Granby Drummer | February 2025

Drummer

Connecticut Siting Council approves battery storage facility

On Jan. 23 the Connecticut Siting Council approved an application by Key Capture Energy (KCE CT 11, LLC) to build a 4.99-megawatt lithium-ion battery energy storage facility (BESS) at 100 Salmon Brook Street. The council issued its approval despite significant public safety and environmental concerns raised by both the Town of Granby and individual members of the council. The council, not any town, has the final say on all electrical and communication site approvals in the state.

With live video of the uncontained Moss Landing lithium-ion battery plant fire in California as a backdrop, First Selectman Mark Fiorentino held a press conference on Jan. 17 in an effort to influence the council’s decision. The Town remains strongly opposed the KCE project.

The council has denied approval of lithium-ion battery sites in other Connecticut towns with environmental and safety issues like those in Granby. A fire, such as in California, would

require additional equipment and training for LAFD, cause aquifer (under the site) and brook pollution from the thousands of gallons of water required to extinguish a battery storage fire, be hampered by limited emergency ingress and egress to the site and the proximity of high occupancy housing and commercial buildings. These are all reasons the Town asked CSC to deny the application.

A Jan 9 straw-vote by the council indicated it might approve the application. In response, Fiorentino held the press conference and his statement, read to television reporters, press representatives and attending citizens, appears on p. 3 of this issue.

Fiorentino has told the Drummer that the board of selectmen is expected to evaluate options to continue to oppose the project. The press conferenceis available at gctv16.org/viewshows/ view/kce-battery-project-press-conference---01-17-25/

Submitted by Mark Fiorentino and Chris Levandowski

Good news for the budget update

Jan. 1 marks the halfway point in the FY25 budget. It’s time to look back at our projections and look forward to the end of the budget year. It is also time to present the Plus One FY26 Budget Forecast to project into the following year. The board of selectman considers the Plus One Budget Forecast in December and approves it in January. It then goes on to the board of finance. Finance Director Kimi Cheng analyzed, compiled, and digested data that indicates the underlying financial metrics of the town continue to be strong.

Some of the large budget drivers include two position eliminations saving $205,000, contractually negotiated 3 percent raises for employees costing $200,000, the switch from a PPO medical network to an HDHP saving $124,000, and one new police officer to add night shift support costing $150,000. While the inflation rate is at 3 percent, the town contemplates spending about

2.4 percent in FY26.

There is a tremendous amount of work that still needs to be done on the FY26 budget by town staff and your elected officials including the three boards meeting in January and budget workshops beginning in March. More discussions will be held before your budget vote in April.

My commitment to you as your town manager is to deliver a greater level of transparency so that you have a working knowledge of how your tax dollars translate into the service level you have come to expect and enjoy here in the Town of Granby. Please contact me at 860-844-5302 or at MWalsh@Granbyct.gov with any questions.

Granby community improvement projects to be awarded $100,000

By Kim Pereira

Nonprofits, community groups and individuals have an exciting opportunity to be awarded grant money for Granby community improvement projects through the Granby Greater Together Community Fund.

As a result of a listening tour conducted in 2018–19, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving established a grant program for each of the 29 towns in its region. Granby was visited on March 20, 2018, with nearly 30 residents gathering in the Granby Memorial High School chorus room. Some of the key issues raised at that time included the need for a community center, the high prices of land for young farmers, the involvement of youth entrepreneurs in the community and the lack of affordable housing for seniors.

Based on this feedback, the Hartford Foundation created the new Granby Greater Together Community Fund—not to be confused with the decades-longstanding Granby Community Fund. The Granby Greater Together Community Fund (GTCF) is not a fund-

raising body, but instead receives grants from the Hartford Foundation that are then dispensed to selected projects through an application process.

This year, GTCF has the opportunity to distribute the entirety of the original $100,000 from the Hartford Foundation. When the fund was allocated in 2019, $50,000 was immediately available for grants, while the remaining $50,000 was endowed for future use. Since it took several years for the GTCF to organize, elect a committee and develop procedures, all the money is now available to the community. This is the first year the GTCF will be awarding grants. Michael Harrison, chair of the GTCF committee, is excited to welcome proposals from the community. He shares, “We’re just really excited to put money into the town. This is a really unique opportunity to put a lot of money into the town in a positive way, to effect impactful change and to sustain good programs that are already here.” For Harrison, who moved here three years ago from California, his love for Granby spurs his desire to serve the community and

Members of the Greater Together Community Fund committee braved the cold. From left, Peter Betsch, Alexandra Lowry, Addison Landheer, Michael Harrison, Kendra Hennig. Not pictured: Nancy Costopulos, Melissa Hall. Photo by Kim Pereira

GTCF cont’d. from p. 1 spread opportunities to create growth. “I love our little town. Everybody has just been so welcoming, so accepting and lovely,” he affirms, “I really look at the town in a different way since I’m raising a child here. I wanted to be involved in something that was positive and could give back and do good.”

While the GTCF was created by the Hartford Foundation, the committee now operates largely independently. The committee of seven Granby residents spans a range of ages and years of residency in Granby. “We’ve got a great team of people,” notes Harrison, “We have a high school student, which is really exciting because we thought it was important to have a youth voice on the committee. She’s grown up in the school system here, born and raised in Granby, so it’s neat to have her voice.”

The application period is open from Feb. 1 to April 1, with final decisions being made by the GTCF by May 1. Requested amounts can range from $250 to $25,000, with proposals detailing the exact use of funds and how each project will directly benefit all Granby residents. A detailed description of criteria are on hfpg.org/donors/ways-to-give/ community-funds/granby0

The GTCF asks that individuals or businesses interested in applying secure a fiscal sponsor. The committee can help identify a fiscal sponsor for those in need. Please email granby@hfpgcommunityfunds.org

To encourage community involvement and answer questions about the proposal process, the GTCF will host a community mingle event on Monday, Feb. 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Granby Senior Center Community Room. Harrison explains that the intent of the event is to “share information with nonprofits and interested residents, and to hear what residents are looking for in their community.” All are welcome to attend and share their thoughts with the committee.

Looking to the future, the GTCF plans to continue distributing funds to residents and nonprofits in Granby. In celebration of the Hartford Foundation’s centennial, another $100,000 has been allocated to the GTCF for 2026, with a further pledge of $15,000$20,000 each year after that. “That’s a huge gift,” shares Harrison, “we’re very excited about that as well.” Applicants are encouraged to apply year-over-year to take advantage of this funding opportunity.

Granby Registrars Sworn In

Preparing to tackle FY26

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

As prescribed by charter, the January Three Board meeting brought together the boards of finance, education and selectmen to take a collective look at what Fiscal Year FY26 may look like.

In a sense, the budgeting process is year-round. No sooner than one year is approved at referendum then the boards and administrations monitor monthly operating budgets, prepare to close the books on one fiscal year and then prepare for the start of the next. In late March when the board of finance finalizes the overall budget for review and comment at the public hearing— and then on to referendum—we also have an eye on the next few years to consider stability in both budget and mill rate changes.

We had more than a dozen years with both parameters averaging about 2 percent annually. The years since the pandemic have seen an uptick in costs due to inflation, and the impact on learning from the pandemic lockdown period. The current salary contracts, here and throughout the state, have been running a full percentage point or more than for that prior long stretch. As compensation makes up the bulk of both the municipal and education operating budgets, those pressures are driving higher increases in expense. Typically, as go the contracts, so go the budgets … and the tax rate.

