ball, as well as Teamwork Challenges like Mission Impossible, The Maze and other games and activities!

Rock Wall Program at Kelly and Wells: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Tuesdays, Sept. 28-Nov. 30. The essential skills, techniques, and important safety information will be taught. Students in grades K-5 will learn various ways to climb a rock wall while improving their muscular strength, endurance and balance. Through our daily activities students will have many challenges including timed activities and use of different paths. All of these challenges and skills will be presented in a fun and positive environment.

Hip Hop Majorette: Ages 8-12 from 4-5 p.m.; Ages 13-17 from 5:15-6:15 p.m., Wednesdays, Oct. 20-Dec. 15 at Salmon Brook Park. Hip Hop Dance Team is a team-style specific dance that specializes in hip-hop contemporary movement and does not require technical training. Our hip-hop classes use primarily urban music and stay with the latest dance trends. This is an energetic and fast-paced dance class. This

class helps students develop rhythm, musicality, coordination and precision.

Irish Step Dance: Ages 8-12 from 4-5 p.m.; Ages 13-17 from 5:15-6:15 p.m., Mondays, Oct. 18-Dec. 6 at Salmon Brook Park. A style of performance dance with its roots in traditional Irish Dance. It is generally characterized by a stiff upper body and quick and precise movements of the feet. It can be performed solo or by groups.

Soccer Shots After School: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Sept. 22-Nov. 10 at Salmon Brook Park. Kids in grades K-5 will learn the fundamentals of soccer while focusing on individual skill, fitness and sportsmanship.

Children will be challenged through fun games and team interaction. Children will also be introduced to competition in a developmentally appropriate manner.

Food Explorers at Holcomb Farm: 4:30-5:30 p.m. or 6-7 p.m., Wednesdays, Sept. 29-Oct. 27. For grades K-5. Join us this fall as Food Explorers returns with a new after school/early evening program. Two programs are being run back-to-back—sign up for one or both.

Kids Make Dinner 4:30-5:30 p.m. Session: Food Explorers make your own dinner every week and learn all about food. You’ll be making: Taco Salad, Muffin Tin Pizzas, Ricotta Gnocchi, Greek Grain Bowls and Veggie Tacos. All recipes are nut free but may contain dairy and/or eggs.

Children will make their own portions of food.

Kids Baking 6-7 p.m. Session: Food Explorers get your bake on every week. You’ll be making: Fruit Salsa and Cinnamon Chips, Apple Pie Parfaits, Cheesecake Eggrolls, Baked Mozzarella Sticks and Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Parfaits. All recipes are nut free but may contain dairy and/or eggs. Children will make their own portions of food.

Adult Programs

Ballroom Dancing: 6-7 p.m., Sundays, Sept.

26-Oct. 31 at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. We are very excited to offer this new adult program, for ages 18 and up. Come join the fun learning several types of dances. You can come to us for a variety of types of lessons.

The couple is constantly moving on the dance floor, transitioning smoothly from one pattern to another. Great to spend time with others learning the dances, and getting some great exercise both physically and mentally. Dance types to include Quickstep, Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Waltz and more.

Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED: 6-7:45 p.m., choose between Saturday, Sept. 18 from 2-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 23 from 2-4 p.m., or Tuesday, Nov. 30 from 6-8 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. For ages 16 and up. This course will prepare you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children and infants and meets OSHA/workplace requirements. This is a blended learning course including an online portion and an instructorled classroom skill session. Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive a digital certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/ CPR/AED valid for two years.

Gentle Restorative Yoga: 6-7 p.m., Wednesdays at Holcomb Farm North Barn Pavilion.

Gentle Flow Yoga: 10-11 a.m., Saturdays in the fall, ongoing, at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Join Rachel Little for an easyto-follow yoga practice that will leave you feeling great. We will combine deep breathing with basic yoga poses to build strength and flexibility, to energize the body and to improve posture and confidence. Modifications are offered as building blocks or to accommodate past injury. After warming the major muscle groups, deeper poses and stretches are offered, using support when appropriate. We will also build community as we reconnect to ourselves and others in a safely spaced, friendly and accepting environment.

Yoga For Strength: 8-9 a.m., Mondays and Fridays at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

Develop strength and flexibility with this more

Parks & Rec

cont’d. on p. 27

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 27

HEALTH NOTES

By the

Farmington Valley VNA

Feeling woozy? Take note and take action Woozy is a tricky word. We use it to describe many symptoms, such as light-headedness, weakness, confusion, instability, maybe even nausea, and feeling like a faint will occur. Wooziness is not spinning, which is vertigo. But feeling lightheaded is real and common, and we need to pay attention to our body’s symptoms.

What causes wooziness Dehydration and change in blood pressure are common causes of feeling woozy. If your blood pressure drops because perhaps you stood up too quickly, your blood pressure medications were changed/not taken, or you haven’t been keeping up with drinking liquids, you may feel woozy. Your brain simply is not getting enough blood. Sit or lay down when first feeling weak, and drink water.

Raising your hands above your head and clenching and unclenching your fists will also help your pressure rise.

Low blood sugar is simply a lack of fuel to the brain, and a lack of fuel can cause wooziness. Your brain needs sugar to operate. People with diabetes are most at risk if their medication level is incorrect, but it can also happen to borderline undiagnosed diabetics.

A urinary tract infection can affect your stability, and confusion is common. A UTI is also common with dehydration.

Poor lung function or low blood counts—either of these two prevents

Parks & Rec

enough oxygen from getting to the brain.

Anxiety can affect us in many ways.

Shallow breathing and a racing heart can cause wooziness.

An inner ear infection can cause vertigo and cause balance issues, making you feel unsteady.

Iron deficiency anemia is a common type of anemia – a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells, which are the carriers of oxygen.

A low level of red blood cells can create light-headedness.

A change in medication, even overthe-counter ones, can create wooziness.

Think if you’ve changed or missed any medications.

A heart attack or stroke can create a feeling of fainting and is the most severe reason for wooziness. If accompanied by chest, arm, jaw, or back pain, nausea, or weakness on one side of the body, facial drooping, changes in vision or speaking, call 911 immediately.

Action points If you suddenly feel woozy, especially if you’ve never felt this way before, don’t panic, but pay attention. You may need immediate attention, but you also may first try drinking water or juice, sitting or lying down, and taking some long breaths. If suspecting low blood sugar, eat hard candy or drink orange juice.

