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Volume XLVIII, No. 2 • October 2017
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Clock ticks as Oct. 1 deadline nears By Michael B. Guarco, Jr., Chair, Board of Finance Although it comes three months late, in mid-September both chambers of the legislature passed the Republican version of a proposed biennial budget running from July 1 of this year through June 30, 2019. Immediately the Governor threatened to veto it and force all parties to the table. The Democrat leadership in both chambers were unable to secure agreement within their own caucuses for their budget proposal. This led to some members voting for the Republican alternative. Much of the discourse centered on the fact that, despite the two largest historic increases in state taxes occurring since Governor Malloy came into office, the fiscal woes of the state have continued to manifest themselves. They are exacerbated by the ongoing departure of both businesses and people from our state. To a large degree, Oct. 1 has become an important drop-dead date for budget passage. The first installment of the Educational Cost Sharing aid to the towns is supposed to be disbursed. In the Governor’s last proposed allocation plan via executive order, he threatened to greatly reduce—if not eliminate—what funds go to most towns. In Granby’s case, his proposal would have reduced our overall state revenues by $5.4 million—about 97 percent of what we get—an amount equivalent to 15 percent in property tax.
Not seeing this state aid arrive in October will play havoc on municipal budgets. All towns are developing contingency plans on how to handle this fiscal disruption. Although the impact varies from a minor hurt for some towns to pushing some municipalities into insolvency, it makes a great deal of difference whether this state money is simply delayed—or if it is just plain gone. Another reason why the Oct. 1 date is critical is found in all current budget proposals: to increase the taxation of hospitals in Connecticut. A filing with the federal government must be made by that date to attain an offsetting reimbursement to the hospitals through Medicare allowed under federal rules. Under the various budget plans proposed by the legislative caucuses in September, overall municipal revenue to Granby from the state would be relatively close to what was budgeted back in April. This was based upon the Governor’s own state budget proposal introduced to the legislature in early February. The real threat comes from his recent revisions to that proposal that would significantly wipe out our budgeted state revenues. Hopefully, legislative leaders and the governor can get past the rancor and settle upon a final product that does not do major damage to municipal finances and sets the stage for a surer and flatter financial footing for Connecticut going forward. As the axiom goes, “none are so blind as those who will not see.”
Clock ticks cont’d. on p. 2
Revaluations to be mailed mid November By Susan Altieri, CCMA, II, Assessor State Law requires all municipalities to conduct a revaluation every five years. The State of Connecticut requires that Towns perform a revaluation so that all properties can be brought to current market value and contribute an equitable portion of the total tax burden. Granby’s last revaluation was completed in 2012 and the Assessor’s Office has been engaged in the process over the last 16 to 18 months for the 2017 revaluation. The Assessor is in the final stages of reviewing and analyzing the data and has
not completed the final valuations at this time. The Assessor’s office anticipates mailing out the new assessments in mid November and each property owner will receive an individual notice of their new assessment. All property owners will be given an opportunity to attend an individual informal hearing for the purpose of discussing any issue regarding the assessment process and valuation issue. The Assessor’s office will be providing additional information as they near the completion of the revaluation.
Inside Open Farm Day................. 22
Humans of Granby............. 24
Board of Education........... 23
Girl Scout Gold Award........ 35
This little one “nose” a friend when she sees one Open Farm Day was a great opportunity for visitors to get up close to farm animals, as this tot did, at House of Hayes. Photo by Peter Dinella
Frustrations evident at three-board meeting By Shirley Murtha A special Three Board Meeting (Selectmen, Finance and Education) was convened on September 5 to discuss the financial repercussions to the Town of Granby should the state be unable to develop a budget by October 1. As was reported in the September issue of the Drummer, the town would not receive $5.4 million of expected revenue, which would have a great impact on all aspects of town operations and the educational system. The state is currently operating under Governor Malloy’s Resource Allocation Plan (RAP) that became effective July 1. If a budget is not passed by October 1, a revised RAP will go into effect. Town Manager Ward believes that whether it is a legislative-developed budget or a Malloy RAP, there will be some level of reductions and that the town boards should develop plans accordingly. BOS
and BOE freezes on non-essential hiring and discretionary spending have already been instituted. First Selectman Kuhnly noted that Granby is working proactively with the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities and the Capitol Region Council of Governments to explore possible remedial action. The level of frustration with the state’s inability to pass a budget became apparent as members of the various boards asked questions of Senators John Kissel and Kevin Witkos and Representative William Simanski, who had opened the meeting with their overview of the situation in the legislature. Selectman Sally King described the situation as an “unprecedented mess,” noting that the state is taking away revenue and yet expecting the towns to come up with money to help solve its problems. Selectman Ed Ohannessian said that although we have no control over federal or state government, we do have control
3-board mtg. cont’d. on p. 2
Photos by Peter Dinella
Page 2 The Granby Drummer
October 2017
Clock ticks as Oct. 1 deadline nears cont’d. from p. 1 More state legislators need to realize the necessity to flatten their own cost curve. The more it approximates the existing revenue stream, the fewer headaches they will have. It doesn’t work the other way around. Seeing the absurdity of how things are handled in Hartford, as well as in Washington, at times gives cause to appreciate and value the relatively harmonious manner in which our local boards and the administrations work in Granby for the greater good. Typically bipartisan in nature, though generally with Republican leadership at the helm, town government has worked for decades to meet the needs of a growing town. It has invested in a complete rework of our capital infrastructure over time and has gradually increased and improved both in town and education services. Thirty years ago, Granby was fourth in effective tax rate behind Hartford,
Waterbury and Bridgeport. Now we are about 30th. Within a few years, with any luck and tight management, Granby will drop from the top quartile down into the next one. The commercial portion of the Grand List of taxable property made its way from 4 percent to 8 percent before slipping to 7 percent during the recent Great Recession. Though our per-pupil expenditure calculation puts Granby in the lowest quartile, year after year we rank as getting the best bang for the buck comparing testing results and cost. The town’s credit rating has improved three times over the past two decades and now stands at AA+, a critical recognition of solid financial management of town government. It takes teamwork and leadership to get these things done. Experience counts and makes a difference. Granby will be tested this year and next on how we weather this current state budget fiasco
and on how we handle it internally. The boards and administrations have stepped up, acting to hold onto and protect cash as a reserve against various threatened levels of reduction in state revenue. All this is a far cry from the occasional voice that criticizes returning unspent taxpayer money back to the General Fund, which is for Granby the rainy day fund and it also plays a key role in how we fund the subsequent year’s budget and flatten out the mill-rate adjustment year to year. Granby continues to be an island of stability amidst a sea of great uncertainty. The experienced individuals who sit on the boards and administrations help balance and protect what we provide in municipal and education services, as well as our reserves and cash position. It takes strong and steady hands to steer the ship when the waters are as rough as they are.
residents’ taxes, he said the town will probably be able to handle the first year of the loss in revenue, but the second year will not be as easy. He again pointed out the need for changes in the mandates the state hands down to the towns, the high cost of binding arbitration, and requirements such as each town having its own superintendent, without considering the size of the individual school systems. BOF member Al Wilke brought everyone’s frustration to a head by forcefully
suggesting to the legislators present that they and their colleagues in the house and senate should lock themselves in the chambers for three days and “get the job done.” An instantaneous round of applause and cheers rose from the audience.
Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS
Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS
3-board mtg. cont’d. from p. 1 over our own local government, and we have been successful in that endeavor to the tune of a AA+ bond rating that will be in jeopardy if we lose the $5.4 million. BOE chairman Ron Walther expressed personal disappointment with the legislature and BOE member Mark Fiorentino said it is critical that the town receive changes in the mandates required. BOE member Jenny Emery noted that there is a difference between politics and governing, a distinction that seems to be lost on the current legislature. Strongest criticism came from the obviously frustrated BOE chairman Alan Addley, who said that “education is the foundation of democracy,” and it is unconscionable that two weeks before school began “we were in the position of having to redesign Education Cost Sharing.” He noted that although the state professes that “things are not business as usual,” towns’ need to meet contracts is indeed the same as always. “In my 35 years on the Board of Finance, I have never seen such a mess,” chairman Mike Guarco said, referring to the severity of the cuts that will be necessary if a budget is not passed. Noting that the BOS and BOE have already instituted freezes, he said the next step is looking at using reserves to cover some of the reductions. Reluctant to increase
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October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 3
Selectmen to develop RFPs for Evonsion property By Shirley Murtha At its Sept. 18 meeting, the Granby Board of Selectmen considered a memo from the town’s Office of Community Development regarding the possibility of selling the town’s East Street property (Evonsion Farm) for agricultural use. The town purchased the farm in 2012 for $2.5 million, spending approximately $80,000 on the subsequent clean-up of the property. In 2013, the town established the townowned Land Study Committee, charging it with determining the best use of the land. The committee concluded that the property should continue to be used for active agriculture. In accordance with that, a portion of the property is currently leased (with an escape clause) to a farmer for the growth of silage. Recently the town received an inquiry regarding the possible purchase of the property, to be used exclusively for agricultural purposes. Community Development Officer Fran Armentano explained that such a sale could provide the town with an economic benefit (the price paid for the land) while meeting both the objective of protecting the land from residential development and preserving the farm for agricultural use. One way to accomplish this could be for the town to sell the fee interest of the property, with the town retaining the property development rights. Such a sale would allow the new owner to invest in the construction of barns and whatever else necessary to enhance the agricultural productivity of the property. It would also return the property to the tax base.
The concept is similar to the state/town purchase of development rights of the Bushy Hill Orchard and Davis Farm, which are restricted to agricultural use, with the state/town holding the development rights. However, rather than consider an individual request to purchase the property, Armentano suggested that a Request for Proposal open to anyone who might be interested in the purchase be prepared. Such an RFP would clearly note that the sale would limit the use to agricultural purposes and would exclude the development rights. Proposals would be expected to include a price offered for the land along with an outline of the proposed agricultural uses and should include a summary of the potential buyer’s agricultural history. Based on this information, the board authorized the town manager to prepare an RFP for its review, along with the marketing strategy. Herbicide study committee As proposed at the previous BOS meeting, the board officially approved the formation of a five-member study committee to investigate the use of herbicides (specifically glyphosate) with regard to potential hazards to Granby’s roadways and waterways and to offer alternatives to any current detrimental practices. There is to be at least one public information session and the study is to be completed by the end of March so that any implementation may be put in place before the 2018 growing season. A written report will be submitted as well as a presentation to the BOS.
Pertinent to remarks made by Marge Goslee and Carolyn Flint during the public session of the Sept. 18 BOS meeting, there was some discussion as to extending the study to include other herbicides and pesticides, especially those that may be used in Salmon Brook Park and other public areas, but the consensus was that would broaden the scope to a degree that could not meet the six-month time frame. Other herbicides and pesticides may be studied in a second phase. Proposal to abate personal property tax fees for 501(c)3 charities During the public session, Susan Regan read a memo that she and her husband Bill had sent to the Town Manager and First Selectman requesting an amendment to the current tax ordinance regarding taxing 501(c)3 charities, such as the Foxfield For A Recovery Mission that they have established to treat PTSD in returning veterans. At this time the town does collect taxes on such property, but the State of Connecticut allows towns to amend their ordinances to provide relief to these charities. Town Manager Ward noted that allowing this amendment would deprive the town of $3,000 to $5,000 in revenue. After discussion by board members, it
YOU ARE NEEDED Granby residents are needed to fill a vacancy on the Agricultural Commission. The Committee to Study the Use of Glysophate in Granby is also being formed. If
you are interested in serving your town in either of these positions, call the Democratic Town Committee Chairman Jim Lofink, 860-810-0274; Republican Town Committee Chairman Mark Neumann, 860-653-9668; or the Town Manager, 860-844-5300.
“Grow hope so you’ll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind.”
— (I Thessalonians 5:11, The Message)
South Church: Growing Hope Together! Join us some Sunday to discover the hope that flows from beyond us, wells up within us, rises between us and waters the world. An Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome! Sunday, Oct. 22 at 4:00 PM: Bruce Porter Music Series presents Jazz Alive! The Nat Reeves jazz trio joins Kate Rushin, poet Worship Services: 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. Sunday school and childcare at 10:00 a.m. 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org
was decided that there should be a public hearing on the Regans’ proposal, after which the board will make a decision to amend or not. Resignations/appointments Pamela Burek has resigned from the Agricultural Commission. BOS member Jim Lofink reported that eight residents have applied to be considered for the vacant seat on the Library Board. Interviews are being conducted. Amazon outreach Ward noted that the town had received inquiry from Amazon via MetroHartford Alliance as to whether there were any potential sites for their expanding operations center. This will be considered. Floydville Road traffic light Mark Neumann reported that work has finally begun on the traffic light to be installed at the intersection of Floydville Road and Rte. 10/202. He commended Fran Armentano for his persistence in dealing with the state on this matter. Koffee with Kuhnly The next opportunity to ask questions or discuss any information regarding town activities with the First Selectman will be Monday, Oct. 2, at 9 a.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room.
Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, Oct. 2 & 16 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Comm. Room, Monday, Oct. 23 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, Oct. 4 & 18 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall Tuesdays, Oct. 10 & 24 Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, Oct. 11 Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesday, Oct. 10
Page 4 The Granby Drummer
Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Endorsement of Migliaccio With the BOE elections in Granby on the horizon, we would like to endorse Melissa Migliaccio for re-election. We have known Melissa and her family on a personal basis for many years. She has always demonstrated a commitment to family and a passion for Granby that is second to none. We have lived in Granby going on 40 years and are currently empty nesters. As with many state residents, we are very concerned about the impact on our respective towns regarding the deplorable situation of our state budget. This letter, however, is not simply a political endorsement. It is our feeling that Melissa Migliaccio will provide the fiscal responsibility coupled with the proper priorities to keep Granby at the top of the list of public education in Connecticut. What we as Granby residents need is someone who we can count on to efficiently spend the precious tax dollars we provide while maintaining the highest level of education for our children. We have no doubt that Melissa is that person. She has already demonstrated that ability during her previous service. Please join us in helping re-elect Melissa Migliaccio to the BOE. You will not be disappointed. Diane and Ira Mahakian I am writing this letter in support of Melissa Migliaccio who is running for re-election to the Granby Board of Education. Melissa will tell you that she is passionate about her family and all things education. Melissa not only talks the talk, she walks the walk. She is thorough, tenacious, smart, and extremely hard working. As Granby residents, we are fortunate that Melissa shares her talent and work ethic for the good of our students. For the past four years, Melissa has served on the Board of Education and spent hundreds of hours per year applying her expertise, knowledge, and wit to all matters education which affect the children of our wonderful town who attend the Granby Public Schools. She is a tremendous advocate for all of our kids whether they are from Granby, Hartford, or Hartland. To exemplify this please indulge me and let me tell you about an experience I had with Melissa on the BOE. Our small state has discussed pooling of some municipal services, or regionalization as a cost effective way of continuing to deliver services to the public at less taxpayer cost. Granby has been ahead of the curve with at least one sport offered to Granby high school students—ice hockey. Since 1990, Granby, Suffield and Windsor Locks have banded together to form an incredible hockey co-op team. A Hartford Courant article in 2014 held up our hockey co-op as an example of how kids from three different communities could come together as one tight-knit team. This past winter, notwithstanding the support of our school superintendents, principals, athletic directors, coaches and communities, the hockey co-op was almost dissolved due to outside influences. It was not being dissolved for financial reasons. Indeed, the players, their families, local area sponsors and the Booster Club finance the vast majority of the costs of the sport. Without being asked, Melissa
editorials, commentary & letters to the editor Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer.
sprang into action on behalf of our student-athletes, working tirelessly with Superintendent Addley. She has a productive relationship with our state representative and state senators. Melissa was in contact with all of them, continuously advocating for the continuation of the hockey co-op. The story has a happy ending: the hockey co op was saved. I have no doubt that Melissa’s advocacy was critical in this regard. With scarce state resources, it is even more critical for local elected officials to have the knowledge, advocacy skills and tenacity that Melissa posseses. As a mom with one proud graduate of the Granby school system and a high school junior, I am very grateful Melissa is willing to serve another term on the Granby Board of Education. If you care about continuing on with the tradition of excellence on the Board of Education, please vote for Melissa Migliaccio on Nov. 7. Ann Lynch Antkowiak
Support for Becker I support Kim Becker for election to the Board of Education. Kim’s previous experiences in social work, nonprofit management, and communications make her uniquely qualified to succeed in this position. I met Kim five years ago when she was Chair of the Board of Directors at Valley Pre-School and I was the Chairman of the Board at the Granby Education Foundation. She has since joined me at the GEF where her competence and dedication have proven her to be an invaluable director. I am confident she will be an equally effective public servant. Kim’s dedication to Granby and its school system is evident in the variety of ways that she has become involved in our community, including being a member of both PTO and PAC, and leading a local Girl Scout troop. She has covered the education beat for The Granby Drummer since 2012, which has allowed her to be on the front line of our public school issues. This experience gives her a deep understanding of the processes and policies rarely held by a first-time candidate. Kim also has realtime knowledge of where our school system is exceling and where there is room for improvement at the parent level as her children are in the schools. I support Kim Becker’s strategy of refining school management, supporting teachers and families, and setting high academic standards, thereby improving the cultural depth and financial well being of our community. Rebecca Brewer
Hollister for BOE Do you know someone in your life that embodies the type of citizen we all are working to be and praying that our children become? Valorie Hollister is one of those individuals. Over the years I have known Valorie, my respect and admiration for this working mother of two has grown exponentially. Where it started with her success in being a pivotal force in bringing world language into the district (Granby now has Spanish instruction in both elementary and middle schools), has now evolved beyond STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) to STEAM (A for Arts). STEAM
helps develop creative collaborators and active problem solvers by fully engaging all students in right brain activities. She is one of a core group of parents who attend virtually every BOE meeting to understand what issues face our district, and also, attend the majority of town meetings. She is an engaged, active listener who seeks to be informed on all sides of an issue, and committed to living the virtues we all hold dear: volunteerism, a deep sense of community, accountability and fiscal responsibility. Valorie leads with integrity and the philosophy behind all her hard work exemplifies the Granby School District Mission Statement: “All students will become powerful thinkers, effective collaborators, and compassionate contributors in preparation for success in a dynamic, interdependent world.” A background of finance in both the corporate and non-profit worlds and developing global volunteer networks for a high tech non-profit, has shown her the practical and concrete need for these core competencies to be instilled in our students. She is an advocate to engage Granby parents and voters to gain better understanding and “connect the dots” of the benefits quality education have on our community and economic base. Come budget season, you can find Valorie on the Town Green leading a group of volunteers to help get out the vote. Please go to her Facebook page if you would like to get to know this amazing individual a little better: http:// bit.ly/hollisterboe. It is without hesitation that I am writing to support Valorie Hollister as a candidate for the Granby Board of Education. Please join me in endorsing Valorie on Nov. 7! Frania Fairchild
Support for Democrats Granby schools face troubling times ahead and change is inevitable. Our first priority must be to provide an excellent education. To do that, we will also need excellent leadership. This is why I endorse Kim Becker, Brandon Webster and Valorie Hollister for the Board of Education. Kim, Brandon and Valorie each have a long history of involvement and leadership in our schools and our town. Kim’s years of covering the BOE for the Drummer give her a deep understanding of the issues facing our school system. Similarly, Valorie and Brandon each regularly attend board meetings and will bring knowledge, leadership and understanding to the Board of Education. Please support and vote for the Democratic slate—Kim Becker, Valorie Hollister and Brandon Webster —on Nov. 7. Lynn Guelzow Granby schools are stagnating. A simple, albeit blunt, indicator of the quality of our schools is whether top high school graduates are attending Ivy League colleges, and the reality is that they are no longer being offered these opportunities. Further compounding the problem of our stagnating schools is the fact that the state representative and two state senators who represent Granby are thus far unable to secure any ECS grant funding
Letters cont’d. on p. 5
October 2017
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 ©2017 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved. CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Hank Rau, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Brian Colton, Photo Editor Barbara Blanchette, Mindy Borrego, George Borrego, Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Nancy Fischer, Elaine Girard, Joan Griswold, Janet Hendricks, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Ken Mouning, Lew Noble, Mary Pierce, Donna Schedinger, Deborah Timms, Lou Urban, Kay Woodford Reporters & Contributors Susan Accetura, Alan Addley, Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Sarah Cramer, Marisa DeLuca,Peter Dinella, Bernadette Gentry, Jay Harder, Rachel Hennessy. Carol Laun, Kelly Marszycki, Shirley Murtha, John R. Nieb, Tim Nolan, Tim Rickis, Brian Rogers, Lisa Salazar, Emma Smith, Jesse Stanhope, Tayloranne Vibert, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Tom Tyburski, Paul Willis, Sandy Yost Advertising Team Carol Bressor, Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey, Karen Eustis, Advisor Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Becky Mikus
LETTERS POLICY
The Drummer welcomes letters. Letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer. The length of letters will be held to 500 words and less. To be published, letters must be signed and include an address and phone number. This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff. Letters from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted with the letter. The Drummer reserves the right to edit and shorten letters, and to run them in any electronic form. Letters become the property of the Drummer. Email your letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 5
Letters cont’d. from p. 4 for our town—that’s $0 out of $1.46 billion (yes, with a “b”) being distributed statewide for FY18, as of this writing. (Translation: higher property taxes.) Change and new ideas are desperately needed. On Nov. 7, please vote for Democrats Kim Becker, Brandon Webster, and Valorie Hollister for the Board of Education. They each will bring powerful, innovative skillsets to the Granby BOE, and offer a change in leadership that will ultimately resuscitate our stagnating schools and allow our students to be able to choose to attend their school of choice for higher education. Both my husband and I chose to attend UConn (and we both received a great quality education), but we each had the opportunity to choose our school. Granby kids deserve this same opportunity, and we need to make changes on the BOE now for their future benefit, and reverse this trend of stagnation. Annie Hornish
Support for Webster I am writing to express how excited I am about our prospects for the Granby school system, and in particular the candidacy of Brandon Webster for the Granby Board of Education, whom I wholeheartedly support. Brandon is a proven leader who is passionate about our schools; as chair of the fundraising committee last year he helped to raise $27K for our kids. He clearly cares about our children and wants to make sure that through a strong curriculum, they will move forward in life with the best opportunities possible. I am particularly thrilled to see a candidate with a strong math and science background. Sadly, this is an area where Granby schools have struggled for several years, and the
main reason why my husband and I chose to move our children to private schools for their high school years. That was an expensive and difficult decision, but in an environment of incredibly competitive college admissions, I am convinced it changed the trajectory of their lives. In a world where there are many career paths, our current school board has a glaring lack of members with backgrounds in math and science, and that matters. Brandon would bring a much needed and new perspective to the board, with a Master’s degree in aerospace engineering and a desire to bring increased STEAM classes and activities to our schools. I am excited to see him make his mark, and I am convinced it will mean greater opportunities for the children of Granby. Audrey Meyer Lampert
From the Candidates I am running for a second term on the Granby Board of Education, and I am proud to run on my record. I grew up next door in Suffield, graduated from Suffield High School, the University of Connecticut, and the Western New England University School of Law. I am proud to call myself a lifetime resident of Northern Connecticut. I have practiced law in the Hartford area, volunteered, and served on not-for-profit boards for almost 25 years. I am the proud mom of three boys, all of whom are enrolled, or graduated from, Granby Public Schools. We settled in Granby because of its educational excellence and we have not been disappointed. I was honored to receive your support in 2013 when I was first elected to the board. What has the Granby BOE achieved since 2013? Addressed the issue of declining student enrollment in our school system by closing the Kearns School and consolidating
positions in the district, as well as central services. Our FY17 and FY18 budgets are lower than FY16. While reducing and restraining spending, we have expanded programming with a robust selection of AP courses at the high school, 1-to-1 computing, introduction of a peer model pre-school, and supported the creation of the highly successful DECA business club. Granby Memorial High School was just ranked #11 in the entire State of Connecticut by U.S. News and World Report (2017). Granby’s Smarter Balanced Test Scores were compared against 50 towns in the State by Hartford Magazine (August 2017), and Granby ranked #9. Our cost per pupil remains one of the lowest in the Farmington Valley, and a glance at the Drummer shows our graduates receiving academic honors at well-regarded colleges and universities throughout the country. I would be honored to receive your support again for a second term on November 7 to continue this important work. Melissa Migliaccio My name is Sarah Thrall and I am honored and excited to be a candidate for the Granby Board of Education on Nov. 7. My husband and I have five children in the Granby school system; two in the high school, two at the middle school and one at Wells Road. Many of you know me from my involvement both in and out of the schools in Granby— Granby Little League, Farmington Valley YMCA, Good Company Theater, Granby PTO, Valley Preschool, Granby Education Foundation, Girl Scouts and Granby Youth Football. I served as the Republican Registrar of Voters from January 2014 through August 2015 and continue to volunteer as Election Day moderator and poll worker for the Town of Granby. I now work for Junior
Achievement, an educational nonprofit, and was instrumental in bringing programs focused on financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurism to nearly 600 Granby students last school year. This year we expect that number to grow dramatically as we have incorporated JA programming into the middle school curriculum. I am running for the Board of Education because I wish to continue with the fiscal restraint and excellent outcomes produced by the current board. Granby Memorial High School was ranked #11 in the State of Connecticut by U.S. News and World Report (2017). Hartford Magazine (August 2017) just rated our small town at No. 9 out of 50 surrounding towns for our Smarter Balanced test scores. We continue to have one of the lowest costs per pupil of all the Farmington Valley towns. In fact, our education budget for FY18 is lower than in FY16 and FY17 due to the savings realized in closing the Kearns School. My commitment to Granby runs deep, and I am committed to continuing the excellent education of Granby’s children. The Thrall family settled in Windsor in 1635, and we are proud to have the oldest continuously operating family farm in the United States. That same commitment and set of values are what will drive me as I serve the Town of Granby on the Board of Education. Sarah Thrall
Correction The caption for photo of the bird `on the front page of the September Drummer incorrectly identified it as a kestrel. A couple of readers wrote in pointing out the error, but they disagreed on its correct identity. Jay Kaplan of Roaring Brook Nature Center in Canton, tells us the bird is a juvenile red-shouldered hawk.