At the Three Board meeting both operating boards presented their initial look ahead at next year, known as the Plus One budgets. The board of finance modified its budget worksheet from last spring, updating some current estimates in some line items in revenues as well as the Plus One expenditure numbers which reflect what the administrations would like to see in the upcoming fiscal year that begins on July 1 (FY26).

On the expenditure side of the equation, the municipal component shows an operating budget increase of 2.40 percent, a flat Debt Service, and an increase through this General Fund budget of $250,000 into the Small Capital/Infrastructure fund. This increase reflects the impact of both inflation as well as the needs for maintaining plant and equipment that age year by year.

On the education side, the operating budget submission is at 5.67 percent, with a significant part being for the various categories of special education services. These run the gamut from remedial services to help students stay at or get to grade level proficiency to six figure outplacement situations for those with severe disability that cannot be handled internally.

On the revenue side, while minor updates have been considered, we await the finalization of the Oct. 1, 2024, Grand List by Jan. 31, and the statutory grant revenue numbers for Granby

Granby Town Clerk Scott Nolan(r.) swears in Registrars of Voters Laura Wolfe (l.) and Karen Antonucci, and Deputy Registrar Paul Willis. Photo submitted. Registrars’ article on p. 7

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN HIGHLIGHTS

NOVEMBER 18, 2024

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

Also present: Town Manager Mike Walsh, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Finance Director Kimi Cheng, Student Liaison Ben LaVigne. Baygrape Tax Appeal Settlement

Walsh said that the town is working to resolve a revaluation-related tax appeal brought by Baygrape Assoc. llc, a nursing home at 350 Salmon Brook Street. During revaluation, Baygrape was assigned a fair market value of $5,152,700, or an assessed value of $3,606,890, which was disputed by Baygrape. Walsh proposed that in order to settle the dispute and avoid the cost and uncertainty of a trial, the Town of Granby reduce the fair market value of the property to $4,900,000 with $3,430,000 in assessed value or a reduction of $176,890 in assessed value.

The board unanimously approved this settlement.

Editor’s note: The nursing home is known locally as MeadowBrook of Granby

DECEMBER 2, 2024

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

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

Finance Job Descriptions

Walsh said that the town continues to update job descriptions to reflect new job responsibilities, or to bring the job descriptions into better compliance with current labor law. Over the last few months, the board has approved amended job descriptions for the Granby Municipal Employees Association and Public Works Union as some of the bargaining unit positions were directly impacted by the reorganization of departments. Now Walsh is requesting approval for five job descriptions covering duties performed within the finance department. The board unanimously approved the five updated descriptions.

JANUARY 6, 2025

Present: Mark Fiorentino, Mark Neumann, Frederick Moffa, Margaret Chapple, Kelly

Rome. Town Manager Mike Walsh, Town Clerk Scott Nolan, Finance Director Kimi Cheng, Director of Human Services Sandra Yost, Lost Acres Fire Chief John Horr, Jr., Police Chief Scott Sansom, student liaisons Ben LaVigne and Zainab Zafar.

Park and Recreation Study

Appropriation Request

At the Oct. 21 BOS meeting, the selectmen approved adding a $25,000 ARPA allocation to pay for an analysis of the Salmon Brook and Ahrens parks with respect to future facility improvements.

A Request for Proposal was been issued to identify a vendor to create a planning vision for the parks for 2030, 2040 and 2050. The town received two qualified respondents and has selected GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. with a local office in Springfield to proceed with the analysis at a cost of $39,500.

The town asks for an appropriation of $14,500 from the Parks and Recreation Special Revenue Fund to add to the ARPA allocation so the firm’s work can begin. Walsh explained that the fund has sufficient monies to cover this appropriation, with a balance of $560,297 as of June 30. The board unanimously approved the request.

Radio Communication’s System agreement approval

The voters of the Town of Granby favorably approved the allocation of capital monies set aside to allow the town to execute a contract with Marcus Communications for the emergency radio system under consideration since 2018. With funding in place, the contract negotiation between the town and Marcus Communications was completed by Horr. The contract was reviewed by Attorney Joseph Fortner from the firm of Halloran and Sage.

The board approved the agreement between the Town of Granby and Marcus Communications in the amount of $3,977,306.22 and directed Walsh to execute all documents necessary to facilitate the agreement. The board also directed Walsh to extend the Jan. 30, 2024 consulting agreement with Federal Engineering at the same terms and conditions of the original agreement with a not-to-exceed amount of $50,000 in order to continue relying upon its technical expertise and experience as the town begins to replace the town-wide emergency communications system, with an anticipated completion date of May 2026.

First Selectman Fiorentino’s statement at Jan. 17 press conference

By Mark Fiorentino, First Selectman

At its Jan. 9 meeting, the Connecticut Siting Council took a straw poll of its members regarding Petition 1637, a proposal to develop a 4.99-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at 100 Salmon Brook Street in Granby. During the meeting, two members of the council stated that they were inclined to vote to deny the petition, citing serious environmental and public safety concerns. Other council members likewise expressed concerns, but nonetheless voted to instruct council staff to draft a proposed approval of the petition. Thus, based on the results of the poll, it appears the council, despite concerns raised by a number of its members, is poised to approve the project at its next meeting.

It is difficult to imagine a more inappropriate site for a BESS facility. The Salmon Brook site is surrounded by a high-density residential area, is adjacent to a busy retail center and is located on a groundwater aquifer that supplies potable water to a significant portion of Granby.

We are dismayed by the direction the council appears to be taking and hope the council members will deliberate more carefully before making a decision.

energy and power grid resiliency. The council need only follow a safety guideline it utilized just two months ago to deny similar, but smaller, BESS projects in New London and Waterford.

Thermal Runaways

The public safety concerns revolve primarily around the risk of a “thermal runaway” event. If you are not familiar with that term, conduct a quick internet search. In very short order, you will recognize the magnitude of what can happen if there is a failure at a BESS facility. In short, failures can result in the battery storage containers igniting and exploding, and then burning at temperatures that make it impossible to extinguish or control.

While we recognize that thermal runaway events may be statistically rare, they do happen. The risk of an event occurring cannot be eliminated. It is, frankly, the council’s job to acknowledge this risk and to protect against it.

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) has issued guidance regarding responding to a thermal runaway event. In that guidance, the IAFC recommends that first responders establish a “clear zone” of at least 300 feet around the perimeter of the facility. The intent of the clear zone is, obviously, to protect life and property.

lines within 300 feet, but there are also at least four buildings containing offices, health care providers, restaurants and retail businesses within that perimeter.

There is simply no reasonable justification for not affording the citizens of Granby the same protections that the council provided in New London and Waterford.

Water Supply Contamination

A thermal runaway event at the Salmon Brook site would also have significant impacts on Granby’s water supply. In addition to establishing a minimum clear zone, current emergency response guidelines call for the application of water to the battery containers for the duration of a thermal runaway event.

KCE CT, LLC (KCE), the proposed developer of the Salmon Brook site, agrees with these guidelines. In its application to the council, KCE stated, “During defensive firefighting efforts, application of high volumes of water from an appropriate distance may be applied to the outside of the container to help cool the unit and prevent further reactions or a fire from developing.” And, according to KCE, a thermal runaway event can last up to 24 hours per container. There are eight containers proposed for the Salmon Brook site.

on Brook/Farmington River tributary system, or both.