If you are a diabetic or pre-diabetic, test your blood sugar, take the recom-

Carol Laun (1934 – 2021) Carol Anne Marquardt Laun—world traveler, avid cyclist, talented writer, much-respected historian of Granby, and beloved wife, mother, and grandmother—passed away on June 20, 2021, at the age of 87. She faced the end of her journey, after a recurrence of ovarian cancer, with the same courage, grace and organizational skill that she brought to everything else in her life. She will be missed more than we can say.

Through her decades of dedicated work at the Salmon Brook Historical Society as curator, archivist, and genealogist, Carol has guided the Society’s growth, written countless history articles for the Granby Drummer and other publications, and introduced generations of schoolchildren to the history of their home town—not to mention all the speeches she gave, committees she served on, projects she led and exhibits she created. She even persuaded her husband, Dave, to join her in her work at the Society after his retirement. In her younger years, she was a familiar figure around town with her bicycle and brightly colored biking outfits.

Red was always her favorite color. She also baked a great rhubarb pie.

Carol was born on March 9, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She studied journalism and education at the University of Wisconsin where she met her future husband, F. David Laun. They married in 1957 before moving to Connecticut to start their family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Agnes Marquardt; her sister, Jacqueline Tutino; and her brother, Robert Marquardt. She is survived by her husband and three daughters, Deb (John), Sue (Greg), and Karen, as well as by three grandchildren, Erica (Zach), Kevin, and Jake. Our hearts are broken, but we are so proud of everything she has accomplished and so grateful she was part of our lives.

mended medication and consult your doctor if it does not resolve. Rest. Give your body a chance to recuperate. Think of the items above, such as a change in medication, coming down with the flu or cold, underlying anxiety, or being significantly dehydrated. But stay aware of your symptoms.

If you continue to feel unsteady, remain lightheaded and off-balance, or get other symptoms such as nausea or pain, call 911. Do not get up if you feel faint.

Wooziness can be a sign of either something minor or a more severe problem. Have a plan of action. Hopefully, it resolves simply. If not, let your EMT, ER, or clinic doctor decide.

Special Events Fall Family Photo Session at The Holcomb Farm: Check out our portraits at beautiful Holcomb Farm. You choose the location either inside near the fireplace or on the grounds outside with a beautiful New England backdrop.

Capture your family in a memorable way with professional, high-quality photos. Individual, couple, and family sessions are available (and we love pets too!) You will receive 3-4 digital photos that you can download and print. Once you register with us, Kristen Weldon Photography will contact you to set up a time that is mutually convenient for you between Sept. 15 and Dec. 15. This is a perfect way to knock that holiday card off your list early. Last year’s event filled up quickly so be sure to reserve your spot today.

Octoberfest Scrapbooking Weekend: Friday, Oct. 22 and/or Saturday, Oct. 23. Crop/ Craft Event on Friday, 1 to 9 p.m. is $25 and on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. is $40. If you sign up for both days the cost is $60 (save $5) and you

may leave your supplies set up overnight in our secure facility. Water and soda will be provided.

Please feel free to bring your own food or other beverage. This event is being held at Holcomb Farm in the beautiful North Barn Pavilion.

Contact Cheryl Bliss at blister123@cox.net with any questions. She will also have demonstrations and crafting items for sale.

Pumpkin Run 5K at Salmon Brook Park: 9 a.m., Sunday, Oct. 17. Open to all ages. Join us for our 4th Annual 5K Pumpkin Run (rain date Oct. 24). Check in begins at 8 a.m. and the race starts at 9 a.m. This timed, two-loop course in beautiful Salmon Brook Park is mostly grass terrain around the soccer and baseball fields.

Run your best 5K ever on a mostly flat course with this no pressure, low key event. Pumpkin medals for all participants. Run, walk, push a stroller or walk your dog, just have fun. Advanced registration $15. Day of registration $20.

cont’d. from p. 26

challenging dynamic flow, integrating movement and breath with sun salutations, twists, back bends and core strengthening with an emphasis on proper alignment. Combine this with the cultivation of inner peace and the mindfulness of breath awareness. A complete practice for sure. Modifications always offered. Listening to your body always encouraged. This program is being taught by Laura Fetzer-Seger.

Yin Yoga Aromatherapy: 6-7:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 9 and/or Friday, Oct. 8 at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Slow it down with this 90-minute sequence of yin yoga postures (deep stretches held for 3-5 minutes) and aromatherapy (Wisdom of the Earth therapeutic grade essences). By combining the slower, deeper aspects of yin yoga with the healing properties of Wisdom of the Earth’s pure therapeutic grade essences used in aromatherapy, this practice will help to restore balance within the energy systems of the body, leaving you feeling relaxed, renewed and ready to face whatever life is offering you.

This practice will bring peace and healing on so many levels.

Taz Fitness Challenge: 8-8:55 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Join long time certified and motivating fitness instructor, Terri Ziemnicki for this high energy, low impact fitness class which includes a full body cardiovascular, interval and strength training workout. All fitness levels welcome.

Please bring your weights, exercise mat and water bottle. Come be a part of this fun class and great workout.

Taz Low Impact Fitness: 9-9:55 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Slow it down with this 90-minute sequence of yin yoga postures (deep stretches held for 3-5 minutes) and aromatherapy (Wisdom of the Earth therapeutic grade essences). By combining the slower, deeper aspects of yin yoga with the healing properties of Wisdom of the Earth’s pure therapeutic grade essences used in aromatherapy, this practice will help to restore balance within the energy systems of the body, leaving you feeling relaxed, renewed and ready to face whatever life is offering you. This practice will bring peace and healing on so many levels.

Dog Training Programs

Beginner Class: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Mondays, Sept. 13-Oct. 25 or Thursdays, Sept. 7-Oct.

19, at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

Join well-known certified dog trainer Kim Michalewicz for this great introductory 7-week course to learn how to effectively communicate with your best friend. Time will be spent learning to socialize your dogs to a variety of situations.

Learn about normal canine behavior and how to problem solve to help your dog fit into our human world. Appropriate household behavior, handler attention, basic obedience and coming when called will be covered. Open to all dogs.