Becker | Webster | Hollister Granby Board of Education
Our Priorities
Proven Leaders
Growing Schools Granby OAK Strong
Candidates your town already depends on
Outcomes Introduce outcomes-driven evaluation to achieve greater student success
Access Create transparency and openness in the decision making and budget process
Knowledge Work together with our teachers & families to capture & implement innovations
Kim Becker
facebook.com/beckerforboe
Brandon Webster
facebook.com/brandonforboe
Drummer Education Reporter, PTO Fundraising Chair, UTAS Young Professionals President, Valley Preschool Board Chair/ Fundraising Chair/Compliance Officer, Granby Education Marketing Committee, Granby Rovers Treasurer, PTO Room Parent, Advocate/Organizer of History Day, Girl Scout Troop Leader, Girl Scout Gold Award Mentor, Cub Scout/Boy Scout Leader, Mother’s Connection of the Farmington Valley Executive Director, Youth/High School Football Volunteer, Parent Valorie Hollister Representative on District Committees, Advocate to extend facebook.com/hollisterforboe world language curriculum, Advocate/Organizer of town budget get out the vote
Vote Nov 7th
Paid for by the Granby Democratic Town Committee. Lynn Guelzow, Treasurer
native priorities (from Val): ening to you - the Granby voters, parents, educational professionals and ents
Page 6 The Granby Drummer
Registrar of Voters
Candidates on the Nov. 7 municipal ballot
before 8 p.m., they will get to fill out a ballot and then place it an envelope. If their ballot is uncontested at 8 p.m., it will go to Granby’s polling site at the high school where it will be counted separately from the official ballots and the absentee ballots. The Registrar of Voters strongly encourages everyone to register before Election Day, so you can place your ballot into the machine to be counted, and avoid any potentially long lines at Town Hall. Unregistered voters in line at Town Hall at 8 p.m. will not be able to vote on Election Day. Voters need to be aware that voter registration is NON-transferable. If you moved from another town or state, you still need to fill out a new registration card, with your current address, in order to vote. Online voter registration is available for new voters or to make changes 24 hours a day: 7 days a week at: voterregistration.ct.gov Voter Registration can be verified 24/7 at: www.dir.ct.gov/sots/lookup.aspx One polling site For the Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 7, the polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. All major town boards have seats up for election/re-election. All of Granby residents will vote at the same location, in the Community Gym, located in Granby Memorial High Schoo. Traffic is anticipated to be light to moderate. It is recommended that drivers access the Gym using the high school’s entrance off North Granby Road (Route 189), and
First Selectman: One Opening 2 yr term (Vote for One) B. Scott Kuhnly: R Board of Selectmen: Four Openings 2 yr term (Vote for Two) James C. Lofink and Sally S King: D Edward E. Ohannessian and Mark Neumann: R Board Of Finance: Three Openings 4 yr term (Vote for Three) Frederick A. Moffa: D Alfred G. Wilke and Gordon C. Bischoff: R Board Of Education: Three Openings 4 yr term (Vote for Three) Brandon C. Webster and Valorie A. Hollister and Kimberly L. Becker: D Melissa E. Migliaccio and Stephen Royer and Sarah Thrall: R Board Of Assessment Appeals: Two Openings 4 yr term (Vote for Two) Daniel Chapple: D Celia Eggert: R Planning and Zoning Commission: Three Openings 4 yr term (Vote for Three) Eric Lukingbeal and Margaret Q. Chapple: D Eric C. Meyers: R Planning and Zoning Commission Alternate: One Opening 4 yr term (Vote for One) Christine L. Chinni: D Zoning Board Of Appeals: Two Openings 4 yr term (Vote for Two) Wayne E. Chapple: D Robert M. Lindeyer: R Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates: Two Openings 4 yr term (Vote for Two) Suzanne L. Yucha: D William O’Leary: R Zoning Board of Appeals Alternates: Two Openings 2 yr term (Vote for One) David Hennessey: D Town Moderator: One Opening 2 yr term (Vote for One) John E. Adams: R
FIND US
Competitive Municipal Election in November Granby has 11 different races to be decided by the Nov. 7 municipal election, including First Selectman, Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance, Board of Education, Board of Assessment Appeals, Planning and Zoning, Zoning Board of Appeals and Town Moderator. Voters will vote for 24 open seats and a two-sided ballot is needed to include all of these offices. In the past, the Board of Selectmen race has caused some confusion. All five seats are open every two years but voters can only choose one candidate for First Selectman and two candidates from those running for the board. Seven-day in-person registration deadline is Oct. 31 The Granby Registrar of Voters will hold a special last-day, all-day voter registration session from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Town Hall. Residents are encouraged to stop in or call to verify their voter registration. You can also check your voter registration online using the Secretary of State’s website: www.sots.ct.gov Same-day voter registration has been passed in Connecticut and debuts this November. The legislature has changed state statutes so that U.S. citizens who are 18 by Nov. 7 can register to vote on Election Day. To implement, unregistered voters will need to go to Town Hall (not the town’s polling site in the Community Gym) on Election Day to register. They must bring proof of identity and proof of residence to vote. If they are registered
October 2017
Social Media www.facebook.com/Granby-Drummer
@GranbyDrummer
Elections cont’d. on p. 7
VOTE REPUBLICAN
GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION VOTE THE 2ND ROW
Melissa Migliaccio
Stephen Royer
Fiscal Responsibility
Sarah Thrall
Commitment to Granby
•
The 2017 and 2018 District Budgets were lower than the 2016 Budget!
Candidates you know and trust. Here are a few places/activities you may have seen them.
•
Among the lowest per pupil expenditure in the Farmington Valley while achieving the 11th ranked High School in Connecticut (US News & World Report)
•
Successfully completed a District Reorganization to maximize the efficiencies of our facilities and staff
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Ranked 9th of 50 Hartford area towns for English and Math (2015-16 SBAC scores, Hartford Magazine)
Granby Youth Lacrosse, Granby Little League, Granby Youth Football, Farmington Valley YMCA, Good Company Theater, Granby PTO, Valley Preschool, Granby Education Foundation, Girl Scouts, GMMS Cross Country, 4H Club, Registrar of Voters, Gran-Bee, Charter Revision Commission, Planning & Zoning Commission, Building Committees, East Hartland Volunteer Fire Department
PROVEN LEADERSHIP Paid for by the Granby Republican Town Commi ee, David Tolli, Treasurer
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 7
Comm. Development Director Armentano announces May 2018 retirement
Elections cont’d. from p. 6 leave the polls from Salmon Brook Street (Route 10/202). All Granby schools will be closed on election day, but the registrars strongly recommend voting between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if you have the option to do so, as the heaviest voting is 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., and the second rush is 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Senior van service available on Election Day Homebound registered voters can arrange for transportation to the polls by calling the Social Services department at the Senior Center at # 860-844-5353. The service is planned to be offered from 9 a.m. to Noon on Election Day and it is strongly recommended that voters call now to arrange for a ride before November 7. Voter ID To check in quickly at the polls, please bring a photo ID. Should you not have a photo ID on election day, but have previously proven your ID, either at the time of your registration or when voting previously, you will need to spend a few minutes at the Moderator table, as there is a state-required form to fill out. If you are a brand new voter, and your confirmation letter noted that you have not proven your identity, you MUST bring an ID to vote on Election Day, preferably a photo ID. Provisional ballots are not available for Municipal Elections. Poll workers are needed This is an important election year with a record number of newly registered voters for a municipal year. New poll workers are needed for data entry, for helping at Town Hall and working at the polls in the community gym where over 3,000 voters are anticipated during the day: over 200 voters per hour. The registrar’s office is actively recruiting new workers and has set up an extensive list of options for training to try to make it easier to participate. There will be morning, afternoon, evening and weekend classes.
In September a bulk email/sign up genius went out with when and where training will be held for the first classes this fall. More options will be offered soon. Only one class is required to participate as an official poll worker. Poll workers can be volunteers or paid, and must be 16 years or older. If you would like to be added to the list or if you did not receive the poll worker information and signups. Please email the registrars at: vr.granby@ po.state.ct.us Absentee ballots: Absentee ballots are handled through the Town Clerk’s office, and represent a complete ballot, identical to the ballots used by voters on Election Day but on a different color paper, and are tallied separately. Connecticut has specific guidelines for the use of absentee ballots; essentially the voter must testify on their Absentee ballot application that they have a reason for not voting at the polls. The form is available at Town Hall or on the web at www.sots.ct.gov. Send in an application for your absentee ballot at least one month before the election and mail your completed ballot immediately after you receive your ballot to ensure your vote will be counted. If you can come to the Town Hall, you can complete the process in person after October 6. Any ballots received by the Town Clerk after November 7 are not counted. Calendar Review Absentee Ballot Applications are being collected now by the Town Clerk for those who know they will be away from home on November 7 or otherwise qualify for an absentee ballot The application form is available at Town Hall or on the web at www.sots.ct.gov Friday, Oct 6: Absentee Ballots are available from the Town Clerk (for completed applications) Wednesday, October 18 Public Testing of the Optical Scanner Voting Machines at 1 p.m. at Town Hall
w
Director of Community Development Fran Armentano submitted a letter to Town Manager John Ward announcing his retirement effective June 1, 2018. In May 2018, he will have completed 32 years of service to the town, working on many substantial projects in the town’s growth. He is proud of his role in the preservation of significant land areas and in bringing millions of dollars to the town through his various successful grant applications. In his letter, Armentano noted his pleasure in working for the citizens of Granby. He praised the dedicated volunteers who staff the town’s boards, commissions, groups and organizations and make Granby such a great place to live and work. — Shirley Murtha
Granby Democrats meet the candidate event Please join us in having some fun @The Barn while meeting our 2017 Granby town candidates for local offices and featuring a keynote address from Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman. Bring your friends and family on Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. at @The Barn, 17 E. Granby Road in Granby. We hope that you will join other Democrats for a night of fun, activities and lively conversation, including appetizers and a cash bar. A $20 at-the door donation will benefit the Granby Democratic Town Committee in support of the candidates. Reservations not required, but RSVP’s (and requests for more information) can be sent to granbydemocrats@gmail.com. Follow the event on Facebook @GranbyDemocraticTownCommittee. — By Jim Lofink, DTC Chair Saturday, Oct 21: Voter Registration Session Registrars’ office in Town Hall from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wednesday, October 25 Supervised Absentee Balloting at MeadowBrook Nursing Home Tuesday, Oct 31: Seven Days before Election / Deadline to Postmark a Mail In Registration Tuesday, Oct 31: Seven Days before Election / Last Day to Register to vote in person Tuesday, Oct 31: Voter Registration Session Registrars’ office in Town Hall from 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov 1: Filing of Certified Voter Registry List with the Town Clerk Monday, Nov 6: Last Day to Register in person for brand new residents, military service and just turned 18 years old. Special Office Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Town Hall.
Tuesday, Nov. 7: Municipal Election: Polls open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Granby Community Gym, Granby Memorial High School Tuesday, Nov. 7: Same Day: Election Day Registration and voting at the Registrar’s office at Town Hall for those who are eligible and need to register before voting only. Stop by to register to vote, to determine your voting district or to make corrections in person at the Registrars’ Office in the Town Hall every Wednesday, (our regular office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Please note that voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: www.sots.ct.gov Questions? Contact Registrars, Laura Wolfe and Paul Willis at 860-844-5322 or vr.granby.ct@gmail.com.
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October 2017
Page 8 The Granby Drummer
PTO Corner
By the PTO Executive Board
Octoberfest Activities As the season slowly begins to shift and autumn hues take over, the Granby PTO is excited to kick off the 2017-18 school year with Octoberfest — a month full of fun events, fundraising and community outreach. Have you felt that cooler morning air sneaking in at the bus stop? As we slowly, (somewhat reluctantly) throw on those socks, sweaters and sweatshirts, we are reminded that there are many individuals who are not as fortunate. In an effort to extend outreach to our local community, the PTO is getting ahead of the fast approaching cooler weather by collecting socks for those in need. Please consider donating new socks of any size throughout the month of October. Designated “Socktober” donation boxes will be set up at PTO events. Apple cider, games, pony rides, food, family and friends sounds like a local fair. Welcome to the PTO’s 2nd annual Fall Festival at Valkyrie Equestrian Center on October 14 from 2-5 p.m. This year will feature some of the favorite activities from last year’s Festival, plus some new additions. For more information on activities and admission, please visit www. granbypto.org. This year the Fall Festival will also kick-off the PTO’s inaugural Autumn Auction, an exclusively online fundraising event running from the 1421 of October at www.biddingforgood. com/granbypto. The Autumn Auction highlights businesses both near and far and provides a way for teachers, students and com-
munity members to become active participants in fundraising efforts to support the school district. The middle and high schools will be joining forces with Kelly Lane Primary and Wells Road Intermediate Schools to offer unique “experiences” for students and families to purchase. Are you interested in reserved parking and front row seats for music and drama events at the schools; juggling lessons with Principal Dunn; or maybe a manicure with Dr. Bailey? How about premier seating tickets and parking passes for high school graduation; private dining for you and three friends at the middle school; or movies, mini golf, or board games with your favorite teachers and staff? These are just a few of the unique experiences that will be available for bidding through the Autumn Auction. In recognition of their support of the PTO, which currently serves grades Pre-K through 5 only, a portion of the proceeds generated from the “experiences” donated by the middle and high schools will be returned to those schools as a gift from the PTO. Other Octoberfest highlights include dinner at Jake’s Wayback Burgers on October 17 (15 percent of the evening’s profits will be generously donated to the PTO) and discount admission for PTO families to Hayes Family Corn Maze on Friday, October 20. The PTO looks forward to coming together as a community next month to celebrate fall in Granby and to support our school district.
October 2017
GMHS Homecoming events begins Oct. 11 By Deb Ranicar The 2017 Granby Memorial High School Homecoming, sponsored by the GMHS Athletic Booster Club, is set to begin on Wednesday, Oct. 11. Plans are underway so that students, families and the entire community will witness some of the most exciting competitions of the high school fall sports season. Fans will enjoy home games and meets with the Cross Country Team, the Girls Volleyball Team, Girls Field Hockey, JV and Varsity Football, and Boys and Girls Soccer Teams’ Soccer Under the Lights. The current schedule for these events is listed below. This year marks the 13th anniversary of an event that started as Soccer Under the Lights, where the boys and girls soccer teams played evening games under a bank of noisy rental lights. The Homecoming event has grown to include a pep rally, a multitude of athletic contests, and a semiformal school dance. On Saturday, Oct. 14, one admission price will allow fans to attend all of the games held on that day. Adults will be charged $5, and students/ senior citizens will be charged $3. All proceeds support the GMHS Athletic Booster Club. The Booster Club, along
with the GMHS Football Booster Club, will be on hand to sell a variety of snacks and dinner items so that you won’t miss a minute of the action. Additionally, the Booster Club provides an event program featuring photos of all of our Granby Bears home teams. The GMHS Athletic Booster Club supports, encourages and advances the high school athletic program. With funds raised through various events and generous community support, the club has purchased and donated the high school concession stand, a defibrillator for the trainer, the high school/middle school information sign, scoreboards for the soccer, softball, field hockey, lacrosse and basketball teams, a golf cart, track pole vault mats that allowed the high school to host its first NCCC state track meet, and most recently, seating for athletes competing in the high school’s upstairs gymnasium. If you would like to make a donation to the GMHS Booster Club, or if your business would like to support the Booster Club as a sponsor, please contact gmhsboosterclub@granby.k12.ct.us for additional information. Thank you for your support, and Go Bears!
Homecoming Week Oct. 11: 4:15 p.m. Oct. 14:* 10:30 a.m. 12 p.m. 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 6 p.m. 8 p.m. 10/16: 4 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 10/20: 7 p.m. 10/21: 10:30 a.m.
Cross Country Meet Varsity Field Hockey JV Field Hockey JV Girls Soccer JV Boys Soccer Varsity Soccer Girls Varsity Soccer Boys JV Volleyball Varsity Volleyball Varsity Football JV Football
Please note that games and times are subject to change, and so please check the Granby Memorial High School Athletic website for a final schedule right before the week begins.
