Granby Drummer | December 2024

Drummer

Battery storage project under scrutiny Hearings continue

ˆTown Manager Mike Walsh recently updated the board of selectmen and the IWWC of the Town of Granby’s position in opposition to the Key Capture Energy project.

In July, Key Capture Energy (KCE) informed the town of its intent to locate a battery energy storage system (BESS) at 100 Salmon Brook Street.

Dec. 10

This project is separate from the Broadleaf solar project that is still in the planning stages.

The Connecticut Siting Council has jurisdiction for approval of the project, and when KCE filed a petition for a declaratory ruling in July, the council KCE cont’d. on p. 2

Remembering Drummer founder Barb Askew

By Chris Levandowski

Barbara Ann Askew, 88, a longtime Granby resident, passed away on October 28 in Greenwood, S.C. Barbara was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., and attended the University of Connecticut and Owens State College where she earned her RN. She and her husband John moved to Granby and their three children, J.

Richard, Susan and David were raised here. She worked for several years as a nurse in Dr. Peter Barwick’s office where many Granby residents came to know her.

Barb also found ways to volunteer, including serving as the president of the Friends of Granby Public Library and supporting the Salmon Brook Historical Society. Her love of books and history led to her collaboration with Carol Laun, curator of the historical society, as editorial readers of Mark Williams history of Granby, A Tempest in a Small Town However, Barb’s long-lasting legacy is in the history of The Granby Drummer Her involvement began in the late 1960s when The New England Association of Schools advised the town that the high school’s accreditation would be withdrawn if a library, classrooms and other services weren’t built. The $3.3M price tag carried a “hefty” tax increase. Taxpayers rejected budgets that included the project in three consecutive

Barb Askew cont’d. on p. 2

Wrap up 2024, look ahead to 2025

By the time you read this, Thanksgiving Day will be in the rear-view mirror as we enter December, the holiday season, with the new year upon us in the blink of an eye!

About town

with Mike wAlsh Town Manager

Granby Town Hall folks will be busy crafting the budget that will begin on July 1, 2025. Each department head will be making acase to use your tax dollars to continue to provide a host of valuable services including police and fire protection, road plowing and maintenance, and education. Capital priorities will take front and center stage in the production of the FY 26 budget.

With the reactivation of the Capital Program Priorities Advisory Committee (CPPAC), capital priorities for the next 10 years will be discussed and set. In case you weren’t around in 1984 when this committee was created, two members from the board of selectmen, board of finance and board of education—one from each political party—are appointed to vet the $78 million, 10-year Granby Capital Plan. They are joined by the chair of each board, the BOE superintendent, the town treasurer, and me, your town manager. I invite you to join us on first and fourth Mondays at 5 p.m. at Granby Town Hall as we chart a capital course for the community into the future.

Enough of the budget for now. Let me close this last 2024 Drummer article on a positive and festive note. First, thank

About Town cont’d. on p. 3

GMHS volleyball player Jayne Hiatt achieves 1,000 “kills”

By Kim Pereira

Granby Memorial High School senior Jayne Hiatt (#21) set a new record this season when she racked up her 1,000th kill in volleyball. Her achievement marks the first time in Granby volleyball’s 18-year history that a player has accomplished this amazing feat. Jayne started playing volleyball in the eighth grade through the Husky Volleyball Club and is now a decorated member of the high school team. She has been recognized as a four-time AllState player, chosen as a member of the Husky 17 National Smack team, and honored as the North Central Connecticut Conference Championship MVP. For Jayne, volleyball is a fast-paced and fun sport that requires discipline, teamwork and sheer athleticism. “Throwing yourself on the floor for a ball and just making these amazing saves makes you feel really good about yourself,” Jayne remarks.

Even an untrained eye can see that Jayne is special on the court. Whether she’s serving, diving for a bump, setting the ball for her teammates or spiking it over the net herself, she has established herself as a true force. She knows exactly where to send the ball to be just out of reach of her opponent’s outstretched arms. Her reaction time for hits is impressive, stretching herself into leaps or folding herself into bumps in time for the perfect hit. With Jayne’s strength and power, she helped make Granby volleyball the team to watch this season. Program founder and head coach David Sprowson describes Jayne as an “impact player” who has been a key competitor since her freshmen year. While most people are familiar with the gravity of a high school basketball player achieving 1,000 or 2,000 points, the difficulty of scoring 1,000 kills in volleyball might be more difficult to Jayne Hiatt cont’d. on p. 2

Puzzle Slam returns on Feb. 1

If you love jigsaw puzzles, then this is the event for you! Grab three friends or come with your family for a fun and lively puzzle competition! The Drummer’s second Puzzle Slam will take place on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at the Granby Memorial Middle School gym. (The snow date is Feb. 2.)

Jigsaw puzzle contests are a relatively recent phenomenon but are a growing competitive activity. During this contest, teams of four will compete to complete a 500-piece puzzle (every team will receive the same puzzle, which they will keep after the contest). Registration opens on Dec. 1, and the cost to compete is $100/team. Proceeds will support The Granby Drummer, and sponsorships are available. The fun starts at 1 p.m. Last year’s event sold out quickly, so gather your teammates and get registered to come play!

by

Barbara Ann Askew, photo courtesy of David Askew

Photo

Peter Dinella

L-R: Hannah Steele, Katie O’Neil, Olivia Teclaw, Natalie Jones, Sage Pycz, Jayne Hiatt, Sydney Lisowski, Lily Heitman Submitted photo

referendums. As a concerned parent, Barb joined “The Loose Group,” that was organized to inform naysayers of the impacts on the community if accreditation was withdrawn. It mailed a fact-filled pamphlet to every household that cited lowered real estate values, a decreased town credit rating and the impact to the town’s reputation as negative consequences of an unaccredited high school. It worked. The proposal passed at a fourth referendum. The new facilities opened in the fall of 1971.

Positive community feedback spurred the group to continue providing the town with reliable and timely information. In 1970 Citizens for a Better Granby was created to publish The Granby Drummer, a monthly all-volunteer newspaper. Barbara and Jean Switzer were the paper’s first editors for the September 1970 issue. Fifty-four years later, the Drummer continues to serve the community.

She also served as president of CBG from 1996 through 2000. When in 1999 GMHS science teacher Bruce Boehm asked CBG for a donation to help finance grant applications for an ecology center at GMMS and GMHS and to meet a matching gift, the board cre-

ated the Drummer Fund. Its first grant was $10,000 to help get the ecology center get off the ground. The Granby Education Foundation later undertook a fundraising campaign ($350,000) to build The Salmon Brook Ecology Center that was dedicated in 2004.

Barb remained a dedicated UConn women’s basketball fan even after she retired to South Carolina in 2001. There she jumped into volunteer work with the Oconee County Friends of the Library, serving as president from 2006–2016 and initiating several educational programs.

Barb leaves behind her children John Richard (Margaret) Askew, Susan (Carlos) Torres, and David (Jo-Ann) Askew, seven grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren

The board members of CBG, and Drummer volunteers express our sympathy to the Askew family, and Barb’s friends and cohorts. Granby residents offer thanks for her contributions to our town.

A celebration of Barb’s life will be held on Friday, Dec. 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby. Donations may be sent to The Granby Drummer, PO Box 165, Granby CT 06035.

scheduled an online public hearing for Nov. 19. The Town of Granby and the board of selectmen hired legal counsel to represent Granby’s interests.

KCE presented its case and outlined its interactions with Lost Acres Fire Department. Atty. Decresendo presented the Town of Granby’s opposition to the project and asked KCE for clarification on certain issues.

Compiled by Drummer staff KCE cont’d. from p. 1

Granby’s issues with the proposal include “thermal runaway,” which is a fire unique to lithium-ion batteries; concern about high-voltage lines crossing over the underlying aquifer, and access-site restrictions that would hinder safe ingress and egress for first responders and citizens in the event of emergency.

The Nov. 19 hearing convened at 2 p.m. with KCE presenting first and Granby following. At 5:15 p.m., before Granby completed its testimony, the hearing was suspended and will reconvene online at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10 to hear Granby’s full testimony and that of its professional representatives: Mark Gottlieb, an environmental consultant; John Oates; and Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agent Kate Bednaz.

The community was invited to address the council directly at 6:30 p.m. This session was attended by 54 people. Twelve had signed up to address the council and were allotted three minutes to speak. Of the six who addressed the council, five were opposed to the project. First Selectman Mark Fiorentino stated to the siting council, “This is not a good site, and another site should be selected.”

The Nov. 19 hearing, in its entirety, can be accessed at: portal.ct.gov/csc/4_csc_calendarofevents/csc-calendar-of-events

Perron named to BOF

Ben Perron (r.) was recently appointed to the Granby Board of Finance. Perron is replacing Al Wilke who resigned after serving on the board since 2003.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

grasp. “Most of the shots in basketball are worth two or three points, but in volleyball, they’re only worth one,” notes Sprowson, “so it takes a lot more attempts, a lot more swings, to get 1,000 points in volleyball than in most other sports. It’s very impressive that Jayne was able to do that.”

In volleyball, a kill is when “a hitter goes up and hits the ball over and either the opposing player doesn’t get a hand on it or it hits the floor right away or they shake it and they can’t get it back over the net,” Jayne explains. This is distinct from “aces,” which are points earned on a serve, or “digs,” where a spiked ball is defended from touching the ground. Each of these different gameplay actions taps into Jayne’s skillset and carries a unique pleasure for the three-time team captain. “I love playing defense,” Jayne asserts, “I like it even better than hitting. I’m a hitter—that’s my position—but I play all the way around … Half the time I’m up in front hitting and blocking, and half the time I’m in the back row, passing or serving.”

Strong players like Jayne have allowed Granby’s team to dominate this season. Please see Katie O’Neil’s article on page 7.

As Jayne heads to college next year with the goal of becoming an ultrasound technician and sonographer, volleyball will continue to be a part of her life. “I couldn’t live without it,” Jayne declares.

Jayne Hiatt cont’d. from p. 1

Barb Askew cont’d.

Jayne Hiatt photo by Jay Harder

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN HIGHLIGHTS

OCTOBER 21, 2024

Members present: Mark Fiorentino, Mark Neumann, Frederick Moffa, Margaret Chapple

Members absent: Kelly Rome

Others present: Town Manager Mike Walsh, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Student Liaison Ben LaVigne, Student Liaison Zainab Zafar, Finance Director Kimi Cheng.

87 Simsbury Road Acquisition

87 Simsbury Road is a 4.8-acre property formerly the location of the West Granby United Methodist Church. When the church was closed, it reverted to the Hartford Foundation of Public Giving (HFPG). The town has been in discussions with HFPG to acquire the property to rejoin it to the Holcomb Farm. The town expects to execute an agreement with the Granby Land Trust (GLT) so that sufficient funding is available should the church building need to be demolished.

In repatriating the parcel to Holcomb Farm, the town will also execute an agreement with Holcomb Farm, Inc., which will be solely responsible for the maintenance of the property and building until such time, about six months, as the board of selectmen consider a recommendation for the final disposition of the church building. The board unanimously approved the following resolutions: the acquisition of 87 Simsbury Road for no monetary consideration; the agreement with the Granby Land Trust whereby it pledges up to $100,000 for the demolition of the church building and restoration of the land; and the agreement between the town and Holcomb Farm for the maintenance of the property and buildings.

Public Session

Ms. Johnston (Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about harmful pesticide sprays on the farm at 16 Barndoor Hills Road, explaining that the pesticide is harmful to bees and butterflies, and pollutes the stream, and the chemicals are dangerous to human beings.

Stephanie Harper (48 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about the spraying of harmful chemicals at 16 Barn Door Hills Road that is a townowned property being leased for farming and further explained that cardboard debris has been found in the woods on the property line. Harper further noted that there is an issue of unsanitary conditions along with the use of harmful pesticides outside of DEEP regulations.

Lee Shaw (1 Barn Door Hills Road) noted that the property at 16 Barn Door Hills Road is an important property for horse riders who use the property as a cut-through to access other trails. Shaw further explained that she was alarmed when she learned that harmful chemicals had been sprayed and that the type of chemical that was sprayed shouldn’t come into contact with people for several hours after the chemical is dispensed and they are unsure when it was sprayed.

Eric Meyers (22 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about the lessee of 16 Barn Door Hills Road, noting he would like the town not to allow lessees to use harmful pesticides. Meyers also noted that the Trunk-or-Treat event went well and that the Granby Grunts were in attendance.

Avis Cherichetti (31 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about the access to 16 Barn Door Hills Road. She is alarmed about the amount of traffic up and down the right-of-way easement. Cherichetti also expressed concerns about the erosion.

Celeste Johnson (27 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about 16 Barn Door Hills Road and that she often hikes the area with her dogs and was surprised that the farm fields had been flattened.

Ken Faroni (62 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about 16 Barn Door Hills Road, raising concerns about the spray zones of harmful pesticides.

Michael Johnston (42 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about his concerns about 16 Barn Door Hills Road and the pesticides being sprayed and whether or not the town had any recourse in addressing this with the lessee.

Matthew and Laura Nicholas (58 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about 16 Barn Door Hills and the concern of harmful chemicals being sprayed. Laura Nicholas indicated that they spent more than one year searching for a home and they might have reconsidered their decision to purchase the property had they known this was happening.

Carolyn Flint (54 Barn Door Hills Road) spoke about 16 Barn Door Hills and that Salmon Brook has a wild and scenic designation and that the chemical spraying may ultimately be harmful to the environment.

Jim Szipszky (19 Stonewall Drive) spoke about his concerns of 16 Barn Door Hills and the harmful chemicals being used on the property and knowing that Salmon Brook is designated as wild and scenic that DEEP may also need to be notified.

Looking for additional information?

You can access the entire minutes from any town meeting by visiting granby-ct.gov/ AgendaCenter

About Town cont’d. from p. 1

you for allowing me the pleasure of being your town manager. Led by your local elected officials like Mark Fiorentino and the board of selectmen, Mike Guarco and the board of finance, and all the other board and commission members that work so hard for you, it was a productive year.

Town hall and all its employees are looking forward to an even more productive year in 2025 as we work hard to deliver services to you, the taxpayers of Granby.

Second, know that I thoroughly enjoy being a public servant in public service.

Since I started back in early March, the Granby community has welcomed me and my wife Janice with open arms and that is sincerely appreciated.

Third and last, as we enter this holiday season, allow me to extend warm wishes of a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year not only to you and your family, but for the entire community we call the Town of Granby.

NOVEMBER 4, 2024

Members present: Mark Fiorentino, Mark Neumann, Frederick Moffa, Margaret Chapple, Kelly Rome.

Others present: Town Manager Mike Walsh, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Student Liaison Zainab Zafar, Lost Acres Fire Department Chief John Horr, Jr.

229 Mountain Road

229 Mountain Road is a 16.91-acre property that is currently vacant with the exception of a radio tower and assorted equipment. The town would like to acquire a portion of the property to locate a new emergency telecommunications tower to improve emergency communications.

Town Manager Mike Walsh explained that the town would need to purchase approximately 5.6 acres along with an easement area that would encompass the fall zone of the tower, and that the full easement area would be located on the remaining 11.21 acres retained by the property owner. The expected purchase price is $99,750. The acquisition was unanimously approved.

Redeployment of the Capital Program Priority Advisory Committee

On April 14, 1984, the board of selectmen created the Capital Program Priority Advisory Committee (CPPAC). The current board approved redeploying the committee for the purpose of annually developing a definition of a capital improvement, developing criteria for prioritizing capital improvement projects, and recommending a capital improvement program schedule to the board of selectmen.

Mark Neumann, Peggy Chapple, Kevin Hobson, William Kennedy, Heather Lombardo and David Peling were approved as voting members. The chairs of the boards of selectmen, finance and education, the town manager, the school superintendent and the town treasurer were approved as non-voting members. The town treasurer becomes a voting member for the purpose of breaking a tie.

CPPAC meeting dates will be the first and fourth Mondays of each month at 5 p.m. in the town hall meeting room subject to the approval of the members of the committee.

Supporting the Drummer still matters!

Thank you, thank you and thank you!

To everyone who donated in response to our “Your Support Matters” letter in last month’s Drummer, we can’t say enough about how much your support means to us. Your donations help us fulfill our unwavering commitment to provide an independent platform to bring Granby’s news to you and all of your neighbors. We appreciate your willingness to invest in our efforts.

To those of you who are still thinking about donating, we are deeply grateful for any donation in any amount. Please scan our QR code on this page, or make a donation online by using our Donate Now button on our secure website, granbydrummer.com You may also mail your contribution by check payable to The Granby Drummer, P.O. Box 165, Granby, CT 06035. To donate by credit card, email editor@granbydrummer.org All contributions are tax deductible. Thank you for your generosity. Your support still matters! Board of Directors of Citizens for a Better Granby, publisher of The Granby Drummer.

Town Hall Happenings

By Catherine Lanyon, Town of Granby Communications Staff

The December holiday season is fast approaching. Let us be thankful for the many town employees, staff and volunteers who all work to make this season joyful and bright. Read on for news and upcoming events from various departments at Granby Town Hall.

Social Services is preparing for upcoming holiday celebrations. Through collected donations, the department provides food vouchers for both Thanksgiving and December holiday meals to families identified as lowincome. In addition, the department coordinates a holiday sponsorship program for children up to age 16. The families submit their children’s wish lists, which are fulfilled by volunteer sponsors. This long-running program typically serves more than 25 families and more than 50 children.

If you are interested in volunteering or donating to these wonderful holiday programs, please contact Sandy Yost, director of Granby Human Services, at 860-844-5351.

During the Granby Police Department’s biannual Drug Take Back Day on Oct. 26, more than 140 pounds of unneeded prescriptions were collected and properly disposed of. Thank you to all who contributed safely!

The Transfer Station’s extra fall hours have ended, and the hours of operation return to Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To receive updates about these and other topics of interest, sign up for notifications at granby-ct.gov Click on the yellow “Subscribe” button on the homepage and follow the instructions.

From everyone at Granby Town Hall, wishing you happy holidays and relaxing time with friends and family.

Drumbeat

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

Shop our community—it makes a difference!

This 32-page December issue is full of so much information—town news, youth sports, upcoming holiday events, advice on celebrating safely and messages from our area advertisers. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed putting it together. But the facts are these: it could have been a 36-page paper. We received many fabulous photos on happenings

Office of the Registrars

around town, as well as a number of thoughtful and informative articles, more than enough to fill the additional four pages. But the Drummer does not have the financial resources to publish at a deficit, so the size of the paper depends on our paid advertising. For December, that meant a 32-page paper. What can YOU do? Consider giving your business to our advertisers, and

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION WAS HISTORIC

Thanks to all the voters in Granby for making this past election one of exceptional turnout and for the patience and good grace that was evident from both voters and poll workers. There were 14 days of early voting at town hall, steady lines at the polls at the high school on Nov. 5, and incredible interest in same-day registration/voting on election day at the Registrar of Voter’s office. People wanted their voices heard and to be part of our democratic process. There were early votes cast Oct. 21 through Nov. 3 for a total of 3,646. The busiest day was Oct. 21. There were 512 absentee ballots returned to Town Clerk Scott Nolan, 37 overseas ballots and three military ballots. Same-day registration was available during all of early voting and also on Nov. 5, for a total of 147. Voters who came to the high school on election day numbered 3,112. Granby’s final tally of ballots cast during this election was 7,458, an amazing 86 percent of registered voters turning out for this election.

We had a diligent crew of 155 volunteers to greet voters, answer questions, check names off by street, hand out ballot and pen, as well as the tabulator tenders at the black box to make sure your vote was cast. Let’s not forget the hardworking moderators working at the polls and the great traffic team that kept the traffic flowing through the high school, especially during tournament time. Thanks to all!