We appreciate the challenges the council faces in implementing Connecticut’s energy policies. Carrying out these policies, while at the same time protecting local communities, can be a difficult task.

But, the decision with respect to the Salmon Brook site should be an easy one. The BESS’s purported benefits to the grid system can be provided at any number of other sites located in proximity to the transmission line. KCE specifically acknowledged this during a presentation it made to the Granby Board of Selectmen in August 2024. Under the state’s regulatory system, the Town of Granby has no authority or ability to protect its citizens. We must rely on the Connecticut Siting Council to do so. With respect to the Salmon Brook site under consideration, we aren’t asking much. We are merely asking the council to: 1) enforce the same safety standards it applied in New London and Waterford; and 2) err on the side of caution to protect public health and safety, especially since the proposed BESS’s benefits can be provided at other, less sensitive, sites.

If, under the current regulatory scheme, this is, in fact, too much to ask, and the council either lacks the authority to reject sites that pose these risks (as the presiding officer seemed to indicate), and/or, the council isn’t obligated to apply consistent safety standards across the state, the system is broken. Seriously broken. CONNECTICUT

We use the word “dismayed” thoughtfully and purposely. The project involves clear, significant public health and safety risks that can be completely and easily avoided with no discernable impact on the state’s goals related to renewable

In November 2024, the council utilized this IAFC guidance to deny smaller BESS facilities in New London and Waterford because there were property lines within 300 feet of the facilities proposed in those communities. The same circumstance exists at the Salmon Brook site. Not only are there multiple property

So, if a thermal runaway event occurs, it is likely that thousands of gallons of water will be applied to battery containers that house substantial amounts of hazardous materials. This water, and the hazardous materials mixed with it, must, under the current design, enter either the groundwater aquifer that supplies most of Granby’s drinking water, or the Salm-

Drumbeat

Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer

Letters to the Editor

Thankful to Healing Meals

I would like to send a thank you to Healing Meals. They will provide meals for me for six weeks as I recover from knee replacement surgery. I learned about Healing Meals as I was performing my volunteer job at the Drummer, proof reading. I am looking forward to receiving their delicious and nutritious meals. I consider them a godsend.

Patty Kovaleski

Granby Racial Reconciliation is grateful for donations

As a nonprofit relying solely on grants and donations, Granby Racial Reconciliation (GRR) deeply appreciates the financial support we receive from community members and local businesses. GRR thanks all its 2024

donors. We gratefully received 53 donations from private contributions, Granby Education Foundation and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving grants.

GRR is committed to the ongoing work of racial reconciliation and justice in and around Granby. We’re focused on raising awareness and having honest conversations on racial justice in our community. By exploring difficult topics with compassion, we strive to build a culture of tolerance so that Granby can be a great place for everyone. In 2024, funding from donors supported the following: a sociological dive into Race, Religion, and Politics, a four-part public series with UConn professor, Dr. Matthew Hughey; collaboration with all the Farmington Valley towns for the Juneteenth Rhythm and Brews Celebration; and the first biennial Granby Racial Unity Festival.

Through donor support of the GRR Opportunity Fund, GRR sponsored

Housing rehabilitation funding available

By Abigail Kenyon, Director of Community Development

Residents may not be aware that the Town of Granby operates a Housing Rehabilitation program funded by Community Development Block Grant funds. Under this program, the town can provide Granby homeowners who are of low or moderate income, with a no-interest loan to pay for a wide variety of home repairs. Eligible repairs include but are not limited to roofing, siding, insulation, window and door replacement, and the upgrading of plumbing, electrical and heating services. Eligibility is income based and is determined by household size. For example, a two-person household with an annual income of less than $78,000, or a family of four with an annual income below $97,450 would be eligible for program participation.

To guarantee the loan, a lien is placed on the property outlining the amount of money spent to make the necessary repairs. No monthly payments are required, and no interest is charged on the loan. Repayment of the loan is required upon transfer of title, sale of the property, if the property is no longer the primary residence, or upon the property owner’s death. Once a loan is repaid, the funds go back into the Housing Rehabilitation program and can be used to fund another project. Since the start of the program, more than 100 homes in Granby have been improved, updated and repaired. Anyone interested in learning more about the program or applying is encouraged to call Abby Kenyon at 860-844-5319. Applications are addressed on a first come, first served basis.

ADVERTISERS AGREEMENT

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CORRECTIONS

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

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

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

several students of color to attend the STEAMVE$TMENTS 2024 Seminar where they were introduced to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math careers while also receiving financial literacy and investment training.

In 2025, GRR will continue to use funding to educate our community to be antiracist.

GRR is excited to be a sponsor of the 26th annual National White Privilege Conference being held in Hartford, March 26-29. Please see the related article on p. 13.

GRR Editorial Committee

Walk safely

While you are walking on the beautiful country roads in Granby and Connecticut, please, make sure you are on the proper side of the road for pedestrians. You should always be facing the traffic coming toward you so that you can see the cars or trucks or busses approaching you. It is recommended that you wear bright clothing so that you do not blend into the landscape. We live on a country road and occasionally see people walking on the wrong side and so wanted to make sure everyone is safe.

Carol and Herb Hulbert

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

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

Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, February 3, Tuesday, February 18

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept. Community Room, Monday, February 24

Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, February 5 and 19

Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesdays, February 11 and 25

Inland Wetlands and Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, February 12

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, February 10

GRANBY FOOD BANK

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

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

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Town embraces drug abuse/ addiction recovery program

By Shirley Murtha

Granby may not be as affected by drug use and addiction as some other towns, but there is no denying that it exists here, in both youth and adult populations. It impacts not just the individuals but also families and the community. The Community Law Enforcement Addiction Recovery Program, CLEAR, has been created to address this problem.

CLEAR’s mission is to “form a collaborative network of professionals in the community who will facilitate medical intervention, improve access to treatment and recovery support for those struggling with drug addiction who seek assistance without fear of arrest or prosecution in order to make a positive difference in the quality of life for individuals, families and the entire community.” The goal is to connect impacted individuals within 24-36 hours with a social worker who will hopefully deflect the individual away from the criminal justice system, connecting them instead to support and treatment.

To assist the Town of Granby in implementing this program, the board of selectmen recently approved entering into a contract with McCall Behavioral Health Network, a non-profit organization based in Torrington. Although the entire Farmington Valley Health District is showing interest in this program, at this point Granby is the first to enter. It is expected that some or all of the towns in the FVHD will also join, maximizing the expertise and support and increasing the opportunity for future funding.

As Granby Police Chief Scott Sansom notes, “This program is an effective way to combat the opioid problem collaboratively by sharing the resources and costs across communities.”

Town Manager Mike Walsh, Director of Human Services Sandra Yost and Sansom have worked diligently to be sure that this program will be a definite benefit to Granby. Sansom and Yost spoke at the Jan. 6 board of selectmen meeting, emphasizing how the program will provide one of the most significant, often missing, elements of dealing with a drug crisis or addiction event—a warm handoff. Often a crisis or event necessarily ends with the person being led away by a law enforcement officer to a jail cell or by ambulance to a hospital.

If that person is released in 72 hours, or upon recovery in a hospital, he or she most likely end up repeating the offense. What that person really needs is support and counseling before that happens. CLEAR promises to have a social worker at the jail, the hospital or home within 24 hours, providing support and resource referrals to the individual and

Director of Human Services Sandra Yost puts final touches on an agreement with McCall Behavioral Health Network as Town Manager Mike Walsh (standing) and Police Chief Scott Sansom look on.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

the family in the hope that the cycle won’t continue.