*admission will be charged to support the GMHS Booster Club
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October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 9
Yellow Dog Project focus of Scouting service Recently on Facebook, Adeline the dog took advantage of a basket of yellow ribbons left at Salmon Brook Vet. These ribbons and flyers are there to advocate the Yellow Dog Project, a project for dogs that need space from others when in public. They were left by two Girl Scouts, Daisy Rzecinski and Caroline Hall from Troop 66362. These Girl Scouts are working on their Bronze Award, a community service project. The Bronze Award can be earned by fifth- and sixth-grade Girl Scouts and requires 20 hours of community service. They chose to build their plan around the Yellow Dog Project, and so far it has been successful. Some dogs need space from others for
a variety of reasons, whether they are fearful, aggressive, or simply in training. The Yellow Dog Project helps solve the issue of dogs not getting the personal space they need. If your dog needs this sort of space, you can tie a yellow ribbon or a yellow bandana around your dog’s leash or collar, signaling other dog owners to keep themselves and their canines away. This way, the dog that needs space will receive it. The project was created in Sweden by a dog trainer. One reason Daisy and Caroline chose the Yellow Dog Project for their Bronze Award was to help the community become better, more responsible dog owners. “We both love dogs,” says Caroline. “We knew our passion could become the base of this project.” Daisy and Caroline have done many things for their Bronze Award, including hosting a booth at Horses and Hounds. They were there on Sept. 2, giving out information and ribbons to anybody who was lucky enough to pass by. They have also given local veterinarians’ offices and animal control flyers about the Yellow Dog Project, along with informing the workers about the project. Daisy and Caroline’s time spent on this award has definitely impacted the community. The Yellow Dog Project has been going strong for five years, and they hope to keep it that way!
with Tim Nolan
Another school year is underway at GMHS The halls are filled with familiar and new faces alike. Most notably, the high school welcomes around 150 freshmen. Now a month removed from orientation, this ninth grade class is settling into its larger, new surroundings. Among new faculty, the biggest arrival for students, both literally and figuratively, was Charles Okwandu. Known to students as “Mr. O,” the former center for the University of Connecticut men’s basketball team is the new hall monitor at GMHS. Okwandu is also the coach of the freshman boys’ soccer team. With the start of the new school year also comes plenty of opportunities to see the student body in action. This year’s fall production is Our Town, by Thornton Wilder. Although the official date is not set as of now, the drama club says that performances will likely be the first weekend of November. Fall Coffeehouse
will also happen sometime in November. Dan Degagne, lead singer of this year’s house band, “TBD,” (no really, that’s their name), says it will likely be the second or third Friday night of the month. In the next couple of weeks, student athletes will take part in Homecoming competitions. Boys’ and girls’ crosscountry have a meet Tuesday, Oct. 11. Boys’ and girls’ soccer play Coventry back-to-back under the lights on Saturday, Oct. 14. Field hockey hosts Simsbury on Thursday, Oct. 19. Football takes on Sports and Medical Science Academy the next night, Oct. 20. Finally, volleyball doesn’t have a date for its “homecoming match,” so you’re invited to the Oct. 11 match against East Windsor and the Oct. 16 match against Torrington as well. Both events will be held in the upper gymnasium of the school.
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Page 10 The Granby Drummer
Focus on Education Alan Addley, Ed. D.
Let’s not throw out the baby with the bathwater Like many other Connecticut residents, my eldest son is currently planning to leave the state and relocate to North Carolina for a more prosperous future. Meanwhile, here we are again, another month has passed, school is up and running and, at the time of this article going to print, the State Legislature and Governor have still not been able to pass a budget. Given the Governor’s promise to veto the most recent Republican budget proposal, which passed in the Senate and House with bipartisan support, by default, the Governor’s Executive Budget Order will be in place come Oct. 1. Under the Governor’s Executive Budget Order, Granby’s (municipal and school) state aid will be reduced by approximately $1 million to $1.5 million, depending on how special education is funded. In addition, the Governor’s budget will require the town to pay an additional payment of
$340,000 to compensate for the state’s continued mismanagement of the teacher retirement fund. In contrast, the Republican budget, which the Governor promises to veto, reflects a 2017-2018 deficit of $388,000 or Granby with no additional teacher retirement contributions required by the town. Both the Governor’s budget and the Republican budget proposals have some potentially far-reaching language. Examples include the ability of some towns not to have a Superintendent of Schools; a municipality’s ability to override arbitration decisions; the elimination of a minimum budget requirement for a town’s spending on education; the transfer of a Board of Education’s decision-making authority to municipal officials; a state educational funding formula that transfers significant funds from the towns to the cities; and, the transfer of teacher retirement
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payments to the town. Notwithstanding the individual merits of any of these individual ideas, it makes no sense to throw them all into the budget at the last minute without considering the possible unintended educational and legal consequences of these decisions. Less educational funding and such legislative language threatens to jeopardize the progress Connecticut school systems have made over recent years. It took the state many years to get into this financial mess. It would be sensible to implement a more measured and inclusive approach to get out of it. Yes, we understand and agree that things need to change, but at least allow the towns and school districts to thoughtfully plan for the future. I also fear that the teaching profession will bear a lot of the blame for the state’s financial crisis and that Connecticut’s public support for the profession might
October 2017 wane. That would be disappointing, as we know that one of the main and most important characteristics of any quality school system around the world is the community’s respect for the profession. If the Legislature and Governor cannot agree on a reasonable budget, the Governor’s Executive Budget to be enacted October 1st will be potentially devastating, not only to Granby, but to many towns and school districts across the state. It really is a shame. While we are in the “wait and see” mode, the Boards of Finance, Selectmen and Education are collaborating in the best interests of the taxpayers and students. As we have always done, the school district will be creative and innovative in order to provide the best quality education possible for our students…and I will look forward to visiting my son in North Carolina.
The Granby Youth Service Bureau provides the following services to residents of Granby: • Positive Youth Development Programs • Parent Education Workshops • Prevention Education Programs • Juvenile Review Board • Free Professional and Confidential Counseling Services • Teen Intervene: A brief Intervention with Substance-Abusing Adolescents
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 11
Youth Services Bureau
by AnneMarie Cox
Fall is here! The Youth Service Bureau is looking for local students interested in picking up extra cash helping other community members stay on top of Fall clean ups. Call to register for the Youth Employment Service. StressRX, a program focused on teaching both relaxation techniques as well as targeted study skills, is still being offered. Check out the YSB website or Facebook page to find the dates the program will be offered throughout the school year. Takes a Village parent support group will be meeting the fourth Monday of the month. Come share your stories of parenting in the 21st century, Monday, Oct. 23, at 8 p.m. Additionally, the YSB will offer another Love and Logic workshop series beginning towards the end of October. Again, check the website for specific dates and times!
If your high school student is worrying about community service hours, it is not too late for them to join the T2T peer education program. This is an easy and rewarding way to complete hours and provide a valuable service to the community. Details are available on the website. As the fall progresses, if your tween is bored and has time on his or her hands, the YSB is launching it’s GO Girls’ Circle and GO Boys’ Council programs. These evidence-based programs explore being a boy or a girl in this society in fun and active ways. Coupled with hikes at Holcomb farm, outside games and enjoyable snacks, it is a great way to explore who we are, how we fit, and where we want to go as we move through life. More details will be posted on the website later this fall with a program launch in November. The YSB website is www.granbyyouthservicebureau.com
UNICO awards scholarships The Granby UNICO Club awarded four $1,000 scholarships this spring to graduating Granby Memorial High School students: Kaitlyn Amoso, Lucille Papile, Abigail Phillips and Gage Fiorentino. The awards were based on their outstanding achievements in academics, community service, Italian-American heritage and extracurricular activities. Attending a subsequent UNICO dinner in their honor, are (from l.): Granby UNICO President Rob Gangi, Lucille Papile, Abigail Phillips, Gage Fiorentino and scholarship chairman Mario Dei Dolori. Missing from photo: Kaitlyn Amoso.
VISIT THE
HAYES
Corn Maze
Remembering a classmate In August, Granby Memorial High School Class of ‘83 suddenly lost classmate Sue Mollineaux (inset). As word spread, many classmates expressed an interest in doing “something.” They decided to organize a charity drive and donate those funds to an organization that would be near and dear to Sue’s heart. Sue’s mom shared with the group that her daughter loved cats. She took them in, nursed them back to health, helped find them homes and had many of her own cats. Mary’s Kitty Korner in Granby was the chosen charity. On Sept. 16, some of Sue’s classmates, her parents and sister presented a check to Lisa Shackett, owner of Mary’s Kitty Korner in the amount of $1,930. Submitted photo
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Come explore the twists and turns of the Hayes Corn Maze! Answer the questions correctly and you’re off to another section. Guess it wrong and you may be lost forever!
Opens Sept. 9 and runs through Halloween Fridays 4-9 p.m. • Saturdays 12-9 p.m. • Sundays 12-6 p.m. Call for group rates. Last ticket sold 1/2 hour before closing. Please note visitors under the age of 4 must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs allowed.
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Page 12 The Granby Drummer
Out of Town
Open Cockpit Day at NEAM
Fall Rummage Sale The West Suffield Congregational Church’s Fall Rummage Sale will be Saturday, Oct. 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be clothing, knick-knacks, furniture, household items, books, toys and jewelry. Come early and have the best selection. Beginning at 1 p.m. there will be a bag sale for clothing.
Donations will be accepted on Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 4 and 5, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and on Friday, Oct. 6, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., or by appointment. Call Liz at 860-668-6618 if pick-up is needed or for more information.
Noble & Cooley Museum Events Saturday through Monday, Oct. 7–9 The museum and gift shop will be open all three days of the 36th annual Granville Harvest Fair with tours, demonstrations, great food vendors and the very popular Westfield River Brewery beer tent. Harvest Fair hours are: Saturday and Monday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 12 – 5 p.m. Demonstrations this year include: Erick the Blacksmith, small engines displays and drum making processes. On Sunday from 12 – 3 p.m., Forest Park’s Zoo on the Go will feature unusual and interesting animals. The Patton Catering food tent will be back again with a delicious variety of dogs, burgers, sausage sandwiches, soups and more. New to the food court this year is Villa Mia featuring pizza slices, meatball and eggplant subs, spinach pies, desserts,
apple pie and cookies. Something for everyone! Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 6:30 p.m. The final Living History program of 2017 will be Connecticut State Historian Walt Woodward and the Band of Steady Habits performing their Handed Down In Song musical program. Woodward has been a favorite NCCHP contributor for several years, and the newly formed band was a huge hit last year. Light refreshments will be served after the program. The Living History series is free to NCCHP members and donations from guests are appreciated. Guided tours of the NCCHP museum are scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 22, from 12 – 3 p.m. The museum is located at 42 Water St., Granville, Mass., in the historic buildings of the Noble & Cooley Drum Company.
Simsbury Grange, Green Monster e-Cycling co-host recycling event Oct. 29 Do you need to responsibly dispose of old computers, televisions and other items? Do you have medical equipment or video game consoles sitting around? Simsbury Grange and Green Monster e-Cycling are co-hosting a tech-oriented recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at Andy’s Shopping Center, 836 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury. Members of the Simsbury Grange will be assisted by Boy Scouts of America Troop #76, who will help with on-site logistics and assist in unloading recyclable electronics. A $10 donation is suggested. Green Monster e-Cycling accepts a wide array of items and almost anything with a cord or a battery. Although Air Conditioners, Washer/Dryers, Refrigerators, De-humidifiers, Water coolers, Light bulbs, Vacuums, Microwaves and Household Batteries are NOT recyclable at this event, eligible items include: Televisions and computers (including laptops, monitors and screens); print cartridges, printers, fax machines and telephones; appliances (exceptions noted above); laboratory and medical equipment
October 2017
modems, hubs, computer racks, cables and wires; music and stereo equipment; DVD and CD players and video game consoles; all storage media and more.
Green Monster e-Cycling wipes all hard drives received, offering protection from identity theft and ensuring that data is destroyed. There is a strict ZERO LANDFILL policy. ALL of the items brought to this event will be recycled in an environmentally sensitive manner. More information on the items accepted can be found at Green Monster e-Cycling’s webpage, http:// www.GreenMonsterecycling.com or contact them at 150 Brook Street, West Hartford, CT 06110, telephone 860231-1426. Simsbury Grange is located at 236 Farms Village Road (Rt. 309), West Simsbury, across from the fire station and post office. For additional information please contact Simsbury Grange President Barbara Friedland at 860-413-9567 or via e-mail at info@ SimsburyGrange.org. Information on Simsbury Grange can be found at http:// www.SimsburyGrange.org.
The New England Air Museum will host an Open Cockpit Day on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (museum is open until 5 p.m.) Special activities include the chance to climb aboard historic aircraft including a WWII P-47 Thunderbolt, a jet-age F-100 Super Sabre and an F-104 Star-fighter as well as a number of helicopters. Other activities include hands-on flight simulators and the opportunity to Build and Fly your own flying machine. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, closed on Mondays during the winter season. Admission is $15 for ages 12 and up, $14 for seniors
Visitors on an earlier Open Cockpit Day. Submitted photo.
65 and up and $7 for ages four to 11, discounts for veterans and active duty military personnel. For more information please visit www.neam.org or call 860-623-3305.
Artisan Fall Craft Fair The Friends of the Southwick Public Library are sponsoring an Artisan Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Southwick Town Hall. Over 30 local crafters and artisans will have items for sale, and unusual items donated by the crafters and artisans will be raffled. Crafters and artisans will be on the grounds of the Town Hall, in the auditorium and in the senior center. There will also be a sale of
new and gently used craft and Christmas items. Light refreshments will be available for purchase. The craft fair is free and open to the public. Proceeds support programs and activities at the Southwick Public Library. The Southwick Town Hall is located at 454 College Highway, Southwick. For more information contact Pat McMahon at southwickpat@comcast. net or 413-569-6531.
Simsbury Bank hosts flu shot clinics with Farmington Valley VNA
Flu season will be upon us soon and Simsbury Bank, in conjunction with the Farmington Valley VNA, will be holding two Flu Vaccine Clinics: Friday, Oct. 20, 981 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury Thursday, Oct. 26, 11 Hartford Avenue, Granby Both clinics will run 11 am – 1 p.m. The available vaccines are: Quadrivalent for ages 18 and over and high dose for ages 65 and older. “As a community bank, this is one way we can provide a much needed service to residents and do what we can to keep everyone healthy this winter season”, said Bernadeta Eichner, Branch Manager, Granby branch. “We are pleased to be able to partner with Simsbury Bank again this year to offer this important health benefit. Flu and pneumonia can
be extremely dangerous and it is vitally important that everyone who should be vaccinated is indeed vaccinated so as to help protect themselves against more serious complications,” said Nancy Scheetz, RN, Executive Director of the Farmington Valley VNA. The following types of insurance are accepted: Medicare Part B as Primary Carrier; Connecticare Regular and Medicare; Cigna; Aetna Regular and Medicare; Anthem BC/BS Regular; Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare; and Wellcare. For more information or to make an appointment, please call the Farmington Valley VNA at 860-651-3539, Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Walk-ins are also welcome. Participants must be 18 years or older.
McLean, AAA present safe driving for seniors program A safe driving for seniors program will be held Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at McLean’s Burkholder Community Center, 75 Great Pond Road in Simsbury. AAA presents the program in conjunction with McLean’s Outpatient Therapy and Wellness Team will offer resources to help seniors stay safe on the
road including the McLean Safe Driver Assessment Program, as well as help make informed decisions about when to get behind the wheel and when to seek other forms of transportation. Call 860658-3723 to reserve a seat for this free event. A light supper will be provided.
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 13
In Town Focus Salmon Brook Historical Society
Antique Gas Engine / Tractor Exhibit The SBHS will have its annual Antique Gas Engine and Tractor Exhibit. Located on the campus at 208 Salmon Brook Street, the exhibit will be held Saturday, Sept. 30 with setup at 7:30 a.m., show 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (weather permitting). Please contact Don Rethke at 860-549-6687 or flushbewithyou@ yahoo.com to exhibit your antique gas engine or tractor. A food booth offering donuts, hot dogs and beverages will be open. Free parking and admission. Fall Flea Market The SBHS will hold its anxiously awaited Fall Flea Market on Saturday, Oct. 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free parking and admission. Find hidden treasures among the numerous vendors, a wide variety of items from antiques to today will be offered again this year. And don’t forget to visit the food stand offering coffee and Mrs. Murphy’s donuts for the early birds and hot dogs, soda and chips for lunch. The society is also accepting donated items for the society’s tent; drop off items (208 Salmon Brook Street) Tuesdays or Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. No children’s clothing please. Vendor spaces available: Cost: $40 per 20x20ft. ($30 if received before Oct. 7) Make check payable to Salmon Brook Historical Society, include name, phone and return address, mail to: David Laun, 16 Hummingbird Lane, Granby, CT 06035. Questions? Call Dave at 860-653-3965 or Todd Vibert at 860653-9506.
Volunteers Needed
Mary’s Kitty Korner, a no-kill cat shelter in Granby, is looking for volunteers to help care for its kitties until they find their “fur-ever” homes. If you love cats and have some time to spare on a weekday morning or evening or on a weekend morning or afternoon the staff would love to hear from you. Call 860-379-4141 or go to its website to find out more: www.maryskittykorner. At this time there is a critical need for Monday morning volunteers.
MS Support
The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at the Senior Center at 1 p.m., on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-428-2463.
Tag and Bake Sale
West Granby United Methodist Church will hold its annual Tag and Bake Sale on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain or shine). Plenty of household items available—something for everyone—plus baked goods! The church is located at 87 Simsbury Road in West Granby.
Women’s Breakfast
The Granby Women’s Breakfast will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 4, at 8:30 a.m. at the Granby Senior Center. The speaker will be Jason Scappaticci from Manchester Community College, speaking about Failed Assassination Plots on U.S. Presidents. Cost is $4. Call Corinne Dickerson at 860-653-9891 to reserve your spot.
Granby 4-H
Sign-up night for Granby 4-H is Wednesday, Oct. 4, at 7 p.m. at Holcomb Farm Workshop. Project groups will be available for sign up. Additional volunteer leaders are needed. Please consider what you have to offer the 4-H youth. Commitment can be a couple of hours per year, a few hours per month, or any amount of time in between. You can help “Make the best better.” If you have any questions about joining or volunteering, please contact granbyct4h@ gmail.com.
GLT Annual Meeting
The Granby Land Trust will hold its Annual Meeting and Hike on Sunday, Oct. 22, at Holcomb Farm in West Granby. For details, please visit www. GranbyLandTrust.org.
Veteran’s Tribute Concert
Mark your calendar for Thursday, Nov. 9, at 7 p.m. for a Veteran’s Tribute Concert with the Governor’s Foot Guard Band @ Valley Brook Community Church. The concert is co-sponosred by the Granby Senior Center, Valley Brook Community Church and Resilience Grows Here.
Camera Club
The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, Oct. 2, at the Senior Center at 7 p.m. The meeting will feature Member’s Showcase. The scavenger hunt words are barns, funny and favorite. To learn more about the club visit www. GranbyCameraClub.com.
Civic Club
The Granby Civic Club is pleased to have Granby’s own Nancy Butler of Lyric Hill Farm as its guest speaker at the meeting on Thursday, Oct. 19, 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. All are welcome to share Nancy’s adventures as a master gardener, farmer, soap maker and goat lover. There will be a question and answer time. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information, please contact Ginny Wutka at 860539-2556.
Puzzles, Puzzles, Puzzles
The Friends of Cossitt Library offer pre-owned jigsaw puzzles on sale in the adult room from Oct. 7 through 21. Come early for the best selection. Saturday hours, 12 to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to noon and 3 to 8 p.m. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea courtesy of the Friends, while browsing the large selection. Take a break, relax and enjoy working on a beautiful puzzle, a good family activity. Your support of Granby’s historic library is appreciated.
Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series
Jazz bassist Nat Reeves and poet Kate Rushin will open the 2017-18 season of the Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series on Sunday, Oct. 22, at 4 p.m. They will be joined by the musicians of the State of Emergency Quartet from the Artist’s Collective in Hartford. Free admission, with donations accepted. The music series is supported by the Granby Education Foundation and the music ministry at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook Street. South Church is wheelchair accessible from the side-door. For more information please call 860-653-7289.
Musical Club of Hartford
On Thursday, Oct. 12, at 10 a.m., Laura Mazza-Dixon will join Monika Kinstler at the Musical Club of Hartford concert program by members of the club at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, Boulevard, West Hartford. The concert is free to members and $5 for the public. For more information please call 860653-6146. The concert will also include performances by Michelle Davis and Tracy Norkun, flutes; Fred Fenn, bassoon; Bridget de Moura Castro, organ; Susan Mardinly, soprano; Stacy Cahoun, piano; and, Sandra Ann Craig, piano. The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.