There is no prerequisite for this class. Please contact Kim with any questions. 860-614-6625 or kim_michalewicz@hotmail.com Intermediate Class: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, call for start dates, at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. This 7-week course is open to puppies and dogs that know the basic obedience commands like sit, down, touch, come and walking nicely on leash. This class is geared to take your dog to the next level of training. You will take the behaviors your dog knows and work on them using a variety of distractions, increased distance and duration. We will slowly increase the criteria each dog is able to succeed at. We will also be working on getting your dogs to work for us without a treat on our bodies. There will also be some games incorporated into the class that use the basic skills your dog knows. *Prerequisite: Dogs and puppies must have a solid knowledge of the basic skills such as sit, down, walking nicely on a leash and recall.

Canine Good Citizens Certification Program: 4-5 p.m., Sundays, Sept. 12-Oct. 31 at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. A certification program designed to reward dogs that have good manners at home and in the community. It is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs that pass the 10 step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club. We will be working on the 10 skills that will be tested at the end of the 7-week class. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs who have solid obedience are a joy to be with and they respond well to household routines, and have good manners with people and other dogs.

Prerequisite: Beginner Skills or comparable class at other training center.

Page 28 The Granby Drummer

A welcome addition at Clark Farms at Bushy Hill

Freshman year of college during COVID-19

By Camden Robertson

By Shirley Murtha There has always been a lot to like about Clark Farms at Bushy Hill Orchard, what with the blueberry and applepicking, the cider donuts, the fresh veggies, honey and a now a new chef with some very progressive ideas about breakfast and other meals, but the newest addition has added an exciting element: a great bar serving hard cider!

The project began when Becky and Alan Clark realized they had way more apples than they knew what to do with.

They had more than they needed to make the amount of cider they sell, but not enough to wholesale. They needed another outlet, and decided on making hard cider, which would take care of the overabundance of apples problem and help diversify the farm in the process.

The Clarks consulted with a national expert on cider and wine, and in 2019 began getting approvals from the town, the state and the federal government, in that order. Getting the equipment, learning how to make the cider, and building the bar began during the COVID year and they were ready to start serving this April. The cider bar has proved to be very popular!

There are four flavors of the hard cider: Bear Essentials, which is flavored with honey (of course); Sweet Surren-

September 2021

A Saturday evening crowd at the Clark Farm Cider Brewery bar keeps server David plenty busy.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

der, sweetened with sugar; Ruddy Wild, a dry cider with cranberry; and B.N.D., also a very dry type. For the summer, you can get Sweet Surrender and Ruddy Wild as a slushie. You can also get a “flight,” which is a sampler of all four flavors, or a “growler,” in sample or full size. The bar also makes Bellinis and Mimosas during the Saturday and Sunday breakfast hours (starting at 9 a.m.), during which patrons can enjoy live jazz music from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch and dinner are available Thursday through Saturday, noon to 8 p.m., closing at 5 p.m. on Sunday. All of these meals can be enjoyed outside as well as inside, as the Clarks have added two levels of patios with tables and umbrellas at the side of the building.

The Granby Memorial High School class of 2020 had its senior year cut short as the pandemic first surged in March, now over a year-and-a-half ago. Much of that class are now entering sophomore year of college, having started freshman year at the height of the pandemic in the fall of 2020. Each of those students will without a doubt agree that college in a pandemic is a uniquely challenging and unforgettable experience.

Making the transition from senior year of high school to freshman year of college can be one of the most radical, complicated, and scary times of a young person’s life. That difficulty was multiplied for those members of the class of 2020 who began college, or attempted to, this past fall. For many students, institutions allowed freshmen to move onto campus with strict guidelines: masks at all times, absolutely no guests allowed, weekly testing (usually twice a week), and daily health check ins/assessments.

Most colleges and universities did not allow family to enter the student’s dorm on move in day, many students were not allowed roommates, and all welcome events and commencement ceremonies were cancelled. For the students who managed to move on campus and remain there, the vast majority of classes were taken online from their dorm room. Put simply, the first semester —or the entire first year, for most, was completed in isolation.

But that is the story of only a fraction of 2020 freshmen. For many, their colleges and universities cancelled in-person living only a week before move in. For others, all students and staff were sent home a few weeks into the semester. For some, the institution closed all together, even historic colleges that survived world wars and economic recession closed their doors for good because of the pandemic.

Some students contracted COVID-19

while on campus, and were put in quarantine or, unfortunately, far worse.

Some students had family and friends who contracted the virus and lost loved ones without the ability to say goodbye in most cases. The pandemic left some students in a financial situation that made it impossible for them to begin college. A great number of students completed their freshman years virtually from home, or not at all.

If you spoke with every member of the GMHS class of 2020, every student will have had a different situation for the last year. What is true for all of us, however, is that essentially nothing went as we had planned. As freshmen during a pandemic, we were left to navigate an entirely new world of independence during some of the most unprecedented times in history.

For some, the challenges of this past year were the most rewarding of our lives.

We had the chance to understand ourselves in ways we perhaps never would have otherwise, and will live life postpandemic very differently. For others, this past year was the worst year of our lives, losing loved ones, hitting extreme lows in physical and mental health, and navigating it all in isolation. Most will report this past year being a confusing and complicated mix of both.

As cases of the delta variant rise, many sophomores are feeling as though history is repeating itself. Some institutions are maintaining the same guidelines enforced in the previous year, many institutions are again closing in-person instruction, and for most students, the fate of this upcoming semester is unknown. College years have never looked like they do now for current students and will likely never completely return to pre-pandemic conditions. If you have a current college student in your life, be patient as they navigate what is unknown and messy for all of us, and be there for them if they need it.

New barn rises at Coward Farm

It turns out that tobacco farming in Granby is successful: During the month of August, a third tobacco barn was added to the Coward Farm on North Granby Road (formerly Dr. Davis’s cow farm). The above photo was taken during its construction. The lush greenery you see in the foreground of the picture is not the tobacco—that is planted on the back acreage of the property—but rather the pumpkins, for which the farm is also famous. If you’d like to know more about the growing and processing of the tobacco leaves, stop by the farm on Sept. 18, Granby’s Open Farm Day. Teresa and John Coward will be there to show you around. Photo by Shirley Murtha

Drumrolls

The following students were named to the dean’s list at Saint Michael’s College for the spring semester: Sydney Longley, a May 2021 graduate in mathematics and education studies from East Granby; Mikayla Thompson, an environmental studies major from Granby; Matthew Heller, a May 2021 graduate in media studies and digital arts from Granby; Dylan Trombley, a history major from West Granby; and Hanna Mulhair, a gender studies major from West Hartland.