The funding for this program comes from the $30,000 per year the Town of Granby receives from the litigation settlement with the major opioid manufacturers and distributors, chiefly the Sackler family. Connecticut’s share of this settlement is $600 million, to be distributed over the next 20 years with Granby’s share at $30,000 per year. Terms of the class-action lawsuit specify that this settlement money must be used to combat drug use and addiction. Granby is planning to pay McCall $28,000 a year for its service, which will allow it to assign a social worker to Granby’s caseload.

Walsh is 100 percent behind this program, saying “This is the single most important thing we can do to perhaps save a life. It is well worth it.”

TOWN HALL HAPPENINGS

STARTING THE NEW YEAR RIGHT

By Catherine Lanyon, Town of Granby Communications Staff

Granby Town Hall is busy and in the swing of things for 2025. The various boards and commissions are back on a regular meeting schedule. Agendas and minutes for these meetings are available on the Town of Granby website (granby-ct.gov). Many meetings are also available remotely via Zoom with meeting links to join posted on the agendas on the website—these meetings are also recorded by GCTV and can be watched online.

The Granby Tax Office reminds residents that supplemental motor vehicle taxes and the second installment of real estate and personal property taxes became due and payable as of Jan. 1. Supplemental motor vehicle tax bills, for cars newly registered after Oct. 1, 2023 but before September 2024, were mailed in late December 2024. Bills for real estate and personal property taxes were mailed last June and have a tear-off section for the January installment. Payments must be postmarked by Monday, Feb. 3, or can be hand-delivered to town hall by 4 p.m. on Feb. 3, to be considered on time. Late payments are subject to interest of 3 percent after Feb. 3, and an additional 1.5 percent per month thereafter.

Social Services had a very successful helping-holiday season. Seventeen families and their 38 children benefitted from this year’s gift sponsorship program. Additionally, 107 families and seniors were provided with holiday food vouchers to purchase a holiday celebration meal this season.

The Youth Action Council is working with Granby Public Schools, Granby PD, and Granby EMS to host a mock accident prior to prom season. Look for more details soon. The drop-in vibe group on Friday evenings is very popular and a fun option for teens.

The Granby Public Library Main Branch underwent interior updates to the main spaces during January. New carpets were installed, old

wallpaper was removed, and fresh paint was applied to the Main Branch, which was closed during that time. The library staff is excited to be back open and running in February. There is a new makerspace technician at the Cossitt Creation Station Makerspace. Go online or stop by Cossitt to see what cool technology can be utilized and what projects are possible!

The Granby Town Clerk’s Office received updated information from the Connecticut General Statutes regarding business trade names. If you conduct business in Connecticut and would like to review the new rules, please visit the town clerk’s page on the town website. Granby Department of Public Works reminds the public that town ordinance prohibits the parking of any vehicle on a town road, culde-sac, turnaround or parking area from the start of a winter storm until 12 hours after the storm has ended. Any vehicle found in violation of the parking ban may be towed at the owner’s expense.

During the winter season, it is inevitable that some mailboxes will fall victim to winter forces. Mailboxes should be inspected each fall to determine if the post is rotted or damaged and to make sure the mailbox is securely fastened to the post. In accordance with town ordinances, mailboxes damaged by the snow load will not be repaired by the town. The town is responsible for the repair of a mailbox damaged by direct contact with a town snowplow.

To report issues such as downed trees or slippery road conditions, contact the DPW office Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 860-844-5241. Outside of business hours, concerns can be reported to dispatch at the Granby Police Department non-emergency number, 860-844-5335.

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

Paine’s now partnering with USA Waste and Recycling

Paine’s takes great pride in serving the town of Granby’s municipal curbside waste and recycling collection. The town has been a valued partner for many years. Effective Jan. 1, 2025, USA Waste and Recycling, in partnership with Paine’s, assumed operations of Granby’s municipal waste and recycling collection.

For Granby residents, there will be no interruption in service. Operations will continue as usual—same servic-

es, same routes and the same drivers. Please expect to see USA trucks on residential routes in the near future. USA’s infrastructure, equipment and experienced team will provide opportunities to streamline and enhance existing services in the future, in collaboration with Granby’s Department of Public Works.

USA is a family-owned and operated company, established in Somers in 1974. Like Paine’s, we take great pride

in supporting the neighborhoods where our families live, work and play. We deeply appreciate the Town of Granby’s trust in the Paine’s and USA team. Community members are encouraged to reach out with any questions to the USA Customer Service Team at 800998-2984 or the Granby Department of Public Works at 860-844-5241.

Submitted by USA Waste and Recycling.

Developers outline proposals for Kearns property

By Shirley Murtha

The Granby Board of Selectmen, the Commission on Aging, and Granby residents convened on Jan. 13 to hear two developers present their concepts for the redevelopment of the Kearns School property.

Jean Donihee-Perron, chairwoman of the commission on aging, spoke of the commission’s mission to create and evaluate programs and services for the elderly in the community. She noted that the Kearns property is an ideal location for redevelopment since water and sewer lines are in place. She also noted that there is now a two-year waiting list for housing for the elderly, so getting a start on this project is quite important.

Town Manager Mike Walsh reported that there were four respondents to the call for proposals. Three were accepted, and two partnered into one proposal, so the evening consisted of two presentations. Each gave background information about its company and detailed its proposal on how to redevelop the property. Each session ended with questions from the board, the commission and residents, both present and those attending via Zoom.

The partnered contractors, 7 Summits Realty and New Samaritan, favor complete demolition of the school and the

construction of modern buildings. The other, Bobroske and Chadwick, favor retaining the school building, including the iconic murals on the walls, and using the classrooms as the housing units. Both said the housing units will have doorways that accommodate wheelchairs and will have many aspects that make life easier for elderly residents. Walsh is requesting that within a month, the commission on aging and the board of selectmen each have separate meetings during which they will determine what features of each proposal they prefer and what features are most important for the project. Once the developer is informed of the choice, a yet-to-be-determined town negotiating team will negotiate an agreement to present to the board of selectmen. If approved by the board, a contract signing will occur. Walsh is hopeful that this final step will be completed before the end of June.

The meeting was recorded, and both presenters’ materials can be reviewed at granby-ct.gov Click on “Agendas and Minutes” on the home page, scroll to board of selectmen, click on Jan. 13 and choose “Packet” from the Download menu. The GCTV video can be viewed here by clicking on the “TV” icon.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WINTER TIPS

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

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

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

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

Driveways: Before your final cleanup, check to see if the street has been plowed to the curb. If it has, you should be safe to clean the end of your driveway. If it hasn’t, rest assured the

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

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

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

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

CCPAC poised for action

By Shirley Murtha

The Capital Program Priority Advisory Committee (CPPAC) was established in April 1984 for the purpose of defining what constitutes a capital improvement, establishing criteria for prioritizing such improvements and recommending a schedule for these projects to the board of selectmen.

TOOTH TALK

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Protect Your Smile?

Did you know that more than 2 million teeth are knocked out each year due to sports-related injuries? We see it right here in Granby! A dental injury is a life changing event. Damage to your permanent teeth can be very costly and will require a lifetime of repairs. However, you can prevent this damage by wearing a custom athletic mouthguard, designed to protect your teeth from trauma. Custom-fabricated mouthguards are essential for preventing athletic oral/facial injuries, such as broken teeth, jaw fractures, brain damage, and neck injuries. Wearing a mouthguard will reduce the severity and incidence of concussions as well.