@
by e-mail:
by post: The Granby Drummer P. O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165
editor@granbydrummer.org
Faith Matters G CREW AS A SAFE PLACE... G Crew is a Sunday night youth group that meets in the basement of First Congregational Church. We’ve worked hard to create a place where people are respected however they think. And because of that we’re not afraid to say how we think, or to try on opinions different from our parents. In G Crew we discuss things you don’t talk about anywhere else – a lot of practical living ideas as opposed to the school learning. It’s a safe place when you need someone (or a lot of people) to talk to. Rebecca is a safe adult and we make it safe for each other. It’s not a group about God - it’s about learning to live with meaning and purpose. We are spiritual, not religious – and we think there’s a difference. We talk about real world problems and real high school problems. There is no sugar coating. It’s all honest. If that interests you, join us Sunday nights 7 – 8:30pm. Why I come (from current members) “There’s just nothing else like it. It’s hard to describe” “We talk about things adults are too scared to talk about.” “It’s a judgment free zone. That’s why I come.” “I love the people in here. You get to know them outside their school personality, or mine” “This group has saved me so many times. It’s great to know I’m not the only one going through stuff.” “It’s a place to be yourself, and to get close to people from other grades” “It helps me learn to be openminded.” “What’s said in here, stays in here. We have each other’s backs.” “We do service work that makes us think, not just stuff to put on our college app” “I like listening to other perspectives” “It’s a place where I’m actually not afraid to talk.” “It’s relaxing to be here on Sunday night before starting school on Monday. It’s like a release for me before the week starts.” ~This year's theme~ Learning to Fly... in a safe place to fail
First Congregational Church of Granby 219 North Granby Road, Granby, CT
860-653-4537
www.firstchurchgranby.org
Page 14 The Granby Drummer
October 2017
At House of Hayes, the cows are milking themselves By Shirley Murtha If you weren’t among the many visitors to the House of Hayes dairy farm (Sweet Pea Cheese) on Open Farm Day, you owe it to yourself to drive over to observe the new robotic milking process. Seemingly out of a science fiction novel, the cows now milk themselves 24/7, relieving the Hayes family of the chore that used to take 3 1/2 hours twice a day. It takes just a little training to teach the
cows to enter the milking station, which they happily do repeatedly to enjoy the grain treat provided at the front end of one of the two stalls set up in the barn. Once that training is completed, the rest is a piece of cake—or glass of milk in this case. The Hayes’ approximately 130 cows are free to roam about the barn, and each wears a device similar to a Fitbit on her collar that identifies her to the robot. When she walks into the stall, the ma-
Granby Community Fund annual campaign needs your donations By Jean Miller By now, all Granby, West Granby and North Granby residents should have received the Annual Campaign mailing from the Granby Community Fund (GCF) in support of the 2018 allocations made to local non-profits that support the Granby community. Since the GCF was established in 1960, its primary mission continues to be coordinating a town-wide fundraising effort into a single annual campaign to support multiple charitable organizations. The Granby Community Fund’s campaign goal is $70,000 and will support to the following organizations; Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation, Marquis of Granby, Farmington Valley YMCA, Favarh, Holcomb Farm, McLean Meals on Wheels, Waste Not Want Not Kitchen, local chapters of the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the Senior Van, the Fuel Bank and the Granby Social Services Fund,
an emergency family support program that assists needy residents when other resources are not available. Your donation is needed more than ever this year. With a decline in donations last year, your contribution is much needed to help the GCF meet its goal. Please renew your commitment to the Granby Community Fund and give at a level you are comfortable with, one that reflects your continued belief in and support of these caring, giving organizations that provide valuable supports to the residents of the Granby community. Thank you in advance for your continued support and generosity. If you have questions, work with a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization and are interested in becoming a member agency, or would like to volunteer on the GCF Board of Directors, please contact Jean Miller, GCF President, at granbycommunityfund@gmail.com. Visit our website at www.granbycommunityfund.com.
chine’s computer can tell if she has been milked within the past four hours. If she has, no grain will be provided and the air lock cylinders open the exit gate for her to leave. (Cows make multiple trips to the station in hopes of getting the treat and it would be wasteful to milk them again until they have accumulated a substantial amount of milk.) If the cow is ready for milking, the robot goes into action. A tray with brushes slides under her teats to rinse off any de-
bris. The tray swings back out, is cleaned, and an iodine-based disinfectant is added that will be applied to the teats. After a brief period of air drying, the milking device slides into position. A laser pinpoints the location of each of the four teats, and one by one, the inflations (milking tubes) are attached. Once all four are in position, the milking begins. When it is completed, the disinfectant is once again applied, the front gate opens and out walks the cow. The machine does much more than
The cows are milking cont’d. on p. 15
MeadowBrook residents adopt Phoebe the bunny Care Systems. For more information With a special welcoming ceremony, please visit athenanh.com/meadowbrook. MeadowBrook of Granby residents welcomed Phoebe the Bunny to their home. Phoebe has a long soft coat and loves to be held and brushed. She is calm and sensitive. She loves fresh vegetable and yogurt treats, and will bring smiles to the face of residents at MeadowBrook of Granby for many years to come. MeadowBrook of Granby offers a wide variety of pet therapy services and works with Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program to provide a variety of animal visits. In addition to the resident bunny, pet therapy dogs Aster, Bebe, Moose, Shannon, Ace and many more are regular visitors. Director of Recreation Nicole Matson, leads the Pet Therapy Program and recently completed the course Managing Risk of Animal Visitation at Tufts Veterinary School. MeadowBrook of Granby is located Dorothy Annulli and Director of Therapeutic at 350 Salmon Brook Street in Granby, Recreation Nicole Matson with Phoebe the and is managed by Athena Health bunny.
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October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 15
The cows are milking themselves cont’d. from p. 14 milk the cow, however. It measures a number of parameters that give the farmer a picture of the cow’s health. It tells how far the cow walked around since the previous milking and it tracks the cow’s rumination — how much she’s been eating, “chewing her cud.” Once the milking begins, the machine takes the temperature of the milk, which is essentially the temperature of the cow. If it is too high, indicating the cow has a fever, the milk will be shunted to a separate collection vessel. The same holds true if the machine detects any blood in the milk, which might be present if the animal experienced any trauma since the last milking. The robot washes itself three times a day, but the farmer still has to keep an eye on proceedings, checking that the containers of disinfectant and various cleaners are always stocked, for example. Also, the farmer has to check the computer read-out for the information on the cows’ health and to note any cows that have not been milked in more than 10 hours. Those cows have to be located and taken to the milking station.
The collected milk is tubed into the milk tank that Agri-Mark Cabot Creamery cooperative picks up every other day from the Hayes farm. Each collection is between 700 and 800 gallons. The Hayes milk goes to the plant in West Springfield, where it is processed for sale as drinking milk, butter, cream, powdered milk, and mixes that can be used for making milkshakes and ice cream. Hood’s and Friendly’s are just two of the facilities that buy from AgriMark. The Hayes keep some of the milk to self-process for their own use and for making yogurt and cheeses sold in the dairy store, Sweet Pea Cheese. They also make cheese and other products from the milk of their herd of goats. In addition to purchasing the computer and robots, a new compressor was installed. New buildings were added onto the barn to house these components. A grant from the State of Connecticut by way of the Community Investment Act allowed the construction of a glass-windowed viewing room to allow visitors to observe this state-of-the-art milking process.
The robotic milking process Right: Lasers perfectly place the milking devices on the cow. Below right: The collection vessel fills as a cow is milked by the robot. Below left: Stanley Hayes rinses down the robotic milking machine. All photos by Shirley Murtha.
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Page 16 The Granby Drummer
October 2017
October lunch highlights Connecticut witch trials By Eileen Longhi Thoughts of Halloween conjure up goblins, black cats, skeletons and witches. Just in time for Halloween, the Granby Senior Center Civic Engagement Education Team is presenting Connecticut Witch Trials with Jason Scappaticci, Manchester Community College lecturer, on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at 12:30 p.m. Witch trials are usually associated with the Salem, Mass. Trials, but as Scappaticci notes, “prior to Salem, New England experienced witch hysteria, much of it focused on the Connecticut River Valley. In fact, the first witchcraft trial of which
any record survives occurred in Windsor, in 1647. This started what is considered to be the first wave of witch hysteria in New England that lasted from 16471691, the year before the more famous Salem trials. During the first wave there were at least 83 recorded trials resulting in 22 executions.” Further, the victim of the
politics and is currently serving in his second term on the Manchester Board of Education. He has a BA in history from Utica College, an MA in American Studies from Trinity College and has given lectures for libraries, historical societies and senior centers throughout Connecticut. Scappaticci recently presented Failed Presidential Assassinations and 15 Minutes to Live: The Sinking of the Lusitania. Please register by calling 860-8445352. Cost is $5. Bring your own lunch. Beverage and dessert provided.
1647 execution was Alice Young and she was the first of eleven individuals put to death on charges of witchcraft in Connecticut before the end of the seventeenth century. Eventually, in 1750, the law making witchcraft a crime was removed from the books. Scappaticci is Director of New Students and First Year Programs at MCC. He is active in local
27 years of charitable commitment to McLean and the community The 27th Annual McLean Golf Tournament and Auction was held on Sept. 11, a beautiful day for golf at Simsbury’s Hop Meadow Country Club, and for recognizing those in need with this community-wide effort. More than $50,000 was raised to benefit McLean’s Home Care and Hospice Program, as well as the Hospice Volunteer program. Each dollar will be spent to directly impact the national award-winning home care agency that serves adults of all ages throughout the surrounding area with an array of comprehensive, innovative, personalized home care services. The tournament committee included many of its original volunteers, along
with some new members, all of whom are deeply committed to the charitable mission of McLean. A special acknowledgement was made to the passing of longtime committee member, Mark E. Nelson. This year, the tournament added an online auction that ran for the two weeks preceding the event, in addition to the live auction hosted by Bob Maxon. A special thanks to presenting major sponsor, Sodexo, and Platinum Sponsors: BrightStar, IT Direct, Energy Resources, Landmark Partners, Marsh and McLennan Agency, Newfield Construction, McKesson, SLAM Construction Services, and WillisTowersWatson.
McLean’s dedicated 27th anniversary golf committee members left to right: Bill Gombert, John Carmon, Bob Hensley, Joe Shiman, Mark Murnane (chairman of the committee), Denis Horrigan, Ken Doyle, David Bordonaro (McLean president)
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Learn the artistic process from local artists All are invited to join the Granby Land Trust and the Granby Artists Association as they host an art talk, where area artists will discuss the artistic process and the methods they use to create their art. The discussion will be led by two incredibly talented artists who live in Granby and support the Granby Land Trust: Laura Eden and Bill Simpson. They will discuss their works and engage other artists in the discussion, as well. The event will take place in the Lost Acres Vineyard Art Gallery, where the Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty art show will be on display. Complimentary refreshments will be served. The event will be held on Thursday, Nov. 9, from 7–9 p.m., at Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby. Go to www. GranbyLandTrust.org for more information on the art show.
ARTISTIC PROCESS & METHODS Thursday, Nov. 9, 7–9 pm Lost Acres Vineyard North Granby
By Shirley Murtha By all accounts, the acceptance speech given by Granby’s Rebecca Lobo was one of the best ever; certainly the best of that night, September 8, 2017. That was the night the women’s basketball player, now WNBA analyst, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Accompanied by her family and escorted to the podium by her college coach, UConn’s Geno Auriemma,
scoring a thenrecord 2,710 points in her four years on the team. At the University of Connecticut, Lobo led the Huskies to their first undefeated season, capped off by the national championship 1995. That was the same year she won the ESPY award for Outstanding Female Athlete, the AP Female Athlete of the Year, the NCAA Women’s Basketball Player of the Year and the Wade Trophy. After UConn, she played for the New York Liberty, the Photo by Jon Lopez, Basketball Hall of Fame Houston Comets and capped off her playing career in 2003 with the Lobo used humor and poignant stories Connecticut Sun. Along the way, she to describe what this accolade meant was named a WNBA All-Star and was to her. Missing from the festivities was inducted into the WNBA Hall of Fame her beloved mother, who passed away in 2010. of cancer a few years ago. You can see Her intelligence and quick humor the entire speech on You Tube. made Lobo a natural analyst and she Despite a couple of publications to the was hired by ESPN in 2004. She works contrary, Lobo is not a native of Granby, NCAA games during the winter season although now a long- time resident who and WNBA games in the summer. we are happy to call our own. No, she hails from Southwick, Massachusetts, where she played high school basketball,
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October 2017
YMCA 200 meter medley relay swim team crushes state record By Shawneen Buckley The Farmington Valley YMCA Tsunami Swim Team completed its summer season with stellar team and individual performances marked by individual, team and state records, state and regional championships, and national achievements. The successful May to August summer season, included short-course (25-yard pool) and long-course (50-meter pool) swim meets requiring exceptional commitment and dedication by coaches and team members. At the Connecticut Long Course Age
Group Championships, held at Wesleyan University, swimmers Alex Beauchene, 14; Trent Hieber, 13; Liam Dunnigan, 14; and Joe Rusnock, 14; crushed the Connecticut state record with a first place finish in the 13-14 year-old boys 200 Freestyle Relay with a time of 1:45:93. This was the first Connecticut state record ever set by any Tsunami swim team. Tsunami Head Coach Mario Francisco described why the state record was particularly important to him, “The boys sat down together, talked among themselves without me present, and added up all of their times that they needed to swim individually, to swim fast enough to win, and realized that they could break the state record, they decided to go after it. Each one took responsibility for their part. They figured out that, as a team, they could do something bigger, that has never been done before. Tsunami swimmers from l.: Lilia Dunnigan, Chris Weber, Mario Francisco, Joe Rusnock, Alex Beauchene, Liam Dunnigan, Megan Dunnigan. Photo by Michael Beauchene
Conn. Record Setting Boys Freestyle Relay team, and the Conn. Age Group Championship 13- to 14- year-old Medley relay team members. From l.: Liam Dunnigan, Joe Rusnock, Trent Hieber, Alex Beauchene, Max Larock. Photo by Coach Mario Francisco.
That one moment is super important to me. People say there is no ‘I’ in team, but there is, because you start by doing your own part. That’s what it is to be a team.” The 200 Medley Relay boys team also had a first place finish with a time of 1:59:05. Swimming for the Tsunamis were Max Larock, 13; Alex Beauchene; Liam Dunnigan and Joe Rusnock. Additional highlights included Megan Dunnigan, 12, who was the high-point winner (similar to MVP) for her age group at the Conn. Long Course Age Group Championships and swept all of her backstroke events with first place finishes at the Eastern Zone (Virginia to Maine) Long Course Championships. Her smooth and powerful backstroke left the rest swimming in her wake in the 50, 100, and 200 meter events. Her best times this season were 31:54 for the 50M backstroke, 1:07:57 for the 100M backstroke, and 2:25:56 for the 200M backstroke. She finished the season in the top 16 nationally and first in Connecticut, and qualified for YMCA Nationals. For a swimmer, qualifying for YMCA Nationals is a lofty goal and the same
is true for the Tsunami Swim Team. In 2017, for the first time ever, the men’s relay team qualified for the YMCA Long Course Nationals in the 200 Medley, with swimmers Chris Weber, 16, backstroke; Joe Rusnock, breaststroke; Alex Beauchene, butterfly; and Grant Kimble, 18, freestyle, qualifying with a time of 1:54:56. At YMCA Nationals, the relay team, with Liam Dunnigan swimming for Grant Kimble, was the youngest men’s relay team competing at the meet. Individuals who competed at YMCA Nationals in their individual events included Chris Weber, Lilia Dunnigan, 16; Megan Dunnigan and Alex Beauchene. The Tsunamis also clinched the Yankee Cluster League Championship, where swimmers of all levels compete for points for their team. This YMCA league event is particularly challenging because it requires all swimmers to be at their best and fighting for the team victory. Every swimmer is needed to secure the title and this year, once again, the Tsunamis prevailed. Coach Francisco reflected on this past
Swim team cont’d. on p. 19
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NWC students learn about Foreign Service from alumna Northwest Catholic alumna and former East Granby resident RaeJean Spears Stokes visited the school Sept. 11 to teach students in AP Government, AP U.S. History, and the history and religion seminar called HILL, the basics of foreign service work and the responsibilities of the U.S. State Department. RaeJean, a foreign service officer currently preparing for her next assignment in Ankara, Turkey, held her audience captivated as she explained her unusual career path and what it means to work for the State Department. Upon graduating from Northwest Catholic in 1998, RaeJean headed to Holy Cross where she double majored in English and history and spent a year abroad in London. After graduation, RaeJean joined the Peace Corps and was stationed in Ukraine for two years. After that stint overseas, she earned a Master’s in International Relations from the University of Denver. She then worked in Armenia, Mexico City, Ukraine, and is now headed to Turkey with her husband Nicholas Stokes who also works for the foreign service. RaeJean taught NWC students about the various responsibilities of the U.S. State Department, such as its commitment to protect Americans overseas, advance democracy, defend human rights, encourage economic growth for American industry, and promote American policies. She explained to the students that foreign service employees need to be
ready to work anywhere. Save rare exception, foreign service officers are prepared to accept any location on the globe. Spouses are usually kept together, however, her husband spent a year in Kabul without her. RaeJean said over 100,000 people work for the Department of State and 15,000 of them are working overseas. In addition to foreign service officers like RaeJean, there are many civil service officers working in Washington D.C., student interns and fellows, foreign service specialists such as tech support, financial managers, and medical professionals, as well as local hires—that is, many, many employees from each home country. These positions for locals, RaeJean explained, can be perceived as safe and enviable but in particular countries as dangerous. For example, if the host country isn’t entirely friendly to the U.S., the embassy’s or consulate’s local hires take a risk when joining the U.S. workforce. RaeJean sang these employees’ praises, saying it takes a very special person to work with the U.S. foreign service and it’s her great honor to work beside them. RaeJean is also proud to work alongside Americans from every walk of life. Because the path to foreign service in the U.S. is transparent and egalitarian, officers find themselves as colleagues to both natural born and naturalized citizens of every race, ethnicity, and creed. When her friend of Indian ancestry with a distinct accent is asked how he can be a
RaeJean Spears Stokes, at Northwest Catholic High School Submitted photo.
U.S. foreign service officer, he responds: “Because I’m as American as the next guy. It’s what our country is about.” RaeJean currently works as a public diplomacy officer. She explained the route to her acquiring this position, and how it first took her three times to pass the foreign service exam. This humble admission, well known by the millions of Americans who have failed the foreign service exam or haven’t proceeded past the second step of the written essay or third step of all-day interviews, was a surprise to NWC students. With this point, RaeJean taught her listeners the valuable lesson of not giving up. RaeJean encouraged NWC’s students to investigate the State Department programs available to high school and college students. She was eager to pass
out handouts and answer questions about various programs. She made sure her listeners knew their interest in foreign language and international relations could be put to excellent use, even as high school students. RaeJean thought back fondly on her time at Northwest Catholic, spotlighting the impact her cross country team and Paul Reardon’s English class left on her. She said NWC’s commitment to service, co-curricular and extra-curricular, was a perfect match for her. To learn more about U.S. State Department careers and programs for students, visit careers.state.gov. To learn more about Northwest Catholic, visit northwestcatholic.org.
Swim team cont’d. from p. 18 season with pride when asked about season highlights. “It is so nice to see our team growing to be one of the biggest and best teams in the area, both in and out of the pool. Three seniors from our team are moving on to swim for their college team. I am incredibly proud of them and all of our swimmers.”
Congratulations to Tsunami graduates Grant Kimble of Granby who will swim for Roger Williams University, Alyssa Pacewicz of Suffield who will swim for Skidmore College, and Christian Malone of Canton who will swim at William Peace University.
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October 2017
Parks & Recreation Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Open 24/7 at www.GranbyRec.com for program registration! Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: www.GranbyRec.com. We accept MasterCard/Visa/Discover for payments. The registration system and website allow you to register for programs at any time of the day or night. Find out right away if a program has space available, check your account to see what activities your family members are signed up for, and print out a year-end receipt for tax purposes. Program/Trip Registration: All programs/trips are based on a first come basis and space availability and require advance registration; payment must accompany registration. Please register early to avoid disappointment. Scholarships: Program scholarship information is available upon request. All inquiries are kept in the strictest confidence; apply early. EVENT PLANNING Have your next family or other private event at Salmon Brook Park or Holcomb Farm. The SB Park House is a beautiful facility that can accommodate up to 99 people, featuring a gas fireplace and central air conditioning. The North Barn Pavilion at Holcomb Farm is built to look like a barn but this gorgeous new building has all of the modern amenities to make an event for up to 125 people special. Dates fill fast so call or visit the web site for more information or to see pictures. TRIPS NYC On Your Own: These days in the city are on your own to enjoy the Big Apple. See Chinatown, Little Italy, Central Park, a museum, the zoo, a Broadway show or shop—just use your imagination. Depart Town Hall with drop off points in the City: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Plaza Hotel, and Rockefeller Center. Pickup time is 7 p.m. in front of Stage Coach Tavern, 7th Ave between 53rd and 54th Streets. Trip dates: Saturday, Oct. 7, depart 7 a.m. or Saturday, Dec. 2, depart 7:30 a.m. $45pp.