Marieke Johanna Theodora van der Mark, of North Granby, graduated with a BS in education, health, kinesiology, and leisure studies from the Robbins College of Baylor University in December 2020.

September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 29

SPECIAL EVENTS Senior Day: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join us for this fun and free event celebrating National Senior Center Month.

Door prizes, food, blood pressure/sugar checks, memory screenings, resources and information and the first 75 people that pre-register will receive a free bagged lunch generously provided

by Stonebrook Village at Windsor Locks. Please pre-register by Sept. 15.

Come out and have some fun. Visit with our sponsors: Aetna, Alzheimer’s Association, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Anthology Senior Living, Arden Courts of Avon, CaptionCall, Celebrity Nurse Homecare, ConnectiCare, Edward Jones-Jim Hammel, Farmington Valley VNA, Hartford Health Care Center for Aging, Hayes-Huling and Carmon Funeral Home, Home Helpers, McLean Home Care and Hospice, MeadowBrook of Granby, Primary Eye Care Center, Seabury, Stonebrook Village at Windsor Locks, The Residence at Brookside/Suffield by the River.

Aging Mastery Program: Mondays, Sept. 13Nov. 22 at 1 p.m. No Oct. 11; graduation Nov. 29 at 1 p.m. This national, evidence based program is designed to help baby boomers and older adults take critical steps to improve their wellbeing, add stability to their lives, and strengthen their ties to the community. The 10-week program includes lectures, expert speakers, sharing and creating the kind of life you want as you age.

Supported by the CT Healthy Living Collective.

Register by Sept. 7. Free.

Out of the Ashes–Finding Lessons from Loss: Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 1 p.m. Presenter Justine Ginsberg, Farmington Valley Health District. 2020 was a year that saw so many of us lose so much—loved ones, freedom, confidence, mobility and connection. Join us for a discussion on loss, talk about how to process it, learn from it and find the small blessings amongst the pain.

Register by Sept. 8. Free.

Lifetime Learning Academy

History and Culture–Survey of the Old Testament: Wednesdays, Sept. 8-Nov. 10 at 10 a.m. No Sept. 22 or Oct. 6. Instructor, Skip Mission. This overview will familiarize you with the key biblical people, events and promises to Israel in the Old Testament. Psalms and Proverbs will also be covered. Pre-registration required. Free.

American History: Tuesdays, Sept. 7-Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. Instructor, Jerry Perkins, has a unique way of bringing history to life. Join this informative and fun view of events from pre-Columbian times to the present. Class attendees will have the opportunity to request specific subjects to review.

Pre-registration required. Free.

Teddy Roosevelt: Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. Instructor, Jared Day. This lecture will focus on the exuberant life and career of the 26th President of the United States. Special attention will be given to his interest in environmentalism and conservation and his establishment of many of our National Parks. Register by Sept.

7. Cost $5.

Women of the Wild West: Tuesday, Sept. 28 at 1 p.m. Instructor, Joe Ouellette. From 1865 to 1900 a number of courageous women made their mark in the history books. From Calamity Jane to Annie Oakley and from Big Nose Kate to Belle Starr, they were unique and a few “took no prisoners.” Register by Sept. 21. Cost $5.

Te c h n o l o g y – L e t ’s G e t Te c h n i c a l : Wednesdays, Sept. 29-Nov. 3 at 1 p.m. Gail Altschwager will be instructing on several topics including operating systems, search engines, picture taking and storage, apps, and maintaining, backing up and restoring your computer. A schedule by topic is available upon request. Register by Sept. 22. Free.

Music and Arts–Music Jam: Wednesdays, Sept. 1, 15, 29, Oct. 13 and 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join in the fun. This is an informal gathering for those who love music and play an instrument. Pre-registration required. Free.

Karaoke/Sing-a-Long: Thursdays, Sept. 9 and 23 from 1-3 p.m. Emcee, Nick Faraco. Join us for this fun, informal event where you can

Please visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check your Center Life Newsletter for a complete listing of our health services, support groups, clubs, and ongoing activities.

The Granby Senior Center is open for most classes and programs. Regardless of vaccination status, masks are required to enter the building and in all common areas—hallways and restrooms.

Once vaccinated members have reached their destination activity, masks may be removed.

We are required to record attendance for contact tracing purposes. All persons entering the building must be members and scan in with their new membership card. If you haven’t received a new card you will be given one upon your return to the center.

If you are a Granby Senior Center member, please register for programs through SchedulesPlus. com/granby If you are not a member of the Granby Senior Center or you do not have access to a computer, please call 860-844-5352.

Membership Renewals due Sept. 1 Participation in programs, activities and trips at the Granby Senior Center require an annual membership. All memberships and van passes are renewed in September. Membership fees for Granby residents are $5 and $10 for out-of-town-guests. Van passes are $10. This minimal fee helps defray costs, allowing us to offer free and low cost events throughout the year. Pay online at schedulesplus.com/granby or stop by the office. sing karaoke if you dare, or just sing-a-long in the audience. Either way, it will be a blast! Preregistration required. Free.

Fun with Fluid Art: Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 10 a.m. Instructor, Katherine Tolve. Fluid art is a form of abstract art that uses acrylic paints with a runny consistency. Learn the basics of paint pouring including tips and tricks. Two 8”x10” canvases per person will be provided.

Participants are welcome to bring additional canvases if they want. Register by Sept. 8.

Cost $15.

Stamping: Thursday, Sept. 16 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Instructor, Sharon Holness. Enjoy making several beautiful cards for all occasions. Register

by Sept. 9. Cost $5.

Wellness

A Matter of Balance: Tuesdays, Sept.

7-Oct. 26 from 9:30-11 a.m. Facilitated by the Farmington Valley Health District. Many older adults experience a fear of falling. This is an evidence-based program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Pre-registration required. Free.

Music Lessons

Suzuki Guitar Lessons: Thursdays, Sept.

2-Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. Instructor David Madsen, of the Hartt School, will offer a group class in finger-style guitar using the Suzuki Method. The class will focus on ease of playing and ensemble playing. All levels welcome. Ten participants needed in order to hold the class. Cost $90.

Intermediate Suzuki Violin Lessons: Fridays, Sept. 3-Dec. 17 at 9 a.m. Instructor, Selah Kwak. Violin lessons (15-week session) will continue for those who are at an intermediate level with the Suzuki Method. Minimum of 5 people needed to hold the class. Cost $195.

Support and Health

Ask the Attorney: First Wednesday of the month. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call 860-844-5352 to set up an appointment for a free consultation.