You should wear a mouthguard whenever you participate in activities that involve a high likelihood of physical contact to the mouth, such as basketball, softball, football, wrestling, soccer, lacrosse, rugby, in-line skating, martial arts, skateboarding, and bicycling.

What are the different types of mouthguards?

There are several types of mouthguards, including the following:

• Stock mouthguard: This least expensive option is a ready-made stock item, which offers the least protection since little can be done to adjust its fit. This type of mouthguard requires the user to close the jaw to hold it in place; as a result, it may interfere with speech and breathing. It also may lead to soreness of the muscles of the jaw. A stock mouthguard is not considered an acceptable device for facial protection.

• Mouth-formed mouthguard: There are two types of mouthformed mouthguards. The first is a shell-liner mouthguard that is made from an acrylic material that is poured into an outer shell, where it forms a lining. When placed in an athlete’s mouth, the lining material molds to the teeth and is allowed to set. The second type is a thermoplastic (also known as a “boil and bite”) mouthguard. This type of mouthguard is softened in hot water,

placed in the mouth, and shaped around the teeth by using a finger or tongue and sometimes biting pressure. This type of mouthguard can provide some degree of protection, but usually it will be bulky and have a loose fit.

• Custom-made mouthguard: The best choice is a mouthguard that is custom-made by your dentist. It offers the best protection, fit, and comfort level because it is made from a model of your teeth.

If you have a mouthguard, you should bring the mouthguard to each regularly scheduled dental visit so your dentist can evaluate the fit and effectiveness of your mouthguard.

For more information about mouthguards, talk to your dentist.

At the Granby Dental Center, we offer “Smile Vision,” which allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with whiter, straighter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION!

The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! At the Granby Dental Center, we offer CEREC, an amazing technology that allows us to fabricate porcelain crowns in just one visit! This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength!

We also have our own in-house Cone Beam CT technology, allowing us to see 3-D images instantly. This aids in diagnosis and planning for Implants

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

Scan the QR symbol below to learn more about our office:

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

Visit our website at: www.granbydentalcenter.com

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For the past several years, with no need for the committee’s input, its membership did not meet. Considering that projects are now presenting themselves and need to be prioritized by the community, the boards of selectmen and finance asked Town Manager Walsh to identify appointments so the work of the committee could begin. The proposal for such was approved at the Nov. 4, BOS meeting.

Members were appointed and approved, and the committee met on Dec. 2. Since that initial meeting, all succeeding meetings have been put on hold until the budget process reaches completion. That will give the com-

Guarco cont’d. from p. 2 that will come out in the governor’s biennial budget proposal on the first Wednesday of February.

As it stands, the initial calculations using the Plus One expenditure submissions and relevant revenue projections drive a mill rate change of roughly 6 percent. This high level of tax rate change will not stand, as the process unfolds over the next two months and

mittee a clearer picture of projects that will be available for prioritizing. The CPPAC plans to meet on the first and fourth Monday of each month at 5 p.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room. The early hour was chosen since several of the members (regular and ex-officio) have 7 p.m. meetings on Mondays. The committee is composed of two members each from the boards of selectmen, finance and education, with one member of each pair from the Democratic Party and one from the Republican Party. The town treasurer is also a member. Ex-officio members include the chairs of the BOS, BOF and BOE, the town manager and school superintendent.

Residents who have agreed to be voting members on the CPPAC are Peggy Chapple and Mark Neumann from the BOS, Kevin Hobson and William Kennedy from the BOF, Heather Lombardo and David Peling from the BOE, and Town Treasurer John Adams.

the two operating boards and administrations review and revise what they present in late March.

The board of finance expects to finalize operating guidelines and the budget for fiscal year 2026 on Monday, Feb. 10 at its 7:30 p.m. meeting, once the final Grand List numbers and the governor’s proposed municipal revenue listing are available. Public input is welcome.

PLANNING & ZONING HIGHLIGHTS

NOVEMBER 12, 2024

Present: Eric Lukingbeal, Mark Lockwood, Eric Myers, Meg Jabaily, Robert Lavitt, Steve Muller, Brennan Sheahan and Paula Johnson. Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre.

Seating of Alternates

Jabaily was seated for Christine Chinni. Informal Discussion: 188 Day Street, proposed seven-lot subdivision Kirk MacNaughton of Peak Mountain Development, LLC discussed a proposed seven-lot subdivision at 188 Day Street. The 15.63-acre property consists of two zones (R50 and R30) with 965 feet of frontage on Day Street and 545 feet of frontage on North Granby Road. Wetlands are located at the southwestern corner and northeastern corner of the property, and to satisfy the open space requirement, 3.55 acres on the eastern side of the property are shown to be open space. MacNaughton indicated that soil testing has been completed and the soils are suitable for on-site septic systems.

A 30-foot-deep visual streetscape buffer is proposed along the entire frontage of the property on Day Street. Lockwood questioned site lines at the intersection of Day Street and North Granby Road, and many commissioners expressed concern regarding the proposed driveway layout for lot #7. Commissioners also questioned the proposed driveway easement and if another arrangement was possible. Lukingbeal questioned swapping the proposed open space location with front lots in order to preserve existing frontage on Day Street. The commission encouraged the planting of trees and shrubs to beautify the development. Kenyon noted that further review of fullyengineered plans by town staff is required, and the proposal will need to go before the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission.

DECEMBER 10, 2024

Present: Eric Lukingbeal, Christine Chinni, Eric Myers, Paula Johnson, Robert Lavitt, Steve Muller, and Brennan Sheahan. Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre.

Seating of Alternates

Johnson was seated for Mark Lockwood.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Sections 8.5.2 and 8.5.3 for a detached accessory apartment in excess of 1,200 square feet for property located at 70 Lakeside Drive, R30 Zone.

Applicant and property owner John Laudati is seeking permission to establish a detached accessory apartment over 1,200 square feet within a pre-existing outbuilding on the property. The existing structure was formerly a dining hall when the property was used as a camp for female tobacco workers from Florida. The building is set back about 725 feet from Salmon Brook Street, 85 feet from the side property line to the south, 95 feet from the property line to the east (Manitook Lake) and 180 feet from the northern property line. The apartment would consist of roughly 1,458 square feet, a kitchen, two bathrooms and two bedrooms. The remaining space would be left as storage and there are no proposed exterior modifications to the building at this time. If approved, the applicant would need to consult with Farmington Valley Health District regarding the conversion to ensure the existing septic system is sufficient. There was no public comment. The commission unanimously approved the application.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.1.3.4 for a garage in excess of 1,000 square feet for property located at 10R Eric Drive, R30 Zone.

Applicant and property owner Robert Broderick is looking to construct a 40x45x22foot detached metal garage to the rear of his home, which will be accessed by a new gravel driveway off the existing driveway. The building company (Morton Buildings) requires a 10-foot construction buffer around the footprint of the structure and multiple trees will need to be removed. The garage will be beige and ivory in color, powered by underground electrical from the house and there will be a 20-foot concrete apron in front of the garage bays. The structure will not have floor drains and will be used for personal storage/maintenance of equipment. There will be two exterior, downward-facing LED lights: one over the side entrance door and the other over the three entrance bays. The

applicant received approval from the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission agent on Nov. 27. Johnson expressed concerns regarding the overall appearance of the structure and location suitability, noting that Morton Buildings tend to have an industrial look and feel. The commission discussed prior approvals, and the language outlined within the zoning regulations. The applicant provided a rendering of the proposed structure for consideration, which was received favorably by the commission. Sheahan suggested that additional plantings be utilized to screen the building.