FREE FAMILY ACTIVITIES Trunk or Treat: Saturday, Oct. 28, 2 – 4 p.m. Come together as a community and have a fun afternoon of “trick or treating” at Salmon Brook Park. Come to the park at 1 p.m., decorate your trunk and start giving out goodies at 2 p.m. Get your neighbors, friends, civic groups, book club, co-workers, family and friends together to come up with a great theme. There will be prizes for the best-decorated, the spookiest, and the most creative trunks in the park. Sign up your trunk by Oct. 13. No charge. YOUTH ACTIVITIES Music Time with Miss Carrie, ages 6 months to 4 years: Nov. 9 – Dec. 21, 10–10:50 a.m. Children with caregivers will enjoy learning basic melody, finger play, rhythm skills, dancing and music and movement in this entertaining and lively atmosphere. Join Carrie Johnson and start your toddler’s day with singing, dancing, laughter and especially fun. $108, at SBP Gathering Room ARC Babysitting Course, ages 11–15: Oct. 10, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. This class provides information and skills necessary to provide safe and responsible care for children in the absence of parent and adult guardians. This training will help participants develop skills in leadership and professionalism; basic care; safety and safe play; and first aid. $100, at SBP. ARC “When I’m in Charge” Class, ages 8–12: Nov. 18, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. This course for boys and girls who are ever home alone will cover safety concerns parents have when their children are by themselves, such as arriving home, responsibilities, phone and Internet safety, fire and gun safety and many others. Book included in the price of the class and a certificate will be issued upon completion. Parents are welcome to attend. $70pp at HF Workshop. Ski Sundown After School Ski Program Registration for the Wells Road and Granby Middle/High School After School Ski Programs is underway. There are a limited amount of spaces in these programs. When registering online you
will be prompted to print out and complete Ski Sundown’s waiver form, which will need to be returned to the Rec Dept. within two weeks of registration in order to be confirmed. Failure to return the signed form to the Rec Office will result in your child’s spot in the program being forfeited and fee refunded. Registration ends by Nov. 9 or when all available spots are taken, whichever comes first. Granby Youth Basketball League, grades K–8: Dec. 4 – March 3. Register now for the Winter Youth Basketball Program, open to girls and boys. Leagues consist of co-ed grade K; co-ed grade 1; grades 2 girls and boys divisions (will combine if necessary), Boys grades 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8; Girls grades 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8. Games are scheduled for Saturdays; practices for grades 2 – 8 are scheduled during the week, beginning Dec. 4, grade K–1 begins Jan. 6. Games or practices canceled due to “no school days,” weather conditions or last minute school scheduling conflicts may be rescheduled dependent on coach and facility availability. Noncoaching parents will be asked to help monitor the facilities during weeknight practices. Act now to get lowest fee: $95/player through Oct. 15. Between Oct. 16 and Nov. 12 the fee is $105. After Nov. 12 the fee becomes $130. NEW THIS SEASON: Head coaches will receive a refund for their child’s registration fee after the sixth week of the season. Fall Afterschool Program at Kelly Lane, grades K–2 Art-ventures for Kids providing Let’s Gogh Art, Pirates and Fairies: Nov. 3 – Dec. 15, 3:20–4:20 p.m. Sail the high seas on a fantastical art adventure through a world of pirates and princesses, fairies, sea monsters and talking parrots. Children will really get into character, donning handcrafted pirate hats and swords or fairy tiaras and wands. Create wooden rowboats and set out on a search for buried treasure, then create gem-studded treasure chests to hide the riches. Build castles and sculpt clay dragons to guard them. Design pirate flags or fluttering fairy wings. Paint a froggy note holder—perhaps he’ll turn into a prince. Princesses and pirates explore painting, beading, fabric, clay art and more.
Humorous stories are included each week, as well as surprises and laughter. $99pp. Fall Afterschool Program at Wells Road, grades 3–5 Art-ventures for Kids providing Let’s Gogh Art, Spread Your Wings and ROAR! Nov. 1 – Jan. 10, 3:20–4:20 p.m. This all new art-rageous program is truly like a trip to the zoo. Design stuffed Teddy bears, create cool owl paintings on canvas, and sculpt clay peacocks with zany feathers. Color real rubber duckies, make wooden animal puzzles in the style of Oaxacan alebrijes, and even travel back in time to paint dancing dinosaurs with watercolors. We’ll also stop at the zoo food court to create mixed media sandwich collages, and visit the gift shop to design sticker resist T-shirts, make cardboard mustache masks, and build wacky mix-andmatch character blocks. Art-explorers experience painting, drawing, sculpting, fabric design, collage, and more, bringing home exciting handmade souvenirs each week. $129pp. ALL AGES Yoga, ages 18 and over: Nov. 14 – Dec. 19, 8:15–9:15 a.m. Mixed level Yoga class. Stretch, strengthen and restore. Class begins with a gentle warm up, builds to an invigorating flow and ends with deep stretch and peaceful relaxation. Perfect to help gain flexibility, balance, and strength. $65pp, at HF Workshop. Christmas/Holiday Card Making Class: Oct. 21, 1 – 4 p.m. What can be more fun than spending some quality time crafting with friends to create beautiful, hand-made Christmas/ holiday cards? The best part is that you will have your cards done before the holidays. Please bring double-sided tape/adhesive and scissors of your choice. $32pp at SBP. ADULT PROGRAMS Comedy Night At Holcomb Farm, ages 21 and over: Saturday, Nov. 11, 7–10:30 p.m. Join us for a great night of comedy at Holcomb Farm North Barn Pavilion featuring NYC comedians Richie Byrne and Pete Dominick. $40pp. Cash Bar will be available throughout the evening.
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 21
Farm News for October Grand Finale: The length of the days and the thermometer readings may suggest summer is winding down, but not without the grand finale of the fall harvest that makes Granby such a special place to live. The Friends of Holcomb Farm want to be sure you partake in plenty of nourishment—of your soul and body—to carry you through the winter. Chef Prosperi cooking demonstration caps a season of holistic living Our farming programs—the CSA, the retail store, wholesale products for local restaurants, and Fresh Access food for those without access—have been augmented all summer with a Holistic Living Series, and on Oct. 7, at 10 a.m., Metro Bis Chef Chris Prosperi will join us again to demonstrate creative and delicious ways to make the harvest come alive on your home table. The demonstration, like all of the past events, will be free and open to all, held at the CSA Barn, 111 Simsbury Road. The Holistic Living at Holcomb Farm series brought together people from various communities all summer long. Nearly every Saturday since the CSA opened, the Friends of Holcomb Farm
hosted events focused on food, nutrition, health, wellness and a celebration of life. Granby’s Open Farm Day grows into a regional event Led by Granby’s Agricultural Commission, Open Farm Day gave hundreds of people the opportunity to take advantage of perfect weather to engage with Granby’s roots. At Holcomb Farm, kids and their parents explored the barn, cruised the fields, and picked up cooking tips from Julie Wern. Our offerings also included a wildlife table hosted by a Master Wildlife Conservationist from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The display, which was a big hit with young and not-so-young, was Connecticut’s Changing Landscape, featuring a hands-on examination of pelts and skulls of mammals that frequent our changing Connecticut landscape. A bonus, geared for Open Farm Day, was a display that included data about identifying and controlling critters that eat crops and garden vegetables, as well as predators that eat outdoor farm chickens. Fall/winter at the Farm The Holcomb Farm Store remains open to the public through the final CSA summer pick
Julie Wern of the Wholesome Gourmande shares her secrets with a salivating audience at the Holcomb Farm CSA Barn on Open Farm Day. Photo by Jack Lareau
Granby UNICO to hold Festa di Ottobre fundraiser By Bob Marx Beer and Wine tasting, an Italian dinner, live entertainment, “tea cup” raffles and a Silent Auction will highlight Granby UNICO’s annual Festa di Ottobre beginning at 6 p.m. on Monday night, Oct. 9, at the Cambridge House Brew Pub in Granby. Tickets are available in advance at the Cambridge House, Village Cork and Keg or from any UNICO member for only $35. Enjoy appetizers and an Italian dinner featuring such items as antipasto, fried ravioli, stuffed breads, chicken scampi, sausage and peppers, pizza and more. All proceeds will benefit UNICO’s Scholarship Fund, local Granby charities and needy families in the community during the holidays. Entertaining at this Columbus Day
festival will be Woodford Way on its acoustic guitars. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the event runs until 10 p.m. (cash bar after 8). Wines are provided courtesy of Village Cork and Keg and handcrafted beers are courtesy of Cambridge House. Silent Auction prizes include vacations donated by Landmark Tours and Cruises, and raffle prizes include gift baskets from local merchants. UNICO is the nation’s largest ItalianAmerican service organization. The Granby chapter received its charter in 2003 and has an active and growing membership. For further information on the Festa di Ottobre, or the Granby UNICO Club, contact: Anne Guarco at 860-653-2237, Karen Rutigliano at 860653-5699, Joy Marx at 413-977-6306 or Mary Anne Guarco at 860-250-3257.
up, Oct. 28. Then we all turn out attention to—and you should mark your calendars for—November. The Friends of Holcomb Farm Annual Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction will be Saturday, Nov. 4 at Metro Bis in Simsbury. All proceeds go directly to the Fresh Access program, which provides fresh produce for our food-insecure and immuno-compromised neighbors. Tickets go on sale Sept. 24 at the FOHF/ Granby Ag Celebrate Granby Booth, and can be purchased at www.holcombfarm. org. The event will sell out, so get your tickets early. In past years, the auction has included a slab of authentic Granby Oak wood (thank you, Granby Land Trust) to a ride in a firetruck (thanks, Lost Acres Fire Department), to a week in a family home on Martha’s Vineyard (thanks to a generous local family for that donation)—and everything in between! We are seeking contributions of products and services from throughout our community, so if you can help out, contact info@ holcombfarm.org. Master Wildlife Conservation and FOHF volunteer extraordinaire Peggy Lareau shows some critter pelts to an interested audience during Open Farm Day. Photo by Shirley Murtha
The CSA’s Winter Shares go on sale Oct. 1. Farmer Joe tells us the winter veggie crop looks great this year, so don’t miss out. Contents will include cabbage, sweet potatoes, turnips, watermelon radishes, rutabaga, carrots, beets, potatoes, onions, crushed tomatoes, kohlrabi, parsnips and celeriac, as well as spinach and salad greens from the greenhouses. The pick-up dates are Nov. 4, 18 or 21, Dec. 16, Jan. 13 and Feb. 10, all at the CSA Barn. Winter shares always sell out, so don’t delay—get yours today!
Page 22 The Granby Drummer
October 2017
2017 OPEN FARM DAY
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October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 23
District data shows achievement gaps in Granby schools Granby’s Equity Task Force, composed of teachers, parents, and administrators, revealed its findings to the Board of Education this month. Granby follows the national trend of large learning disparities between special education and regular education students and between students from Granby and those from Hartford and Hartland. The framework that the task force used “closely mirrors the Connecticut Next Generation Accountability System,” with input from administrators and the board. Although students with special education needs graduate at a high rate, other indicators are concerning. For example, in assessing their college readiness, the task force reviewed data about: • college course completion (taking an AP, ECE, or Pathways course), • college course success (completing one of those courses), • college exam readiness (scoring 530 Math and 480 ELA on the SAT or 3 or higher on an AP exam). Eighty percent of students in special education services attempted a college course as compared to 91 percent of regular education students. However, students with special needs were much less successful in these classes with only 45 percent completing them and 25 percent meeting the standards for SAT and AP scores. Students in regular education had a much higher completion rate (81.2 percent) and achieved the exam standards at a 76.7 percent rate. At the grade-school level, all students are assessed using the SBAC test for math and ELA and CAPT for science. While the regular education students had an 82.6 percent success rate in science and a 78.7 percent rate in ELA, students with special needs earned a 39.2 percent rate in science and a 38.2 percent ELA rate. Math scores were low for all students but those with special needs
earned 21.6 percent as compared to 68.4 percent for regular education students. These scores reflect the intermediate and middle school principals’ assessment that SBAC scores are “stagnant” and have “flat lined” since the SBAC test’s implementation. The special education population also does not have the same level of school engagement. The rate of attendance is lower than the regular education population by 8.4 percent. Those in special education participate in school activities almost 20 percent less than those in regular education. The picture does not improve when the data is compared by towns of student residence. Although graduation rates are high for students from Granby, Hartford, and Hartland, the indicators for college readiness show large disparities. Only 60 percent of students from Hartford and 66.7 percent of those from Hartland complete a college level course as compared to 92.1 percent of students from Granby. The success rates in college courses shows a gap of over 60 percent between students from Granby and Hartford and a gap of 36 percent between those from Granby and Hartland. Seventy-three percent of students from Granby who took the SAT or AP exams made the benchmark, while no students from Hartford and only 55 percent of students from Hartland achieved the needed scores. At the grade school level, the data is less complete because students from Hartland attend their own elementary school. Performance on the CAPT Science test was almost 80 percent for students living in Granby. For those living in Hartford, that rate dropped to just under 28 percent and for Hartland 77 percent. The SBAC Literacy exam for grades 3-8 showed a dramatic gap between Granby and Hartford students with 76.4 percent proficient from Granby • Ceilings Walls & Trim • Spray, Brush or Rolled • Repair Ceilings & Walls due to water damage, etc. • Insured/Free Estimates
and only 13.5 percent for students from Hartford. The SBAC math scores showed weakness for students from both Granby and Hartford. An anemic 65 percent of students living in Granby were deemed proficient. Scores for students from Hartford plunged to 10.8 percent at math proficiency. School engagement across residences was also uneven. Approximately 2/3 of the student population participated in school activities regardless of where they live. Attendance for students from Granby and Hartland was high (96 percent and 94 percent respectively), though students from Hartford attended at a 75 percent rate. This data has been reviewed by the board annually since the 2014-15 school year and has not changed significantly in that time in any indicator for any population. Budget Concerns The lack of a state budget has overshadowed board discussions. In response to the State’s continuing budget battle, the district has frozen approximately $150,000 of nonessential expenditures, deferring both maintenance and technology improvements. The close of the 2016-17 school year left just under $352,000 in the district’s budget, will be returned to the town. The start of the new school year, however, has a negative financial forecast of $546,898 due to unfavorable expenditures in both special and regular education. With the state budget in flux, the district cannot count on receiving up to $664,274 in excess cost for student outplacements. Additionally, higher transportation costs ($155,532 over budget) impact the negative forecast. The new bus company, CREC, was “the most qualified as well as the lowest bidder” for the new contract.
As the school year continues, funding issues aren’t the only concerns for building administrators. They see an increase in students with high-need emotional issues, substance abuse problems, and mental health needs across the K-12 spectrum. Aimee Martin, Director of Pupil Services, acknowledged the need to better coordinate with the Youth Services Bureau in order to adequately assist high-risk students. The principals at both the middle and primary schools made it clear that they want the board to institute a strings program in the district, a hoped-for project. The middle school would also like to see Chinese as a future world language offering.
GEF calls for continued community commitment to excellence As the school year starts and thoughts turn to leaves, pumpkins, corn mazes and sports, the Granby Education Foundation sends out its annual appeal. The funds raised stay in the community to “nourish educational excellence…in support of innovative educational initiatives for people of all ages.” GEF funds initiatives such as the Granby Grunts middle and high school robotics team; the Bruce Porter music series in Salmon Brook Park; Hands-on Art Fun Day; and One Book-One School at Wells Road School, among many other programs. The community’s support of GEF allows for diverse and enriching programs and activities for students of all ages. Please remember GEF in your annual giving!
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Page 24 The Granby Drummer
Stanley Hayes Co-owner with son and wife of House of Hayes farm (Sweet Pea Farm) Age: 59
Where did the name “Sweet Pea Farm” come from? Years ago my wife acquired a herd of goats. At that time my mother used to grow Freezonian peas. Since every herd was given a name, hers became Sweet Pea because these goats liked to eat the sweet Freezonian peas. Our farm actually dates back to the 1830s and the Hayes families were some of the first settlers in Granby during the 1690s to early 1700s. They originally came from Scotland, moved to England, then Windsor, Conn., and finally to Granby. The name of our farm, though, is truly House of Hayes Farm. Tell about your role in the farm… Basically managerial. I am responsible for the retail activities such as our goat cheese, the processing room and keeping the books. At first my wife Dorothy
started making the cheese, whereas I started producing the yogurt, but these days I’m more involved in field work and accounting. My son Daniel and his sister Ellen keep records for the cows and now they have robotic milkers so that is quite exciting. Dorothy tends to the goats along with working in the processing room with the yogurt, goat cheese, and milk from the cows. She also creates the recipes and is a vet tech by trade (she worked at Salmon Brook veterinary hospital). This has come in quite handy when one of our animals becomes ill. We are involved in the farmer’s markets at various locations in Connecticut as well. Of course, when someone needs a hand anywhere on the farm we all pitch in to help. Where do you get ideas for the corn maze? The corn maze is my pleasure. It is my summer release since traveling is pretty impossible during our busiest season. Around the year 2001, while on vacation in Pennsylvania, I saw a corn maze near the Strasbourg Railroad or Hershey Park area. After that I began looking into mazes and found that there were only two in Connecticut; one at Lyman Orchards
and the other near Lime Rock. A young high school student in Michigan wrote a paperback book describing how to design a maze using the grid system. I believe he has a company now that will go to farms and help with forming mazes using GPS. I use the grid system myself and do not rely on GPS. Looking on the internet I found an idea from a farmer in Australia that involved putting clues in the maze so as to make a game of it. So I went on to choose a yearly theme and compose multiple-choice questions for visitors. The first one was about Granby history. I bet few people realize that a section of our town was called Pegville because a shoe factory was located there. Pegs held the upper leather parts to the soles of the shoes. We have had a variety of themes over the years such as circus and national monuments. This year I re-worked the 2006 cow maze. Seen from above it is a cow being milked by a milk maid with a robot pulling its tail. This is a nod to the new technology that we have been fortunate to have here on our farm. The maze covers 3.5 acres and is a bit on the smaller scale when compared to larger farms such as the one in Spencer, Mass., that was about 15 acres and where last year some people got lost. Size doesn’t really matter, it is the time spent in the maze and here this is a bit longer due to the game questions. My dad helps out with it. You have to first design the labyrinth on graph paper and then the fields are planted so as to help form the “picture” that will eventually become the network of paths.
October 2017 Who is someone that inspires you? I had a distant relative named Barbara Crouse who lived near the Historical Society when I was a child. Although my mother insisted that all of us kids learn piano or another instrument, it was Barbara Crouse that encouraged me to stay with it and enjoy music. She was the choir director at First Church; I was in the choir then and these days I have been singing once again at First Church. My mother also was significant in passing on an interest in music as she got me a guitar with Green Stamps. I was self-taught since I could read music and before my marriage I was in a garage band, which was a lot of fun. This interest has stayed with me throughout my life as even today I like to jam with a close friend when I can find time. What is something enjoyable you like to do here in Granby? Of course, Granby is a great place for hiking. McLean’s game refuge, the entrance near Barndoor Hills road is just fine. Enders State Forest is especially beautiful. I was in the fire department for more than 30 years and we pulled quite a lot of people out of the falls area there at Enders. I also especially like meeting new people in town and seeing old faces. We do a farmer’s market at Lost Acres right before each major holiday of the year. It’s fun to see so many local people milling around. Recently we were featured in Open Farm Day and there again I was delighted to see people from all over town.
Granby Artists annual open studio tour is Oct. 14-15 By Debby Reelitz The Granby Artists Association will hold its annual Open Studio Tour Saturday and Sunday, October 14-15, at home studios throughout Granby. In addition, Lost Acres Vineyard will host oil painter, Alexander Anisimov, on both days of the tour. Anisimov, a classically trained Russian artist, will be creating charcoal and sepia portraits for visitors. The portraits will take 15 to 20 minutes and cost only $25. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at: 860-408-1671. The group is very excited to have a new participant in the tour this year, folk art painter with a contemporary twist, Anne Winsor. She will be welcoming visitors
to her new studio space on Silkey Road. Also on Silkey Road, you will find wood turner, Scott Duncan, and calligrapher, Debby Reelitz. Duncan continues to craft custom keepsakes from customer’s own trees. During this past year, he has also used 200-year-old barn beams to make unique candleholders. Don’t miss the flying wood chips as Duncan will be demonstrating how to make pens, bowls and bottle stoppers during the open studio. Calligrapher Debby Reelitz, invites the curious to try their hand at calligraphy. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, from 10:30 to 11:30, she will be teaching a free mini-calligraphy class. Saturday’s class will introduce guests to the blackletter style and Sunday’s class will introduce
the uncial style, a letterform of Irish heritage. Reelitz has taught this brief calligraphic introduction at corporations, schools, museums, and more. It’s a fun way to get a glimmer of what calligraphy is like. Reservations are highly recommended as there is table space available for eight guests. Please call 860-413-9041. Easily accessible off of Route 20, visitors will find treasures at two different studio locations, Jean Luc Godard’s lighting and sculpture studio and the pottery studio with Avis Cherichetti and Linda Yurasevecz. Godard, who experiments extensively with materials, will be unveiling two new collections. One of them will be a newly acquired skill and passion in the field of metal sculptures and another working with clear acrylic materials.