Alzheimer’s Support: Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease can be overwhelming. Contact the Alzheimer’s Association for assistance at 800-272-3900.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Thursdays at noon. A group for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Join others like yourself to share friendships, ideas, and tips on being a parent again. Free.

Flu Clinic: Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2-5 p.m.

Farmington Valley Health District. This flu clinic will offer seasonal flu vaccines. You must call 860-651-3539 to make an appointment.

Foot Care Clinic with Pedi-Care: Monday, Sept. 20 and Friday, Sept. 24. A specially trained nurse will perform an assessment of the feet and lower extremities, trimming, filing and cleaning of nails. By appointment. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Cost is $35 (not covered by insurance).

Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Checks: Every Thursday, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association, held in the Senior Center Community Room. Free. By appointment only. Call 860-8445352 to register.

Chair Massage with Bev Harris: By appointment, Tuesdays, Sept. 7 and 21.

15-minute massage is $10. Call 860-844-5352 to register.

Ongoing Programs

You must be a Senior Center member to participate, and pre-registration is required. Sign up online at schedulesplus.com/granby or call 860-844-5352.

Knitting Group: Mondays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Set Back: Tuesdays, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Music Jam: Every other Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cribbage: Fridays, 1 to 3 p.m.

Outdoor Activities

Kayaking–Rainbow Reservoir: Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. Guide, Judy Cooper. Enjoy a fall paddle at Rainbow Reservoir in Windsor.

Paddle length will be determined by water conditions, wind and weather. Take Rainbow Road to Merriman Road, then look for the left turn down to the parking lot. Pre-registration required.

Senior Van Service

The Senior Vans operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Out-of-town medical appointments may be made no earlier than 9:30 a.m. and no later than 2 p.m. Call at least one week in advance when requesting rides for appointments. Annual van fee is $10. Call 860-844-5350 to schedule a ride or to get more information.

Shopping and Dine and Drive Registration opens Sept. 1 for Granby members at 9 a.m. Registration for Out-Of-Town members opens Sept. 2, at 9 a.m. You must call 860-8445352 to register. A current membership and van pass is required. We can only accept registration for the person calling. Voice messages and emails will not be accepted for trip reservations.

Masks are required on the van.

Shopping Olde Mystic Village: Friday, Sept. 10.

Transportation fee $10.

Dine and Drive Breakwater, Stonington Borough: Friday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Transportation fee $10.

Day Tripping

Registration opens Sept. 1 for Granby members at 9 a.m. Registration for Out-OfTown members opens Sept. 2, at 9 a.m. You must call 860-844-5352 to register. A current membership and van pass is required. We can only accept registration for the person calling.

Voice messages and emails will not be accepted for trip reservations. All meals and ice cream are your expense, not included in the trip cost. Masks are required on the van.

Road Trip–Historic Essex Village: Monday, Sept. 13, departing 9 a.m., returning 4 p.m. Main Street Essex is the quintessential New England village; full of charm with great shops and dining.

Transportation fee $10.

The Big E: Wednesday, Sept. 29, departing 9 a.m., returning 3 p.m. The Big E returns with fun food, crafts, shows and more. Buy your tickets online or at the gate. Transportation fee $5.

Dreaming of vacationing again?

With an abundance of optimism, the Granby Senior Center is partnering with Collette Travel to offer some exciting travel destinations in 2022.

National Parks of America: May 14-May 25, 2022. There will be a special information session at the Granby Senior Center on Thursday, Sept.

23 at 1 p.m. Come to learn more about these

12 days including Scottsdale and Sedona, Arizona, The Grand Canyon, Brice Canyon in Utah, Zion National Park, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, and Rapid City, South Dakota. Includes 10 breakfasts and 6 dinners.

Cost $4,699 per person, double occupancy.

Includes round trip transportation to the airport from Granby.

Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights: Oct. 22-Oct. 28, 2022. In seven days see all the magical wonders of Iceland: the Northern Lights, massive glaciers, Geysir thermal areas, double cascading waterfalls, the crest of the Mid-Atlantic ridge, natural rock formations, volcanic sand beaches, floating icebergs, glaciers, lava fields, geothermal pools and so much more. Includes 5 breakfasts and 5 dinners. Cost $2,999 per person, double occupancy. Includes round trip transportation to the airport from Granby.

Exercise Classes

No drop-ins for any exercise class; minimum of eight participants per class for all classes except Line Dancing. Remember to bring a water bottle. via Zoom Yoga Flow: Mondays, Sept. 13-Oct. 4, 9:4510:30 a.m. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Emphasis in the four classes is given to finding a balance between flexibility and strength and exploring how, with practice, we can find increased fluidity of movement. Yoga experience is somewhat helpful but not required. Cost: $20 residents; $24 non-residents.

Chi Gong: Wednesdays, Sept. 1-Oct. 27, 9 a.m. No Sept. 22. Eight classes in the session.

Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins. The practice of Chi Gong helps us to feel grounded, nurtured and relaxed so that the body’s energy can be naturally directed to help our organs function optimally, create flexibility in the muscles, suppleness in the joints and bring balance to our emotions.

Accessible and beneficial to all levels. Cost: $48 residents; $56 non-residents.

Cardio and Strength: Fridays, Sept. 10Oct. 29, 9:45-10:30 a.m. No Oct. 22. Seven classes in the session. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

This is a quick-paced class with cardio and a concentration on strength building. Cost: $35 residents; $42 non-residents.

NEW In-person Exercise Class Tai Chi/Qi Gong: Thursdays, Oct. 7-Nov. 18, at 9 a.m., at the Senior Center. No Nov. 11. Six classes in the session. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins. In this new, beginner course we will learn some of the fundamentals of Tai Chi and eight of the many forms. The first half of class will consist of Qi Gong warm-ups that are suitable for abilities. Although this class will focus on standing exercises it is possible to do this class seated.

Cost: $36 residents; $42 non-residents.

Exercise Classes at Senior Center Gentle Movement for Strength and Balance: Mondays, Sept. 13-Oct. 25 at 11:15 a.m. No Oct. 11. Six classes in the session. Instructor, Paula Pirog. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Cost $36 residents; $42 non-residents.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, Sept. 7-Oct. 26, at 2:30 p.m. No Oct. 12. Seven classes in the session.

Instructor, Paula Pirog. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening.

Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Cost: $42 residents; $49 non-residents.