Submitted by Registrars of Voters Laura Wolfe and Paul Willis

The Granby Public Library is getting a fresh new look

The next time you stop by the Granby Public Library you may see some renovations underway in the Adult Services area, bringing new life to the beloved community hub. The project includes the installation of brand-new carpeting, the removal of outdated wallpaper, and a fresh coat of paint to modernize the space. In addition, upgraded lighting will enhance the library’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a more enjoyable environment for readers and visitors.

The library staff is thrilled about the updates and the opportunity to improve patrons’ experiences. These changes are not just about aesthetics—they reflect the library’s commitment to creating a vibrant, comfortable space for everyone. While some areas of the library may experience temporary closures during the renovation, library services will remain available. Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media for updates on progress and any changes to hours. The project is expected to be completed by the end of January 2025, ushering in a refreshed chapter for the Granby Public Library and its community.

ADVERTISERS AGREEMENT

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.

CORRECTIONS

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

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

Send your news articles and ideas, photos and letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org. Please include your name, phone and email address. Deadlines for the next issue are printed on the back page in this issue or visit our website: granbydrummer.com

when you do—tell them “The Drummer sent you!”

The Citizens for a Better Granby Board and the volunteer staff at the Drummer wish you a joyful holiday and look forward to spending 2025 with you. We’ll be back with more local news with our February issue.

Letters to the Editor

Fresh Access plants a seed

Many, many thanks to the generous hands that plant, tend and move the produce from the field to our tables via the Holcomb Farm’s Fresh Access program in Granby. The weekly pick-up stops are brightened by the smiles of the volunteers.

One morning, my granddaughter was with me as I collected my bag of nature’s goodness. When we drove away, she said “Granby is such a kind town.” A seed was planted that day as she saw our community’s bounty and values in action.

Phyllis C. Sheridan

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 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, December 2 and 16

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept. Community Room, Tuesday, December 30

Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, December 4 and 18

Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesday, December 10

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday,December 11

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, December 9

248 SALMON BROOK ST., GRANBY 860-653-5514

We currently need

Jarred spaghetti sauce

Far East rice sides

Asstd Progresso soups

Asstd cookies/crackers

Canned pineapple chunks, peaches

Toothpaste, shampoo

Toilet paper, dish soap

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 ©2024

Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, all rights reserved.

CBG Board

Kathy Norris, Chair

Sam Mikus, Vice Chair

Karen Cleary, Treasurer

Flo Bishoff, Secretary

Carol Bressor, Karen Handville, Roger Hayes

Amanda Lindberg, Rebecca Mikus

Dave Tolli, Lew Noble

Staff

Jen Bell, Managing Editor

Leisa Ritchie, Production Supervisor

Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor

Amanda Lindberg, Copy Editor

Rick Handville, Photo Editor

Kathy Agresta, Carol Bressor, Fran Brown, Nancy Dudenhofer, Karen Handville, Rita Isaacson, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Mikayla Munson

Nicole Muller, Patty Sansone, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley

Reporters & Contributors

AnneMarie Cox, David Desiderato, Cindy Dixon, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Monique Fitzpatrick, Bernadette Gentry, Judy Guarco, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, Holly Johnson, Catherine Lanyon, Brian Liss, Brian Long, Nicole Muller, Shirley Murtha, Trish Percival, Kim Pereira, Lisa Pyatt, Scott Riley, Faith Tyldsley, Todd Vibert, Mike Walsh, Paul Willis, Laura Wolfe, Amber Wyzik, Sandy Yost, Karen Young

Advertising Team

Deneika Janski, Advertising Coordinator

Fran Brown, Deborah Kulwich

Website Manager

Jake Kean

Subscriptions & Delivery

Sam & Rebecca Mikus

The Drummer appreciates hearing from its readers.

Letters and opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer The length of letters will be held to 250 words and less, and opinion pieces shall not exceed 500 words.

To be published, material must be signed and include an address and phone number. This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff. Material from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted at publication.

Only one letter or opinion piece per household will be considered for publication in each issue. The Drummer reserves the right to edit, shorten or not publish a submission, and to run the material in any electronic form. Material becomes the property of the Drummer Email your letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org

GRANBY FOOD BANK

GRANBY P & Z HIGHLIGHTS

OCTOBER 8, 2024

Present members: Eric Lukingbeal, Christine Chinni, Mark Lockwood, Eric Myers, Robert Lavitt, Steve Muller and alternate Paula Johnson.

Absent member: Brennan Sheahan

Also present: Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre

Seating of Alternates, if applicable Johnson was seated for Sheahan.

Public Hearings

The commission heard the applications for 254 and 256 Salmon Brook Street at the same time.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 3.12.3 for a professional office and associated site improvements for property located at 254 Salmon Brook Street, CE Zone.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 8.16 and 8.6.14 for a restaurant with outdoor dining and live outdoor entertainment, and for an illuminated sign and associated site improvements, for property located at 256 Salmon Brook Street, COCE Zone.

Property owner John Pagliaro, Land Surveyor Brian Denno, and applicant Meghan Peterson were present to discuss the applications. Denno discussed the revisions made to the site plans in response to staff and commission comments. Modifications included relocation of the proposed ground sign farther from the road and installing a “right turn only” exit on Salmon Brook Street for those heading north onto Salmon Brook Street. It was noted that an additional ground sign for the proposed coffee shop was added to the plans; however, this sign will be removed as it is not part of this application and requires a special permit.

Public Comment

Robert Flanigan, 24 Woodcliff Drive, expressed concerns regarding DOT approval and asked whether a traffic study was conducted. He also noted that work has already begun on-site, which staff clarified is permitted under a building permit and does not require approval from the commission.

Kenyon went through her staff memorandum, which outlined draft conditions of approval. Lockwood noted that a condition shall be added regarding the merging of both lots, and Johnson recommended that the approval for 254 Salmon Brook St. provide for night-time office hours.

The commission approved the applications for 254 and 256 Salmon Brook St. subject to the following conditions:

All items outlined in the Oct. 4 memorandum from the director of community development to the commission are completed to the satisfaction of staff prior to issuance of the special permit.

Item number 5 is modified to remove the word “final.”

Item number 8, hours of operation, is modified to 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Approval is contingent upon all required documentation to merge parcels 254 and 256 is filed before issuance of the special permit.

Application seeking a Site Plan modification and Special Permit modification for use within an Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone, under Zoning Regulations Sections 3.9.2.11 and 8.21.4 for a 1,393 sq. ft. building addition to the Veterinary Hospital for property located at 136 Salmon Brook Street, ED Zone.

Professional Engineer Jim Cassidy and applicant Jeff Weatherhead of GVH Partners, LLC, were present to discuss the application. The 2.04-acre property is located within the ED zone and consists of a 12,270-squarefoot veterinary hospital. The applicant would like to construct a 1,393-square-foot addition at the front of the building to accommodate additional exam rooms and a retail area. Since the location of the proposed addition falls within the upland review area, an application was submitted to the Granby Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission and approved by the wetland’s agent.

As noted in staff’s memo, veterinary use is allowed by special permit in the ED Zone and the property also falls in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone. The commission granted special permit approvals for this use previously and the proposed expansion will not result in a change to the nature of the business operation, therefore there are no concerns. Cassidy provided an overview of the existing site versus proposed, inclusive of site lighting, landscaping, additional parking spaces, and replacement/relocation of the existing sewer lateral. There was no public comment.

The commission approved the application subject to the following condition:

All three items detailed by staff and three items detailed by the town engineer in the Oct. 1 memorandum from the director of community development to the commission are addressed to the satisfaction of staff and added to the site plans prior to the issuance of the special permit.

Consideration of a request for a 90-day filing extension for File P-2-24 for a 1-lot subdivision (to be known as 200 Case Street).

The commission approved the extension.

Staff Report and Correspondence

Kenyon provided an update on DOT’s response to the commission’s concerns regarding the work underway in the center of Granby and alignment of lights at all intersections in the center. Regarding the pedestrian crosswalk at Station 280 that is hidden behind a telephone pole, staff is still waiting on a response. Kenyon also noted that the town has received four proposals in response to the RFP for 5 Canton Road (Kearns School).

CORRECTION

The November issue invited people who wanted to volunteer their help with the roundabout garden to text Harry Jones. We apologize that there was an error in the phone number. The correct number is 413-297-1259.

Now that the auction is over…

By Michael B. Guarco, Jr., Chair, Board of Finance

Every time election season rolls around, we are inundated with hyperbole about what the national and state candidates will do for the citizenry, with the unspoken part being what it will cost us, as if it comes without a price tag. Whether directly through taxes, or at the federal level indirectly through the inflationary impact of deficit spending, one way or the other we the people get the bill for whatever actually gets enacted. There is never a free lunch.

I’m reminded of a bumper sticker I once saw that read “They call it an election … but it’s really an auction.” This is not quite as cynical as the satire of H.L. Mencken’s quote that “every election is a sort of advanced auction of stolen goods.” Sooner or later, the citizenry pays for it.

At the state level in Connecticut, talk is building to weaken or dismiss the fiscal guardrails that were put in place through a hard but necessary round of budget negotiations in 2017. At that point there were ever-mounting future liabilities for both the state employee and state-run teacher retirement pension plans and a low level of reserves in the rainy-day fund. The governor and legislative leaders of the state house and senate (balanced 18-18 at the time) hammered out a budget agreement that put provisions in place that have proved useful in essentially not spending every dollar that came into the state coffers, and directing significant amounts into the now far-healthier rainy-day fund and into both the state employee and teacher pension funds. With federal money coming into the state through the American Rescue Plan Act and the infrastructure act both decreasing, there is talk by some state legislators to diminish the strength of those fiscal guardrails. One would hope that any such tampering has a minimally negative impact on the fiscal utility they have brought—and should continue to bring—to Connecticut finances.

As we locally begin the process of piecing together the budget for next fiscal year FY26, we find a greater level of cost stability in what the municipal government and the school system purchase, just as we all see in our home and business budgets. The news reports that the Consumer Price Index measure of inflation is up some 20 percent over the past four years. Any reductions one may see now are off that total, as opposed to what it was earlier. Any continued moderation in the inflation rate going forward has a similar impact on the town’s own costs, and therefore on taxes. With the labor contracts running at roughly 3 percent overall, and projected minimal Grand List growth once the last portion of the Station 280 apartments is finished next year, a reasonable expectation would be to see the mill rate change year-to-year consistent with inflation in the 2–3 percent range, barring any increases or decreases in program and services or an increase in ongoing revenues that cannot be predicted.

The real deficiency in any projection is the year-to-year change in cost for special education services. While those words cover a broad spectrum of programs—from the simple benefits of subject tutors/assistants to help kids progress to the expensive out-placement programs utilized when deemed necessary. The total expense does ebb and flow, and has been the most volatile and less than predictable in recent years. To make matters worse, this is where the level of excess cost reimbursement from the state has been falling, contrary to its own statute language.

As noted in recent Drummer articles, the town boards are looking ahead at capital needs over the next decade or two. Tools that the Finance and the Capital Planning group utilizes is the computer model factoring in projections for both the revenue and expenditure side of the budgetary equation. While the various capital items obviously have impact, it will become quite clear that it is the operating budgets that really drive the bus and is why they must remain a key focus moving forward.

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 Sandra Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Winter season is here. There are steps you can take to make sure you are prepared. If you have a generator, be sure to test run it monthly and have the appropriate fuel on hand. Service your furnace. Seal windows and doors to minimize drafts. There are programs available should you need help with energy costs.

Energy Assistance

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program

(CEAP): is designed to help offset home energy costs of Connecticut’s lower income families, specifically those households whose annual income falls at or below 60 percent of the state median income ($87,751 for a family of four in 2024). Call Granby Social Services at 860844-5350 to schedule an intake appointment or apply on-line at: portal.ct.gov/heatinghelp/connecticut-energyassistance-program-ceap

Eversource Assistance Programs: Winter protection for income eligible households prevents shutoff between Nov. 1 and May 1. Call Eversource at 800-286-2828 or visit Eversource.com/BillHelp

Operation Fuel: Offers emergency energy assistance for heating expenses for households who meet program guidelines with incomes at or below 100 percent of the State Median Income guidelines who are in crisis.

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.

Resources and Services

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 888-774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.

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: 1-800-2738255

When it Builds Up, Talk it Out: Campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833-258-5011 or talkitoutct.com

State of Connecticut Department of Social Services: For assistance with applying for benefits, such as Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/formerly known as Food Stamps, call 860-724-6443 ext 275 for the Benefits Enrollment Center.

Senior Job Bank: A nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people over the age of 50 find part-time work in the West Hartford community and surrounding towns. Jobseekers are connected with part-time job opportunities in businesses, municipalities and nonprofits as well as per diem work with individuals. Visit seniorsjobbankct.org or call 860-521-3210.

Food Resources

Winter can be especially harsh for those suffering from food insecurity. Generosity of the holiday season begins to fade at this most critical time. Your donations in support of our wonderful community food-support organizations are greatly appreciated.

Granby Food Pantry: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street, Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon and Thursdays, 2–3:30 p.m. Before using the 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 every Wednesday, 3–5 p.m. at Granby Congregational Church-South Campus, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

Mobile FoodShare: Every other Tuesday, 1–1:30 p.m. Call for 2025 dates. Please park behind Granby Congregational Church, South Campus only. Remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather cancellations visit ctfoodbank.org/get-help/ connecticut-food-banks-mobile-pantryschedule

Life Church Hope 4 Life Food Pantry: Located at 23 Griffin Road, open on select Wednesdays, 2–6 p.m. to members of Life Church as well as anyone who is in need. No qualification necessary. Please bring your own bags. For more information, please call the church office at 860-653-3308.

Open Cupboard Pantry: Granby Congregational Church, North Campus, 219 North Granby Road. Distributions are on Fridays, 3–4 p.m. On a drive-through basis. Please enter the church parking lot via north entrance on Stratton Road. Call the church at 860-653-4537 with any questions.

American Plan Rescue Act money apportioned

By Shirley Murtha

Funds re-allocated

Granby’s portion of the American Plan Rescue Act funds ($3.6 million), a federal stimulus bill passed in March 2021 to help the country recover from the economic and health effects of the COVID pandemic, must be obligated by Dec. 31, 2024.

The town originally set aside $200,000 in the road-repair category, indicating that it was not intended to address more road maintenance, but would instead supplant FY25 funding set aside for road work, preserving that funding for a future period. Three such areas of need have been established, and various amounts from the $200,000 have been allocated.

The Park and Recreation Board has listened to the complaints of many residents concerning the noise emanating from the Salmon Brook Park tennis courts located near their homes. The courts are now used for pickleball, which creates a different sound from the soft thud of a tennis ball. The board, along with the town manager’s office, has agreed to engage an outside firm to help create a master plan for the park that will attempt to alleviate this noise problem and to plan an overall vision for the park in the coming decades.

$25,000 was allocated for this use.

The Public Works Department suffered a substantial loss this summer while using its front-end loader and a chain to lift a large concrete drain basin onto a tow-behind trailer. The chain broke, dropping the basin onto the trailer, causing enough damage to render the trailer a total loss. The Town of Simsbury lends us its trailer when possible, but Granby needs a new one. Insurance provided a small amount of compensation, but more is required, so $40,000 has been allocated for this purchase.

Another piece of public works equipment has become unserviceable: the flail mower. This is the mower with the extension arm that reaches over guardrails to cut the vegetation and brush to keep it from encroaching on the road. $20,000 has been allocated for this purchase.

At its meeting on Oct. 21, the board of selectmen approved the re-allocation of $85,000 for the park study, tow-behind trailer and flail mower attachment, noting that the public works items were scheduled in the 10-year capital plan for eventual replacement.

Last of ARPA funds assigned

Town Manager Mike Walsh proposed and the Granby Board of Selectmen approved the allocation of the final $1.6 million to tackle 27 projects, with the final three receiving a total allocation of $100,000. The final three projects receiving these funds are the Wastewater Facilities Plan, the Library Capital Campaign Consultant and the Town Hall Space Recovery Initiative.

In April 2024, a wastewater flow study of the town’s sewer system was completed. In order to more accurately project the limited availability of the flow that the existing system can process, the town needs to assess the methodology of the flow metrics and the useful life of the three sewer pump stations in order to estimate the timing and cost of future capital investment into the system. In order to address possible coming development, this assessment needs to be done soon. $50,000 has been approved to complete this analysis.

A qualified and experienced capital campaign consultant is needed to guide the Granby Public Library in its attempt to raise funds that will allow for the expansion of the library. The town hopes to couple donations, local bonding and state grants to achieve the expansion in the next few years. The consultant will carry out duties assigned by the town; the boards of selectmen and finance will assess the town’s ability to bond for the expansion. $40,000 has been approved for this consultant.

Walsh has identified various ways the existing limited office space within the town hall could be arranged more efficiently. This will require the purchase of pre-built partitions. For example, the Human Resources Office is actually two offices, the rear one being used as a staging area for IT equipment and the forward one being the actual office. As Walsh notes, “In order to get to the back office, you have to travel through the front one, possibly disrupting the work being done there.” The installation of three partitions in the front area will create three smaller offices: the emergency management coordinator, IT, and the social media/grants coordinator. The fire marshall will swap offices with HR and be set up in the rear area where IT is now located. This configuration allows four part-time workers to have their own space and allows HR to have the privacy that office requires. $10,000 was approved for the purchase of the partitions.

DPW Winter Advice

Winter storms and the resulting snow removal can be a challenge for all Granby residents. We do our best to keep the roads passable and safe. Please note the following suggestions, ordinances and rules to ensure a safe winter season for all.

Trash and recycling: Unless the roads are closed, Paine’s will be out collecting trash/ recycling on the regular schedule. You must have your barrels out by 6 a.m. If you choose not to put your barrels out due to a storm, your barrels will not be emptied until your next scheduled pickup day.

Barrels should be placed at the end of your driveway in a location accessible to the trash hauler and at least 2 feet from the roadway. Barrels should not be placed in the street or on top of a snowbank.

Paine’s has an email alert system that will notify you of any changes to your service schedule due to a holiday or inclement weather. Sign up at painesinc.com

Driveways: Before your final cleanup, check to see if the street has been plowed to the curb. If it has, you should be safe to clean the end

of your driveway. If it hasn’t, rest assured the plow will be back to make another pass and fill up the end of your driveway. You can reduce the amount of snow deposited in your driveway by shoveling or plowing snow to the right side of your driveway as you face the street. Do not shovel or plow snow into the street. It creates a hazard and you may be liable in the case of an accident.

Mailboxes: During the winter season it is inevitable that some mailboxes will fall victim to winter’s forces. In accordance with Granby Town Ordinance, the town will repair or replace a mailbox that is damaged as the result of direct contact with a town snowplow. Mailboxes that are damaged from the force of snow thrown against them are not eligible for repair. If your mailbox is damaged, you may report it to Public Works and a department employee will investigate the damage, determine the cause, and schedule repairs, if applicable.

Parking: Granby Town Ordinance prohibits the parking of any vehicle on a town road from the start of a storm until 12 hours after the storm

Girls volleyball finish second in state tourney

By Katie O’Neill, GMHS Class of ‘24

Going into the 2024 volleyball season the GMHS girls volleyball team had many goals, including winning the NCCC Regular season, the NCCC Tournament, making it to the State Championship finals, and having an undefeated season, among other difficult goals. The only ones they didn’t achieve were having an undefeated season and winning the State Championship. The team suffered a loss early in the regular season against its rival, Coventry. They went on to beat Coventry later in the regular season to secure the NCCC Regular Season Championship Title. The Bears defeated Coventry again in the NCCC tournament finals, making them Conference Champs.

Moving on to the State Tournament, the Bears were granted a bye as third seed in the Class M bracket. Their first matchup was a hard-fought win against Weston to move on to the quarterfinals. They faced an undefeated Nonnewaug, which the Bears won handily in a 3–0 match. They went on to win in the semi-finals against Sacred Heart Academy to advance to the Class M State Finals.

Players and coaches were thrilled to return to the State Championship Finals after 10 years.