Cherichetti, will be demonstrating at 10 a.m. and noon, both on Saturday and Sunday. She will be throwing on the wheel, manipulating and trimming bowls in her seed pod and flower series. Yurasevecz’s pottery will also be on display at the Cherchetti studio. On the south-end of town, you will find another studio with wood chips flying. Chainsaw artist and photographer Barbara Schmitt will be running chainsaw demonstrations all weekend. Along with her larger carvings, she will also have some small, fun Halloween items for sale. Not too far off of Route 189, north of the town center, you will find painters Sally Markey and Laura Eden. A watercolor painter and craft artist, Markey will be
Artists open studio cont’d. on p. 25
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 25
Happenings at the Center THE “SKINNY” ON OCTOBER ACTIVITIES What If I Need Help? Tuesday, Oct. 3, 1 p.m. Presented by McLean Home Care and Hospice and Nurse Next Door. What are your options if you need some additional help after an illness or surgery? This presentation will help to clarify the different types of home-help available and the funding sources for care. No charge but please register by calling 860-844-5350. What If Serious Health Issues Strike? Tuesday, Oct. 17, 1 p.m. Presented by McLean Home Care and Hospice. The Conversation Project emphasizes having a conversation on values— what matters to you, not what‘s the matter with you—if you are facing a life threatening illness. Give your family peace of mind by letting them know before a crisis what is important to you on a personal level. No charge but please register by calling 860-844-5350. Gourd Crafting: Fridays, Oct. 6 and 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Presented by Ceil Rossi of Carefree Gourd Gallery. Create your own piece of fine art from a gourd during this two-day workshop. This is an easy and elegant gourd; perfect for beginners. The cost of both four-hour workshops plus all materials is $67. The workshop maximum is 5 people so don’t wait to sign up. Bring a bag lunch. To register call 860-844-5350. Remembering When: Tuesday, Oct. 10, 1 p.m. It’s Fire Prevention Week, so we will offer a program designed to develop safe habits that reduce the risks of fire and fall injuries. Refreshments will be served. No charge but please register by calling 860-844-5350. Commission on Aging: Tuesday, Oct. 10, 9:30 a.m. The Commission on Aging proposes and evaluates programs and services for the elderly in the community, and assists the town staff in the development, initiation, coordination and implementation of programs and services for the elderly. Meetings are open to the public. Veteran’s Coffee: Tuesday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. Presented by Hartford HealthCare at Home. Veteran Liaison Wayne Rioux will facilitate the group discussion at this monthly gathering to learn about benefits, entitlements and other services. Refreshments provided by MeadowBrook of Granby. No charge but please register by calling 860-844-5350, although drop-ins are also welcome. Veteran’s Tribute Concert: Save the date on Thursday, Nov. 9, 7 p.m. for a performance by the Governor’s Foot Guard Band at Valley Brook Community Church. This event is co-sponsored by the Granby Senior Center, Valley Brook Community Church and Resilience Grows Here. Flu Clinic: Saturday, Oct. 14, 9:30 a.m. Sponsored by the Farmington Valley VNA. Call 860-651-3539 for an appointment. Please note that they will not be offering pneumonia shots this year. Foods That Fight Depression: Thursday, Oct. 19, 4 p.m. Presented by Alicia Newton of Nourish My Soul, and sponsored by Resilience Grows Here. This event combines veterans, teens and community members to prepare a meal together, from ingredients that fight depression. Learn about the importance of good gut bacteria to release serotonin, healthy whole grains to regulate blood sugar and the mood elevating power of turkey with tryptophan and its amazing power to release natural serotonin and melatonin! No charge but please register by Oct. 12 by calling 860-844-5350.
New New New New New! Grab-n-Go! or Sit-n-Stay! Every Friday beginning Oct. 20, the Granby Senior Club Café will offer soup and a sandwich for only $5. Lunch includes a cup of soup and your choice of one of two sandwiches. You can eat your meal at the center or take it to-go. Menus will be posted at the Senior Center and on the website at www.granby-ct.gov/senior-services. This new service is a great way to enjoy the company of friends throughout the winter months. Walk-ins are welcome, though we will serve those who pre-registered first. Tell your neighbors or, better yet, bring them with you! To register please call 860-844-5350. AARP Driver Safety Course: Tuesday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn the current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to operate your vehicle more safely in today’s challenging driving environment. Learn how to manage and accommodate age-related changes in vision, hearing, reaction time and much more. Register by calling 860-844-5350. Cost $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members. Make payment directly to the Instructor the day of the class. Lunch for the Mind, The Connecticut Witch Trials: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 12:30 p.m. Presented by Jason Scappaticci. Everyone is familiar with the Salem Witch Trials, but many residents don’t know that Connecticut had its own witch hunt before Salem did. Register by calling 860-844-5350. Bring your own lunch. Dessert and beverages will be provided. Cost is $5. Helping Hands Needed: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please join Days for Girls International (www.daysforgirls.org) to sew for women in need of sanitary products around the world. Need sewers and non-sewers to volunteer. To learn more please contact Josie Klein at 860653-5752 or josiklein@sbcglobal.net Lunch and Learn: The Basics of Hearing: Monday, Oct, 30 at 12 p.m. Presented by Howard Raff from And How Hearing. Raff, who is Board Certified in Hearing Instrument Sciences, will discuss hearing loss and it’s causes, the signs and symptoms to look for as well as the effects of hearing loss on an individual’s whole health. No charge but please register by calling 860-8445350 by Oct. 23. JUST FOR FUN! These events are free and drop-in unless otherwise noted. Monday Morning Coffee: Mondays at 8:45 a.m. Mexican Train: Mondays at 9:45 a.m. Coloring Class: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Supplies provided. Setback: Tuesdays at 2 p.m. Artist Group: Wednesdays at 9 a.m. Poets: Wednesday, Oct. 11 and 25, 10:30 a.m. Needleworks: Thursdays at 10 a.m. Beading: Fridays at 9:30 a.m. Greeting Card Stamping Class: Thursday, Oct. 19, 9:30 a.m. Do you want to make lovely, original, hand-crafted greetings cards? Learn the basics of creating your own greeting cards, no experience necessary. Register by calling 860844-5350. $5pp. CLUBS Camera Club: Monday, Oct. 2, 7 p.m. Annual club fee $10. Senior Club: Thursday, Oct. 5, 12:30 p.m. Annual club fee $5. The Senior Club is actively seeking new members to make a difference in the Granby senior community. Please bring ideas to the next meeting.
Artists open studio cont’d. from p. 24 demonstrating the art of paste paper on Saturday and also how to use that paper to make small journal books on Sunday. Her paintings and drawings will be displayed along with her handmade jewelry and soft-toys. Eden will have an egg tempera painting in process, and a home full of wall-sized watercolor paintings and smaller egg tempera designs. Up in North Granby, you’ll find Mark Gottlieb and Annukka Ritalahti’s glass studio where the furnace will be cranking and the propane torch blowing. Gottlieb will have glass-blowing demonstrations in the hot-shop all day long throughout the weekend. You can watch a variety of techniques used in glass-
blowing. There will be visiting artists as well because some of the more advanced techniques require group work. Ritalahti will be demonstrating how to make glass beads and small sculptures using an oxygen/propane torch. You’ll also be able to learn about glass mosaic construction techniques and the different steps to make stained glass suncatchers. There’s a lot to see so be sure to leave plenty of time to catch the demonstrations, classes and wide variety of mediums on display during this 16th annual Open Studio Tour by the Granby Artists. More details can be found at: www.granbyartists.org
Civic Engagement Team: Thursday, Oct. 12, 9:30 a.m. Civic Club: Thursday, Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. Men’s Breakfast: Friday, Oct. 13, 8:30 a.m. Cost $2. Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, Oct. 4, 8:30 a.m. Call 860-653-9891 to reserve your spot. Cost $4. SENIOR VAN The Senior Van provides rides for adults 60 and over to shopping and activities at the Senior Center. Please call 860-844-5353 one week in advance for scheduling. SHOPPING
South Windsor, Evergreen Walk and Target on Friday, Oct. 6, departs 9:30 a.m. $3. Dine and Drive to Abigail’s Grille on Friday, Oct. 20. $3 for ride, lunch on your own. GROCERY SHOPPING
Ocean State Job Lot and Big Y in Southwick, every Tuesday, departs at 1:30 p.m. Big Y’s has 10 percent senior discount every Tuesday. Geissler’s, every Wednesday, call to arrange a time. Geissler’s has 5 percent senior discount every Wednesday. Stop & Shop every Thursday, departs at 1:30 p.m. TRIPS
Garlic and Harvest Festival: Saturday, Oct. 7, departs 9 a.m. We will travel to Bethlehem for this fun fair that features garlic. Twenty vendors will be on hand to offer samples, food, music, handmade crafts, how to grow garlic presentations and cooking demos. Admission ($7) and lunch are on your own. Cost for ride $4. Payment due by Sept. 29. Adventure Club Cedar Hill Cemetery Walking Tour: Wednesday, Oct. 11, departs 9:30 a.m. The cemetery grounds comprise 270 acres of woodlands, fields, wetlands and ponds. The cemetery is the final resting ground for many Connecticut notables such as Katharine Hepburn, Elizabeth and Samuel Colt, and Gilbert Heublein. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Cost $15. Brown’s Harvest Hayride: Wednesday, Oct. 18, departs 11 a.m. Enjoy a hayride and shopping at the farm store. Everyone gets a free pumpkin, a cup of cider and a donut. Lunch will be on your own before the hayride at Tunxis Grill and Pizzaria. Cost $10. Payment due by Oct. 11. Aquarium/Penguin Encounter: Monday, Oct. 23, departs 8:30 a.m. Spend the morning at the Mystic Aquarium. For an additional cost, take part in a Penguin Encounter where you will spend 60 minutes hands-on with the penguins. Enjoy the afternoon at Olde Mistick Village for shopping and lunch (on your own). The Penguin Encounter is limited to the first nine people. Cost: $27 for aquarium only; $106 for aquarium and penguin encounter. Payment due at registration. HEALTH AND WELLNESS Community Café: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12 p.m. Complete hot meal is served for seniors through the Community Renewal Team nutrition program. Suggested donation of $2.50. Monthly menus are available at the center. Call 860-8445350 by Friday noon to make a reservation for the following week. Healthy Minds: Situations such as the death of a loved one, failing health, strained family relationships or the stress of deciding to leave a home that is too big to manage can be daunting to face alone. Colleen Golnik, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, may help you move forward with the better part of life. Call 860-844-5352 to schedule a confidential appointment. Suggested donation is $20 per session.
On Grief and Loss: Wednesdays, Oct. 11 and 25, 2:30 p.m. Find support whether your loss is recent or not. Facilitated by Jane Johnson, Granby resident and creator of Bryan’s Landing and the Our Children’s Garden in Salmon Brook Park. Drop in/Free. Hearing Clinic: Thursday, Oct. 5, starting at 9 a.m. No charge, but please call to make an appointment, 860-844-5350. Farmington Valley VNA Blood Pressure Check: Every Thursday, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Free. Foot Care Clinic with Pedi-Care: Friday, Oct. 27. Cost is $29 at time of service (not covered by insurance). Reiki Sessions: Tuesdays, Oct. 10 and 24, by appointment. Half-hour session $20. Chair Massage: Tuesdays, Oct. 3, 17 and 31 by appointment. A 15-minute chair massage for $10. SUPPORT GROUPS Alzheimer’s Support Group for Caregivers and Their Loved One: Tuesday, Oct. 10. 10 a.m. Learn how to cope with the changes in behavior and the changes in your relationship with them, and to understand how to handle it all. Led by Peggy Coburn of the Alzheimer’s Association. MS Support Group: Monday, Oct. 23, 1 p.m. This is a self-help group for persons with Multiple Sclerosis and their caregivers. Raising Grandchildren Support Group: Thursdays at 12 p.m. Support for grandparents who are raising grandchildren. CHOICES Counselor: Wednesday, Oct. 18. Do you need help in understanding Medicare and its supplements? The counselor will help to weigh the medical plan options to find the right plan for your needs. Call for an appointment. Free. Medical Equipment Loaner Closet: If ever in need of a wheelchair, walker, cane, tub seat or other durable medical equipment contact 860-8445352. Donations accepted by appointment only. Ask the Attorney: Wednesday, Oct. 4, by appointment only. Call 860-844-5352. Generic situations can be discussed. STAYING FIT Classes are available five days a week and are ongoing. Call 860-844-5350 to register or to determine which class best fits your abilities and needs. Drop-in cost $8. Yoga Flow: Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Rise and shine with this gentle, yet effective, yoga flow class. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Gentle Movement and Balance: Mondays at 11:15 a.m. An exercise class designed to increase strength, balance, flexibility and coordination. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Cardio Circuit Training: Mondays at 4:30 p.m. Warm up and move with timed stations, core work and stretching to invigorate you and get your metabolism heated. Instructor, Gina Marecki. Chair Yoga: Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m. Enhanced breathing, increased blood flow, reduced tension and better posture are achieved through the various yoga poses. Great for those with limited mobility. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Yoga: Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. Thoughtful breathing and controlled postures. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Tone-up Tune-up: Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Move to the music of the 50s, 60s and 70s. This is a low impact cardiovascular workout with intervals of weight work for upper and lower body strengthening. This workout does not go to the floor; core training performed seated or standing. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Full Body Workout: Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. Combination of aerobics and strength with more muscle work with weights. Instructor, Gina Marecki. Chi Gong: Fridays at 8:30 a.m. A gentle, lowimpact, standing or seated class focusing on flexibility, balance, healing and pain management. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins. Cardio Combo: Fridays at 10:15 a.m. Quicker pace and more aerobics. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Line Dancing: Fridays at 1 p.m. Learn to line dance, from the Boot Scootin’ Boogie to the Cha-Cha. Appropriate for beginners as well as advanced line dancers. Instructor, Jim Gregory. Peak: Sundays at 7:30 a.m. Vigorous aerobics and weights. Instructor, Jen Dzielak.
Page 26 The Granby Drummer
October 2017
Browse & Borrow GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays: 1 to 4 p.m., November – March
COSSITT PUBLIC LIBRARY Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday: 12 to 5 p.m. Find Us Online Town of Granby (www.granby-ct.gov); use links for Facebook Page and Pinterest Boards. Pre-registration is required for many programs. Call 860-844-5275 (GPL Main Desk); 860-8445284 (GPL Children); 860-653-8958 (Cossitt); or email gplibrary@granby-ct.gov. Holiday Closing Both libraries will be closed on Monday, Oct. 9 for the Columbus Day holiday. Tech Update Because the Consortium has instituted a supplemental delivery / pickup service for its 30 libraries, the holds limit has been lifted. We thank you for your patience over the past year during the State Library’s difficulties with service. GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY Book Clubs are free and open to the public; copies of the selected titles or author’s works are available at the Main Library. Something About The Author: Meets Monday, Oct. 2, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Author, Hampton Sides. Around the World: Meets Monday, Oct. 16, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Keeper of Lost Causes, by Jussi Adler-Olsen (Denmark) SciFi / Fantasy: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 7–7:45 p.m. American God, by Neil Gaiman ADULT AND TEEN PROGRAMS
Crafters Café, Succulent Dish Gardens: Thursday, Oct. 5, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Adults and older teens are invited to create a small dish garden of succulents with Roxann Lovell, florist, artist, jeweler, nature-made crafter and owner of the spirited shop Aerie Mountain. All materials supplied. Registration required; limit 12.
Thru Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Wednesday, Oct. 18, 6:30–8 p.m., Senior/Youth Center Community Room. Folks are singing the praises of Sam Ducharme and his heart-felt, entertaining, and inspiring presentation of a modern day adventure. A lifelong resident of Connecticut and retired K9 Officer, Ducharme set out on a 2,180 mile backpacking trip that became a life-changing journey. The images and stories will leave you with renewed awe of the beauty of our country and its people. Registration recommended. Passport on Wheels: Saturday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Apply for a passport or renew an existing passport. The library and U.S. Postal Service have teamed to offer a convenient and time-saving opportunity. Pick up the appropriate forms from the library or post office before the event or fill them out while comfortably seated at the library. Need a photo? That’s handled on site, too. It’s first come, first served when you drop in. Call for more information. Money and My Honey: Mondays, Oct. 23, 30, Nov. 6 and 13, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. A casual and informative series designed to help couples get on the same page when it comes to family finances. Pick up essential information regarding Financial Planning (Session 1)—how to organize personal finances; Investment Allocation (Session 2)—fundamentals in portfolio planning; Cash Flow (Session 3)—creation of a net worth statement and managing income and expenses; Charitable and Estate Planning (Session 4)—tax efficient and productive ways to get the most from your giving. Come to one, more or all four sessions; registration recommended; limited to 8 participants per session. Halloween Cookie Decorating: Wednesday, Oct. 25, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. In this demo and handson class, participants will be introduced to the basics of the outline and flood method of cookie decorating taught by Julie Wern, the local cookie lady. Learn and practice simple frosting tricks and decorate three bakery quality Halloween cookies to bring home and show off to the family. For adults and teens. Registration required, limit 12. CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Family Movie Nights: Wednesdays, Oct. 4, 11, 18 and 25, beginning at 6 p.m. Drop in and enjoy a family-friendly film, we even provide
Animal Talk Caitlin Rothacker DVM, DABVP Equine Practice
Senior care in the equine patient With the changing of the leaves and cooler weather setting in, our equine owners often contact us concerning their aged partner. Commonly, we field calls discussing these seniors and their ability to withstand the colder months. While age is truly “just a number,” our senior equinefriends do require some special care. As many of you can attest, horses are living longer and longer. Better quality nutrition is likely a large component to this. As horses age, their digestive system ages as well and may not process nutrients in the same way. Specifically designed senior feeds are easier for animals to digest; they are often a complete feed, meaning there is hay incorporated into the pellets. Older animals can spend less energy digesting and use these nutrients for fat and muscle stores for the winter. An older horse is labelled “long in the tooth” due to their long incisors (front teeth), the molars used for grinding are getting shorter and shorter. Horses, like rabbits, are hypsodonts; their teeth erupt and are worn down throughout their life. However, once there is no more tooth to erupt, there is a decrease in ability to grind
up forage like hay and grass. Proper attention by a veterinarian can prevent painful sharp points on these teeth and preserve their grinding ability. Altering the diet to provide forage in a different form can help maintain weight. Hay cubes, soaked into a horsey-oatmeal consistency, is an alternative to traditional hay and grass. Aged horses are prone to developing a different set of diseases. Cushings disease, or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, is common in horses over 18 years old (can be diagnosed in younger animals). This disease affects multiple body systems; common clinical signs include increased thirst, excessive winter hair coat, laminitis and a decrease in energy and muscle mass. A simple blood test can help diagnose the disease. Treatment typically is a single pill daily and improves these horses’ general health and well-being. While pulling out fleece jackets and stocking up on all things pumpkin, consider reaching out to your veterinarian. With a little planning, good nutrition and veterinary care, we can keep our seniors happy and healthy through the colder months.
popcorn. Movie titles are posted one or two weeks in advance. No registration needed. All ages welcome. R.E.A.D. Dog: Saturday, Oct. 14, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sign up to read to Shukuru, a 9-yearold blind cocker spaniel. Shukuru is a certified R.E.A.D. dog that loves to listen to stories or have children tell him about the pictures in a book. All ages. Call 860-844-5284 to register or sign up in person at Granby Library. ZUMBA, ages 5–11: Saturday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m. Move to music with instructor Amy Thompson. Join us for a fun-filled session. Registration is required, limited to 12. Meet a Real Firefighter, ages 3 and up: Tuesday, Oct. 24, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Meet members of the Lost Acres Fire Department, try on gear, sit in the fire truck, and learn about fire safety. Please register in advance as space is limited. Craft Week: Monday – Saturday, Oct. 23 – 28. Drop in anytime during the week and create a fun project to take home. All materials supplied. Halloween Party for Preschoolers: Tuesday, Oct. 31, 10:30 a.m. Wear your costume and join us for (not-so-spooky) stories, songs and Halloween treats. All preschoolers welcome with a caregiver. Pre-registration suggested but not required. STORYTIMES
Preschool Story Time, ages 3–5: Tuesdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24, 10:30 a.m. Children with caregiver share stories, songs, finger plays and a craft with Miss Joan. No registration required. Drop-ins welcome. Wee Ones Story Time, ages 0 to 2: Thursdays, Oct. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 10:30 a.m. Board books, finger plays, songs and gentle movement for babies and toddlers with a caregiver. Drop-ins welcome, space permitting. COSSITT LIBRARY CHILDREN
Cossitt Craft Days: Oct. 5, 7, 12 and 14. Drop by the Cossitt Library Children’s Room for books and crafts. Popcorn! Popcorn! Popcorn! Tuesday, Oct. 10,
3 – 5 p.m. October is National Popcorn Month. It might sound corny, but you’re invited to pop in to the library for the promise of all things popcorn. Try our POPular crafts, books, movies and treats. For all ages. ADULTS AND TEENS
Be Ready, National Preparedness Month: Tuesday, Oct. 3, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Disasters don’t plan ahead, but YOU can. Learn more from Granby’s Community Emergency Response Team and Town Fire Marshall Richard Jones when you drop by the library for an informative presentation and free emergency planning materials. Mark your calendar for this valuable Q & A opportunity with area experts. Whether it’s making a plan for your family or your business, prepare ahead for peace of mind. Registration recommended. For more information visit www. ready.gov/september. Writers Group: Tuesday, Oct. 10 and 24, 6 – 7:45 p.m. The Cossitt Writers Group welcomes adult writers of all genres to work on their material in a friendly group setting. Fellow scribes are invited to enjoy coffee and camaraderie every second and fourth Tuesday. Registration recommended. All About Bats: Thursday, Oct. 12, 2 – 3 p.m. Dispel the myths and learn the facts about the world’s only flying mammal. Linda Bowen, DEEP and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Rehabilitator, will share her knowledge and extensive experience. Program includes a colorful and dramatic photo presentation featuring bats from tiny pups to adulthood. Hear ultrasonic vocalizations of bats using echolocation. Program does not involve live animals. For adults and youth. Registration required; space is limited. Ghostology 101: Friday, Oct. 13, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Interested in learning the science behind paranormal investigations? Curious about the difference between a ghost, an apparition or a doppelganger? Agawam Paranormal offers an informed and enlightened presentation for adults and teens. Hear samples of audio recordings from paranormal investigations. Ask questions, share experiences, and understand phenomena of another realm. Registration required.