Yoga: Tuesdays, Sept. 7-Oct. 26, 4 p.m. No Oct. 12. Seven classes in the session. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Cost: $42 residents; $49 non-residents.

Line Dancing: Fridays, Sept. 3-Oct. 29, 1:30 to 3 p.m. Nine classes in the session. Instructor, Jim Gregory. This class is a great workout while having a lot of fun. Appropriate for beginner to advanced dancers. A minimum of twelve students needed to hold the class. Cost: $54 residents; $63 non-residents. You must preregister for ALL classes. Register and pay for classes on-line at schedulesplus.com/granby

Page 30 The Granby Drummer

Holcomb Farm celebrates Granby’s Open Farm Day September 18 Granby’s own farm—Holcomb Farm— anchors the West Granby part of town, along the watershed of the West Branch of the Salmon Brook, and Open Farm Day is the perfect opportunity for everyone in the community to visit and enjoy this town treasure. The fertile fields of plenty will be enjoyment enough but, in addition, several events are planned in and around the CSA Barn/Farm Store at 111 Simsbury Road. Here’s the line-up to help you plan, as we know it will be a busy day for everyone looking to visit all of Granby’s great farms.

10 a.m.—Cooking Demo in the Farm Store with celebrity chef Chris Prosperi of Metro Bis. His cooking demos at the farm are a thing of simple beauty.

Armed with a few staples and a hot plate, Prosperi will walk through the bins of produce, piling up veggies to cook, and then have at it. Everyone can watch, learn, and taste: the results are always delicious.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will have an informational tent at the Farm displaying pelts of our local wildlife. Kids of all ages will enjoy learning more about the animals that live in and around Granby.

11 a.m. and 1 p.m.—Guided hikes on the Friends of Holcomb Farm’s growing Tree Trail. These hikes will begin at the main campus of Holcomb Farm at 113/115 Simsbury Road (all other events are at the CSA Barn/Farm Store).

All Day Guess the Garlic Contest—We have our largest crop ever of seed garlic hanging and curing in the Barn Store.

Come guess how much we have hanging.

Whoever comes closest will win one of the bags.

Tree Trail continues to grow At last count, more than 60 trees have been planted, labeled and lovingly watered by our many volunteers. Absent an available water source on the East Fields, this is a heavy labor of love. We have plans to seek grants and raise funds to put in a well to support the growing arboretum, and perhaps, support grazing animals, but for now, its brute force.

On your next walk along the trail, be sure to take note of the American yellowwood, a tree of year-round high landscape value. With its leaves off, the American yellowwood’s smooth gray bark would strike many observers as perhaps a beech. The bark’s resemblance is very close, as is the surprisingly beautiful yellow fall color. Other than the bark, the resemblance is not close.

The yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea) displays 15-inch hanging clusters of fragrant white flowers in May and June, and clear yellow seed pods. It makes superb bee pasture, attracting swarms when in flower. It usually grows 30 to 50 feet high, with a 40- to 55-foot spread.

The Kentucky champion is 80 feet tall.

Its growth rate is medium, but can be accelerated with water and fertilizer. It’s not native to Connecticut, but is found from North Carolina to Kentucky and Tennessee, then scattered in Illinois, Indiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Despite its Southern range, it does just fine as far north as Minnesota and Maine, with-

September 2021

Who’s Who at The Friends

She keeps the books at Holcomb Farm

By Shirley Murtha

The American yellowwood, a tree of year-round high landscape value, is a new addition to Holcomb Farm’s growing Tree Trail. All are invited to come see this tree and 60 others we’ve planted and labeled throughout this arboretum in the East Fields (across the street from our main campus). Submitted photos

standing winter temperatures of minus 25 to 30 degrees.

While it has a considerable range, it is not a common tree. We are not aware of any along Granby’s roadsides. Our tree was sourced from Rare Earth Nursery in Cazenovia, N.Y., and was grown by the Missouri Gravel Bed Method. Just Google “Missouri Gravel Bed” to find out what this term means.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the yellowwood is its bright green leaves, which stand out in the landscape against the darker-leaved oaks and hickories.

The leaves are pinnately compound, with 7 to 11 leaflets. (“Pinnately compound leaves” take their name from their feather-like appearance; the leaflets are arranged along the middle vein, as in rose leaves or the leaves of hickory, pecan, ash, or walnut trees.)

It produces flowers every other year, or every third year, usually starting when the tree attains a height of about 12 to 18 feet. Ours is only about seven feet tall and will likely not bloom for five years or so. It may not bloom at all. Leading authority Michael Dirr says in The Tree Book that he grew one from seed, but it’s never bloomed in 17 years.

The name “yellowwood” comes from the color of the heartwood, which was once used for gunstocks.

Of all the people who are important to the operation of Holcomb Farm, Cathy Browning has to be at the top of the list. Officially titled Operations Manager, she keeps track of the revenue and expenses involved in the running of the organization. A bookkeeper by trade, the farm is one of her clients; she is not an actual employee.

Born and raised in Southwick, Browning now lives in North Granby on the Southwick line. She has spent some time in both California and Florida, but always returned to her hometown roots. She became acquainted with the Farm when her daughters attended the Learning Center summer camp. After seeing the changes that took place at the Farm in 2017, she realized that her talents could be useful there and worked out an arrangement with the board. Her favorite part of the job? Interacting with the farm crew and “learning a little bit every day about the business of farming.”

When asked what she likes to do when not working, Browning notes that she and her husband Stu take on some pretty big projects, such as painting their house and re-building their rock wall. For additional exercise (as if those kinds of projects aren’t enough), she jogs and does some weight-lifting. She is also working on her golf swing in the hopes of

getting out on a course soon.

In 2018, the Brownings’ daughter Samantha held her wedding reception in the Farm’s North Barn, which had been converted by the town into

Cathy Browning at the door of the Friends of Holcomb Farm office. Photo by Shirley Murtha

an event facility. The family found it to be just the perfect place. In May, Samantha presented Cathy and Stu with their first grandchild, Jack. The Brownings’ other daughter, Emily, is an APRN at Hartford Hospital. Both daughters live locally, so the family gets together often.

Rounding out the Browning family is a French bulldog named Pig, and two pygmy goats named Blue and Ivy. There is also a “very personable chicken” named Belina (as suggested from the movie Return to Oz.)