Public Comment

Laura Soule of 12R Eric Drive expressed concerns regarding visibility of the structure from her property and supported the commission’s recommendation for additional landscape screening.

The commission unanimously approved the application, subject to landscape screening as directed by town staff.

Connecticut General Statutes Section 8-24 Referral—Relinquish interest in Phelps Road Cemetery Property, Suffield

The Town of Suffield owns a cemetery on Phelps Road that was deeded to Suffield in 1788 by Eliajah Phelps. The deed had stated that the “burying place” was for the inhabitants of the north part of Granby in addition to the inhabitants of the west part of Suffield. It is adjacent to a parcel owned by The Mountain Burying Ground Association. That association contacted the Town of Suffield asking if it was willing to deed the old burying place to them. The Suffield Town Attorney advised that the Town of Granby would need to relinquish its interest due to the language in the deed. Under State statute CGS§8-24, the commission is required to issue a report prior to abandonment of any municipally-owned property. The commission determined that there are no conflicts with the Plan of Conservation and Development and voted unanimously to issue a positive report to the BOS, relinquishing interest in the Phelps Road Cemetery Property.

Editor’s Note: At the Jan. 6 meeting of the BOS, the selectmen voted unanimously to relinquish its rights and transfer its interest in the cemetery, authorizing the town manager to effectuate the transaction.

Looking for additional information?

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

ANNUAL VOTER REGISTRY CANVASS

Every year the registrar’s office is required to identify those voters on the official voter registry who have moved out of town through a process of selective canvassing of voters. You can aid in this process by informing the registrars if you or your grown children have moved.

The National Change of Address service compares a list from the US Postal Service of the last two years of reported permanent moves to Granby’s list of registered voters. From this comparison, Granby expects to send about 300 letters to people that may have moved. In addition, if someone on Granby’s registry has not voted for more than four years—including the last two federal elections in 2022 and 2024—they will receive a letter asking if they have moved.

If you receive a letter, please read it carefully, fill out, sign and date it before returning it in the postage-paid envelope provided. Family members and current residents can NOT fill out and sign for another voter, so either forward the letter, or return it unopened to the registrars. If a family member wishes to be removed from the Granby list of voters, they are required to submit a written, signed and dated request for removal to the registrar’s office. Letters without the voter’s signature cannot be acted upon.

Poll workers to be thanked

In mid-February the Registrars’ Office will host a special event to honor our 200 poll workers. The invitations were emailed in mid-January. If you missed your invitation, please contact the Registrar of Voters Office.

Please feel free to contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Karen Antonucci, at 860-844-5322 or -5323 or registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov

Uniting the community through art

Granby Ambulance Association highlights local talent

On Saturday, March 1, the New England Air Museum will transform into a vibrant hub of activity as Granby Ambulance Association (GAA) hosts its annual community fundraiser: A Perfect Pairing. Bringing together fine wines, craft beers and premium whiskey/bourbon with local art, this special event aims to strengthen local ties while raising funds for a vital community cause.

The event draws residents from Granby, East Granby, East Hartland and beyond to sample a wide selection of beverages, but the real stars are the local artists.

“It’s an honor to provide a platform for local art,” says Lorri DiBattisto, GAA president. “The work of community artists adds the perfect touch to our event and also serves as a reminder of the incredible talent we have right here at home.”

GAA has hosted A Perfect Pairing since 2019, starting with the work of three area artists. Each year, the roster of talent has grown, as word about the event spreads. This year, GAA hopes to welcome 15 artists, across a wide range of media. From paintings and sculptures to photography and more, the diverse range of works on display will celebrate each artist’s connection to the Farmington Valley.

“Art has a way of drawing people together, and that’s one of our main reasons for hosting this type of event,” says DiBattisto.

Granby Ambulance Association has been part of the community for more than 60 years, serving the towns of East Granby, East Hartland and Granby. But GAA’s mission extends far beyond emergency response. By offering critical CPR and Stop the Bleed classes, as well as participating in local events, the association emphasizes its commitment to being a trusted community partner.

“We’re not just here for emergencies,” said DiBattisto. “We believe in getting to know our neighbors, building relationships, and empowering our community with the knowledge and tools to stay safe.”

A Perfect Pairing take places on Saturday, March 1, at the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks with proceeds benefitting the purchase of two much-needed new ambulances. Anyone interested in attending can visit granbyambulance.org/perfectpairing or contact ldibattisto@granbyambulance.org Information is also available through GAA’s Facebook account. Submitted by the Granby Ambulance Association

Understanding Fees and How They Affect Your Future

We all know investing entails costs. But here’s the problem for investors: the financial industry is built for itself, not the client. If “we put your interests first” was true, there would be better transparency regarding costs. And that is the purpose of this article. So, let’s dig in.

Advisors: On the low end, there is the cost of having someone to talk to at a discount firm. That is typically in the 0.25% to 0.4% range. If you hire a professional registered advisor, fees can get steep. The industry average is 1.18%*, but some firms charge upwards of 1.5%. There are also varying degrees of transparency – some advisors send out invoices, but others will let you scour your statement to find it yourself.

Investments: These are the hardest to find. Mutual funds are generally the highest cost, particularly the actively managed ones. The average cost of a US stock fund is 0.7% for an institutional share class. Add that to the advisor’s fee and you’re at 1.88% in expenses. Further-more, compare that 0.7%

www.metricfin.com

to Vanguard’s S&P 500 Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) that costs 0.03% and it starts to look even worse. Another trap to watch out for: mutual fund A-shares. These are the rattlesnakes of the industry and are used by some big, well-known firms.

Advisors who “don’t charge a fee” are probably using A-share mutual funds. These include an up-front commission of 5.75% and ongoing fees of 1.03%, on average.

Platform fees: Most advisors are not choosing your investments. If the advisor works for a big firm, it is the home office who usually chooses the investments, and they get paid out of the advisor’s fee. However, in some cases, there is a third-party investment strategist that is paid a separate fee, usually around 0.25%.

All these fees add up. While there are good advisors out there and great investment innovation, the financial industry in general doesn’t want to talk about fees. The less you know, the better. It’s a good idea to find an advisor that will have an open, candid conversation about ALL the fees being paid. They are an important component of the success of your financial goals.

Data sourced from Morningstar, unless otherwise noted.

For a description of Metric Financial and disclosures, please visit metricfin. com.

*According to AdvisoryHQ

BOARD

OF EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

NOVEMBER 6, 2024

Present members: Liz Barlow, Monica Logan, Heather Lombardo, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, Ali Zafar and Sofia Brenson (Student Representative) Ratification of the Granby Association of School Administrators’ Contract

The board considered the Granby Association of School Administrators’ (GASA) Contract effective July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028. Logan said there was a general clean-up in contract language and the GWI (General Wage Increase) will be 1.75 percent in 2025-26, 2.25 percent in 2026-27 and 2027-28 with a total increase of 11.53 percent (including steps and level changes) over the three-year contract. Employee premiums for health benefits will be 21.25 percent in 2025-26 and 21.50 percent in 2026-27 and 2027-28. Additionally, there was a change in the language for retired administrators hired prior to July 1, 2025 that they may continue to participate in the Granby employee medical, dental and vision insurance plans at no cost to the board. The board unanimously ratified the GASA contract.