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 27
Public Works Fall Transfer Station hours: In addition to Saturdays, the transfer station will be open Wednesday mornings (8 a.m. to noon) through November 15 Shred-It event: A paper shredding event will be held at 52 North Granby Road from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, October 14. Proof of Granby residency is required. Documents are shredded onsite. Plastic bags should not go into the shredder—please bring items in paper bags or in containers that can be emptied into the barrels. Household Hazardous waste collection: the next collection will be held Saturday, Oct. 28, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Simsbury DPW facility, 66 Town Forest Road, Simsbury. A list of accepted items is available on the Town of Granby website. The following additional services will be provided: Electronics recycling (items with Freon
not accepted) and document shredding, special hours 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. or until truck is full. Two box limit per resident. For information on either event, call the Granby DPW at 860-653-8960. RecycleCT: check it out: Do you have questions about what can go in your recycling bin? If so, there is a great new resource to help. Recycle CT is a website designed to answer your questions. Sign on and try out the recycling wizard. Simply type in the name of an item and you will be directed on how to dispose of it properly. You can find it at www.recyclect.com Yard Waste: Please be aware that yard waste should not be placed in your trash or recycling barrels. Yard waste has been banned from curbside trash barrels since 1998. Grass, leaves and brush should be composted on site or brought to the Granby Transfer Station.
Foxfield F.A.R.M. completes new barn Foxfield F.A.R.M. (For A Recovery Mission) 501C3 charity is in the completion stage of the new barn adjacent to the indoor ring. It has office, tack, feed equipment and lounge rooms plus four stalls to allow for additional rescue/ rehab horses as part of the overall equine therapy program for veterans with PTSD. Various local businesses have contributed in-kind services, materials and financial support to the therapy mission and including: Roderick Construction, LLC, Monrovia Nurseries, Wayne’s Tree Service, DMR Materials, Webster Bank, Granby Chapter of UNICO, Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital, Newman’s Own Foundation, Wells Fargo Foundation, Just Give, Emmons Tropical Fish and Pond, Lowes, Equestrian Centre, Thompson’s Feed, Quinnipiac University as well as private family foundations and professional individuals. To find out more about Foxfield F.A.R.M. and how you can make a con-
Mark Roderick, owner of Roderick Construction LLC and assistant completing the aisle for the new barn.
tribution, please visit the website: www. foxfieldrecoverymission.org.
CTVV interviews Rep. Larson Susan Patricelli-Regan had the opportunity to engage Congressman John Larson in an informative discussion on many topics of interest to her viewer audience. Congressman Larson, as the Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Committee, has proposed a number of agendas to improve life for U.S. residents both on a national and local basis. Among them are: the Social Security Act 2100 that would cut taxes for seniors, increase benefits and fiscally strengthen the entire program and a bill that would seek nearly a $2 trillion overhaul to the nation’s infrastructure. Closer to home is a reconstruct of the I-84 and I-91 interchange in downtown Hartford. These projects would be funded by a carbon tax known as the “America Wins Act.” In addition, Larson candidly outlined his thoughts on the nation’s critical health care program still at an impasse in Congress and loom-
Congressman Larson with PatricelliRegan at his office in Hartford. ing as a major challenge for the current administration’s “fix it” or “repeal/replace it” conundrum. Watch this informative interview On Cox/Enfield Friday, Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 7, at 10 a.m. See all the shows at www.ctvalleyviews. com.
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Page 28 The Granby Drummer
October 2017
Start With With aa Strong Strong Start Foundation. Foundation. NEW LISTING
Granby • $349,900
NEW LISTING
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Nancy Thoma • 860-836-1069
NEW PRICE
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Glastonbury • $244,900
Granby • $239,900
Granby • $179,500
Judy Guarco • 860-651-2127
Anna Sogliuzzo • 860-995-0279
Granby • $409,900
Sun-filled Colonial with a walk-out basement perfect for an in-law or au-pair.
Adorable three bedroom Ranch on 1.6 acres.
Anna Sogliuzzo • 860-995-0279
10.63%
27.01% Coldwell Banker
Suffield • $589,900
Suffield’s historic district, The Austin house is beautifully updated.
Rob Nye • 860-258-9016
36.20% Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties
Joanie Muller 860-977-1938 Granby • $375,000
Neighborhood Colonial in a private setting w/gourmet kitchen & large sunroom.
Anna Sogliuzzo • 860-995-0279
Granby • $584,900
Nancy Reardon 860-836-7506
Airy and bright custom built Colonial with au pair suite.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Granby • $525,000
Beautiful, spacious home with an open floor plan and custom details.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Robert Nye 860-258-9016
6.01% William Raveis
Granby • $875,000
Anna Sogliuzzo • 860-995-0279
Eden Wimpfheimer • 860-878-0209
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties closes more volume in Granby than anyone else.*
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Charming antique Colonial updated with today’s amenities!
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Bloomfield • $550,000 Luxurious custom home overlooking golf course.
Stunning Colonial with a rolling landscape and elegant details.
Terry Lucash 860-881-0660
Spectacular views from this updated Colonial in cul-de-sac neighborhood.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Judy Guarco 860-559-2133
Simsbury • $559,900
NEW PRICE
Granby • $169,900
Tim Kronk • 860-214-6400
Super Condo with a finished lower level, garage in a great location.
Diamond in the rough! Bring your decorating and improvements.
Lana Ferguson 860-878-8324
Eden Wimpfheimer • 860-878-0209
Granby • $239,900
Great home with a finished lower level and a level backyard.
Beautiful view of Manitook Lake. Beach and lake rights for year round enjoyment.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Don Barrett Ken Kuhl 860-559-3000 860-836-0881
East Granby • $102,900
Sunny, fabulous two story townhome with stone pation in a great location
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Granby • $249,900
Gerri Asres 860-922-1571
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506 NEW LISTING
Judy Guarco • 860-651-2127
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Sandy Fine Office Leader
Granby • $564,900
A classic horse property Colonial with period details on 2.6 acres.
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Canton • $559,900
Exceptional architect designed home on park-like grounds.
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Granby • $329,900
Colonial home in a sought after cul-de- sac in a good location.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Granby • $449,000
Open and bright home with spacious rooms and beautiful views.
Tim Kronk • 860-214-6400
Bloomfield • $185,000
Raised Ranch in a quiet cul-de-sac neighborhood with a level lot.
Tim Kronk • 860-214-6400
Anna Sogliuzzo 860-995-0279
Granby • $309,900
Historic home with updated amenities in a good location.
Gerri Asres • 860-922-1571
Tim Kronk 860-214-6400
Eden Wimpfheimer 860-878-0209 Granby • $277,500
One floor living in this sprawling Ranch with an open floor plan.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Granby • $669,900
Stunning Colonial with attention to detail. billiards, media room and more!
Eden Wimpfheimer • 860-878-0209
Granby • $499,900
Elegantly restored Colonial sits on a beautiful, expansive level 2 acre lot.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Granby • $315,000
Serene setting with a beautiful kitchen and an au pair bedroom.
Nancy Reardon • 860-836-7506
Granby • $330,000
Custom built nine room Ranch nestled next to a babbling brook.
Anna Sogliuzzo • 860-995-0279 Sandy Quigley • 860-836-0207
Suffield • $385,000
Private lake house on the best end of Congamond Lake.
Tim Kronk • 860-214-6400
East Granby • $199,000
Potential abounds in this Colonial nestled on over two gorgeous acres.
Eden Wimpfheimer • 860-878-0209
Granby • $389,900
Many updates in this home! Freshly painted and ready to move in.
Judy Guarco • 860-651-2127
bhhsNEproperties.com bhhsNEproperties.com Granby | 22 Hartford Avenue | T 860-653-4507 Granby | operated 22 Hartford Avenue | T 860-653-4507 © 2016 An independently member of BHH Affiliates. Equal Housing Opportunity. © 2016 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. Equal Housing Opportunity.
October 2017
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 29
Local businesses join forces Linda Markee (l.) of Bouquets of the Valley and Whitney Sanzo of Joy and Wit Interiors are showcasing their combined talents in the Joy and Wit shop, located at 15R Hartford Ave., Granby. Submitted photo
As the local shop Joy and Wit Interiors approaches its one-year anniversary, the owners are pleased to announce they are expanding to include Bouquets of the Valley, which offers an eclectic variety of wedding and event floral design, into the shop. Both Joy and Wit Interiors and Bouquets of the Valley share a passion and drive for scouring New England for unique one of a kind items nestled in barns, estate sales and markets at bargain prices and displaying it beautifully in a shop with accessible pricing. This combined with the gift and decor offerings from local artists and vendors make for a truly unique shopping experience. Last fall after years of free-lance design, longtime Granby resident Whitney Sanzo, decided to take the plunge and open her own shop in the center located at 15R Hartford Ave., offering furniture and interior design services and featuring handcrafted gift items by local artists. Her boutique look combined with affordable pricing has attracted vendors and shoppers alike to the charming little shop. You may find her with her husband/business partner
Carla Bue, Celia Roberts, Mary Lou Kerr and Lynn Stewart were honored for over 40 years of service to the DAR.
DAR: Revolutionary for 125 Years, 1892-2017
Michael Sanzo or one of their four or more children (depending on the week), as they are an active foster family. You will be welcomed like family and you’re sure to experience some joy and wit. Bouquets of the Valley is a Northern Connecticut-Western Massachusetts-based wedding and event floral design company co owned by a mother and daughter. Mother Linda Markee, has lived in Granby in the Farmington Valley for nearly 30 years. Daughter Alisha Markee-Ala, lives Easthampton, Mass. in the Pioneer Valley, so the business is aptly named. By combining the elements of vintage and modern, country and elegant, a distinct style is created for every event. They recognize the importance of texture, color, and unexpected props as elements in the design of a beautiful and welcoming atmosphere. Linda and Alisha also believe that customers deserve exceptional service and only schedule one event a day. This allows them to focus solely on making your day unforgettably special. They are excited to join with Joy and Wit Interiors. Come check out the expanded shop at
The Ellsworth Memorial Association hosted a tea to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution and honor members with 40 years or more of service. It was held at the Oliver Ellsworth Homestead in Windsor. The Connecticut State Society DAR was organized on Feb. 20, 1892, and was one of the first to appoint a state regent. The program included a lookback at the founding of CTDAR and its early leaders and tributes to six Honorary State Regents and twenty longtime members. The Abigail Phelps Chapter of the DAR is proud to have the following members honored for their years of service: Barbara Crede of Newington, Mary Lou Kerr of Simsbury, Celia Roberts of Canton, Lynn Stewart
of North Granby and associate member Carla Bue of West Hartford. Over 80 members and guests attended and many took tours of the house after enjoying tea and a variety of delicious confections. The Oliver Ellsworth Homestead is owned by the EMA and maintained by CTDAR. Oliver Ellsworth is one of the country’s founding fathers and was born in Windsor. He represented the state of Connecticut during the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia (1787). In the spring of 1796 he was appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and also served as commissioner to France in 1799 and 1800. This museum is open to the public. Watch for more on their very special “Christmas at Ellsworth” to be held on Dec. 1, 2 and 3.
Drumrolls Andrew Monckton, GMHS Class of 2016, has earned a three-year Marine Corps Aviation scholarship and is enrolled in the ROTC program at Virginia Military Institute. Andrew will attend Mountain Warfare School Summer 2018, Officer Candidate School (OCS) Summer of 2019, and earn an anticipated BS in chemistry May 2020. After graduation he will attend Marine Basic School (TBS) as a requirement for all Officers of Marines for 6 months and following TBS, begin flight training in Pensacola, Fla. located at 15R Hartford Ave., Granby, Thursday through Sunday from 10-2, and pop in to say hello during its special open
house brunch Sunday Oct. 15 from 10-2.
a place where people with early-stage Alzheimer’s & Dementia and their caregivers Make new friendships and support others who share your challenges and interests – at a time when you need it the most
Come together for social interaction, engagement and friendly support join us:
Saturday, October 14th 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The McLean Health Center • 75 Great Pond Rd, Simsbury
Please call 860-658-3941 to RSVP or for more information
McLeanCare.org 75 Great Pond Rd | Simsbury, CT 06070
Light refreshments will be offered at this free event
Page 30 The Granby Drummer
Historic Footnotes Carol Laun
Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society
4 East Granby Road – Part 2 Lawyer William Cullen Case occupied 4 East Granby Road after the death of his father in 1874. He was married to Margaret Turnbull and they had two sons, William Scoville Case born in 1863 and Theodore Grafton Case born in 1875. William C. Case formed a law partnership with Theodore M. Maltbie, who lived diagonally across the highway. They were a perfect match because Maltbie liked to do research and Case preferred to argue in court. They even named their sons after each other. Theodore Maltbie had a son named William (who became Chief Justice of the Conn. Supreme Court) and William Case had a son named Theodore, who also became a lawyer and judge.
The eldest son, William Scoville Case married Elizabeth Nichols and they had three children. He became a Justice on the Conn. Supreme Court. A graduate of Yale, William C. Case had a brilliant law career. He defended many murderers in his criminal cases and was a most effective advocate before a jury. He was a stirring orator with a remarkably quick mind and great powers of sarcasm and invective. He was also recognized as a leading civil lawyer, involved in many important cases. After starting his political life as a Democrat, he later became a prominent Republican politician. He had law offices in both Hartford and New Haven. In the late 1890s, William C. Case made some changes in the house. He added the front porch and bay windows and replaced the original ell with the present one. Since that time, some slight changes and improvements were made, but the main part of the house is today, much the same as when it was built. Early photographs show a fancy picket fence around the house. The Case family was involved in a Connecticut political story in 1902. That year, a Constitutional Convention was held in Hartford. The delegates from the 168 towns (there are now 169) drafted a new state constitution, which was overwhelmingly defeated at the polls. Someone thought a souvenir of the convention would be appropriate and suggested little oak trees. A request was made to the United States Department of agriculture and 168 tiny pin oak trees were presented to the delegates to be planted in their towns. The delegate from Hartford was Theodore Mills Maltbie, a prominent Hartford attorney. He was a replacement for his friend, neighbor and former part-
Top: The Civic Club commissioned the sign to commemorate the 1902 Constitution Oak. Bottom: The other photo is Judge Theodore Case with the Civic Club in 1957, placing the sign on the tree he helped to plant as a small boy.
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ner, William Cullen Case. Case, who represented Granby in the general assembly in 1881 and 1884, was unanimously elected a member of the Constitutional Convention in 1900, but he died in 1901 before it met. At that time, the Granby Green was not cared for except just prior to Memorial Day, when James Newton Loomis sent men and horses to mow and rake the grass. Therefore, it was felt the Constitutional seedling would be safer and more likely to survive on private property. The tree was entrusted to the widow and children of William C. Case, who planted it in the east yard of their home. In 1927, the state librarian, George S. Godard, from North Granby, wrote a letter to all the state newspapers asking for a report on what happened to the oaks. Godard heard from 105 towns that had received the tree in 1902. “Twenty-two towns had no report of such a tree,” said Godard’s final report. A West Hartford man, Allen B. Cook, spent three years (1935-1938) searching for the Constitution Oaks. He found 110 alive and 36 dead. He could not find the other 22 and was not even sure they were ever planted. Cook wrote a 200 page report of his search. The state historian of the Daughters of the American Revolution located and photographed 54 of the trees in 1953. In 1957, the Constitution Oak in Granby was marked with a suitable plaque by the Granby Civic Club in a ceremony attended by Judge Theodore Grafton Case, who had helped his mother plant the tree when he was a boy. The tree is still there, but the sign is gone. Perhaps it is tucked away in the carriage shed or an attic corner. After the death of his father in 1901, Thede Case spent the rest of his life in the family home. Throughout his childhood, his mother’s unmarried sister, Helen Turnbull, lived with them. In 1910, Granby celebrated the gala
wedding of two of the most prominent families in town. Theodore G. Case married Christine Loomis, sister of James Lee Loomis and daughter of Chester Peck Loomis. They had no children, but many Granby children called them Aunt and Uncle. Thede’s mother died in 1921 and his Aunt Helen died in 1924. Theodore Case followed the footsteps of his father and older brother, and studied law at Trinity. He was a community leader and worked with neighbors James Lee Loomis, William M. Maltbie, Fred Colton and Rev. Frank Makepeace to maintain the village green. They held entertainment benefits and financed the upkeep of the park and the spraying of the elm trees that once lined Salmon Brook Street. He served as a Probate Judge in Granby for 22 years, and was known throughout town as Judge Case. He was Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in Hartford Co. for 24 years. Thede also served as town counsel, represented Granby in the General Assembly for three terms, chaired the Town Planning Committee and served on other town committees. He was a member of the Republican Town Committee, a Mason and past Master of St. Mark’s Lodge, served on committees at South Congregational Church and was a founder and charter member of the Salmon Brook Historical Society in 1945. Thede Case was an authority on the history of Granby and his research and writing is in the society files. He had a strong sense of history and knew what was important to save, preserve and donate to the historical society. Christine Loomis Case was just as active as her husband in local and state affairs. She was a founder and former president of the Hartford County YWCA and she helped form a Girl’s Club, which became the nucleus of the
T
Hist. Footnotes cont’d. on p. 31
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October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 31
October Art show to support Granby Land Trust By Trish Percival The Granby Land Trust and the Granby Artists Association are in their 12th year of showcasing inspiring art for an important cause—to help protect the land, water, and wildlife of Granby. To date, the Land Trust has protected more than 2,500 acres of open space, forests, wildlife habitat, agricultural land, water buffers, ecologically sensitive areas, and scenic vistas in Granby. Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty is the theme of this extraordinary juried show; and talented artists from across southern New England enter their art each year, creating a beautiful collection of fine art. All art is available for purchase, with a portion of sales benefiting the Granby Land Trust. The show will take place at the beautiful Lost Acres Vineyard in North Granby. This year’s show will open on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 5 to 8 p.m., with an opening night that is not only the first chance for visitors to purchase art, but a fun night out on the town, with as many as 150 people in attendance. All are welcome to attend and enjoy complimentary gourmet hors d’oeuvres and a glass of wine, while you socialize with friends and meet the artists. Awards will be presented at the opening, as well. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the GLT’s friends, the show offers $5,000 in awards, making it popular with artists; and making it highly selective. Last year, 178 pieces of original artwork were submitted; just 77 were selected to be in the show.
Elana Chernick-Kritz, a gallery manager at R. Michelson Galleries in Northampton, Mass., will serve as juror for this year’s show. R. Michelson Galleries is the largest commercial art gallery in western Massachusetts. Art originally exhibited there now hangs in many of the most prestigious museums in America, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), the Museum of Fine Arts (Boston), and the Art Institute of Chicago. GLT President Rick Orluk says, “We hope this show will serve as a reminder of how beautiful and revitalizing the natural world is, and how imperative it is that we protect it.” The Land Trust is grateful to Mark Wetzel and Fiduciary Investment Advisors, LLC and Ted Cormier and ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC for their ongoing support of the show. The show will run through Sunday, Nov. 26. The vineyard is located at 80 Lost Acres Road, in North Granby. Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday, 12 to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 12 to 5 p.m. For more information, visit granbylandtrust.org.
Music and Magic and Mayhem… Oh my! Please join the Sound of New England Chorus, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, for an evening of amazing a cappella and magnificent magic at their Music, Magic and Mayhem show. Special guests are 2017 North Atlantic Regional quartet champions, Boston Accent, and professional magician David Coraro. Don’t miss this fantastic show to be held on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the Mandell JCC of Greater
Hartford, 335 Bloomfield Avenue in West Hartford. Doors will open at 7 p.m., but feel free to come at 6:30 p.m. to browse and buy raffle tickets for several fabulously themed baskets. Tickets for the show are $20, and can be ordered one of three ways. Please call 1-877-LUV-2-SING ext. 9, e-mail hello@soundofnewengland. org, or visit our website at www. soundofnewengland.org.
Hist. Footnotes cont’d. from p. 30 YWCA in Granby. She was president of the Granby Civic Club for many years. A graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music, Christine Case was organist and choir director of South Congregational Church for more than 40 years. She was president of the church Women’s Society, a member of the XYZ group and active in the Sunday School. She opened her home to many young people from other countries and contributed both public and private service to the Granby community. She was a good neighbor, one who called with roses or a glass of jelly when a friend was ill. A few years before his death, Thede and Christine made the difficult decision to sell their home. Marjorie Gracey became the new owner in 1965. Theodore Case died in 1967 and Christine Loomis Case died in 1971. She died on the same day her brother James Lee Loomis was buried, a double loss to Granby. Marjorie and Jerome Gracey, another lawyer, raised three sons in their new home. They continued the tradition of community involvement in the Community Fund, Ambulance Association, town committees and local organizations such as Little League and the historical society. Marge is a former Society president. The Gracey family owned the home until 2017. It was purchased by lawyers who probably feel right at home in this house of former lawyers. The elegant mansion at the head of Salmon Brook Street is a Granby landmark. The Pettibones built the house and lived there 29 years. Then three generations named Case were residents for an incredible 131 years. And finally, the Gracey family made it their home for 52 years. In 212 years, only three families have lived at 4 East Granby Road, a remarkable statistic.