Another year of growth for the Friends By the time this issue is published, our Annual Meeting will have been held, and the terrific work of the FOHF—including all its members, donors and volunteers—celebrated. A complete annual report has been published and is available on our website, at holcombfarm. org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2020annual-report-final.rev_.pdf In August, New York ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis) puts on quite a show in the Southwest Field along Simsbury Road to the south of the Day Street South junction.

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September 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 31

Browse & Borrow Summer Library Celebration Winners With about 2,000 entries, the winners of our children, teen and adult prizes included: Abby L., Margot K., Natalie B., Wilson M., Alex U., and Kai S. (Prize 6: Frisbee Game), Sophia B., Owen B., Ty D., Chloe D., Nell G., Ryan S., Dawn B., Leala C., Coreen F., Mike G., Bill R., and Matt S. Congratulations to our winners!

Thank you ALL for your visits to the library, your celebration of library services, and your support. We’re so glad to welcome the community back into the Granby Public Library.

A Big Thank You to the Summer Library Celebration Sponsors The Granby Public Library wishes to thank all of the sponsors of this Summer’s Celebration, including: Beman True Value Hardware, Cambridge House Brew Pub, Granby Stop and Shop, Horses and Hounds, Necker’s Toyland, Old Mill Pond Village Shops, Zippy’s Auto Wash, and Friends of Granby Public Library, Friends of Cossitt Library and Granby Library Association.

Library Programs

Registration is required for many of the library’s programs. To register, follow the links on the library’s website or call the library. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter on the website or by phone.

Adults and Teens

The Statue of Liberty: Wednesday, Sept. 8, 6:30–7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Lady Liberty was a gift from the French people commemorating the alliance of France and the United States during the American Revolutionary War. Learn how she became a world-famous icon of liberty from author and historian John Cilio. You’ll hear the story behind the statue’s genesis, the ensuing funding nightmares, and the heated competition between cities to claim her for their own.

Register online to receive the Zoom link.

Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library.

Plan B Book Club: Monday, Sept.

13, 6:30-7:30 p.m. via Zoom. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson. Join us as we connect online through reading, conversation, and good books. Leading the discussions are Doug Soucier and Beth Morrill, who have led our popular in-person book discussions.

Copies of each book are available for patrons to borrow at the library or digitally via Overdrive and hoopla. Register online or call the library to participate.

Look for a confirmation email with a Zoom link and log-in information if you sign-up online. No computer/internet at home? Join us on the phone! Contact the library to learn how.

Superfoods 101: Thursday, Sept. 16, 6:30–7:30 p.m. via Zoom. We’re celebrating powerhouses of nutrition in this fun culinary program with Kim Larkin.

Join us for tips, techniques and simple ways to incorporate popular nutrient-rich foods into your life. The first 15 people to register will receive a superfood sampler pack including goji berries, cacao nibs, berry tea and dark chocolate. The packs will be available for pick up at the library one week prior to the program.

Register online to receive the Zoom link.

Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Financial Fitness Checkup: Socially Responsible Investing and Making Your Money Last in Retirement: Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6:30–8 p.m. at Main Branch.

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM granby-ct.gov/library 860-844-5275 GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Hours at Main Branch Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Library Hours at Cossitt Branch, beginning Sept. 7.

Tuesday and Thursday: 3 – 8 p.m.

Do you want to align your financial goals with your values? Are you concerned you will sacrifice returns to make a positive impact? Find out how to incorporate responsible investing in your financial plan. Making your money last in retirement will be a focus of the presentation.

Key concerns such as inflation, health care expenses and market volatility will be explored. Two financial services professionals answer your questions. No obligation. Register online.

Author Talk with Velya Jancz-Urban and Ehris Urban: Thursday, Sept. 23, 6:30–7:30 p.m. via Zoom. The knowledgeable and delightfully entertaining Grounded Goodwife duo will share their enthusiasm for using “Green magic” for personal wellness and holistic healing.

The mother-daughter team recently released their second book, Dare to be a Green Witch, featuring recipes and strategies for an earth-friendly natural lifestyle. Register online to receive the Zoom link. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library.

The Importance of Focus: Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at Main Branch. If you want more out of life and would like to focus on making it happen, this interactive workshop is for you. Greg Dwyer will show you how to create real magic in your life and get more of what you desire. The former illusionist worked backstage for Doug Henning’s The Magic Show and was seen by over six million people on CBS with The Late Show with David Letterman. Dwyer knows how to make the impossible possible and has traveled the world sharing his insights with others. Space is limited; register online today. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Writers Group: Tuesdays, Sept. 14 and 28, 5–6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Adult fiction writers are invited to hone skills using a variety of creative writing exercises and prompts. Join us for virtual, bi-weekly workshops led by members of the group. “Write on” by registering online to receive the Zoom link.

For Children and Families

Story Stroll: Every day, all ages at the Main Branch lawn, near the patio.

Stop by anytime and check out the latest self-paced Story Stroll. Just follow the numbers on the signs to read an entire picture book or complete a fun family activity challenge. A new story will appear every few weeks, so be sure to check back often.

Crafternoon: Thursday, Sept. 16, 12-2 p.m. at Main Branch outside patio.

For age 3+ (some crafts may have small pieces). There’s no school today so drop by and choose from an assortment of crafts and activities to take home and complete. We have craft kits, sticker stories, coloring sheets, paint with water pages and more. There’s something fun for all ages and levels of ability. No registration needed. In case of rain, we’ll have Crafternoon inside the Children’s

Room. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

The Garbage Truck is Coming: Tuesday, Sept. 21, 10:30-11 a.m. (Rain date Sept. 28) at Main Branch outside patio.

For preschoolers and a caregiver. Our friends at Paine’s Recycling and Rubbish Removal are returning for another visit. Join Miss Julie from Paine’s for a story or two and say hello to Gordon, our favorite Granby driver. After story time, each child will get the opportunity to sit up in the driver’s seat, behind the wheel of Gordon’s truck. We’ll have stickers and coloring sheets to take home, too.

No registration needed. Please bring a blanket for your family to sit on.

Take and Make Crafts: Saturdays, Sept. 11, 18 and 25, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Main Branch Children’s Room. For ages 3 and up. Stop by the Children’s Room and select a craft kit from our Craft Box to take home and complete.

No registration or reservation needed.