Winter cont’d. from p. 6

has ended. Vehicles that violate the parking ban may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Sidewalks: Granby Town Ordinance requires a homeowner whose property abuts a sidewalk to keep the sidewalk clean of snow and ice. Residents have up to eight hours after the end of the storm to clear the sidewalk. If the storm occurs overnight, residents have up to 8 hours after sunrise to clear the sidewalk

For the team’s JV Coach Molly Hammack, the return was a full-circle moment. Hammack was part of the 2014 team as a Libero when the Bears won the state title 10 years ago.

Although the championship game on Nov. 16 ended in a loss, the team put up a hardfought battle against Joel Barlow, wrapping up a successful season. The team had many individual accomplishments this year: seniors Sage Pycz, Olivia Teclaw, Jayne Hiatt and sophomore Teresa Moody were named All Conference NCCC; senior setter Olivia Teclaw achieved an impressive 1,000 assists; senior co-captain Jayne Hiatt achieved 1,000 kills (first ever in program history) and was MVP of the NCCC tournament.

The team was led by seniors Sydney Lisowski (Libero), Sage Pycz (outside), Katie O’Neill (middle), Olivia Teclaw (setter), co-captains Natalie Jones (right side), Jayne Hiatt (outside) and sophomores Cleo Kuester (defensive specialist) and Teresa Moody (middle). The team is coached by Granby resident Dave Sprowson who is in his 18th season with the team and started the program in Granby in 2007. The team finished the season 24-2, ranked second in Class M for the state.

Sand: Sand mixed with salt is available at 166 Salmon Brook St. (Granby Animal Shelter), opposite McLean Game Refuge. Residents of Granby may take one five-gallon bucket at a time.

Child Safety: Never allow children to play on snowbanks along the side of the road. The plow may return to push back snowbanks and even in good conditions, it is difficult for a driver to see the children.

Miscast Cabaret one day only!

Valley Student Theatre (VST) will bring musical magic and daring performances to Granby Memorial High School with two showings of Miscast Cabaret. The highly anticipated event, which promises to break all casting rules, will take place on Dec. 7, 2024 at 2 and 7 p.m.

Directed by Erin Dugan and Julianne Thouin, the dynamic duo behind VST’s monumental summer 2024 production of Les Misérables, Miscast Cabaret features a roster of gifted local youth performers between the ages of 10 and 17. The cabaret-style show will showcase the talents of these performers as they take on roles they would never typically be cast in, creating a one-of-akind experience for the audience.

“We’re inviting our performers to step outside of their usual roles and embrace the challenge of performing songs and characters they wouldn’t normally be able to tackle,” said Dugan. “It’s about creativity, risk-taking and pushing boundaries. Anything can happen in a show like this, and that’s what makes it so exciting for both the performers and the audience.” Dugan co-founded VST and serves on the board of directors; she

is a teacher at Wells Road Intermediate School and the new director for the GMHS dramatic arts program. Miscast Cabaret is not just about the thrill of unexpected performances; it is also a key fundraiser for VST, a 501(c) (3) non-profit youth theatre company based in Granby. Proceeds from this event will go directly toward funding VST’s upcoming summer 2025 production of Something Rotten!, a Broadway hit that promises to bring even more exciting and ambitious performances to the stage.

VST has become a beloved fixture in the Granby community, offering young performers the chance to shine while contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the area. With Miscast Cabaret, VST continues its tradition of fostering creativity, confidence and a love of theatre in young people.

Tickets are now available on VST’s website, valleystudenttheatre.org Given the popularity of VST’s past productions, organizers encourage attendees to buy tickets early to secure their seats for what is sure to be a fun, unique and memorable show.

Submitted by Lizz

Bouley

Cast and director from Miscast Cabaret, from left: Liv Atkinson, Mason Gianinoto, Erin Dugan, Lily Thompson, Sophia Heller, Lucas Aiello, Camden Bouley, Sadie Minalga, Josh Barry, Marylou Bage, and Stephanie Clement. Submitted photo

Youth soccer wins are highlights of a strong season for Granby Rovers

It was a hot fall season for the Granby Rovers Soccer Club as two teams captured league titles, two teams had tournament victories and three made runs in the Connecticut (CT) Cup.

During their last fall season before high school, the U14 girls team brought home the league championship. The U13 boys team also finished atop their league with a record of 6-1-0. The U13 girls blue team earned the first-place trophy at the Ocean Cup on Cape Cod over Columbus Day weekend after winning the finals in penalty kicks. The U11 boys blue team were the champions of the top division at the South Windsor Fall Classic tournament.

In the Connecticut Cup, a statewide single-elimination tournament that takes place throughout the fall season, three Granby Rovers teams had big wins to advance to later rounds.

“The Connecticut Cup puts our club up against teams and towns of all sizes,” said Austin Busbey, president of Granby Rovers. “It’s a great way for our kids to get a feel of what’s out there beyond our corner of Connecticut.”

The U15 boys team advanced to the third round of the Connecticut Cup, the U13 girls blue team made it to the state quarterfinals and the U14 girls team competed in the state semi-finals. “These are impressive accomplishments as it really can be a best-of-the-best event across the state,” Busbey said.

For the first time ever, Granby Rovers hosted a mini-tournament put on by the North Central Connecticut District League at Salmon Brook Park in November.

“We had 12 teams come to Granby and were able to show off our beautiful

fields and park,” Busbey said. “Our U12 boys team even made it to the finals!”

The Rovers soccer community was out in full force on Oct. 5 to support the Granby Memorial High School (GMHS) teams during Rovers Night. They cheered the boys to a 5-0 win over Bolton and rallied behind the girls as they earned a 3-3 tie against Berlin, a larger Class L school.

“Rovers Night is a special event that brings the Granby soccer community together, with young soccer players and their families coming out to cheer on the high school teams,” said Andrea Wiggins, co-chair of the GMHS Athletic Boosters Club. “The energy from the crowd, many of whom were once Rovers themselves, is felt by all of the players. This event not only boosts team spirit, but also strengthens our high school athletics program as the single largest fundraiser supporting the boosters club. Thank you to the Rovers community for your support!”

Submitted by Andrea Burns

Drumroll

Westfield State football landed FB Dylan Disabella, of Granby, on the first team for the 2024 Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference all-conference team.

U13 boys crowned winners of their league. From left, back row: Head Coach James Tsaptsinos, Ellis Hodgkin, Henry Holcomb, Isiah Abrahamsen, Chris Ferolano, Ben Frey, Evan Ellrod, Nolan Tong, Wyatt Dalene, Demetrios Tsaptsinos, Mason Blake, Kristian Abrahamsen, Russell Holcomb, Tommy Hall, Joshua Nyabadza, Logan Sharkey, Asst. Coach Michael Sharkey. Front row, from left: Jace Galiatsatos, Marty Dethlefsen, Caleb Park.

U14 girls finish first in their league and advance to semi-finals of the Connecticut Cup. From left, back row: Asst. Coach Sarah Lundin, Asst. Coach Brian Marzi, Molly Marzi, Emma Mathews, Katherine Lopiore, Allison Phinney, Kiera During, Charlotte Lundin, Arianna Totzke, Gigi Sabbagh, Ingrid Marcy, Asst. Coach Mike Payette, Head Coach Dave Angelis. From left, front row: Izabella Stitch, Eva Bragoni, Katie Allshouse, Addy Perkins, Destiny Alvarado, Jenna Angelis, Brooklyn Payette. Submitted photos

Granby Rovers players escort the high school players onto the field during Rovers Night.

GMHS Dramatic Arts Program delivers a hauntingly brilliant production

The high school Dramatic Arts Program delighted and chilled audiences this November with its production of Twisted Tales of Poe

This macabre collection of Edgar Allan Poe’s classic scary stories was staged as a 1940s radio drama, transporting the audience to the golden age of broadcasting. The program has once again demonstrated its talent for delivering exceptional theater, continuing its impressive legacy as a cornerstone of the local arts community. The ambitious vision of the new director, Erin Dugan, was easy to see and marks an exciting chapter in the program’s ongoing tradition of creativity and excellence.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the production was the incorporation of foley artistry, a first for the program. Foley artists create sound effects live, enhancing the drama on stage with immersive audio. Students cleverly mimicked sounds such as shoes descending cellar stairs, creaky doors groaning open, thunder clapping in a storm, and even the sinister beating of hearts. These details, executed with precision and creativity, enriched the show’s spooky atmosphere.

The set crew’s transformation into foley artists was matched by the stunning contributions of the costume team that outfitted the cast in period-accurate 1940s attire and the meticulous set design by Janet Spatcher and Catie Yanchak that perfectly recreated a vintage radio station. Patrons were enchanted by the attention to detail and impressed by the student actors’ performances that brought Poe’s eerie tales to life. The haunting stories lingered with the audience long after the final curtain.

The production’s success was a community effort. The GMHS Dramatic Arts Program extends heartfelt gratitude to all of the student members for their talent and dedication, parents and guardians for their support, and the student board and creative team for their exceptional management under the leadership of Leeayn Burke. The Granby Fine Arts Booster sponsors, along with marketplace food and retail vendors, and the many volunteers who contributed time and energy were instrumental in making the event a triumph.

The GMHS Dramatic Arts Program has once again proven that creativity and collaboration can produce something extraordinary. With this outstanding production of Twisted Tales of Poe, the program has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of the local arts community.

As the curtain falls on the eerie world of Poe, the Granby Dramatic Arts Program is trading shadows for sunshine and scares for sparkle. Up next, the club will present Legally Blonde, a vibrant and uplifting musical about perseverance, self-discovery and the power of pink.

Mark your calendars for March 14–16, 2025, when the GMHS stage will transform into Harvard Law School (and a few fabulous salons) to tell Elle Woods’ inspiring story. After the success of this fall’s spine-tingling tales, audiences can look forward to a completely different kind of theatrical magic that promises laughter, heart and a whole lot of fun.

Visit gmhsfinearts.com/legallyblonde for more information.

Submitted by GMHS Fine Arts Boosters

Girls Field Hockey competes in state tournament

By Christopher Heller

The 2024 Granby Memorial High School Varsity Field Hockey Team finished their regular season with a record of 13–2–1. Senior Captains Ava Santa, Mia Canellas and Olivia Thompson guided the team to the North Central Connecticut Conference Championship, clinching the title with a 3–2 victory over Suffield on Oct. 16. Players from all four grades contributed to the team’s success. The Bears scored 63 goals during the regular season and shut out opponents seven times. Head Coach Sarah Pliszka and Assistant Coach Kierstan Pestana will lead the team into the Class S State Field Hockey Championship Tournament. On Nov. 4 the Bears hosted New Fairfield in the first round, and the home team earned a hard fought 2–0 victory. In the quarterfinals, Granby traveled to North Branford to play the defending Class S state champs. The game remained 0–0 after regulation and two overtime periods. Each team scored three times in a best of five shoot-out. Ultimately, North Branford prevailed in a sudden victory shoot-out. Despite this nail biting finish, the GMHS Varsity Field Hockey Team had a wonderful season!

Twisted Tales of Poe cast, crew and director. Photo by Holly Bolduc

Photos by Christopher Heller

Special events and recognitions for Veterans Day

On Nov. 11, veterans were recognized and celebrated across the district for their service to our country. Students at Kelly Lane Primary School and Wells Road Intermediate School welcomed family members and neighbors to take part in school-wide gatherings to learn the importance of the holiday and to celebrate our veterans. Students shared their gratitude with handmade cards, letters and pictures for the veterans in attendance.

The warmth and appreciation for the veterans in our community could be felt as our youngest students gathered around the flagpole in front of Kelly Lane to sing and wave American flags. A highlight speaker at Wells Road was Staff Sergeant Joshua Peterson, Sr., a veteran of the United States Army and parent of students in the district. Peterson shared an important message of leadership with our students and emphasized our responsibility to care for and nurture the freedoms we are afforded as Americans.

Granby Memorial Middle School Student Council led the morning with a welcoming breakfast and an impressive assembly highlighting the importance of the day and educating their peers about why we have school on Veterans Day. One middle school student said, “I am glad that Granby schools stay open today so that we can welcome veterans to our school. I think it helps students understand and remember the true significance of the day rather than just having a day off.”

Speaking at GMMS, Honorable Judge of the Connecticut Superior Court Erik Lohr, also a parent of students in the district, shared an important message of keeping service to others central to everything that we do. Lohr donned his judge’s robe for his speech but as a former reactor operator aboard a U.S. Navy fast attack nuclear submarine and staff instructor at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit in Windsor, he revealed his Naval uniform under his robe to demonstrate the many ways we can serve others. His message of life-long service to the

Veterans were celebrated and recognized at Granby schools on Nov. 11.

Submitted photos

community drove his point home to all in attendance.

Granby Memorial High School students met in small groups with panels of veterans from the Granby community to learn about their experiences serving our country. Students posed questions and the veterans shared from their experiences and perspectives. This was a valuable lesson for our students to engage with and learn from our veterans.

Thank you to those who helped organize these events, to the veterans who visited and taught students about service to our country and, most importantly, thank you to all who have served.

Engage with us: Budget Planning

As we begin budget planning and development for the school district, we invite you to engage with us and follow the developments. An engaged community is essential to developing a budget that meets the needs of students and the community at large.

The board of education budgets are developed annually to meet student needs. The following year’s budget begins in the fall and ends in April with the town-wide referendum. We encourage everyone to follow along and stay informed. We post budget meetings and documents on the district website. The budget timeline we follow is:

September–November

• Administrators and department leaders begin with a zero-based budget to develop requests.

• Superintendent reviews budget requests and justifications to prepare the Plus One Budget for new initiatives.

December–February

• Superintendent presents the Plus One Budget and capital needs to the BOE.

• BOE reviews, evaluates, adjusts and approves the Plus One Budget and capital requests.

• Plus One Budget and capital requests are shared with the Town of Granby at a ThreeBoard Meeting.

• Superintendent and BOE chair respond to board of selectmen and board of finance questions.

• Board of finance offers guidelines to the town and BOE for budget increases.

March

• Superintendent presents the operating budget to the BOE.

• BOE members review superintendent’s proposed budget and pose questions.

• BOE holds public workshops and requests further information for discussion and revision of the superintendent’s proposed budget.

• BOE adjusts and approves the education budget.

April

• BOE chair presents the BOE approved budget to the board of finance.

• The final BOE Budget Book is shared with the town.

• The superintendent and BOE chair present the BOE budget at the Town of Granby Public Hearing.

• Town-wide referendum vote on the budget is held.

To share information and follow the district’s success, please follow me on the district Facebook and Instagram accounts: @Superintendent-Burke and submit any questions via email to askgps@granbyschools.org All questions will be posted anonymously and receive a reply.

Spotlight on student and faculty achievements

For many, the holiday season is a time to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and reflect on the things that moved and inspired us. In that spirit, I’d like to pause from our regular Board of Ed business and happenings this month and highlight some of the fantastic achievements of our students and staff. In academics, Granby High School achieved its highest rank ever in U.S. News Best High Schools. Granby is in the top 20 in Connecticut, top seven in Greater Hartford. Eighty-three percent of juniors met the SAT benchmark in Evidence-based Reading and Writing, which is the highest percentage at goal for that cohort. Ninety-four percent of the Class of 2024 took at least one of our 32 college credit bearing courses. Eighty-nine percent of students taking an AP course received a score of three or better and 117 students enrolled in Early College Experience (ECE) courses, earning a total of 704 college credits. In sports, our Granby Bears student athletes gave us huge reasons to cheer and celebrate: the GMHS volleyball and field hockey teams went 19-1 and 13-2-1, respectively, to become NCCC Conference Champions. Our boys’ soccer team went 11-2-3 earning second place NCCC and our girls’ soccer team went 11-4-1, earning third place NCCC. Granby Bears Football went 7–2 as of

this writing and currently sits in second place in the Pequot Uncas division, and both the boys’ and girls’ cross-country teams finished the season strong in competitive races.

In music and the arts, several students just put on an outstanding performance of the Twisted Tales of Poe (and we can’t forget that amazing rendition of Footloose last year). Fourteen choir students and two orchestra members were selected for the Middle School Northern Regional Festival Choirs, which demonstrates the strength of our music program. Seven students received the prestigious Young Writers Award, showcasing their exceptional writing talents.

The Granby Board of Education is committed to supporting our staff and students in raising the bar of academic excellence in our schools and looks forward to another year of continued growth. We are proud to support extracurricular activities that help our students develop athletic and artistic talents, identify and work toward goals while learning self-discipline, emotional management and communication skills. We are blessed and grateful for Granby administrators and educators who have helped build the foundation on which our students are achieving and will continue to build upon for life.

Youth Services Bureau

by AnneMarie Cox

Why school is often very hard for children on the spectrum

Many parents with a child on the spectrum are surprised by how challenging school can be for them. Often, if the child is on the high-functioning side of the spectrum, they know their child has average or higher intellectual ability. They see them learn easily and often exceed learning and memorization compared to peers if it is a subject they are interested in. So why do they struggle to be successful in school?

Three S’s that challenge our autistic children in public school.

Social learning. From kindergarten on, school is social. Difficulty with social communication is a key component of autism. Reading faces and understanding the social nuance of language, body language and humor is very difficult for people on the spectrum. Peers can be easily frustrated by autistic students; they may feel uncomfortable or frustrated by differences in communication. This leads to disagreements and misunderstandings that can trigger anger and acting out, which further sets the ASD child apart from peers. Structure. Families develop structures and routines that meet their child’s needs. School, however, has a structure that is based on mainstream needs. Transitions are often difficult for autistic children They may need help to be ready to stop one thing and move on to the next based on the school structure. It may take them longer to organize and be ready to begin a new task. The structure and transitions that are a matter of course in school can lead to

BOARD OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

OCTOBER 16, 2024

Present: Liz Barlow, Heather Lombardo, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen RichmondGodard, Ali Zafar, and Student Representative Sofia Brenson

Absent: Monica Logan

Public Comment

Julie Haefner, 236 Simsbury Road, is in favor of having a School Resource Officer, stating they are invaluable at the school and create relationships with students. She noted that surrounding towns such as East Granby, Simsbury and Suffield support SROs. She feels it is important for the town to pay for this resource (rather than the BOE) and she requested that people contact the town manager in this regard.

Sean Wilmington, Granby, shared that he also supports an SRO or some sort of security in the schools, stating it makes sense to protect our children. He asked the board to please bring this topic up for future consideration.

Special Education Programming

Kate Weingartner, Director of Pupil Services, along with Special Education Department Chairs Jennifer Miller and Tracy Smith presented on Special Education Programming in the district and shared that this year a new special education leadership team was created with Miller becoming Chair for Elementary PK5, and Smith the Chair for Grades 9-12. Weingartner said the department chair role is essential in supporting building administrators with compliance as well as supporting teachers with issues around special education matters. To read more on this report, please see the meeting minutes published on the town website: granby.k12.ct.us/documents/board-of-education/meetings%3A-dates%2C-agendas%2Cminutes/56689

School Counseling Report

Megan Rheiner, Director of School Counseling, spoke of dual credit opportunities and post-secondary planning and shared that the College Fair was held last week and more than 90 pathways to college/career attended.

First Quarter Budget Expense Report

Nickie Stevenson, Director of Finance and Operations, presented the budget report for the first quarter of this school year (July 2024-September 2024) and stated analysis of both personnel and program accounts suggest that projected expenditures will be covered within the budget.

ment and should be ready to be brought to the board at the next meeting.

The athletic fields and tracks were discussed. In some areas water puddles have caused waves in the track. Repairs have been unsuccessful. A request to potentially replace the track and field could come up in the next budget cycle. An issue with buses and the lack of bus drivers was discussed as it is affecting schools and athletic programs.

Granby Education Foundation

Barlow shared that two grants were approved: $800 grant for the Native Peoples of Quinatuck to visit second grade classrooms for a lesson and $120 to support the Children’s Book Festival.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Cheri Burke provided a summary of what occurred in the district on Oct. 15. A telephone threat was called in to the Veterans crisis line. It was referred directly to the Granby Police Department who activated the lockdown and were on site immediately. The Granby PD called for support from other police departments to assist in a sweep of the middle school and high school buildings.