DECEMBER 4, 2024

Members Present: Liz Barlow, Monica Logan, Heather Lombardo, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, Ali Zafar, and Sofia Brenson and Katie O’Neill (Student Representatives)

School Resource Officer Program

Superintendent Cheri Burke, along with Police Chief Scott Sansom and Police Captain Kurt LaFlamme spoke about a potential School Resource Officer (SRO) Program for Granby Public Schools. Burke described an SRO as being a law enforcer, mentor, educator and emergency manager. She went on to state that an SRO would serve as a liaison between the school and outside agencies to promote safety in or around the school by addressing crime

or the fear of crime. An SRO would walk the buildings and interact with students. Burke said that 113 of 169 districts in Connecticut have SROs in place and those districts that do not, have security guards. She shared that Granby police officers are currently called to the schools an average of two or three times per week with calls ranging from a bear on campus, medical needs, social media concerns, drug use, threats of harm and student aggression. Burke reviewed the duties of an SRO, and Sansom explained the process of how an SRO is selected as well as the training required. The salary of a full-time SRO would be a new addition to the superintendent’s proposed Plus One Budget.

Answering questions from the board members, Burke said an interest survey will be sent to parents especially with regard to the funding of an SRO, and stated she does not see an SRO replacing campus supervisor positions.

DECEMBER 18, 2024

Present: Liz Barlow, Monica Logan, Heather Lombardo, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Karen Richmond-Godard, Ali Zafar and Student Representative Katie O’Neil.

Awards and Recognition

Superintendent Burke recognized two winners of the 2024 Holiday Greeting Card Contest. Artwork of Avery Burgess, Grade 2, and Isabella Hurczyn, Grade 10, was selected for this year’s district holiday cards. There were 50 submissions this year and Burke said it was a very difficult choice.

Finance and Operations Report

Nickie Stevenson, director of operations and finance, presented the November budget expense report and stated analysis of both personnel and program accounts suggest that projected expenditures will be covered within budget.

Thoughts on 2025

Already the new year moves quickly by. Some of our New Year’s resolutions may have slipped by us, but we can always begin again—

Let us choose to be kinder, to smile more, to take the time to listen: to music, to the sounds of birds, to each other. Let us be forgiving, accepting, caring people. Let us read—books in our hands, or Kindles, Nooks, iPads and other tablets.

Let us keep in touch with others while we still have the chance. Let us be grateful for our Blessings, most of all. And, let us be open to all the possibilities this new year offers.

Bernadette R. Gentry

Tim Baker, CFA Founder & CEO Metric Financial, LLC

Photos from the 2024 event, courtesy of the GAA.

School Superintendent Cheri Burke, a “dynamic, fast-paced leader”

By Faith Tyldsley

Cheri Burke spends her weekends at hockey rinks. She is the mother of four high-level ice hockey players, ages 14 to 20. While Burke herself does not skate, she is the lynch pin in the family’s love affair with this action-packed, boisterous sport.

Weekdays find Burke in a comparatively quieter setting. She will be in her office at the Board of Education (BOE) building or visiting one of the five schools under her watch: Granby Memorial High School, Granby Memorial Middle School, Kelly Lane Primary School, Wells Road Intermediate School and Granby B.E.A.R. Transition Academy.

Burke became the Granby Public School (GPS) school superintendent on July 1, 2023. In December 2024, she received a prestigious and competitive award from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA).

“A 2024–25 Superintendent to Watch”

NSPRA recognizes school superintendents who have fewer than five years of experience and demonstrate “dynamic, fast-paced leadership with strong communication at its core.” In 2024, Burke was chosen as one of 25 superintendents from a pool of more than 70 applicants across the nation to receive recognition as a 2024-25 Superintendent to Watch.

Communication Plan 2024–2027

Burke’s keystone value is communication. Her detailed three-year communication plan, adopted by the BOE in December 2023, builds on the goal of establishing an open dialogue with parents as well as the broader community. Many initiatives have been accomplished; others are ongoing. A few highlights follow. GPS’s website (granby.ct.k12.us) has undergone a user-friendly makeover. Workshops have focused on improving readability of communications for today’s audiences. A new blog, Ask the Superintendent, (askgps@granbyschools.org) encourages exchange of views and information with the person at the top. Important BOE decisions are publicized in student announcements, school newsletters and in The Granby Drummer education insert.

The Path Burke’s career advancement spans a 30-year period. She began as a classroom teacher in Framingham, Mass. with an inclusive class consisting of third, fourth, and fifth graders. Next, she served as elementary principal of R. D. Seymour School in East Granby. She became director of student learning in Burlington and, prior to coming to Granby, she was assistant superintendent in Glastonbury. She credits colleagues who have “tapped her on the shoulder” when new opportunities

Superintendent Cheri Burke with Avery Burgess, a Grade 2 student at Kelly Lane School. Avery holds her illustration which was chosen for the district’s holiday card this past December. Burke sends a student-created card to 50 people and organizations in the Granby community every year. Submitted photo

arose. She relates that she has been genuinely satisfied in each of her previous positions. She may never have taken next steps were it not for those who urged her on, saying, “You could do so much for so many more kids.”

At Home

Waiting for Burke when she returns to her East Granby home are a cat named Pepper, a golden retriever named Crosby (after Sydney Crosby, hockey player for the Pittsburg Penguins) and a goldfish who was never formally named and is simply known as Fish.

There is scant time for pastimes such as hobbies, a book club and entertaining. At the end of the day Burke is a working mom and, like all others, she juggles the perennial busyness of a home: the needs of children and pets, and the tasks of laundry and grocery runs. Her time is especially shortchanged because school concerts, plays, athletic events and board meetings keep her out late several nights a week. Through it all Burke tailors life to revolve around and protect her top priority: quality family time.

Meet Superintendent Burke

Observe why Granby schools are so fortunate to be led by a nationally recognized school superintendent by attending a board of education meeting, conducted at 7 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month in the Town Hall Meeting Room.

Local Girl Scout earns Gold Award

Mackenzie Janski has earned the highest award offered by Girl Scouts USA (GSUSA), the Girl Scout Gold Award. Mackenzie was recognized at her Gold Award Pinning Ceremony on Jan. 12, at Pilgrim Covenant Church. In recognition of her dedication and hard work to benefit all Granby citizens, the Granby Board of Selectmen presented a proclamation to Mackenzie on Jan. 6, and the State Legislature issued its own proclamation during the ceremony.

Mackenzie began her Girl Scout journey at age five as a Daisy in Troop 66023, and continued through all ranks, earning this milestone as a member of Girl Scout Troop 66362, which she joined in 2017.

Mackenzie is one of 5.4 percent of all Girl Scouts who have earned the prestigious Gold Award. To earn this honor, a Girl Scout must be in high school, complete two Journeys or earn the Silver Award and complete one Journey. Once these prerequisites are met, work on the project can begin, including identifying an important issue in the community, researching, creating an action plan with a sustainable impact, and leading a team to implement the project. GSUSA recommends a minimum of 80 hours of work.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Mackenzie noticed an uptick in mental health concerns among her fellow students at GMHS and learned about the dramatic increase in adolescents suffering from anxiety and depression; she chose this as her Gold project issue.