The Granby Land Trust in partnership with the Granby Artists Association presents
Celebrating New England’s Natural Beauty October 26 - November 26, 2017 Supported by
Fiduciary Investment Advisors, LLC & ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC
Join us for our Opening Reception Thursday, October 26, 5 - 8 PM
New England is a region of immense beauty and extraordinary natural diversity. This twelfth annual juried art show will feature artwork inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds those of us who are lucky enough to live in New England. A portion of art sales will benefit the Granby Land Trust.
Lost Acres Vineyard Art Gallery
80 Lost Acres Road • North Granby, CT Hours: Fri. & Sat. 12 PM - 6 PM, Sun. 12 PM - 5 PM Top: "Morning Paint" by Catherine Elliott – 2016 Sandy and Dave Schupp Award www.LostAcresVineyard.com
www.GranbyLandTrust.org
Bottom left: "Mountain Top" by Alexander Anisimov – 2016 Granby Land Trust Award Bottom center: "Salmon Brook, East Branch" by Bill Hanson – 2016 Austin McNey Memorial Award Bottom right: "Creamery Hill Horse Barn" by Jim Laurino – 2016 Matthew K. Orluk Award
Page 32 The Granby Drummer
Arboretum proponents ask BOS for conservation easement By Shirley Murtha Eric Lukingbeal presented the history update of the Holcomb Farm arboretum project at the Sept. 18 Board of Selectmen meeting. Speaking for himself, Barry Avery, Jack Lareau, Peggy Lareau and Walt Zultowski, Lukingbeal began the history by noting that it was Tudor Holcomb himself who suggested that an arboretum would be a good use of the land he was conveying to the University of Connecticut. However, Storrs being quite a distance from Granby, the University never made an effort to use the Farm in any way and it was eventually turned over to the Town of Granby. A collection of trees for public enjoyment, education and scientific study, an arboretum was proposed as far back as the 1993 Holcomb Farm Board Plan of Use and again in the 2016 Granby Plan of Conservation and Development. Lukingbeal and his group consulted with Hartford forester John Kehoe, who thought the property would be a great site for such an installation, and suggested contacting UConn landscape professor Dr. John Alexopoulos, whose class adopted a study of the site as a class project. The BOS agreed to the study and the Friends of Holcomb Farm provided the $1,000 honorarium required. The result of the study was a positive 75-page report of the geology and micro-
climates of the 159 acres abutting Day Street South and the east side of Simsbury Road, noting that it was quite suitable for an arboretum. Lukingbeal’s group was encouraged by the report and contacted the directors of several arboreta, visiting some of them. DEEP certified forester Larry Rousseau and natural resources educator Dr. Robert Ricard of the UConn Extension Service gave the project a thumbs up. Local residents John O’Brien, Don Ford and Shawn Bosco provided information on trees. Birding expert John Weeks noted how an arboretum would promote bird life in the area. Jeff Spence provided the estimate for a well that would probably be needed for the initial plantings. Experts in fundraising were consulted. Being occupied with running a CSA and the Fresh Access program that provides fresh vegetables for those who don’t have access to fresh vegetables, the Friends of Holcomb Farm are not able to sponsor the project. The successful Granby Land Trust, however, is willing to support the arboretum if a permanent conservation easement is granted by the Town of Granby, which would still own the land. Such an easement would prohibit residential development of the property, but would allow the creation of the arboretum. The easement would preserve the views to and from the land, allow management of the invasives and create connections to abutting preserved open space, allowing agricultural use and
public access to trails. In the experience of the Land Trust, without such an easement, fundraising and the recruitment of volunteers to work on the land and install the arboretum would be severely limited. In order to move forward with the project, Lukingbeal suggested the following steps. First, scheduling meetings with neighbors to explain what would be happening and answer any questions they might have as to how the project might affect them. Guided tours for any interested residents would be arranged. After that, possibly in early December, Lukingbeal’s group of five would give a full presentation of the project to the BOS and the public. While appreciating the time and effort put into the preliminary study for the arboretum, the board was hesitant to commit to an easement without more information. Member Ed Ohannessian noted that an easement “is a big deal” and the Board needs more detail on how it will be maintained. First Selectman Scott Kuhnly would like to receive the electronic version of UConn’s 75-page report. Being immersed in the town’s present budget difficulties, he would like more information on how the project will be managed monetarily in the future. Member Jim Lofink noted that although Lukingbeal doesn’t need the town’s permission to speak to the neighbors about the project, he would like the board to approve what will be said.
October 2017
TOOTH TALK by MichaelUngerleider D.M.D
TOOTH LOSS
Many people assume that tooth loss is an inevitable result of age. However, most factors that contribute to tooth loss can be controlled much earlier in life. Proper oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, can prevent decay and gum disease that can ultimately lead to tooth loss. Consuming foods and beverages that are high in sugar, carbohydrates and acid content can cause irreversible damage to the teeth and gums. The more frequently you consume these foods, without brushing or chewing gum to neutralize the harmful acids in the mouth, the more likely you are to get cavities and gum disease. Bad habits such as smoking and chewing tobacco can also lead to premature tooth loss. Kids, adults and seniors are all at risk for tooth loss, especially if proper oral hygiene is not practiced. • Kids: As kids become more active, they are susceptible to two types of traumatic tooth loss – premature loss of a baby tooth or loss of a permanent tooth due to injury or neglect. Children should wear protective mouth guards when playing sports, and parents should consult a dentist immediately in the case of an injury. • Adults: Most people do not know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults, but lately, recurrent decay around old crowns and bridges are seen to lead to loss of those important teeth. Tooth loss is also linked to smoking, heart disease and diabetes. • Seniors: As people age, and manual dexterity decreases, plaque accumulates and becomes harder to eliminate. Gum recession, decay around older fillings and dry mouth, secondary to medications taken, put seniors at a higher risk of losing their natural teeth. Fortunately, modern dentistry can now replace teeth permanently with dental implants. These implants replace the roots of teeth and can serve as anchors for individual crowns as well as anchors for bridges and even dentures. The best part about implants is that YOU CAN’T GET A CAVITY IN AN IMPLANT, and the implant will preserve the jaw bone as well. 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. Lasers can eliminate the need for injections and the sound of the drill! CEREC CAD-CAM technology allows us to make crowns in just one visit without the impressions or temporaries! Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! INVISALIGN lets you straighten your teeth without braces—we are your Invisalign connection! “Smile Vision” 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 straighter, whiter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION!
If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GranbyDentalCenter
Michael A. Ungerleider, DMD Susan DePatie, DMD 41 Hartford Avenue, Granby 860-653-3220 Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com
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October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 33
Long-time residents remember the good old days of Granby By John R. Nieb Recently, a Facebook page invited people who have lived in Granby for many years to share their memories of the town and how it has changed. Lawrence and Arleen O’Meara bought their first house in Granby in 1963 and had their wedding reception in the backyard. The O’Meara children swam and fished in Salmon Brook, which is located behind their current home. People can’t swim and fish in Salmon Brook anymore because of the pollution. “Oh, the good old days,” O’Meara said. “Granby has grown up so much, but is still a wonderful town to live in.” Back then Granby had stop signs but no traffic lights. Park Place was the shortest highway in the United States and Oakridge Drive was a dead end street. Beman Hardware was located where its parking lot is now, and there were apartments upstairs. Geissler’s was known as Guay & Kellogg’s, and the G & H Market was located where Granby Village Health and the Westfield bank are now. Even in the 1960s, Granby was a dry town. Residents went to East Granby, Simsbury, or Southwick, Mass. to have dinner with a drink or to buy alcoholic beverages. They picked up alcoholic beverages on the way home from work if they were having people over for the evening. Dean and Bonnie Reynolds grew up in Granby in the 1950s. Bonnie grew up on Oakridge Drive and Dean grew up on East Granby Road. As children, they played in the fields where Bank Street is now located. Hide and seek, kick the can, red rover and touch football were some of games that they and their friends played at the end of the day when the sun was going down. Granby kids played basketball upstairs in the Masonic Hall and attended ballroom dance classes
on the first floor. They ate hot fudge sundaes at Cotton’s (located in the old Beman Hardware building) and went to the Granby Pharmacy to buy sodas at the soda fountain. When the swamp was frozen solid during the winter, they went ice skating with the neighborhood children—the Wagners, Wilsons, Holcombs, and anyone else that wanted to come along. They went swimming at Genis’s or at the Club on Hungary Road, owned by the Brighams at that time. They played tennis on the center green, got penny candy at Avery’s General Store, and performed in operettas at the South Church every year. “We had several good places for sledding in the winter, like the hill behind the Lawson’s house, and the hill on West Granby Road.” The Reynolds went through the Granby public school system and walked to and from Memorial school. They graduated from Granby Memorial High School in 1961, grew apart and eventually went separate ways to live their own lives. Twenty years later, they reconnected, married and combined their families. They often talk about their fun growing up in Granby and often take rides over back roads reliving memories of days gone by. “The center of town looks entirely different from when we were growing up,” Dean said. “Bike riding was a lot safer with fewer cars and slower speeds until we became teenagers with licenses.” “Oak Ridge Drive was a very comfortable street to grow up on, close to the center with a lot of activities,” Reynolds said. “Most of our growing up friends are now gone, but our memories live on,” Reynolds said. Evelyn Brown grew up in Granby. In the days before television, Granby had
lots of things going on that families took advantage of rather than staying home and playing board games every eveving. The Community House, which is located south of the South Congregational Church, hosted many events families enjoyed. Jack Berriman, a Granby resident, produced and directed minstrels at the Community House. Adults and children signed up to perform on stage. When Brown was about six or seven years old, she and her cousin sang a song. Granby residents had a variety of talents and on show nights the place was packed. Brown’s church had family functions to get folks together for fun such as potluck suppers every month. Brown went to church very Sunday morning. “Families came together,” Brown said. “It was a happy time for all.” “Our church had Pilgrim Fellowship for teens every Sunday evening. We did fun things that were safe and gave us a place to go,” Brown said. “I met a boy there who ended up becoming my husband after we graduated from high school.” In 1967, when Mary McCorison moved to Granby, Petersen Road, where she has lived ever since, was a dirt road. There were six or seven houses on the road at that time. During the winter through late spring, people couldn’t drive through to the end of Petersen Road because they were afraid of getting stuck in the snow or mud. McCorison’s daughters walked to Route 20 to get the school bus. There was one grocery store—Guay and Kellogg, one gas station, and two pharmacies, one on Bank Street and the other was Granby Pharmacy. Granby had a variety store where people could buy various and sundry items. Mary Teresa Ogle Keating, has lived in Granby for nearly her entire life. In 1939, Keating’s parents moved to Granby and
she was born in town in 1943. Keating currently lives in the house where she lived when she was born. When Keating was growing up, Granby was a small town with a lot of farms. Milkmen delivered milk in glass bottles to people’s homes The empties were left out for the milkmen to return to the dairy to be sterilized and reused. When Keating was six years old, the family moved to Bloomfield, but moved back to Granby in October 1952. Keating was in fourth grade at the time. In the late 50s and early 60s, Granby’s population was 2,000 people —compared to 11,300-plus today. Looking at Granby Memorial High School from Route 10 today, the center library core and the south wing was the town’s first consolidated grade school. The south wing was built in 1947 and the north wing was added a few years later. As Kearns, Wells Road and Kelly Lane schools came online, the Route 10 building became the middle school then part of the high school. Granby Memorial High School was founded in 1957 and its first graduating class in 1958. Before then, Granby students went to Simsbury High School or private high schools after they completed junior high school. The GMHS classes of 1958 to 1960 had students from East Hartland and East Granby. Keating graduated from GMHS in 1961, and was one of 63 graduates in that class. She was active in sports including field hockey, cheerleading and softball and was a member of the school’s camera club. When Keating was 16 years old, she had an after school job at Simsbury Pharmacy, foreshadowing her career at Granby Pharmacy. Granby has changed a lot over the years, and it will continue to change as the years go by.
Larry’s Construction Co. LARRy KRAizA OWnER LiC. # 0552657
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Page 34 The Granby Drummer
Photos by Peter Dinella
October 2017
Good Company to present Putnam County Spelling Bee
Nate Strick, Jason Maur, Luis Hilerio, Cliff Gibson, Danielle Lawrence, Julia Bussell and Karen Vinic rehearse for the upcoming production of the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Submitted photo
By Jessica Pietrosanti Good Company Theater has started rehearsals for its hilarious fall production of 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. In a school auditorium, home of the Putnam Porcupines, six peculiar students compete in a spelling bee, guided by three adults who have their own personality quirks, as each character attempts to deal with the struggles of growing up. A wonderful mix of new and familiar faces grace the stage in this comedy directed by Nikki Currie-Huggard, a veteran director at Good Company Theater. Nikki will also be directing the Granby Memorial High School musical, Our Town, in November. Diana Lawler of Avon brings a wealth of experience
It’s time for a fall clean-up!
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in musical direction to her interpretation of the score, Sally Moon is in charge of costume design and Susan Accetura, producer from James and the Giant Peach, has graciously assumed the producer role again. Putnam County Spelling Bee is rated PG, parental guidance suggested. The show contains some adult humor and themes that may be inappropriate for young children. Show dates are Friday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 28, at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m. All performances will take place at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook Street in Granby. Tickets for all shows are $20 and are available online at www.goodcompanytheater.org, at Granby Pharmacy and at the door.
October 2017 The Granby Drummer Page 35
Going for the Gold Teaching music to children By Rachel Abrahamson Children have musical capabilities that, when nourished, can change and improve their lives. However, many preschools, daycares, and even homes, lack music. Children deprived of music may be more restless and even have a decrease in brain development. If teachers and parents incorporate music into daily routines, both child and teacher will enjoy a variety of physical and mental skills and also find an appreciation and joy in music. By introducing music to children in early adolescence, they are able to gain exposure and enjoyment of music, physical and mental exercise, and the ability to work on language development and other skills.
My name is Rachel Abrahamson and I have worked at Small World Learning and Child Care for two years. I worked mainly with the preschoolers and I have loved every minute of it. Aside from working at Small World, I participated in many after-school activities such as Girl Scouts. I have come to the point in my scouting journey that I can become a leader. The last step in this process was to complete my Gold Award; the Girl Scout equivalent of Eagle Scout for Boy Scouts. I have always loved music and am involved in choirs and musical groups. Currently I’m attending Manhattanville College pursuing my dream of a degree in music education. After reflecting on my musical experiences, I realized there
Rachel Abrahamson completed her Girl Scout Gold Award with a music education program for young children. Submitted photo
weren’t a lot of musical experiences offered to me at a young age. This was surprising to me, because preschoolers are going through a time of major brain development and experiencing music from a young age is beneficial. Because of this, I decided to focus my Gold Award on teaching young children music. I found that Small World would be the best way for me to bring this dream to life. In music camp we sang, danced, and explored body percussion in different ways. By doing this I was allowing the children to the artistic and creative side of themselves. I wanted to include creativity and even let them create their own songs so that they could be more interested and involved with the program. The children ranged from 2-year olds to 7-year olds. I ran two separate lessons each time so there would be room for the children to dance without bumping each other. I also separated the older kids from the younger kids and did more complex lessons with the older group. Both groups were challenged and involved with the class. I have been researching other music camps in this state and around the world, and the majority I have found are only available for older children. I believe music should be offered to younger children as well. That is when their brains are developing the most and they are interested in many things. My camp would also be applicable in other places because once the general outline is made, the ideas can be applied anywhere. I have created a music binder to distribute to surrounding daycares. A practice I hope to continue throughout my life. The binder contains tips, essays, surveys, and music that I wrote for many instruments that other teachers can use.
The songs that I wrote are nursery songs or other popular songs that teachers could play on a variety of different instruments for the children. I know my project has been successful because of feedback provided by the students, staff, parents, and surveys. Many of the parents were grateful for this opportunity because their children now have a stronger passion for music and want to continue their music experiences. Many of the children have come up to me since my project ended asking for more music lessons at the daycare, which I do plan on doing. In pursuing this project I took on a lot of leadership. It was a new experience, because although I have been in leadership positions in the past, I never had full control of a large project of my own. If I were to change anything about this program, I would make it longer. Between scheduling for myself and also the daycare, this wasn’t a viable option. However, I hope to run similar programs in the future at the daycare and in my own teaching jobs. I couldn’t have completed this project if it weren’t for the support of the community. I appreciate everyone’s help so much, especially Doreen Hoddinott, the director of Small World, Peggy Shaw, my former preschool teacher and dear friend, and Dotty Marks, my Girl Scout advisor. This project showed me that I should continue my pursuit of certification in Music Education because although it can be stressful at times, I loved every minute of it. I now know that with the proper support, I can be successful in this field of teaching. If anybody has any questions, would like a music binder, or would like to contact me for any reason, email me at rachela99@me.com.
Fall Spectaculars!
Seven Years & Growing!
I See Spots! Sale October 19 – 21 only:
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50 60% off! –
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8th Annual Holiday Bazaar
November 1 – January: More than 2 dozen crafters from around New England for your holiday shopping.
Class: Infused Healing Oils, Salves, and Balms
October – January: Learn to make soothing oils and salves for family or gift-giving. The Valley’s only vitamin shop owned & operated by a certified clinical herbalist. Purely the best, naturally!
Ravenswood Natural Health
1606 Hopmeadow Street 860.264.1587 ravenswoodnaturalhealth.com
Page 36 The Granby Drummer
Closer to Home
Support our local businesses while saving some gas and time. Tell them you saw their ad in the Drummer. Advertiser Page ABC Pizza 9 Action Carpet 22 Beacon Mechanical 10 Beman’s True Value 15 Berkshire Hathaway – Gitburg 23 Berkshire Hathaway RE 28 Berkshire Hathaway – Reardon 7 Berkshire Hathaway – Shepard’s Way 27 Brad McDougall Knife Making 19 Cahill’s Motors 12 Carmon Funeral Homes 20 Carter Robert Painting 15 Center Grill 18 Chiropractic Care 11 Christopher Bryant 2 Coldwell Banker 36 Command Corporation 16 Companions & Homemakers 36 Creative Learning Preschool Center 14 Czekaj House Cleaning 14 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 12 Democrat Town Committee 5 Eaton Eye Care of Granby 23 Ensle Painting & Decorating 23 First Church 13 Gary’s Mowing 33 Granby Community Fund 30 Republican Party of Granby 6 Gran-Val Scoop 20, 21, 34 Granby Artists Open Studio 24 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 2, 10 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 32 Granby Food Bank 2 Granby Insurance 14 Granby Land Trust 31 Granby Package Store 14 Granby Pharmacy 15 Granby Public Works 3, 19 Granby Village Health 8
Advertiser Page Judy Guarco – Berkshire Hathaway 16 Hayes Maze 11 Higleyville Coin 20 Keir Construction 14 Larry’s Construction 33 Mark Brady Kitchen 30 McLean Care 29 MeadowBrook of Granby 15 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing 13 Morawski Cleaning LLC 27 Notch Road Appliance 9 O.P. Painting 9 O’Brien Nurserymen 33 Old Farms Landscape & Design 18 Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning 32 Pierce Builders-Meadowgate 9 Ravenwood Natural Health 35 Riches Jewelers 30 Route 10 Tire 20 Sanditz Travel Management 13 Schoenrock Financial 33 Seniors Helping Seniors 10 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 13 Simsbury Bank 27 Small Town Septic 34 South Church 3 State Line Propane Oil 18 Strain Family Equestrian 14 Subseven 10 Swim Center 16 Tom Sullivan – Morgan Stanley 8 Troiano Oil Company 30 Two Park Place 11 Valley Brook Community Church 32 Veterans Tribute Concert 26 Walsh Chiropractic 18 West Granby Methodist 3, 19 Westfield Bank 17 Windsor Federal 9
October 2017
In Memory Of… Hayes, Freda Elizabeth (Nolan), 81, wife of Roger K. Hayes, August 26 Warnke, Priscilla Anne (Morneault), 65, wife of James Nelson Warnke, August 30 Palmer, Justin Douglas, 50, September 1 Wilkins, Clarence, Jr., 88, September 2 Cianciulli, Yvonne “Vonnie”, 69, wife of Nicholas J. Cianciulli, September 8 Burns, Patricia Ann (Ogle), 71, widow of the late Francis J. Burns, September 11 Angel, William “Bill”, 60, husband of Linda Angel, September 12 French, Stephanie M. (Szoke), 69, September 18 Adams, John “Jack” T., 81, husband of Gail (Smith) Adams, September 20 Griffin, Charles (“Chip”) Fleming, 62, September 22
November 2017 deadlines
ADS: Wednesday, October 11 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org. ARTICLES: Monday, October 16 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: October 10-23 Call or email for times.
The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at: www.granbydrummer.org.
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Granby Office | 10 Hartford Avenue, Granby, CT 06035 | 860.844.0135
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