Burke shared that once a lockdown is initiated, buildings must stay in lockdown until released by the police department. Since the high school was put into lockdown, the middle school was also put into lockdown because they share the same campus. A text alert was sent stating that additional information would follow and 20 minutes later a second alert advised that the police were on site. Burke said it took 50 minutes to clear the schools and at 3:15 p.m., the lockdown was lifted.

dysregulation and emotional outbursts from dysregulated ASD students. Even if children manage to go with the flow of school, they often mask the dysregulation they feel, leading to a stressful and tiring school day. This can lead to increases in school avoidance and meltdowns at home.

Sensory. Public schools can be a sensory overload environment for children on the spectrum. From the fluorescent lights to the bells signaling transitions, the noise of chairs moving on the floor, laughter, loud voices and temperature changes—ASD children are inundated with sensory stimulation that can overwhelm their ability to process and cope.

It is important to work closely with the school personnel to find ways to help children cope with the challenges these S-factors present in the school environment. Accommodations and modifications can help, as can figuring out how children can learn effective coping and self-management skills. It is not easy, and it is not a one-size-fitsall problem. Autistic children may need specialized instruction and support to learn social communication and social learning, sensory management, and emotional regulation on top of regular academic instruction.

If this sounds like a lot, it often is. Even the children and teens on the spectrum who seem to “do fine” will often share how tired they are at the end of the day.  Every day is a minefield of social, structural, and sensory challenges they have to meet.

Finance/Personnel/Facilities

Nolan reported contract negotiations for administrators have come to a tentative agree-

She shared that other school districts across the state were also victims of the same “swatting” event—a false report intended to disrupt our emergency response system. This is happening in record numbers and more than 80 calls have taken place across the state since school opened this year. Burke stated she is grateful for and proud of central office, teachers, staff and students. Students were respectful and remained calm. It is an opportunity to reflect and receive feedback, which was done this morning. She shared one major disruption to the process is the use of social media while the lockdown is in effect. It is important to have accurate information—false information shared with and by students is not helpful and only elicits more fear. She asked the community to work with the district in this regard to help staff and students remain calm.

Looking for complete meeting information? You can access the entire minutes from any town meeting by visiting granby-ct.gov/AgendaCenter

TOOTH TALK

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Q: Am I too old for Invisalign?

A: No! You are never too old to have your teeth straightened. As long as you are in good health, your body’s bone physiology will still allow your teeth to move into a beautiful alignment to give you that smile you’ve always dreamed about! The Invisalign process uses a sequence of custom made, clear, plastic aligners to slowly reposition and straighten your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, these aligners are completely removable, requiring no metal wires or brackets. Millions of people worldwide have chosen Invisalign to improve their smile quickly and unobtrusively. Everyone, ages 14-94, is a potential candidate for the Invisalign system. Most adults will complete their treatment in under one year. Treatment is fast, simple, and subtle because the Invisalign system is designed to fit your lifestyle. Give us a call to set up a consultation today to see if you qualify for Invisalign!

At the Granby Dental Center, we also 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!

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 5090%! At the Granby Dental Center, we offer CEREC, an amazing high tech method that allows us to fabricate high strength porcelain crowns in just one visit! This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength!

With Cone Beam CT technology that our Granby Dental Center office has in-house here in Granby, we are able to see 3-D images instantly. This allows the Doctors to more accurately make a Diagnosis of Pathology and also allows for guided surgical planning for Implants, to make it safer and more efficient.

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 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! Call now for your appointment 860-653-3220

Scan the QR symbol to learn more about our office:

Michael A. Ungerleider, DMD Vipasha Desai, DDS 41 Hartford Avenue, Granby 860-653-3220

Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com ADVERTISEMENT

In Town Focus

Women’s Breakfast

On Wednesday, Dec. 4, Granby’s own high school chamber singers will entertain the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group with a lovely selection of holiday tunes. This must-see event draws a large crowd so it is important to make a reservation early.

The group’s January breakfast and program will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Granby Town Manager Mike Walsh, Community Development Director Abigail Kenyon and Police Chief Scott Sansom will talk to the group and answer questions.

For each event, a delicious warm breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 9 a.m. Cost $5. Please call the Senior Center at 860-844-5352 to make your reservations.

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet at the Senior Center on Monday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. with a program featuring Jay Harder and Beth McIntyre who will share some of their creative editing.

The January meeting, on Monday, Jan. 6, 7 p.m., will have a program on cell phone photography with Wendy Van Welie.

Scavenger hunt words: sky, food, favorite. The club has a Facebook page for those that enjoy photography. Please check us out.

Lions Tree Sale

The Granby Lions will again sponsor a Christmas Tree sale. The sale will take place on Bank Street—the club is grateful to current owner Prospect Properties for letting the Lions use its property. Trees are delivered the day before Thanksgiving and sales begin the Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 29 The lot is fully staffed on weekends and staffed most weeknights from 4 to 7 p.m.

Christmas Family

Fun day

Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Pilgrim Covenant Church, 605 Salmon Brook Street, invites you to enjoy the best of Christmas traditions all in one place! Join us for ornament making, cookie decorating, a Christmas movie and indoor free play in our heated gym with coffee, hot cocoa and treats. There

will also be a gift-wrapping station with everything you need to get wrapping off your to-do list. Wrap them yourself or let one of our volunteers take care of it for you! This is a free event however donations are welcome. All donations will go towards funding Granby Mom Group events and play groups in the new year.

Live Nativity

Join Valley Brook Community Church in celebrating its 24th year presenting the Live Nativity. This Farmington Valley tradition provides a life-like experience of the night of Jesus’ birth with costumes and actors. A luminary-lit pathway guides guests through the experience of the manger scene with live animals, the three kings and the Christ child. Caroling and warm refreshments will be available in the Pond House. This free tradition is a gift to the community from Valley Brook Church. The Live Nativity is open to all people on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. in Salmon Brook Park. Guests with mobility concerns are invited to park by the Pond House and enter the Live Nativity without having to make the entire loop.

Men’s Breakfast

The Granby Men’s Breakfast group welcomes Mindy Shilansky and the GMHS Chamber Choir Holiday Concert on Friday, Dec. 13. A hot breakfast will be served, starting at 8:30 a.m., with the program at 9 a.m. The cost remains $5. Please call the senior center to register in advance.

In addition to the holiday concert, the December meeting will have the UGLY Christmas sweater contest—do your best!

Holiday Tree Lighting with Santa

The Granby Holiday Committee invites you to kick off on Saturday, Dec. 7, 4:30 p.m. in front of the Granby Public Library. Enjoy a festive tree lighting ceremony with Santa and a walk to the town center for a second tree lighting, pictures with Santa after the tree lighting at the Senior Center, caroling and live music, hot cocoa and holiday treats. Admission is free—bring your family and friends to celebrate the season. Bring a flashlight or lantern to help light the way.

By Fire Marshal Brian Long

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, holiday trees and decorations account for about 400 home fires annually. This results in approximately 24 deaths and more than $13 million in property damage. Following some simple tips can help keep you safe. If you choose a live tree for inside your home, choose one that is fresh and secure it in a tree stand with plenty of water away from heat sources, radiators and fireplaces. Once needles begin to fall off, the tree has dried out and becomes a fire hazard. Be sure the tree doesn’t block any of your homes’ exits.

Use only approved lab tested lighting, inspect them every year for damage or wear before putting them up and don’t overload electrical outlets. Unplug all decorations when you’re sleeping or if you’re away.

If the power goes out and you use a generator, never run it indoors, not even in the garage. Always direct the exhaust away from the house. Candles should be in firm stable holders, located where they cannot be knocked over by people or pets and never burned unattended.

It’s good to review family exit drills for your home and determine your family’s meeting place. Remember to also clear the ice and snow from walks, to prevent slips and falls at this time of year.

The fire marshal’s office would like to help you stay safe all year by offering free inspections of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for one- and two-family homes. Contact us at 860844-5321 or firemarshal@granby-ct.gov

Public Works

Trash Holidays: Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Wednesday, Jan. 1 are holidays for Paine’s. Trash/recycling service will be delayed by one day for the Wednesday, Thursday and Friday customers. Monday, Jan. 20, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is not a trash holiday. Did you know you can receive an email alert if a holiday or weather event will affect your trash service? Sign up at painesinc.com

2025 Recycling calendar: The 2025 recycling schedule is included in this issue of the Drummer. Please clip and save. The recycling calendar is always available on the Public Works page on the Granby website.

Extra trash and recycling: If your trash is piling up this holiday season, extra trash bags are on sale at both the DPW and Transfer Station during hours of operation. Bags are $2 each and can be placed next to your trash barrel on your pickup day. Extra recycling can be brought to the transfer station.

Christmas trees: Public Works will pick up Christmas trees during the first two weeks of January. Weather permitting, trees will be picked up on the same day as your trash. Please make sure the tree is visible and accessible.

Salt and Sand: A mix of sand and salt mix is available at the Granby Animal Shelter across from the McLean Game Refuge on Route 10. Residents are welcome to the equivalent of one fivegallon bucket at a time.

Winter Operations: Please read the DPW Winter Hints in this month’s Drummer or check the Public Works page on the Granby website at granbyct.gov

In preparation for winter weather, town crews will be cleaning out waterways and ditches. Please use caution when passing our work crews.

Out of Town

Holiday Fun at the Connecticut Trolley Museum

The Connecticut Trolley Museum is located at 58 North Road (Rte. 140), in East Windsor. Please call 860-6276540 or visit ct-trolley.org for more information about any event.

Winterfest and the Tunnel of Lights

Experience the magic every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night through Dec. 22, with extended hours during school vacation. This family-friendly holiday tradition runs from 5 to 9 p.m. and promises to immerse visitors in festive cheer with over 10,000 lights illuminating both the museum’s interior and exterior. Admission ranges from $16 to $21 per person, and all tickets must be purchased in advance through the museum’s website. Museum members enjoy half off admission.

Breakfast with Santa

Kick off the holiday season with a magical morning at Breakfast with Santa on Dec 7. This unforgettable experience includes a delicious breakfast, a festive trolley ride, and access to the beautifully decorated Visitor Center— all while Santa himself makes a special

appearance to spread holiday cheer. Admission is $25 per person and $20 for museum members.

Storytime Trolley with Santa and Elf

Storytime Trolley with Santa and his elf will run on Saturdays, Dec. 7 and 14. Enjoy a ride in a decorated vintage trolley car where Santa will visit with each child. Also, Santa’s elf will read a holiday story and each child will complete a craft. The cost is $25 for any age, half off for members; ticket sales must be made in advance.

Elf on the Elgin

All aboard the elegant Chicago, Aurora and Elgin Railroad #303 for some old-fashioned holiday fun on Sundays, Dec. 8 and 15. Passengers enjoy a festive journey filled with hot chocolate in a souvenir cup, a cookie and a candy cane—all served with holiday cheer by two friendly elves. Kids will have the chance to write letters to Santa, to be delivered straight to Santa’s mailbox in the visitor center. The cost is $30 for any age, half off for members; ticket sales must be made in advance.

Old Saint Andrew’s Christmas Bazaar

The annual Christmas Bazaar at Old St. Andrew’s Church in Bloomfield is a beloved tradition for area residents. Held on Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the bazaar has free parking and free admission. The location is 59 Tariffville Road in Bloomfield.

Arts and crafts including jewelry will be for sale, plus cookies by the pound and a raffle. Sepe Farm is one of the farm vendors attending this year.

Have a mindful holiday

Holidays can be a mixed bag of emotions. They are often stressful.

A simple exercise can help you purposefully focus on the positive aspects, and reduce your stress as well. Mindfulness practice lowers stress and anxiety. In simple terms, mindfulness involves centering yourself in the here and now. It stops the worries about the future and rumination on past problems, giving you a moment of peace.

Mindful practice involves observation and description, both mental activities that use the prefrontal cortex. This shifts brain activity from the limbic system that is emotional and reactive. The shift helps slow the release of stress hormones.

How to do it

Pick something to focus on, perhaps a holiday decoration. Take deep slow

breaths and observe and describe how the decoration looks in detail. Notice the color, movement, smell and texture. Appreciate it.

If you are out shopping, look for three red things. Observe and describe them to yourself as you breathe deeply. Then shift to three things you can hear, and three things you can smell.

Almost anything can become mindful. Taking a walk, making a snowball, eating a cookie.

The Youth Service Bureau hopes you have a safe, mindful and healthy holiday.

Submitted by AnneMarie Cox MS, LPC, Board Certified School Psychologist, Town of Granby Youth Service Bureau

Minimize stress and disease

Up to 90 percent of all visits to doctors’ offices are stress-related, according to Harvard. Stress can be considered as much a risk factor for disease as smoking.

Why can two people be in the same situation and respond to stress in different ways?

Can changing the way we carry stress be a learnable skill?

On Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6:30–7:30 p.m., the Simsbury Public Library offers a free program, open to all surrounding towns, to learn the difference between good and bad stress, increase awareness of how stress impacts the body and hear about the emerging pattern matching specific symptoms and diseases with specific stresses.

Everyone will learn a technique to minimize stress and maximize vitality. A graduate of Yale University School of Medicine, Dr. Wendy Hurwitz is a nationally recognized expert on stress. A former medical researcher for ABC News, Hurwitz is an expert in two fields: mind/body medicine and energy medicine. She has a forthcoming book on stress. The program will be held at Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury. For more information or to register, please call the library at 860658-7663 or visit simsbury.librarycalendar.com/ event/stress-disease-w-wendy-hurwitz-48612

Holiday events for kids at Auerfarm

This holiday season, Auerfarm is thrilled to host a variety of festive events for all ages, from family visits with Santa to creative workshops and camps for kids. Here’s a look at what’s coming up on our 120-acre farm located at 158 Auer Farm Road in Bloomfield.

Santa on The Farm: Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. A magical time for families to visit Auerfarm and meet Santa. Enjoy complimentary hot cocoa, arts and crafts, and even pick out a Christmas tree for sale! While this event is free, we welcome donations to support future events and programs.

Holiday Wreath-Making Workshop: Thursday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m. Tap into your creativity at our Wreath Making Class, where participants will craft personalized wreaths using fresh greenery and seasonal embellishments. This hands-on workshop is open to all skill levels, and all materials are included.

Twelve Days of Cookie Decorating: Thursday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m. Hosted in our cozy farm-based kitchen, this event invites participants of all ages to join us for a night of cookie decorating, holiday cheer, and fun family bonding.

Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. Start the day with a farm-fresh pancake breakfast including sausage, bacon, maple syrup and homemade honey butter. Warm beverages and a cozy holiday atmosphere make it a special morning to remember!

Holiday Vacation Camp: Date: Dec. 23 and 24, 26 and 27, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. (special hours on Dec. 24). Auercamp’s Holiday Vacation Camp offers kids aged 5–12 a week of exploration, interaction with farm animals and wintertime farm activities. It’s a great way to stay engaged and connected to nature over the holiday break! For more information or to register, please visit auerfarm.org

Farmington Valley Chorale announces concert, invites new members

Spreading the Flame: Come join with Farmington Valley Chorale for an afternoon of readings and song to celebrate the season on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. at the Barn-Covenant Presbyterian Church, Celebration Hall, 124 Old Farms Road in Simsbury. Tickets are $10 per person, students and children are free. Tickets available at the door or by visiting the chorale website at farmingtonvalleychorale.org Farmington Valley Chorale welcomes new members for its spring

season. FVC is a non-audition chorale of approximately 80 members, under the artistic leadership of Ellen Gilson Voth. We meet every Sunday, 7-9 p.m. at Simsbury United Methodist Church, 799 Hopmeadow Street beginning on Jan. 19. Please email the membership chair at info@farmingtonvalleychorale.org for further information and to indicate your interest. Kindly indicate your name, address, phone number and voice part.

Holiday Church Services and Happenings

Granby Churches:

GRANBY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

242 Salmon Brook St. 860-653-4537

Dec. 14 Sat. 10–1 p.m. Cookies by the Pound

Dec. 15 Sun. 10 a.m. Service and Pageant

Dec. 19 Thurs. 7 p.m. Blue Christmas

Dec. 24 Tue. 5 p.m. Christmas Eve Service

Dec. 24 Tue. 9 p.m. Lessons & Carols

PILGRIM COVENANT CHURCH

605 Salmon Brook St. 860-653-3800

Dec. 7 Sat. 10–5 p.m. GAA Holiday Gift Show

Dec. 14 Sat. 10–2 p.m. Family Fun Day

Dec. 24 Tues. 7 p.m. Candlelight Service

ST. THERESE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

120 W. Granby Rd. 860-653-3371

Dec. 7 Sat. 10–12 p.m. Breakfast with Santa Dec. 24 Tues. 5 & 10 p.m. Christmas Eve Masses

Dec. 25 Wed. 8:15 & 10:30 Christmas Day Masses

VALLEY BROOK COMMUNITY CHURCH

160 Granville Rd., North Granby

860-844-0001

Dec. 7 Sat. 5–8 p.m. Live Nativity, SB Park

Dec. 24 Tues. 10 a.m. Christmas Eve Service

Dec. 24 Tues. 5:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Service

Area Churches:

EAST GRANBY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

9 Rainbow Road, East Granby 860-653-2987

Dec. 1 Sun. 10 a.m. Hanging of the Greens

Dec. 1 Sun. 11 a.m. Advent Wreath Workshop

Dec. 14 Sat. 9–11:30 a.m. Cookies by the Pound

Dec. 14 Sat. 4 p.m. Shadows of Hope Service

Dec. 22 Sun. 10 a.m. Kids Christmas Pageant

Dec. 24 Tues. 4 p.m. Service of Lessons & Carols

Dec. 29 Sun. 10 a.m. Casual Hymn Sing

Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce 2025 events and opportunities

As we look ahead to 2025, the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce its slate of signature events, networking opportunities and fundraisers designed to connect local businesses, foster collaboration and support the community. Whether you’re a business owner or simply looking to stay involved in your local economy, the chamber has a variety of events to engage with in the new year. ScholarSIP Fundraiser – Jan. 23

In addition to the signature events, the chamber is hosting a special ScholarSIP fundraiser on Thursday, Jan. 23, at Station 280 in Granby. This exciting event will raise funds for scholarships to be awarded at the chamber’s annual meeting. Come enjoy an evening of drinks, hors d’oeuvres and networking while contributing to a great cause— helping the next generation of local leaders.

Business Leaders’ Breakfast – Feb. 28

Kick off the year with an inspiring morning at the business leaders’ breakfast, set for Friday, Feb. 28, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Simsbury Inn. This event features keynote speakers Chris DiPentima, CEO of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), and Skip Kodak, president of LEGO North America. These prominent business leaders will share insights on the current economic climate and the future of Connecticut businesses. It’s an excellent opportunity to start the year by connecting with fellow professionals and hearing from influential leaders in the industry.

Chamber Annual Meeting – May 2025

The chamber will hold its annual meeting in May at Holcomb Farm. The event will be a celebration of local achievements, including the recognition of scholarship winners and the honoring of key public servants who have made an impact in our community. This is a great chance to reflect on the year’s successes and look ahead to new opportunities for business and community growth.

Annual Golf Classic – May 16

For golf enthusiasts and business professionals alike, the annual golf classic will be held on Friday, May 16, at Simsbury Farms Golf Course. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a casual player, this tournament promises a great day on the course with business connections made in the process. Fall Harvest Event – details TBD

To close out the year, the chamber is still planning its fall harvest event. This festive gathering will celebrate the season and offer local businesses a chance to network and engage with the community in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

Monthly Networking Events

Networking is a key part of any successful business strategy and, in 2025, the chamber is hosting a variety of opportunities for members to connect:

Morning Network Events: On the second Friday of each month, the chamber continues to hold no-cost morning networking events at various member locations. These informal gatherings offer a chance to meet new people, share insights and build relationships.