An assortment of crafts for all levels of ability will be available. One craft kit per child, please. All materials and instruction will be provided. First come, first served. Supplies are limited. Note: some crafts may contain small pieces that could be a choking hazard to children age 3 and under. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

Story Times

Good Morning Story Time with Miss Joan: Tuesdays, Sept. 7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:30–11 a.m. at Main Branch outside patio. Miss Joan invites her preschool (ages 3-5) friends and their caregivers to join her to sing, do a fingerplay and share a story together. Please bring a blanket or chairs for your family to sit on. No registration needed. Program will be held inside in the Children’s Room if it is raining. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

Bedtime Stories with Miss Heather: Thursdays, Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30, 5:30-6 p.m. at Cossitt Branch lawn. Join Miss Heather as she welcomes children ages 4-7 and their caregivers for story time— pajamas encouraged. We’ll read stories and sing songs together outdoors. Each child will also receive a craft to complete

at home. Please bring a blanket or chairs for your family to sit on. In case of bad weather, the program will be held inside in the Children’s Room. Sponsored by the Friends of Cossitt Library.

Story Time on Your Time: All month at the Main Branch. For babies and toddlers. Too busy to attend a scheduled Story Time program? Stop by or call the library and request a Story Time Bag for you and your baby or toddler. Each bag contains board books, a washable toy and pages of suggested finger plays, songs and nursery rhymes to enjoy together.

Keep each bag for up to one month, then return it and check out another. Each bag is unique. Place a hold in our online catalog or by calling 860-844-5275.

New and Ongoing Library Services

Hoopla: Granby Library patrons are now able to access the hoopla digital catalog, more than 900,000 titles of eBooks, eAudio books, music albums, TV series and more. Download the free app and log in with your GPL library card.

Every patron can borrow up to four titles a month—with no holds, and no waiting. Take advantage of these free digital checkouts in addition to the items you can borrow through Overdrive/Libby and use your Granby Library Card anywhere you are.

Museum Passes: Granby Library Patrons can borrow museum passes that will provide visitors with free or reduced rates for dozens of museums across Connecticut and Massachusetts. Check the library website or call for more details.

Library Displays: Visitors love to look at the ever-changing displays in the library lobby and Children’s room! Do you have a special collection to display at the library? There are opportunities to exhibit your art or collection. Call Holly Johnson at 860-844-5279, or Joan Beatson (for children’s collections) at 860-844-5285.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten: It’s never too early to start reading to your child. Granby Public Library’s popular program is an easy and fun way to spend time reading together. We provide everything you need. We would love to help you get started. Ask for information at the Children’s Desk or give us a call at 860844-5275 (main desk) or 860-844-5285 for Miss Joan, the Children’s Librarian.

Nutmeg Books: Did you know that Connecticut has its own book award where the students select the winners?

The Nutmeg Book Award nominees are here—have you checked them out yet?

We have the new titles for grades 2-6 in the Children’s Room and books for grades 7-12 in the Teen area. Come and choose a new favorite. Two Nutmeg book checkouts at a time, please.

Supporting a Caring Community since 1960

Your donation to the Granby Community Fund helps support the Waste Not, Want Not program, a community-based organization that prepares and serves a free hot meal weekly to an average of 150 people.

Page 32 The Granby Drummer

Remembering September 11, 2001 It’s been 20 years since that tragic day, September 11, 2001—how far away in years, yet how close in my memory it remains.

It began as a beautiful late summer morning with blue skies, sunshine, and marigolds in bloom. The announcement came over the radio and television—a plane had crashed into one of the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center in New York City. Like many others I at first thought it was a terrible accident. When the second plane hit the other tower, we knew it was a terrorist attack on our beloved country.

Another plane crashed into the Pentagon in Washington D. C., and a fourth hijacked plane crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania—brought down by passengers to prevent an attack on the Capitol. The passengers rallied to the words, “Let’s roll!”

In the aftermath of the destruction of the Twin Towers, workers searched for survivors. Many emergency personnel had lost their lives when they went into the buildings before they fell. Almost

three thousand people died that day.

Trained dogs were brought in to help with the search. People donated water and food for the rescuers. People gathered to pray, and many donated blood. It was heartbreaking to watch loved ones, clutching pictures, searching for missing family members. Years after, people are still dying and are ill because of all the toxins released.

Now, 20 years later, there are memorials at the Pentagon, at Shanksville, and at the World Trade Center. The One World Trade Center stands tall against the sky, and in the footprints of the Twin Towers, two waterfalls with reflection pools offer a space for quiet thought, remembrance, and contemplation.

Families have had to go on with their lives without their loved ones. Young children have grown to adulthood.

They’ve never forgotten, nor do we.

Those lost remain forever in our hearts.

We pray for peace for their families and friends. We pray for peace for our world.

—Bernadette R. Gentry

October 2021 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, Sep. 15 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org ARTICLES: Monday, Sep. 20 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: Sep. 14-27 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222.

Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at granbydrummer.org

September 2021

Closer to Home

Support our local businesses while saving some gas and time. Tell them you saw their ad in the Drummer.

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Action Carpet 28 Aquarion Water 18 Beacon Mechanical 20 Bear Wise 5 Beman Hardware 19 BHHS-Reardon 7 BHHS-Shepherd’s Way 22 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s Motors 13 Council, Marty Obituary 10 Carmon Funeral Homes 5 Carter Robert Painting 15 Cetera Investors 10 Chiropractic Care of Granby 13 Christopher Bryant 17 Cossitt Library insert D’Agata-Perry Granite & Bronze 20 Drummer Volunteers 9 Evans Automotive 5 First Congregational Church 16 Friends of Granby Public Library 12 Gary’s Mowing 3 Granby Community Fund 31 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 14 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 8, 23 Granby Food Bank 4 Higleyville Coin 11 Larry’s Construction 3

Martel Transportation 12 MeadowBrook of Granby 27 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing 2 Morawski Cleaning 22 O’Brien Nurserymen 15 Old Farms Landscaping 8 Premier Energy 30 Public Works 9 Route 10 Tire 10 Sanditz Travel 11 Santa Realty 9 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 2 Small Town Septic 15 South Church 11 State Line Propane Oil 24 Subseven 10 Sullivan Hardwood Floors 3 Swim Center at Westminster 18 Thomas Naro MY PT 24 Thomas Sullivan Morgan Stanley 14 TJ Bark Mulch 23 Troiano Oil Company 16 Two Park Place 12 Valley Brook Community Church 26 Walsh Chiropractic 19 Westfield Bank 32 Windsor Federal Savings 21 YMCA – Granby Road Race 25

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