OLD ST. ANDREW’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

59 Tariffville Rd., Bloomfield 860-242-4660

Dec. 7 Sat. 9–4 p.m. Christmas Bazaar

Dec. 8 Sun. 11–3 p.m. Christmas Bazaar

Dec. 15 Sun. 6 p.m. Madrigal Dinner

Dec. 24 Tues. 7:30 p.m. Musical Prelude with Holy Eucharist following

TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH 11 Church St., Tariffville 860-651-0201

Dec. 14 Sat. 4 p.m. Service of Lessons & Carols

Dec. 15 Sun. 9:15 a.m. incl. Children’s Pageant

Dec. 15 Sun. 4 p.m. Service

After-Hours Events: On the third Thursday of each month, members are invited to “after-hours” networking events hosted at local businesses. These events are designed to showcase a member business and provide a more relaxed setting for conversations and connections.

Celebrating New and Milestone

Members

Throughout the year, the chamber will continue to celebrate the growth and success of local businesses. New members will be welcomed with ribbon cuttings, grand opening events, a new member lunch and a promotional E-blast sent to more than 2,000 in the community. Additionally, we celebrate milestone anniversaries and significant achievements within the business community.

Get Involved!

All of these events are open to chamber members and the community. The chamber offers a multitude of ways for businesses to showcase themselves and connect with the local community. Whether you’re a long-time member or a new business looking to make your mark, the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce provides valuable resources and opportunities to grow your network and succeed in the region.

For more information on these events or to become a chamber member, visit the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce website, simsburycoc.org or contact us directly at info@simsburycoc.org or 860-651-7307.

Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, connection, and success for our community!

Submitted by Rebecca Taylor

RECOMMENDED MAILING AND SHIPPING DATES FOR HOLIDAY SEASON

The U.S. Postal Service recommends the following mailing and shipping dates for holiday mail and packages, with expected delivery before Dec. 25.

For items sent to addresses in the contiguous United States (lower 48 states):

• USPS ground advantage service: Dec. 18

• First class mail service: Dec. 18

• Priority mail service: Dec. 19

• Priority mail express service: Dec. 21

For items sent to addresses in Alaska and Hawaii:

• USPS ground advantage service: Dec. 16

• First class mail service: Dec. 18

• Priority mail service: Dec. 19

• Priority mail express service: Dec. 20

For customers sending packages internationally, or to military addresses, USPS suggests checking the complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates at usps.com/holidayshippingdates

It’s time for the SBVH annual pet food drive

Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital will conduct its annual pet food drive on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cat and dog food donations will go to aid local food pantries and organizations dedicated to keeping pets with their owners. This year monetary donations will be sent to Veterans Equine Therapeutic Services, dedicated to providing equine therapy to military veterans. To learn more about this amazing organization, visit: vetsct.org

SBVH will collect food starting Monday, Nov. 25 through the month of December. There will be storage containers at the front of the building labeled for pet food donation drop offs. On Dec. 14 there will be a tent set up with a table for pet food drop off and staff to assist you. We are

excited that Holy Cows 4H Group will return this year on the day of the food drive.

Donors can have food delivered to SBVH directly from Chewy. We thank Horses & Hounds at 15 Mill Pond Drive for continued support and for graciously offering to be a collection site for another year.

As in past years, Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital will match the food donations up to 3,000 pounds. At the request of the food pantries and shelters, preferred donations of dog and cat food are bags of kibble up to 30 pounds and canned food. Further information will follow on our Facebook page. Come support your neighbors and the pets they love!

Submitted by Ashley Sharpe

Holiday gift sale and book gift tree on at GPL

Holiday book gift tree at the Granby Library.

Submitted photo.

By Brian Tomasino

For the month of December, the Friends of Granby Public Library will have several tables set up for gift giving this holiday season. There will be several gently-used donated items for sale, including books, CDs, DVDs, puzzles and holiday decorations. Many items will be wrapped in holiday ribbon ready for gift giving at reasonable prices for that special someone.

The sale begins Monday, Dec. 2 at the Granby Public Library and will continue throughout the month during regular hours when open to the public while supplies last. Check it out on Facebook, Friends of Granby Public Library, for more information on the event.

The holiday book gift-giving tree that benefits children in our community will be at the library starting on Dec. 5. The tree has tags with children’s ages for individuals to take and provide an ageappropriate gently-used or new book for the child. Drop the wrapped book back to the library by the date indicated on the display.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

Season of Joy art show at Lost Acres Vineyard

The Granby Artists Association presents its annual Season of Joy Art Show at Lost Acres Vineyard from Dec. 13 to Jan. 6. A variety of pieces will be available for purchase including glass, pottery, paintings (watercolor, acrylic, oil), photography and seashell resin art. The Granby artists participating in this show are Alexander Anisimov, Annukka Ritalahti, Michael Bentley, Avis Cherichetti, Sally Sargent Markey, Mark Gottlieb, Emma Smith, Carolyn Dittes, Rita Law-McConaughy and Kathy Ungerleider.

Shop local and support your Granby artists. Find a unique handmade gift for someone—or yourself! Lost Acres Vineyard, located at 80 Lost Acres Road in North Granby, is open Fridays and Saturdays, 12 to 6 p.m. and Sundays, 12 to 5 p.m. For more information visit granbyartists.org

Glass bird ornament by Mark Gottleib.

Photo by Annukka Ritalahti

Submitted by Sue Canavan

Good food really can be medicine: Healing Meals Community Project

By Nicole Muller

In the village of Weatogue, in Simsbury, magic happens inside a building that was once a golf clubhouse.

“Balancing old-fashioned community values and recognition of the relationship between nutrition and healing, we support families facing a health crisis with healthy, organic meals,” says Sarah Leathers, founder and CEO of Healing Meals Community Project. The non-profit’s mission is to nourish the community and empower tomorrow’s leaders.

A mechanical engineer by schooling, Leathers says that following a major health crisis of her own in 2013, she attended the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City to learn more about healing through healthy eating.

Six years earlier in 2007, Leathers’ sister Cathryn Couch had founded the Ceres Community Project in Sebastopol, Calif., to teach young people to cook and eat healthy food, to provide meals to families and individuals facing serious illness and to educate people on the connection between food and health.

“I had been watching what my sister was doing, and every time I turned around, someone I knew was diagnosed with cancer,” Leathers says. “My sister had written a cookbook [Nourishing Community: Healing Recipes Made with Love], and I bought them by the case and delivered them to people. I wanted to offer the same opportunity in Connecticut, and a friend asked me what I was waiting for.”

After agreeing to join Leathers’ team, like-minded friends Ellen Palmer, Ellen Safino and Emily Deutsch accompanied Leathers to California for training at Ceres. By the spring of 2016, Healthy Meals Community Project was launched.

The non-profit is built on three principles: that nutrient-rich food is a necessary part of a person’s overall wellbeing; that young people must be central participants in shaping our future; and that when individuals are linked to their community, they have a strong sense of connection.

“Cross-generational creativity and respect forms the foundation of our culture,” says Feathers.” We have created a community here that nourishes each

other with food, love and care, kindness and patience.

Healing Meals receives no state or federal funding. It is entirely funded by corporate sponsors, grants, foundations and individual donors.

The volunteers

Each afternoon at 3 p.m., high school student volunteers and their adult mentors arrive at the facility to assist with cooking and to help package meals in insulated bags for delivery.

“Every shift starts with a circle of all staff and volunteers,” Leathers says. “It’s an opportunity to take a breath and to pause and remember why we are here. We might share a note from a client so that everyone knows that the work we do matters. We leave stresses behind, turn to the next person and say something kind. That’s a core component of who we are here. This is a joyful place, a safe place for teens to be, to feel safe and accepted while they’re trying to figure out who they are and where they’re heading in life.”

Feathers has proudly watched as the young people form close bonds while developing their interpersonal communication and coping skills.

“We’re a youth development program, and many of our teen volunteers start when they’re 13 or 14 and stay with us through their senior year,” she says. After they have contributed 50 hours, the teens receive a blue Healing Meals apron, and after 100 hours, a chef coat.

“These milestones provide a sense of pride in a safe environment where teens solve personal problems freely without repercussions. Someone having a bad day finds patience and understanding here.”

The teens come from a variety of area high schools. “We don’t really recruit the kids,” Feathers says. “The kids recruit the kids. We have about 175 teen volunteers in all. We average 125 adult and teen volunteers per week, and about a third of them are kids.”

Each year, Leathers invites three or four teens to serve on her board of directors.

“It gives them a stake in what we do, a voice, and insight into what happens in a business like this,” she says.

Adult volunteers whom Leathers calls her Kindness Crew also hail from

area towns and travel up to 45 minutes delivering meals to clients. Clients living a greater distance from Simsbury arrange for a friend or relative to pick up their weekly meals. “We’re lucky that our volunteers have so much passion for the people we serve,” Leathers says. “Some deliver to the same person or family for the entire three months of meals.”

In extenuating circumstances, clients may request an extension of the Healing Meals services. Kindness Crew members also provide tips on nutrition and healthy eating when making the weekly delivery of four entrees, a soup or salad and a quart of nourishing broth.

Healing Meals, Leathers says, could not function without its volunteers.

“Fostering compassion and empowering youth and adult volunteers are important to our mission,” she adds. “Ours is a cross-generational program with no hierarchy. Executive Chef Joe [Bucholz] mops the floor with the kids. He and his assistants also teach them about nutrition and how to be safe in the kitchen while cooking.”

Once a month, Healing Meals offers information sessions for new volunteers.

The clients

Healing Meals’ clients include individuals and their families across Connecticut who are facing or recovering from serious illnesses. When a health crisis such as cancer, stroke or heart attack strikes, shopping for and preparing healthy meals is far from anyone’s mind. Yet research and practice show that this is exactly the time when good nutrition is critical for both the patients’ and the families’ healing.

Chef Joe prepares carefully designed, nutritionally rich meals from whole, organic, locally grown ingredients designed to heal and strengthen the body. Some clients receive counseling and instruction from staff members. Janely Betances, who started with Healing Meals in June, works with low-income, food insecure, pregnant teens and young women. “I love helping people,” she says. “I have had several other jobs, but I strongly believe that this is what I’m supposed to be doing in the world. We do important work here, and it’s inspiring to me to be a part of Healing Meals’ mission. Our clients learn how what they eat affects their health and the health of their babies.”

Hospitals, social workers, mental health centers and therapists refer clients to Healing Meals. Individuals can also apply for their services online at healingmealsproject.org

“I’ve had a lot of different jobs and careers that taught me things,” Leathers says. “I never ran a non-profit and I had never started a business, but my sister had been doing this for eight years, so I felt like I was standing on the shoulders of something that was well established.

“Before I got sick, I worked for Proctor and Gamble in construction,” Leathers adds. “I’m very organized, and I just love watching things built from the ground up. We’re a work in progress. We’re always learning and always finding ways to improve what we do.”

To request services from Healing Meals or to join the Kindness Crew, visit healingmealsproject.org or call 860-264-5864.

Healing Meals Community Project’s staff and adult and student volunteers gather with the non-profit’s founder and CEO Sarah Leathers (center in a navy jacket) before getting to work preparing and packing food for delivery to individuals and families going through and/or recovering from health crises. Photo by Nicole Muller

Parks & Recreation

Think Holcomb Farm for weddings and events

This space is special. The people who are from this area feel it deep in their bones. This is a treasured space. What is even more magical is that even non-locals can feel it. It is no surprise that people choose Holcomb Farm as their legacy event space, not only hosting their wedding here, but later a baby shower, anniversary, graduation, milestone celebration and even celebrations of life.

Holcomb Farm holds love and joy in a way that not all other venues can. The history of the farm and the reverent beauty of the natural land make it feel like it is a secret treasure.

This past year, 22 couples said their vows at Holcomb Farm. Each couple left its own special mark on this historic location. Families were united, friends were embraced and new chapters were written. It is a profound honor to host a couple’s wedding—getting to know each couple and seeing dreams come true on wedding days.

Holcomb Farm combines the rustic and historic charm of a barn on a work-

ing farmland within protected land with the ease, comfort and elegance of a renovated space.

If you or someone you know is recently engaged and searching for a special venue, think of Holcomb Farm–Weddings and Events. If you need a space to celebrate a loved one, gather for a special event, or even meet as an organization, Holcomb Farm–Weddings and Events just might be the perfect fit for you.

Please reach out to Jamie at jsavva@ granby-ct.gov for more information.

Please visit GranbyRec.com for details on all the programs presented by the Parks and Rec department.

Holiday Marketplace: Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Let’s get festive! To truly ring in the season, join us at the Holiday Marketplace at Holcomb Farm. Shop from small businesses and local crafters. Grab a bite to eat from Saults Food Truck, a latte from Coffeeology Street Cafe, and a cocktail from The Liquorist as you enjoy the cozy elegance of Holcomb Farm and begin your holiday shopping.

Paint Night with Paint Craze: Thursday, Dec. 5, 7–9 p.m. at the Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Join your Park and Rec staff along with artist MaryBeth Read from Paint Craze for a fun evening of creating and socializing. No artistic skill required! Everything you need will be supplied, including an 11” x 14” canvas. Feel free to bring food and beverages to enjoy while you paint. $40pp Breakfast with Santa! Sunday, Dec. 15. Take photos with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Grinch. Choose between three seatings: 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Cost is $15 for child age 2 and up, $20 for adult.

Positions available for Summer 2025: It is not too early to start thinking about a summer job. Positions will include Salmon Brook Park Day Camp counselors, waterfront lifeguards, an arts and crafts director and concessions staff. To inquire about positions, call 860-8445289 or send an email to recreation@ granby-ct.gov

By Judy Guarco

This is one of the simplest recipes I have ever shared. With the holidays upon us and New Year’s around the corner, this makes a very special meal and it always comes out perfectly!

Ingredients

prime rib, typically 5–7 ribs salt and pepper

garlic powder

cayenne pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Note: a clean oven works best as this high temp brings out the best in your oven, so to speak!

Rub seasonings into roast. Place rib in roasting pan and roast uncovered for one hour.

After one hour immediately turn the temperature down to 250 degrees and continue to roast uncovered for 1.5–2 hours (for a larger rib).

Use meat thermometer to check for the meat temp of your preference. A good rule of thumb for beef is 115–120 degrees for rare or 125–130 degrees for medium.

Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Camille and Cody Barba’s ceremony at the Farm. Broghann Fles Photography

It’s time to celebrate

By Shirley Murtha

The town clock, situated at the entrance to the municipal complex, was originally donated to the town as an Eagle Scout’s qualifying project. Like many of us, Deb Kulwich expected the clock to reappear after the state was finished re-organizing Granby Center. Over the years, it had been especially important to her and her friends as a meet-up location. When the clock did not appear after the roadwork was completed, she decided to get to the bottom of the matter.

Kulwich contacted the Granby Public Works Department and found that the clock was being stored in the town garage. Over the years, its motor was replaced three times, and it was not working when it was removed for the roadwork because that motor had been discontinued. The most recent attempt to have it repaired met with disappointment, as the original manufacturer was no longer in business. Another clock company was contacted for possible repair, but their assessment was discouraging: the cost for repairs and shipping would be as much, or more, as ordering a new clock. That kind of expense was not in the public works budget.

After getting permission from Town Manager Mike Walsh and Public Works Director Kirk Severance, Kulwich began a mission to raise funds for a new clock. Paul Willis and Bob Groper of American Legion Post 182 began the process with their input, attending meetings and volunteering to administer the proper paperwork for the receipt of all donations. Deborah Klotzman from the Lions Club Giving Committee attended meetings and offered her fundraising expertise.

Assistant Vice-president of Windsor Federal Bank Robert Pancoast was the first to donate, followed by Jen Burkhart of Arrow Concrete, which also provided the concrete clock base. Other funds were donated by American Legion Post 182, the Lions Club Giving Committee, Brian Guarco of State Line Propane, the Granby Community Fund and the Kulwich family.

The old clock had a conventional motor; the new one, made by Lumichron Commercial Clocks in Grand Rapids, Mich., runs on an impulse movement. Having no gears or motor, it has fewer parts to fail. It is energy efficient and keeps up with time changes automatically.

Although the design of the clock is basically the same as the old one, the face has no writing on it except for the numbers, and they are larger than on the previous clock. This makes it much easier to read the time.

On Nov. 5 Severance and a public works crew installed the new clock and the landscaping around it. A plaque for the clock, which will be displayed at the base of the clock at a future time, has been designed by Rita Isaacson, who notes that she is “thrilled that the clock is replaced as it was noticeably missed by so many.”

CTVV: Spin Room, post-election

Susan Regan, host of CT Valley Views, recently had a candid conversation with Joseph Markley, an astute veteran politician who was a member of the Connecticut state senate representing the 16th state district from 2011 to 2019.

As always, Markley was unabashed in his comments, providing a thoughtful and objective view on what happened on Nov. 5.

See this segment on your local airing district schedule or anytime on ctvalleyviews.com

Major donors gathered at the newly installed town clock. From l., Mark Kulwich, Deborah Kulwich, Deborah Klotzman, Patty Sansone, Bob Pancoast, Paul Willis, Bob Groper. Donors absent from photo: Jen Burkhart and Brian Guarco.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

Kulwich appreciates the support of Walsh, the board of selectmen and public works for allowing her to pursue this project. Thanks to everyone who contributed to its accomplishment. They deserve a round of applause for returning one of the icons of Granby Center to its rightful position.

Center Advisory Committee begins work

By Shirley Murtha

The firm Buckhurst Fish and Jacquemart (BFJ) was selected by the Granby Board of Selectmen on Oct. 7 to consult with the Granby Center Advisory Committee to help determine the best direction to take in updating the center. The firm has studied the results of the poll distributed to Granby residents and the goals from the most recent Plan of Conservation and Development. These goals include improving pedestrian access; linking businesses separated by Routes 10/202, 20 and 189; and obtaining a greater mix of new housing units, particularly multi-family and rental units.

In achieving these goals, the intent is to maintain the center green as a focal point and to preserve the buildings in the Salmon Brook Historic District. Some of the infrastructure changes necessary in this project may include the expansion of the sewer, water and natural gas lines and adding lighting to enhance nighttime activity.

A hope for the project is that more people (who do not live or work in the center) will spend more time there. The recent survey noted that almost 60 percent of those visiting the center spent an hour or less per trip.

BFJ attended the center advisory committee’s Oct. 30 meeting, at which time BFJ’s Frank Fish reviewed the organization’s timeline. Starting with October as

the first of 10 months, the group intends to have finished its work in July 2025. The first step is a review of the resident survey, the Plan of Conservation and Development and zoning regulations. The current action is to do fieldwork studying the area, including a market analysis, existing land use and development patterns and an assessment of infrastructure, identifying opportunities and constraints.

After that work is completed, the group will develop recommendations regarding the center design, transportation and connectivity.

During the Oct. 30 meeting, Fish noted that “the state may not be open to many changes so soon after its major project in the center.” Fish also questioned the three different zone sizes in the center. It was explained that these zones were created about 20 years ago to broaden the uses of the center, and that it was time to re-visit these regulations.

First Selectman Mark Fiorentino noted that the Salmon Brook Historical Society and homeowners in the historic district wish to be included in the stakeholders group. Bill Ross, president of the Salmon Brook Historical Society and Dave Roberts, chairman of the Granby Conservation Commission, spoke of their concerns during the meeting’s public session.

A meeting conducted on Nov. 25 occurred too late for inclusion in this issue.

Familiar Faces

By Nicole Muller

Forbes and LeBlanc turn lemons into lemonade

Some things are just meant to be.

On Easter Sunday, Ashley Forbes and Branden LeBlanc of Windsor Locks came to Granby hoping to buy their dream home. After looking at the house and making an offer, they stopped at Icy Rolls at 10 Hartford Ave., one of their favorite spots in town.

“The owner had a paper ‘Business for Sale’ sign on the door,” Forbes recalls. “We loved the house that we saw, but we quickly learned that we were outbid. Instead of a home, we bought a business that day with a handshake. Two weeks later, we signed the papers.”

The transition was seamless. The former owner taught Forbes and LeBlanc how the business operates, and on April 28, Icy Rolls opened under their ownership without missing a beat.

“After we bought Icy Rolls, which is open noon to 9 p.m., we’d ask ourselves what we’re doing for lunch and dinner, and we soon got tired of the same food options every day,” Forbes says. “It was summer, and we wanted choices that were fast and affordable. We decided that Granby needed a sandwich shop.” The Trading Post Eatery was the couple’s answer to that need.”

Forbes and LeBlanc imagined combining Icy Rolls and The Trading Post into one large space with a soup, salad and sandwich menu and plenty of tables for their guests. “It would be similar to Panera, with people coming to eat and hang out, but there is no available parking for the two big, empty units in this plaza,” Forbes says. “All the parking spaces were already assigned to existing businesses.”

Disappointed but undaunted, the couple went back to the drawing board and agreed on a new plan. They rented the small space next to Granby Barber and Styling and put in a small kitchen. “It ended up being mostly take-out,” Forbes says. “We have a table and a bench inside and a bench on the side of the building, so in nice weather, people can sit outside while they wait for their orders.”

The Trading Post Eatery opened on Sept. 7, and business has been brisk. “We announced our opening on Granby Living, and word spread as people began coming and liked what we offer: good food at reasonable prices,” Forbes says.

Restaurant ownership was never part of this couple’s life plan. Forbes is pursuing an online degree in agricultural business with the dream of owning an “attraction farm.” LeBlanc, a 2013 graduate of Lincoln Tech in East Windsor, is a diesel mechanic.

“I learned a lot on my own,” LeBlanc says.

“I had a single mother on a tight budget, so I figured out how to fix things, and I spent years repairing tractors and trucks on my best friend’s family farm. I was very successful in the diesel world, but then I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, and I had to find a new career.”

Forbes has always worked in food service, first at McDonald’s, where she worked her way up to management, and later as kitchen manager at the Fairfield Inn. When COVID hit and the Fairfield Inn closed, she ran the take-out kitchen at Chick-fil-A in Enfield. For her, the transition to restaurant ownership was smooth, and LeBlanc, an avid griller, slid easily into the role of cook. Forbes oversees the menu, including weekly seasonal specials, keeps the kitchen stocked, and takes walk-in, online and phone orders.

The new ventures have been a good investment for this couple. “In summer, Icy Rolls was super busy,” Forbes says. “We had three college students working full time. But now it’s kind of slow because most people don’t know that we’re now open year-round.” Icy Rolls was formerly a seasonal business.

For now, since Icy Rolls is slow on week days, a sign on the door asks you to ring the doorbell. Forbes, just two doors down at The Trading Post, will be right there to serve you homemade icy rolls in your choice of ever-expanding flavors, including seasonal choices like apple cider, maple and pumpkin pie. High school students take over on weekends.

While business is booming at The Trading Post, Forbes and LeBlanc plan to expand. “Branden and I don’t do ‘comfortable’ well,” Forbes says. “Once we get comfortable, we have to add something. We bought an old construction trailer and Branden is turning it into a commercial kitchen/food truck that we can take to events. By the time that’s ready, we should have a couple of high school kids working here.”

As for LeBlanc, he’s game for just about anything. “I like to go-go-go,” he says. “I’m not a

sit-and-do-nothing person. My mind and hands have to be active.” That includes walks with the couple’s two-year-old German shepherd Dixie, chasing after three young children and, in season, water sports at Lake Congamond from their pontoon boat.

How, one might wonder, did Forbes and LeBlanc zero in on Granby, and why did they name their eatery The Trading Post? “I grew up coming to Granby to ride my dirt bike, and I came to love this town,” LeBlanc says. “It’s a different kind of small town with lots of open space and very friendly people. The excellent schools are a bonus!”

and opened The Trading Post Eatery in September, making them the newest business owners in Granby Center. Photo by Nicole Muller

Forbes explains the name choice. “I wanted something old-fashioned, so I did a lot of research on Granby,” she says. “In the old days, this was the main trading spot in town, and we love that.”

Forbes and LeBlanc remain determined to purchase a home in Granby, where they have already made new friends whom they hope will soon become their neighbors.

In a hurry? Place your order online at thetradingpostgranby.com seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. or call in your order at 860-4940610. Walk-ins are always welcome.

Know of a resident for a future Familiar Faces column? Please email your suggestions and contact information to Nicoleoncapecod@gmail.com

Granby Horse Council Scholarship

By Peggy Lareau

The Granby Horse Council offers a $700 scholarship to a high school senior planning to attend a university, college or junior college in at least a two-year program in the field of animal studies. Accepted fields include, but are not limited to, pre-veterinary school, veterinary technician or assistant, equine studies, stable management, animal husbandry or equine assisted therapy. The scholarship is to be applied to tuition, books or fees. Consideration will also be given to a

student with educational expenses in animal studies or training programs that are not part of a college degree program. Membership in the Granby Horse Council is not required. An application form can be downloaded from granbyhorsecouncilct. com Mail completed application packets to Peggy Lareau, scholarship chair, Granby Horse Council, P.O. Box 162, Granby, CT 06035. Call Lareau for email submissions at 860-653-4464. Applications must be received by March 31, 2025.

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES

When I was a little girl, I looked forward to the Christmas party at school. I also enjoyed the one at church where the priest dressed up as Santa Claus and handed out gifts and small boxes of hard candy.

The church was decorated with evergreen wreaths and trees that made it smell like the outdoors. On a side altar was the manger where you could kneel and welcome the Baby Jesus.

At home the Christmas tree always stood in its familiar corner. It was adorned with all blue lights, silver tinsel and colored balls. But what I remember most was how my Irish mother put a lit candle in the kitchen window at dusk on Christmas Eve. She explained that it was to welcome the wayfarer, the stranger, who might be seeking shelter or welcome on that dark night. Our home would not be like the inn where Mary and Joseph were turned away.

Seeing my mother do this every Christmas and how she lived her life, gave me the core values that I honor to this day.

—Bernadette R. Gentry

Ashley Forbes and Branden LeBlanc purchased Icy Rolls in April

SPECIAL EVENT

Holiday Dinner (SOLD OUT): Wednesday, Dec. 11, 5 p.m. Catered meal by Tucker’s Restaurant with entertainment by the one and only Elderly Brothers! We cannot guarantee that any food served is free from ingredients that may affect those with food allergies.

LIFELONG LEARNING

Coping with the Holidays: Mondays, Dec. 2, 9 and 16, 2 p.m. The weeks between midNovember and early January are not necessarily “the most wonderful time of the year,” despite what Andy Williams sings. Seasonal fatigue, stress and anxiety may test our emotions and drain the holidays of festivity. Even our own expectations can sabotage our joy. Nearly 40 percent of Americans report that they become more stressed out during this time of year, according to the American Psychological Association. Do the holidays have you feeling overwhelmed or simply not “jolly”? Megyn, a marriage and family therapist, will be here to listen and share some coping skills to get you through the next few weeks. Free.

Secrets Your Parents Never Told You About the History of Christmas Carols and Songs: Friday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. Carols used to be sung all during the year, but only the tradition of singing them at Christmas has survived. Early Christians replaced the pagan solstice galas with Christmas and substituted their Christian songs. Over the centuries the words and meanings of the songs have changed. Discover more of the fascinating legends and realities that surround the traditional songs of the season. Free. Holiday Trivia: Monday, Dec. 16, 2 p.m. Join Jennifer for holiday trivia, hot cocoa and treats. Time to get cozy and test our knowledge! Free.

Acupressure Facelift: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 1 p.m. Learn this simple, 15-minute routine that has been used for over 4,000 years by women of the Chinese court to keep their youthful beauty. In addition to instruction on how and where to gently massage your face, receive a chart with the acupressure points and the benefits of each point. This face lift can even help you sleep better. With Gail Altschwager, RMT, EMP. Free.

Origami Boxes: Tuesday, Jan. 28, 1 p.m. Join Gail Altschwager to make exquisite origami boxes. Origami paper and full printed instructions will be included for all attendees. Class size is limited to 8, so please sign up early. Free. Estate Planning Seminar: Friday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m. This presentation outlines strategies to help individuals leave a meaningful legacy by caring for the people, organizations and causes they love. It also includes slides on overview of what clients can expect when they work with an Ameriprise advisor. With Financial Advisor Matthew J. Sondrini. Free.

TRIPS

Fascia’s Chocolates: Friday, Dec. 6, depart center at 9 a.m. Since 1964, Fascia’s Chocolates of Waterbury has been dedicated to making high quality, handcrafted confections. The Fascia Family has always had a passion for chocolate. John and Helen began making chocolate in their basement as a hobby, and the business slowly grew from there. They use time-honored traditions —stirring in a copper kettle and cooling on a marble slab may seem quaint, but the Fascias feel it is important to the finished product. Make your own chocolate bar and learn a brief history of Fascia’s and chocolate. Cost: $15.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

CRT Hot Lunch: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12–1 p.m. Community Café offers a healthy, low-cost lunch for seniors 60+ and the opportunity to join with others. Monthly menus are available at the senior center. All participants are required to complete a one-time informational survey. A donation of $3 per meal is suggested to help cover costs, however no one is denied a meal if unable to pay. Reservations are accepted until noon on Friday for the following week by calling 860-844-5350.

Cribbage: Fridays, 3–5 p.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Join this lively group. Experienced players will assist with refreshing your game play. Free.

Set Back: Tuesdays, 1–3:30 p.m. Free. Music Jam, Back in Time: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Bring your instrument and join in. Music from the 60s to 80s. Open to any type of musicians. Free.

Makers Club: Mondays, 10 a.m. Bring your latest project to work on and enjoy some great conversation. Free.

History Revisited: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Jerry Perkins, former professor and high school history instructor, 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. Free.

ASK THE…SERIES

Ask the Attorney: Wednesday, Dec. 4 (no January date), 10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call to set up an appointment for a free 30-minute consultation.

Ask the Realtor: Wednesdays, Dec. 11 and Jan. 8, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment only. Lifelong resident of Granby, Judy Guarco has worked for more than 20 years representing both buyers and sellers. Her goal is always to be a trusted advisor to help navigate the everchanging world of home ownership with good advice, solid market knowledge, customer ser-

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

If you are a Granby Senior Center member, please register for all 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

The senior center is closed for holidays on Dec. 25, Jan. 1 and Jan. 20.

vice and attention to detail. Please call to set up an appointment for a free 30-minute consultation.

Ask the Registered Dietitian: New, starting in January. Wednesday, Jan. 15, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment only. Amy Woodman, registered dietitian from Farmington Valley Nutrition and Wellness, will meet with you for a free 30-minute consultation to answer your nutrition questions.

Ask the Financial Advisor: Wednesday, Jan. 22 (no December date),10 a.m.–12 p.m. by appointment only. Meet with Financial Advisor Matthew Sondrini from The O’Brien Group for a free 30-minute consultation.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Chair Massage: Tuesdays, Dec. 3, 17, 31, Jan. 7 and 21, 10 a.m.–12:45 p.m. by appointment only. Bev offers 15-minute chair massages for $10.

Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic: Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. No appointment needed. Held in the Senior Center Community Room. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association.

Healthy Minds: By appointment only. Situations such as the death of a loved one, failing health or strained family relationships can be daunting to face alone. Working with a marriage and family therapist may help you move forward with the better part of life. To schedule a confidential appointment, call 860-844-5350.

Foot Care by Sarah: Wednesdays, Dec. 11 and Jan. 8, by appointment only. Sarah from Mobile Manicures offers 30-minute foot care appointments. Cost: $35.

EXERCISE PROGRAMS

See the current Center Life newsletter for session dates and cost for all programs.

Gentle Movement: Mondays, 11:15 a.m. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Total Body Tone: Mondays, 12:45–1:45 p.m. Class will consist of circuit style strength training/cardio using a variety of equipment like bands, weights, and steppers, etc. Each class will be different to keep our muscles guessing, keep it interesting and keep it fun! Class will include chair and standing exercises. Instructor, Michelle Rancourt.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, 2:30 p.m. 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. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Yoga: Thursdays, 4 p.m. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Line Dancing with Jim: Wednesdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Instructor Jim Gregory has been teaching dance full-time for 40 years. His expertise will have you learning the steps in no time and having a blast too! This class is for beginners to advanced dancers.

Everybody’s Exercise: Thursdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. This exercise class is suitable for anyone and everyone! Will include strength and weights, some cardio, balance and flexibility. All movements can be modified for chair or standing. Instructor Mary Root will personalize your routine based off current flexibility, strength, etc. All About Balance: Thursdays, 2:45 p.m. This class focuses on strength for balance efficiency, such as squats, handheld weight maneuvers and walking drills, as well as core conditioning. Instructor: Paula Pirog.

Adult Fencing: Fridays, 11 a.m. Sport of Olympic Fencing is open for everyone, with any physical abilities. Sport of Fencing does not have weight categories or age limits and there are fencing tournaments even in 90+ age groups. Fencing is an elegant and complex sport that makes your brain think fast and clearly, keeping it healthy and alert while maintaining your motor skills in top condition throughout your life.

Holcomb Farm’s Fresh Access program distributed produce to Senior Center members this summer and fall. Halloween distribution, from left: Patty Sansone, Lori Armentano, Diane Smith, Mark Fiorentino, Donna Snyder, Dianne Szipszky, Michael Walter, Jim Szipszky, Jen Jalbert and Laura Midura. Photo by Patty Sansone

Fun and success at the Harvest Dinner and Auction

The fall season is always busy when your vocation is farming, and doubly-so when money needs to be raised to support a cause as important as making the food you grow available to seniors and people facing food insecurity. For the Friends of Holcomb Farm, it has been a great fall. Let us share the good news and invite you to join us in the important work we do.

For the first time since the pandemic, we held a fundraising harvest dinner and auction, this year hosted at Healing Meals Community Project in Simsbury. More than 100 friends enjoyed a beautiful autumn sunset and feasted on a delicious farm-to-table repast, courtesy of “the two Joes”—Farmer Joe O’Grady of Holcomb Farm, and Chef Joe Bucholz of Healing Meals. Then, thanks to generous contributions from many area people and businesses, a number of special items and experiences were auctioned. When it was over, we had raised almost $18,000 to help fund the Fresh Access program.

One highlight of the evening was when Friends of Holcomb Farm Board President Jenny Emery honored dedicated volunteer Jack Lareau, recognizing his years of service to the farm. As she presented Lareau with a framed map of the Holcomb Farm trails, Emery said, “In considering Jack’s 12 years of service on our board, I now know where the term, ‘jack of all trades,’ comes from. He’s a workhorse, and a gem, and we thank him.”

Friends of Holcomb Farm Board President Jenny Emery presents longtime, dedicated board member Jack Lareau with the Bud Murtha Award, the organization’s highest honor, and a framed print of Holcomb Farm’s

Another highlight was hearing from John Sponauer, the vice president of marketing, communications and philanthropic giving at Wheeler, our largest Fresh Access partner. Building on themes of love and hope, Sponauer shared very real stories of how the food Wheeler receives through Fresh Access makes a difference in their clients’ lives. No doubt, his remarks helped to fuel the energetic bidding that followed. We extend a huge thank you to Sponauer and Wheeler Health, to Healing Meals, to all our dinner guests and auction buyers, and to the auction donors.

Volunteers and board members Donna Snyder, Christiane Pimantel and Lori Armentano pause for a moment after months of work preparing for the Harvest Dinner and Auction.

Thank you, Harvest Dinner Auction Donors!

Laura J. Eden, Artist Resolute Fit–Granby (Rob Olson) Level Up Fitness–Avon (Rob Olson)

Missing Link Wine Company

The Bushnell Metro Bis Black Label New England Photography (Rob Faber)

Merrill Memoirs (Sarah Merrill) O’Brien Nursery (John O’Brien)

Karen Kudish

Eric Lukingbeal

John Schumann

Amy Eisler

Photo by Jenny Emery

Friends of Holcomb Farm Members Jill Ford and Dave Schupp compare notes on plans to bid during the Harvest Dinner Auction. Photo by Jenny Emery

trails. Photo by Trish Percival

Donald Wilmot, Put Brown and Mark Wetzel share a laugh at the Friends of Holcomb Farm Harvest Dinner.

Photo by Trish Percival

Sharing the Harvest with the Farm Crew is the highlight of each growing season at Holcomb Farm. From left: Joe O’Grady, Emma Hoyt, Hannah Malzenski, Tom Spatcher, Melody Smith, Kim Gayle, McKean Thomas and Danovan Robinson. Photo by Rob Kadrle

Granby Horse Council honored for 45 years of service

MORE HOLCOMB FARM EVENTS

Senior Center Fresh Access Distributions Wrap-up in Style

Every Thursday since June, an intrepid crew of volunteers has helped distribute Holcomb Farm produce to Granby Senior Center members. An average of 90 members participated weekly in this service, which we are able to provide to the town at no cost, thanks in part to support from the Granby Community Fund. This year, when you receive your annual letter to support the Granby Community Fund, please know that its grants really make a difference in the lives of your neighbors.

Thanks to Feldman Farms

Through a chance conversation as the harvest season ended, Feldman Farms of Southwick donated its remaining winter squash to our local Fresh Access community partners. Nine bushels of winter squash were delivered to the Granby Senior Center, Waste Not Want Not Community Dinner and Granby Congregational Church Open Cupboard Pantry for use or distribution to their clients. Friends of Holcomb Farm is thankful to Jack Feldman and family for sharing their bounty with the Granby community. It’s Annual Appeal Time

As is the case with many nonprofits this time of year, Friends of Holcomb Farm is reaching out to ask for your support. The money we raise supports the work we do: building and maintaining an arboretum and hiking trails throughout the 312-acre Holcomb Farm; growing produce locally, sustainably and without chemicals; operating a farm store that also carries other local products; and providing roughly a quarter of the food we grow to people who might not otherwise have access, through Fresh Access.

We are a community service organization that works hard to support our neighbors and utilize Granby’s Holcomb Farm so it can continue to be the valuable, community-wide treasure it is, without relying on taxpayer dollars. The farm is open to all, and we hope many will show their support for our mission through membership, which comes with an annual contribution of $35 or more.

Fresh Food This Winter

Much improved growing conditions this summer and fall allowed us to offer the Winter CSA, which sold out in three days! For those who missed out, shop with us at the annual Lost Acres Vineyard Holiday Farmers’ market on Saturday, Dec. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check our Facebook or Instagram posts for pop-up markets as winter root veggies and greenhouse greens allow. If you do not receive our periodic emails and would like to, please drop a note to cat@holcombfarm.org

A Unique Gift Idea from Our CSA

Looking to give meaningful gifts this holiday season? We are pleased to offer the Holcomb Farm Gift Bag, filled with a handpicked selection of Holcomb Farm vegetables, a jar of our delicious Holcomb Farm tomatoes, and a wall calendar filled with beautiful Holcomb Farm photos. It’s the perfect gift for the foodie, the health-conscious eater, the family chef or anyone looking to eat better and shrink their carbon footprint. Give the gift of health and wellness and support a local farm at the same time. It’s a thoughtful gift everyone will appreciate, especially as we head into winter. (Here’s an idea: treat yourself to a bag while you’re at it!) Go to our website, holcombfarm.org, to learn more.

By Kristal Fiorentino

At its Oct. 21 meeting, the board of selectmen honored the Granby Horse Council’s 45 years of service to the community. Horse council member Kristal Fiorentino gave a slide presentation covering the council’s origin and activities during the past four decades.

In 1979, a team from Yale University was doing an environmental study of McLean Game Refuge that involved trail usage. Lael Farm owner Barbara Greenwood was asked to organize a group of responsible horse people to create a unified voice to represent and communicate horse-related issues. Thus began the Granby Horse Council (GHC.)

A few years after the formation of the GHC, the Town of Granby proposed a drastic revision of the zoning regulations that would have zoned out many of the horses (and other animals) residing on modestly sized properties. The GHC mobilized a turnout of approximately 500 very vocal homeowners at the planning and zoning meeting where the revision would be discussed. Planning and zoning was receptive to the concerns and enlisted the council’s help in writing new zoning regulations that accommodated backyard horses and other animals. In time, people with equine-related interests were elected to the P & Z, giving even better representation to those with animal interests.

In 1992, an article in the Hartford Courant titled For the Horses and Horse Enthusiasts, Granby Offers a Home on the Range. It noted, “In this little town of 9,600, there is no horse industry, no race track or equestrian training center to entice the horsy crowd to settle here. Once a farming community, Granby is now an outlying countrified suburb, yet it offers horse owners something they see disappearing in other towns across Connecticut—a zoning code that makes keeping a horse on your own property affordable and trouble-free. The regulations are a testament to the foresight of what may be Granby’s most powerful single-interest group, the Granby Horse Council.”

The GHC’s mission has evolved to promote the protection of the rights of equines and horse people in the town of Granby and its surrounding areas; the education of horse owners and the public; educational and charitable causes in the community; trail riding, parades and demonstrations; and maintenance of local multi-use trails and exercise rings at Salmon Brook Park and Holcomb Farm.

Membership in the GHC is open to all. Owning horses is not a requirement, but loving them is. The council produces a newsletter to inform those interested in its activities. To learn more, go to GranbyhorsecouncilCT.com or follow on Facebook at Granby (CT) Horse Council.

First Selectman Mark Fiorentino (l.) and Town Manager Mike Walsh presented Granby Horse Council president Billie McNealey with a commendation honoring the Council’s 40+ years of service.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

Four original Granby Horse Council members were in attendance at the ceremony recognizing the council’s 40+ years of service. From l., Rose D’Angelis, Paula Johnson, Barbara Greenwood and Sandy Strain. Photo by Shirley Murtha

By Brian Tomasino

The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries’ puzzle sale was a great success, raising more than $1,200 during the two-hour event held at the library in November. This popular sale draws a lined-up crowd before the library even opens. There was a bustling rush as the doors opened, with eager participants searching for that perfect puzzle. With nearly 600 puzzles to choose from, prices ranged from $1 to $5, offering something for everyone. The Friends thank everyone that donated puzzles, as well as those coming out for the sale. The Friends would like to recognize Karen Wilbur for her significant contri-

butions to this yearly Friends fundraiser. Thanks to Wilbur’s extensive involvement with puzzles at the library, staff affectionately refer to her as the Puzzle Queen. Wilbur has been working parttime at both of Granby’s libraries (Cossitt and the main branch) for 25 years! If you’ve been to the library, chances are you’ve seen Wilbur, as she started as an assistant and later became a lead with supervisory and processing duties.

Wilbur’s love of puzzles began when Bobbie Sullivan inspired her to get involved in the Friends’ annual puzzle sale at Cossitt. She credits Sullivan for teaching her sorting skills and showing her what to look for. She now oversees the

ever-evolving puzzle section at the library, where patrons can check out puzzles with their library cards. It’s worth noting that the library’s entire puzzle collection comes from donations. Many patrons donate puzzles to the Friends throughout the year and Wilbur carefully examines each one, deciding whether to add it to the library’s circulation or contribute it to the Friends’ book sale table. For the actual Friends’ puzzle sale Wilbur carefully sorts all the puzzles that are generously donated by fellow puzzle enthusiasts.

Wilbur became a serious puzzler after retiring from teaching in 2010. She thoroughly enjoys listening to audiobooks while tackling a variety of unique and challenging puzzles.

Maybe you will see Karen Wilbur at the Drummer’s Puzzle Slam on Feb. 1.

Geissler’s introduces AI technology

Granby’s Geissler’s Supermarket introduced Instacart’s AI-powered smart carts in November. Geissler’s is the first grocer to replace most of its traditional shopping carts with Caper Carts at all seven of its locations.

Customers shopping in these stores can now enjoy a delightful and more personalized experience using Caper Carts, featuring an interactive screen that engages customers, tracks spending for budget management and provides direct access to deals and instant coupon clipping by syncing to Geissler’s loyalty program. The screen will also surface relevant product recommendations and display offers based on where the customer is in the store. The carts reward customers with automatic discounts, including digital coupons, as their basket value grows— the more they shop, the more they save.

Submitted by Geissler’s Supermarkets, Inc.

In Memory of .

. .

Fahy, Patrick Dunne, 26, beginning of August

Broverman, Harvey Allan, 83, October 3

Wier, Brian Scott, 52, October 9 Sodanno, Albert Joseph, 87, husband of the late Isabel Joan Sodanno, October 12

Piwonski, Linda Christine (DeGray), 74, wife of Mark A. Piwonski, October 21 Brown, Lana Deborah (Hahn), 90, wife of the late Ronald Brown, October 28 Horwatt, Joseph, 70, October 31 Mattavi, Arlene D., 87, wife of Joseph Mattavi, November 3 Ducharme, Esperanza M. (Roche), 83, wife of Francis G. Ducharme, November 10 Tseka, Marjorie (Morgan), 90, wife of John Tseka, November 12

Karen Wilbur, aka “The Puzzle Queen”. Submitted photo

The Weed-Enders House move, 50

years ago

By Todd Vibert

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

The move was made more impressive by the challenging circumstances of 1974. The nation was in the midst of a gas shortage, which meant limited hours for gas stations and long delays in transportation. In addition, inflation was at 11 percent, making it difficult to secure funding or donations for the project. On the positive side, the town was celebrating GMHS’s two state champion teams—the Girls Field Hockey and Cross Country teams—adding to the community’s excitement and sense of achievement.

The last owner of the house, John Enders, had donated his buildings and hundreds of acres in West Granby to the State of Connecticut. The state accepted the land, now known as Enders State Forest, but it had no interest in preserving the buildings. Faced with increasing vandalism, the state offered to

lease the Enders House to the Salmon Brook Historical Society for educational purposes—provided the society could relocate and maintain the building.

Ethel Wilson, chair of the committee overseeing the project, and Harry Lanser, president of the historical society, played pivotal roles in the house’s relocation. In January 1974, the society presented a proposal to the state outlining its commitment to raising the funds needed to move and restore the house, as well as using the building for office space and educational purposes.

The restoration and relocation of the house were entrusted to Ernest Sattler, a highly respected Granville, Mass. restoration company. The Sattler team was responsible for transporting the house, building a new foundation, restoring the interior and connecting the WeedEnders House to the existing Abijah Rowe House on the society’s grounds.

Meanwhile, Wilson and Lanser worked tirelessly to secure the necessary funding. They raised money through private donations, grants and other funding sources, with the total cost of the project amounting to just under $34,000. Each trip to move the saltbox style house cost around $5,000. The first move took place on April 17, 1974, the second on April 24, and the final trip occurred on

August 6. The travel route along Routes 219 and 20 and through the center of town on Route 10/202, attracted many amazed observers along the way.

On April 6, 1975, the building was officially opened to the public and tours began, showcasing both the Rowe House and the Enders House. Remarkably, the entire project—from moving the house and its four chimneys, raising the funds, and constructing a new foundation, to attaching the house to the Rowe House—was completed in under 18 months. This was a truly remarkable accomplishment, considering the eco-

nomic challenges and gas shortages of

Wilson and Lanser had a clear vision for the future of the Salmon Brook Historical Society. Their hard work, determination and collaboration with the Sattler group ensured the successful preservation of this historic building for future generations.

If you would like to learn more about the Enders House, or about the lives of Ethel Wilson and Harry Lanser, consider joining the Salmon Brook Historical Society. For more information, visit salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com or call 860-653-9713.

Original location of the Weed-Enders House. Photos courtesy of the Salmon Brook Historical Society

Current location of the WeedEnders House.

Photo taken during the 1974 move.

the time.

Prizes awarded to 14 artists at juried art show

There’s still time to see the “2024 Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty Art Show,” hosted by the Granby Land Trust (GLT) and the Granby Artists Association (GAA) at Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby. Visit during Vineyard hours: 12 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7, or 12 to 5 p.m. on Dec. 8, to see art inspired by nature, including picturesque scenes from across New England, as well as scenes you will recognize from right in our backyard. It is a reminder of how very lucky we are to live in such a beautiful corner of the world.

At the show’s opening night, GLT President Rick Orluk commended all the entering artists for their courage and thanked them for helping us slow down and appreciate nature’s beauty. “It’s a joy to work with these talented artists, and we so appreciate their participation,” says Orluk. “We host this show to remind people of the natural beauty that surrounds us, and of the importance of preserving our natural landscape for future generations. We hope visitors will be inspired to purchase art [with a portion of proceeds going to the GLT], and also to join the Granby Land Trust, to support the work we do going forward.”

The feedback from entering artists has been very positive, with some calling this show one of the premiere art shows in the region. Thanks to the incredible generosity of GLT’s friends, the show now offers more than $5,000 in award money. This year, 183 pieces of original artwork were submitted for consideration. Gabrielle Robinson, director of the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts, had the difficult task of jurying the show. Knowing only so many pieces can fit in the space, she was forced to decline 60 percent of the entries. Upon completion of this difficult task, Robinson said, “It was a privilege to jury the 17th edition of this show, and I was truly impressed by the high caliber of submissions from artists across various mediums. The depictions of classic New England landscapes featuring gentle vistas, serene ponds, cascading waterfalls and charming farmhouses are particularly striking in their seasonal diversity.

These works evoke a deep connection to our local heritage and inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world.” Awards

The winner of the 2024 show’s top prize, the Don and Marty Wilmot Award, was Thomas Adkins for his oil painting, View of Mount Mansfield. Jim Laurino was awarded the Granby Land Trust Award for his oil painting titled Holcomb Hill View, depicting the Sadoce Wilcox House which sits on the GLT’s Wilcox Family Preserve at the base of Holcomb Hill Road in West Granby.

Twelve additional prizes were awarded as follows: William Simpson won the Sandy and Dave Schupp Award for I Dreamt the Salmon Were Back. Leif Nilsson won the Austin McNey Award given by Karen, Scott and Patrick McNey for Inner Light Old Saybrook

Kristen Cormier won the Granby Artists Association Award for Moon Bath

Donna Jean Shaw won the Helen and Al Wilke Award for Hidden Creatures

Beverly Corriveau won the Mildred Dewey Award, given by Jenny and Dave Emery, for My Lupine. The Ray Betts Award, given by Carol and Greg Reid, went to Lisa Tellier for Wind on the Water. Stephen Gerling won the Tudor and Laura Holcomb Award, given by Nannie and Put Brown, for Winter’s Coming –Nightingale Brook. Elizabeth Lazaren Daglio won the Olof Stevenson Award, given by Jamie Gamble, for Dismal Brook on Horseback. Marianne Berman won the Matthew K. Orluk Award, given by Trish Percival and Rick Orluk, for Birds of a Feather. The William Stewart Award, given by Dave and Judy Russell, went to Del-Bouree Back for Woodland Rest. Carole Hartwell won the Carol and Dick Caley Award for Kent Falls in the Mist. Kristin Lang won the Bud Murtha Photography Award, given by Shirley Murtha, for Tulmeadow Farm, Twilight

The People’s Choice Award, given by Lost Acres Vineyard (and decided based on votes submitted by visitors to the Vineyard throughout the course of the show) has not yet been determined. Vote for your favorite through Dec. 7!

Congratulations Taylorann Vibert!

We have an Attorney in the house! Your dedication to accomplish your goals has earned you a well-deserved success graduating high honors in both undergraduate and law school. Congratulations on this exceptional accomplishment. Keep following your dreams and make your mark.

We are so proud of you!

Love Mom, Dad and Spencer

Litchfield Artist Jim Laurino won the Granby Land Trust Award for his oil painting, Holcomb Hill View, at the 2024 GLT Art Show. This beautiful piece depicts the Wilcox Family Homestead in West Granby.

The Land Trust is grateful to show sponsors Mark and Barb Wetzel, and Ted Cormier of ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC, for their ongoing, loyal support of the show. In addition, the Land Trust thanks the many volunteers who helped organize the show and its opening night; the Granby Artists Association for its ongoing support of the show, including the difficult task of hanging the artwork; and the generous GLT supporters who fund the awards each year (see the award listing for a full list). The GLT sends a special shout out to GLT member Maggie Percival who volunteered to find us a caterer for opening night and ended up creating all the spectacular food herself when no caterer could be found; and Tony Capelli, a Granby resident, who donates his time each year to create stunning floral displays for the show. This year’s display—a giant willow branch adorned with floral orbs—was the perfect accent piece, reflecting the fun yet sophisticated tone of the show. Finally, the GLT thanks Michelle Niedermeyer and Kevin Riggott of Lost Acres Vineyard for hosting the show, for funding the People’s Choice Award, and for welcoming us into their beautiful space.

Submitted by Trish Percival

, depicting Vermont’s highest mountain.

Of the show, Juror Gab Robinson, director of the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts said, “Each piece selected offers a unique interpretation of themes such as conservation, sustainability and the interplay between nature and humanity.”

JOIN THE GRANBY LAND TRUST

It’s membership renewal time! September marked the start of the Granby Land Trust (GLT) membership year. If you haven’t yet renewed your membership, please do. And if you’re not yet a GLT member but appreciate the preservation of Granby’s beautiful places like the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve, the Mary Edwards Mountain Property, or the Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve to name a few of our properties open to the public for walking/hiking, we encourage you to join our organization today. A family membership starts at just $30 and gets you invitations to hikes, lectures and special events. To join online, go to GranbyLandTrust.org and click on “Join or Renew.” Or mail us a check, payable to Granby Land Trust, at: P.O. Box 23, Granby, CT 06035.

Your support makes such a big a difference, helping us steward our properties and preserve additional land. We thank you in advance for your support.

Granby Artist Bill Simpson won the Dave and Sandy Schupp Award for his charcoal drawing, I Dreamt the Salmon Were Back.

Thomas Adkins of Southbury won the 2024 GLT Art Show’s highest award, the Don and Marty Wilmot Award, for his painting, View of Mount Mansfield

Annual Meeting and Potluck Supper

More than 100 Granby Land Trust members gathered for the 2024 Annual Meeting and Potluck Supper on Oct. 20. Before the meeting, GLT Vice President Dave Emery led a hike of the land trust’s Hastings Trail, which provides public access to Holcomb Farm’s western trails. At the meeting, GLT President Rick Orluk and members of the GLT board reported on the health of the organization and recent activities and acquisitions.

volunteers Maggie Percival, Bill Percival, Sandy

and Bill Salazar

Preserve Our Properties Day

Granby Land Trust thanks its members and Granby Memorial High School

members who spent an autumn morning at the GLT’s Mary Edwards Mountain Property as part of our fall “Preserve Our Properties Day.” Working as three crews, they built water bars on property trails, widened and cleared trails, and cleaned up around Mary’s Rock and the large sugar maple in the front field.

GLT members volunteering their time included: Property Steward Fran Armentano, Mark Kennedy, Mark Fiorentino, Austin White, Elizabeth Boucher, Debi O’Keefe and Rick Orluk. In addition, about two dozen players from the soccer team joined us to give their time to help the land trust. Submitted photo

The 2024 Mary Edwards Friend of the Land Trust Award, the GLT’s highest honor, went to longtime GLT members Lowell and Maryellen Kahn. GLT Vice President Dave Emery (l.) and GLT President Rick Orluk (r.) presented the award. Photo by Ed Judge

Who, who, who will be next?

Shirley Murtha photographed this stunning barred owl that spent several days in her yard this fall. It stocked up on mice, voles and the occasional chipmunk as the rodents scurried to hibernate.

GLT

Salazar

manned the kitchen.

Photo by Trish Percival

GLT volunteers Sandy Orluk and Stacey Kroninger welcomed guests.

Photo by Ed Judge

GLT members sang Happy Birthday to longtime, steadfast GLT Friend and Board Member Shirley Murtha at the annual meeting. Photo by Ed Judge

The

boys soccer team

Browse & Borrow

ADULT PROGRAMS

Monday Movie Matinee: Dec. 9, Jan. 13, 1:30–3:30 p.m. at GPL. Enjoy a feature film and complimentary snacks the second Monday of the month. Check the library calendar for listings. Space is limited. Sponsored by the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries. Crafters Café, Seasonal Fire Starter: Monday, Dec. 16, 1–2:30 p.m., at FHC. Make a decorative and fragrant fire starter to use in your fireplace this winter season or spread the warmth and gift it to another. This program was relocated from the main library branch to the Cossitt library branch. All materials provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Travel Talk, The Canadian Maritimes: Thursday, Jan. 23, 6:30–7:30 p.m., via Zoom. For adults and teens. Explore the history, culture, and cuisine of our northern neighbors: Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Mariann Millard weaves historical facts with contemporary information in an engaging and humorous presentation. Register to receive the Zoom program link. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries. Kitchen Adventures, Simmer and Savor: Sunday, Jan. 26, 2–3 p.m. at GPL. For adults and teens. Learn to make hearty winter soups and stews from Nancy Costopulos. The culinary curious are invited to pick up cooking tips, enjoy a sample, and take-home recipes from a seasoned cook. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Stop The Bleed: Saturday, Jan. 18, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at GPL. For adults and youth 12 years and older with a parent. Learn basic tools to stop uncontrolled bleeding in an emergency situation. Granby Ambulance Association offers the nationally recognized program to show bystanders how to quickly step in before first responders arrive. There is no fee to attend. GAA will have tourniquets (CAT) for sale after the class; $25 each, cash, check or Venmo. Sponsored by the Granby Ambulance Association and the Granby Public Libraries.

CCS MAKERSPACE

PROGRAMS AT FHC

CCS Equipment Demonstration and Training: Days and times vary, check library website for most up-to-date information; at FHC. For adults, teens 16+, youth ages 10 and up with an adult. Give your creative ideas life. Learn to use the 3D printer, laser cutter, sewing and embroidery machines, sublimation printer, vinyl cutter, mug and bottle presses, and all manner of digitizing equipment. Find more information on the library webpage.

Sublimation Printed Puzzles: Saturday, Jan. 11, 10:30–11:30 a.m., at FHC. For adults, teens 16+. Bring your own image and create a personalized jigsaw puzzle (8”x12”) using the sublimation printer and heat press. This pro-

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

granby-ct.gov/Library 860-844-5275

gplibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Hours – Granby Public Library Main

Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Library Hours – F.H. Cossitt Library Branch

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday:1– 6 p.m.

Second and fourth Saturday of the month: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Holiday Closings: The main branch will be close on Dec. 25, Jan. 1 and Jan. 20 and close early (2 p.m.) on Dec. 24 and 31. The Cossitt branch will be closed on Dec. 24, 25, 28, 31 and Jan. 1.

Registration is required for all library programs unless otherwise indicated. To register, visit granby-ct.gov/Library, and click on “Register for a Program.” or call the library at 860-8445275. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter. For the most updated information on dates and programs, refer to the library’s online calendar.

GPL= Granby Main Branch

gram requires a $5 materials fee. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Sew Simple, Woven Spiral Fabric Baskets: Wednesdays, Dec. 4 and 11, 1:30–3 p.m., at FHC. For adults, teens 16+. Learn to make a decorative and functional fabric basket in this two-session class. All materials and equipment provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Sew Simple, Traditional Rug Hooking: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 1:30–3 p.m., at FHC. For adults, teens 16+. Learn to use wool and linen to create a landscape design. All fabrics provided; participants will need to bring a wood hoop. Please see website for details. This program requires a $5 materials fee. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Knit and Crochet Group: Saturday, Dec. 28, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; relocated to GPL. Saturday, Jan. 25, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; at FHC. For adults, teens 16+. Knitters and crocheters are invited to a monthly meet-up to work on individual projects. All skill levels are invited the fourth Saturday of the month to the Cossitt Library upper level. Register to attend; drop-ins are welcome when space allows.

BOOK CLUBS

Books for book discussions are available at the library, online and through curbside pickup. Register online or call the library, 860-8445275, to reserve your seat.

Millennials Read: Wednesday, Dec. 4, 6:30–8 p.m. Each month is at a new local hotspot. At this no-stress book discussion, join readers in their 20s, 30s and 40s to talk about current book picks. You do not need to be reading anything specific; come and fill up your TBR list. This month’s special event is a cookie swap and will take place at Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. Make or buy cookies to share with the group. Please bring a list of the ingredients.

FHC= Cossitt Branch

Something About The Author Book Club: First Mondays, 1:30–2:30 p.m., at GPL. On Dec. 2, discuss Nikolai Gogol, a Russian novelist, humorist, dramatist and poet known for his surreal and grotesque portrayals of Russian society. His most famous works include the novel Dead Souls, the play The Government Inspector and short stories such as The Overcoat and The Nose. On Jan. 6, discuss Fences by August Wilson. Fences is a 1985 play set in the 1950s. It is the sixth in Wilson›s ten-part “Pittsburgh Cycle” which all explore the evolving African American experience and examines race relations, among other themes. The play won the 1987 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. John Rusnock leads the discussions.

Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, 6–7 p.m., at GPL. On Dec. 18, discuss Hull Zero Three by Greg Bear. A starship and its crew hurtle through space, its destination unknown, its purpose a mystery. One man wakes up wet, naked and freezing to death. Who is he? Where are they going? What happened to Hull 03? Written in 2010, it was nominated for the Arthur C. Clarke Award. On Jan. 29, discuss Dead Space by Kali Wallace, a science fiction murder mystery. Hester Marley, a gifted AI expert, survives a catastrophic attack that left her injured, indebted and stranded far from home. She takes a security job at a mining company when she hears from a friend who claims to have important information about the attack and is later murdered investigating petty crimes. Jim Gorman leads the discussions.

CHILDREN AND TEEN PROGRAMS AT GPL

GIANT Room Remix Station at the Library: Get ready to let your imagination run wild! Visit the library anytime up to Dec. 14 to design your own unique character. Fill out a mission sheet to create a name, draw an image and describe the things your character likes. Your creation will be transformed into a custom trading card you can collect and share! The GIANT Room is funded by the State of Connecticut and the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Connecticut State Library.

Llama Llama Pajama Storytime: Monday, Dec. 9, 6–6:30 p.m. Ages: 3–6 years. Celebrate National Llama Day with a cozy pajama party at the library. Enjoy a fun llama story, a llamainspired craft and learn amazing llama facts. Don’t forget to wear your comfiest pajamas and join the llama fun.

Simplyart, Rustic Snowflakes: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 4:30–5:30 p.m. Ages: 8–11 years. Kids will create rustic snowflakes using recycled paper towel rolls, cutting and shaping them into unique winter designs. This hands-on activity is a fun way to spark creativity while making a one-of-a-kind winter decoration to take home.

Teens, Felted Gingerbread Man: Thursday, Dec. 5, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Grades: 6–12. Teens are invited to join fiber arts expert Angelina Fleury for a fun and creative workshop on felting wool. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn the art of needle felting to create your very own adorable gingerbread man, perfect for the holiday season.

Teen Tuesdays: Dec. 10 and 17, 3–5 p.m. Grades: 6–12. Join our monthly after-school program for teens to enjoy playing Dungeons and Dragons and other role-playing games with friends. Unleash your creativity and embark on epic adventures in a fun, supportive environment. Light snacks provided.

Teen Fiber Arts Club: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 3–5 p.m. Grades: 6–12. Teens are invited to join us for an informal hangout where they can share their hobbies or learn a new one. Light snacks provided.

WEEKLY STORYTIME/ MUSIC PROGRAMS

Check the library’s calendar to confirm weekly storytime dates as some are subject to change, and for January dates, not available at press time.

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, Dec. 3 and 10, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: Birth to 14 months. Babies and their caregivers are invited to an interactive lap-sit program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and baby sign language.

Mother Goose On The Loose: Wednesdays, Dec. 4 and 11, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 2–4 years. Young children and their caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills.

Toddler Time: Thursdays, Dec. 5 and 12, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 15–24 months. Toddlers and their caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and sign language.

Nightfall Stories and Stretch: Thursdays, Dec. 5 and 12, 6–6:30 p.m. Ages: 4–7 years. Children are invited to an independent mindfulness program featuring stories, stretches and an interactive activity.

Mini Movers: Friday, Dec. 6, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages: 15 months–4 years. Children are invited to an interactive music program featuring songs, dancing, scarves and egg shaker activities.

Rotary partners with Farley Mac’s for domestic violence fundraiser

Domestic violence continues to be a growing epidemic in our country. It affects individuals in every community regardless of age, economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion or nationality. It can result in physical injury, psychological trauma and even death. It repeats itself through learned behaviors over generations, and its devastating consequences can last a lifetime. Seventy-one percent of male abusers witnessed or experienced domestic violence as a child.

Interval House, the largest domestic violence agency in Connecticut, has a multi-prong approach to treat, educate and prevent domestic violence. It operates a 24-hour hotline, emergency safe house, safety planning and counseling, court advocacy, youth programming, community education and support groups—at no charge to victims in the greater Hartford Area. Last year, 21 individuals in Granby contacted Interval House for help.

The Simsbury-Granby Rotary club members have been long-time supporters of Interval House. Members regularly attend the annual breakfast fundraiser in October. This year Rotary wanted to do something extra and partnered with Farley Mac’s restaurant on Hopmeadow Street on the Granby/Simsbury line. Farley Mac’s, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food, shared its proceeds from

Rotarian diners. The Rotary Club then matched the donation and Tracy James of Simsbury matched the match!

At the recent “Breaking the Cycle to Change the Future” breakfast in Simsbury, a young domestic violence survivor spoke about her experience with a high school boyfriend who abused and threatened her. Seventy-two percent of 13- and 14-year-olds are “dating,” and abusive behavior often begins as early as sixth grade. Sadly, only one-third of abused teens confide in someone about the violence. More than half of parents cannot correctly identify the warning signs of abuse. Interval House is now working with high schools to educate students and to prevent domestic violence.

If you need help or know someone who does, Interval House’s skilled advocates are awaiting your call at 860-838-8467 (English) or 844831-9200 (Spanish). They can talk through your situation and assist with safety planning, information and referrals. If you cannot make a phone call, you can text 888-774-2900 for help.

If you would like to be more active in our community, consider joining the Rotary Club. Visit us at info@simsburygranby.org And please stop by the welcoming atmosphere at Farley Mac’s for a drink, burger or salad, and thank them for supporting those who need our help! Submitted by Karen Young

News in Vet Med

In the 2024 election, Colorado had a ballot question about adding a new position within veterinary medicine (Proposition 129). This would create a veterinary professional associate (VPA) and outline the proposed curriculum for the degree. This question was put to the public without much discussion with the field or regulating boards. Prop 129 passed with majority vote, causing much uproar among vets, techs and the regulating boards.

What is a VPA?

A VPA would receive a master’s degree in Veterinary Clinical Care or an equivalent degree. These VPAs would work under a veterinarian to provide care to patients. This care would include preventative care like vaccines, interpreting diagnostic results and surgeries like spays and neuters.

Why does this worry vets?

Colorado State University recently laid out its proposed curriculum for the master’s in Veterinary Clinical Care. Unfortunately, the program is deficient on the fundamentals of veterinary medicine such as anatomy and physiology, which all other knowledge is built upon. It is difficult to imagine a person with five semesters of schooling competent enough to perform surgeries without supervision. Earning degrees in veterinary medicine, whether a doctorate or

certification as a technician, is handson. The VPA position has most of its curriculum online. Many Colorado vets have spoken against Prop 129 with no interest in having VPAs practice under their license.

What is AVMA’s Stance?

AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) has opposed this position since the beginning. They have concerns over the safety of the animals being treated by VPAs with such little education. The Colorado Veterinary Medical Association has also voiced strong opposition to this bill. There are also major concerns over the increased liability and legal risk to the veterinarians under whom the VPAs would practice. There is no national exam for VPAs and so, if they graduate, they can practice. Currently for both veterinarians and certified technicians, there is a national exam. For veterinarians, if the national exam is failed, they cannot practice

This bill only affects Colorado and we hope other states do not try to create a VPA position as well. Graduates of the VPA program will likely have difficulty in securing a job after graduation, posing another problem. This new law is dangerous for vets, techs, new VPAs, owners and, most importantly, pets.

From left, Tracy James, Kevin Farley and Amanda DeLaura, submitted photo

NOT WANTED

A campaign to raise awareness of and control invasive plants sponsored by Granby’s Conservation Commission

By David Desiderato

Invasive Action!

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

Burning bush (Euonymus alatus) is a carefree shrub native to China with curious winged stems that’s been planted on highways and in yards for decades and is valued for its fiery fall plumage. Unfortunately, birds distribute the seeds and it multiplies unchecked in a wide range of environments, dominating woodlands and choking out native plants.

IPAs have contributed over 100 hours in the past year along a few hundred feet of the trail, pulling younger plants and cutting mature shrubs repeatedly to starve the roots. We’re about half done. Those who treasure their burning bushes are most cordially invited to join the repair effort on Dec. 14, our next Second Saturday Invasive Action. There’s more information on the plant in the March 2021 column, available at GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly.com Nuggets of knowledge

The Connecticut Invasive Plant Work-

ing Group, our state info hub, held its biennial symposium at UConn in October. Here are a few insights that panelists shared on controlling invasive plants and helping the flora that feeds the native fauna we favor to flourish.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris): The best non-chemical treatment for dense concentrations is to cut it and then cover with sturdy black plastic for at least a year. Repeated mowing is not effective.

Woodchips: A thick layer of fresh woodchips (not bark mulch) at least 12 inches deep is a great way to prepare a site for native plantings. Woodchip smothering allows water to pass through, suppresses seedlings by blocking light, loosens the soil to make it easier to remove unwanted roots and gradually decays to enrich the soil.

Bare-Root Transplants: The best time to transplant woody plants, shrubs and small trees is March through early April, when the ground has thawed, before leaves appear.

More

Updates, sign-ups, photos, previous columns and more on invasive plants and the NOT WANTED campaign is available at GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly.com

Granby Lions’ year off to a good start

By John Spatcher

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

Fundraising

The year began with the always popular Annual Lions Golf Tournament, held July 15 at Simsbury Farms. Fifteen foursomes enjoyed a day of golf, followed by a delicious buffet, prizes and awards. Tournament committee co-chairs Steve Couchon and Herb Hulbert are already planning next year and are hoping to fill out the field with at least 18 foursomes.

As soon as the leaves started turning, the next fundraiser began. The club has sold birdseed for 29 years, with John Spatcher spearheading that effort. Even with the ever-increasing bear population, loyal customers continue to support this fundraiser. The sale concluded on Nov. 2 with customers picking up their pre-ordered birdseed at Pierce Builders.

The next fundraiser—the club’s biggest and requiring the most effort—is the annual Christmas Tree sale. The sale will take place on Bank Street. The club is grateful to current owner Prospect Properties for letting the Lions use its property. Trees are delivered the day before Thanksgiving and sales begin the Friday after Thanksgiving. The lot is fully staffed on weekends and staffed most weeknights from 4 to 7 p.m. Service projects

The motto of Lions is “We Serve” and certainly the Granby Lions live up to that motto. The club’s first service project of the year was volunteering at the Connecticut Veterans Stand Down Day in Rocky Hill. Over the last 12 months, chair Heather Lockwood has collected from members boxes of goods that were distributed to

hundreds of veterans availing themselves of the Stand Down on Sept. 20. Chair Tracy Zeiner led the effort to evaluate children for the early detection of vision problems. During October, testing was conducted in Granby and East Hartland at preschool and elementary schools. In all, using the club’s sophisticated equipment that tests for seven different eye conditions, more than 700 children took part, with almost 70 being referred to an eye doctor.

On Dec. 12 and 13, the Granby club will partner with seven other Lions clubs in presenting holiday parties for special needs children. The event is so big, with more than 500 participants and no single facility available to accommodate it, the party will be divided between two days. The children look forward to this event that includes music by professional DG Scott Harris (courtesy of IHeart Radio), dancing, a magician, crafts, lunch and of course a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus bearing gifts.

The club will wrap up December with its annual holiday gathering, in conjunction with the American Legion, to which each member brings gifts for children at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. There will also be a collection box at the tree sale.

The Lions continue to volunteer at Waste Not, Want Not and to collect used eyeglasses at various locations in town. And let’s not forget that the club continues to sponsor the GMHS Leo Club—high school-aged Lions! Leos do their own projects but are a big help when they unload Christmas trees and volunteer at the special needs children’s party. If all this sounds fun and exciting and you believe you can help us, please consider joining. Contact Membership Chair John Spatcher at 860-930-3782 for information on how you can become a part of one of the largest and fastest growing Lions Clubs in Connecticut.

How Does the Election Affect Your Portfolio?

Well, the US election has finally come and gone. Since we will have a change in party leadership, it leaves many to wonder how new policies might impact their portfolio. Rightly so given some dynamic shifts in market leadership following the results. For example, as we noted in our weekly summary on 11/9/2024 (www.metricfin. com/weekly-market-summary), Consumer Discretionary and Energy stocks fared quite well while Clean Energy stocks had a terrible week. But here we want to focus more on the potential policies of the new administration and how they could affect financial markets. What are some of the Republican initiatives. We will take a few and their effects one by one.

(1) Tariffs. A tariff is a tax placed on imported items. It is typically paid by the importing company, who can then choose to absorb it or pass it along to consumers. If they absorb it, that may not bode well

for company earnings. If they pass it along, that would be viewed as inflationary. Right now, neither the financial markets nor the Federal Reserve seem overly concerned about them.

(2) Tax cuts. Tax cuts also have the potential to be inflationary as they may drive increased consumer spending. However, consumer spending is also very good for corporate profitability, so that may help offset some of the tariff impacts.

(3) Deportation. The administration has vowed to remove immigrants without documentation. Some economists are concerned about the disruptions that could have on the jobs market. Employers would have to go out and pay more for replacement workers, which could again be inflationary and a negative for profits. Not many, however, view this as having a significant impact. What should you do about it? How should you change your portfolio for a new administration? The short answer is don’t. Changing a portfolio for what may and may not come can often lead to mistakes. Instead, focus on what you can control. Keep your fees (advisory and investment) as low as possible and make sure your portfolio is allocated according to your time horizon. More aggressive if you won’t need to withdraw for a long time and more conservative if you need to withdraw in the near future.

For more information, a description of Metric Financial and disclosures, please visit metricfin.com. Contact us at (860) 256-5895 or info@metricfin.com

Tim Baker, CFA Founder & CEO Metric Financial, LLC

November’s Invasive Plant Activists, from left: Ellen Thomson, Sally Markee, Lee Barba, Rob Humason, Janet Loynes, Kathy Agresta and Mary Tenero. Photo by David Desiderato

The Garden Corner

By Cindy Dixon

Keep your real Christmas tree healthy and safe

It is that most wonderful time of the year—the holiday season. And with the holiday season coming upon us, we are in search of that most perfect Christmas tree. One that stands tall and festive, to be adorned with lights and ornaments, shining brightly in our home, the centerpiece of celebrations. This column will help you pick out and maintain that perfect and healthy tree—one that stays strong, green and full throughout the holiday season and even a bit longer.

Start with a fresh tree

The fresher the tree, the longer the tree will last. If you are getting your tree from a choose-and-cut farm, you’ll know just how fresh it is because you’re the one doing the cutting. If you are picking up a precut tree, first test for needle retention by grasping the branch and pulling down gently. The branch should feel supple in your hand, and if brown needles and a few green needles come off, that’s ok, your tree is fresh. If lots of green needles come off, you’ll want to look for a different tree. Get a fresh cut

of water per inch of trunk diameter?

Make sure your stand reservoir has enough capacity for your tree—at least 1 to 1 ½ gallons. It’s not a bad idea to scale up on size if you’re unsure. Keep your tree baled until it’s situated in the stand, and water the tree before you unbale it.

Check your surroundings

For a fresh Christmas tree to last through the season, water uptake is critical. For your tree to drink water, you’ll need to cut about an inch off the base of the trunk, removing the portion that has been sealed over with resin. (Christmas trees are conifers, meaning they produce resin, or sap, which seals off the trunk after it’s been cut.) All pre-cut retailers should provide this service for you, so don’t forget to ask.

Water immediately

Natural trees need plenty of water to stay fresh. Once you get your tree home, be sure to get your tree into water as soon as possible. If you don’t have your stand handy yet, place the tree in a bucket or tub of water until you’re ready to get that tree up. Good old tap water is your best bet for keeping your tree fresh. Additives like sugar, aspirin, corn syrup, or bleach should not be put into the tree’s water.

Know your stand

Not all stands are created equal. Did you know a tree can drink about a quart

Heat tends to dry trees out more quickly, so find a spot that’s not too close to a heat source like a radiator or baseboard or forced air vents—and never put your tree near a fireplace, wood stove or space heaters. When possible, avoid windows with southern exposure since they have the strongest sunlight. Check the outlet closest to the tree to make sure it’s functioning properly before adding any decorations. Check your lights to make sure there are no defects or frayed wires on your lights or extension cords. Never leave your Christmas tree lights on when you’re not home or when you’re going to bed. Timers are a great way to remember to turn your lights on and off each day.

Water often, water daily Water is essential to helping your tree stay fresh longer. Check your stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree. In the first few days, check your stand several times a day, as your tree may be drinking lots of water to get rehydrated. Perhaps assign the job to one person in your home at a set time each day. And then it’s over…

Use a ladle or turkey baster to get the water out of the stand before removing the tree from the house. Thoroughly clean your stand before you store it for next year. You may be able to recycle your tree by contacting your local farms; goats enjoy recycled evergreen trees.

Good luck, and happy hunting for that perfect tree. Enjoy all your holiday festivities and best wishes to you and your family.

Bake cookies for gifts this holiday

By Nina Jamison

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

According to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station this is the first such year since 2019. Crunching through bazillions of acorns while walking on trails makes this obvious.

Mast years are sustaining gifts for animals like blue jays, squirrels, deer, bears and caterpillars, all of which feed on the acorns in winter when other sources are scarce.

Humans look forward to Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza for gifts, and food is always welcome! With the exception of fruit cake, which will last the entire winter and beyond, cakes and cookies are an ephemeral treat—here today and gone as soon as possible.

Here is a recipe from my dear friend Diane up in Vermont. Not a traditional Christmas cookie, but so lovely with spiced cider or hot cocoa.

Ingredients

2/3 cup salad oil

1 cup white sugar

1 egg

4 Tablespoons molasses

Crisp Ginger Cookies

Submitted

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

optional: adding minced candied ginger is nice

Directions

Mix oil with sugar. Add egg and beat well. Stir in molasses. Sift together dry ingredients and add to above sugar mixture.

Drop by teaspoonfuls into a shallow dish of sugar. Roll to coat and put on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes.

“Supporting our community organizations since 1960.”

Submitted photo

Photo

Food donations filled police cruisers

Rosia Kennedy, Granby Stop & Shop’s fundraiser coordinator, invited the Granby Police Department and staff for a pet food and pantry food drive on Nov. 17. The 2023 fundraiser was a success, but in 2024 the donations went above and beyond expectations, because of the generosity of so many Granby area customers! Many thanks! From left, Officer Paul Walzak, Trish Tappenden, Chief Scott Sansom, Store Manager Marty Cusick, Rosia Kennedy, Captain Kurt LaFlamme and Officer Nichole Abalan. Submitted by Sheila White

February 2025 deadlines

ADS: Monday, Jan. 13 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, please leave a message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org

ARTICLES: Monday, Jan. 20 at noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

WORK DATES: Jan. 13 to Jan. 26 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 on the website at granbydrummer.com