Mackenzie created a website called The Hope Hangout (bit.ly/thehopehangout) designed to provide information about anxiety and depression to middle and high school students—particularly those who may be experiencing mental health struggles. The website includes common signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as coping strategies and, most importantly, access to

contact information for both local and national professional resources.

In addition, Mackenzie created Mindfulness Kits containing tools to help manage anxiety and promote emotional well-being. These kits are available at the Youth Services Building, the teen section at the Granby Public Library, and at both Granby middle and high schools.

Mackenzie worked with the Granby Youth Action Council to ensure both the website and Mindfulness Kits remain current—sustaining the project long after her direct involvement.

Mackenzie embodies the Girl Scout Promise, treating everyone with honesty, fairness and friendliness. In tackling such a pervasive and sensitive issue, she has proven to be courageous, strong and determined to make the world a better place.

Mackenzie is a 2024 graduate of Granby Memorial High School and now attends Millersville University where she studies social studies secondary education and history, with plans to become a high school history teacher.

Submitted by Deneika Janski

Mackenzie Janski (l.) with Christina Hall, her troop leader at her Gold Award Pinning Ceremony. Photo by James Janski

Prepare for Pink! GMHS to produce Legally Blonde: The Musical

Get ready for a show-stopping celebration of pink, perseverance and plenty of laughs! The Granby Memorial High School Dramatic Arts program is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, running March 14–16. This feel-good, high-energy musical follows the journey of Elle Woods, a fashion-forward sorority girl who defies expectations and conquers challenges as she heads to Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend and discovers her true potential along the way. The talented students of GMHS have been hard at work rehearsing scenes, mastering songs and crafting a vibrant set to bring this beloved story to life.

Audiences can expect dazzling choreography, catchy musical numbers and a story filled with humor and heart. As always, this production is more than just a musical: it’s a celebration of the incredible creativity and dedication of our local youth. Supporting the arts not only strengthens our community but also encourages young performers, artists and crew members to shine.

Gather your friends and family to enjoy an evening of live theater and show your support for Granby’s emerging talent. Together, let’s fill the auditorium with laughter, applause and appreciation for the arts.

Tickets on sale now at gmhsfinearts. com/legallyblonde

Submitted by Granby Fine Arts Booster

ADMIT ONE

New initiative: School Resource Officer

In December, Granby Police Chief Scott Sansom and the Superintendent of Schools proposed that the board of education consider adding a School Resource Officer (SRO) to Granby Public Schools for the 2025-26 school year. An SRO is a sworn law enforcement officer who works full-time in a school setting to enhance the safety of students and staff. The goals of this position are to:

• Create and maintain a safe school environment

• Establish a cooperative relationship with students, staff, parents and police

• Prevent juvenile delinquency

•Promote positive interactions between students and police officers

We believe this initiative will have a lasting, positive impact on our school community. We invite you to review information at granbyschools.org to

learn more about this proposal and watch the presentation from the Dec. 4 BOE meeting at GCVT.org

We recently surveyed parents, students, staff and community members to gather valuable feedback about this position. More than 700 people responded to the survey and more than 80 percent of the respondents indicated a School Resource Officer would be beneficial to the school district and were willing to increase the budget to support this initiative. You can learn more about the proposed SRO program at the Feb. 5, BOE Meeting. Plus One Budget Proposal On Dec. 18, the Plus One Budget for 2025-26 school year was presented to the Granby Board of Education. The Plus One Budget provides a snapshot of the fiscal needs for Granby Public

First grade students practice their posture with violins.

Ms. Belanger’s third grade class works on mathematical thinking skills with two-step word problems. Submitted photos

Eighth grade students attend an electives fair at the high school.

Graphic design by Leah Silverman

GMHS dual enrollment journalism course

By Mikayla Munson

Granby Memorial High School and Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) are collaborating to create a new dual enrollment journalism course for high school students. This class offers a collegiate-level understanding of journalism by mirroring CCSU’s Journalism 200 course. The new curriculum provides more introductory level journalism content and three college credits.

Mary Whittemore, a third-year English teacher at GMHS, is spearheading the dual enrollment course. Whittemore connected with CCSU to create this class by using a state grant specifically designed to fund dual enrollment programs. With the help of Central staff, Vivian Martin, chair of the journalism department, and Katherine Farrish, a former professor, this program was ready to teach by the fall of 2024.

This new curriculum consists of journalism basics including essential questions such as why journalism is important in a democracy, how a news article is different from an essay, the ethics of the profession and what journalism itself can provide for the community.

Whittemore has already seen the benefits of this collaboration because she is working with professional journalists who are “helpful with providing materials and insight.” The class has also had more opportunities to interview people this semester such as Dr. Laura Saunders, director of The Center for Gender at the Institute of Living in Hartford and Officer Nichole Abalan with the Granby Police Department. Whittemore hopes to bring her journalism class to Central next semester, where they will have the opportunity to explore the campus and look at the television studio as well as learn about the journalism program Central offers. The final project in this course demonstrates what students learned in the form of a news article. This work is sent to Central, allowing them to look at the progress of the class. Most of the students chose to write about lockdown drills. In the brainstorming process, students came up with a list of what should be considered when looking at lockdown protocols. Some of them suggested requiring martial arts classes for students or adding baseball bats in classrooms to help students feel more protected. Others explored how video games factor into this issue of violence, and the realistic prognosis of what happens in lockdowns. From this point, each student got to choose an angle that sparked their interest. For their research process, they were able

to interview Michael Dunn, principal of Granby Memorial High School, and Officer Abalan. Whittemore noted that “it was probably one of the most excited I’ve ever seen students” when talking about how students reacted when recognizing the common interest in this topic.

Whittemore, Martin and Farrish continue to work in the journalism field because they know how special this profession is. Whittemore believes “journalism is not dead. We cannot let it die,” and emphasizes that the things society notices matter and should not go unreported. Martin reminds people that “given the times we are in we need strong journalists” and that you must be flexible with your career path because your dream career will not come right away. Farrish mentions that “we need independent ethical journalists more than ever in our democracy” and that the major itself teaches so many important skills that can be used in many professions. Because of their dedication to this field, GMHS students now get a more in depth look into this exciting and dynamic field.

on Ed cont’d. from p. 10

Schools, enrollment projections, general assumptions and predicted staffing and program changes required by state and federal government to meet the educational and social needs of our students.

This budget provides a preliminary look at the administration’s initial priorities, planning and challenges. In FY26, our financial challenges include the rising cost of utilities, contractual obligations and the increase in expenses related to unfunded state mandates; however, the district staff has worked diligently to realize efficiencies wherever possible while continuing to move the district toward the achievement of the vision of Granby Public Schools.

The projected Plus One Budget request for 2025-26 is 5.67 percent over current operating costs. New initiatives for FY26 include an SRO, certified reading intervention and full-time groundskeeper and maintenance technician. The district will face a number of budget challenges in FY26 including unfunded state mandates such as a K–3 Reading Program, required HVAC testing and a revised teacher evaluation plan. In addition, just as you are experiencing increases in your household budgets, the school district is challenged by inflation rates and rising costs of fuel, electricity and general supplies.

Stay Informed

Please follow budget development by visiting our website and attending

Security Resource Officer and other support strategies

At the beginning of January, the Granby School District sent out a district-wide survey regarding adding a potential Security Resource Officer (SRO), a sworn law enforcement officer who works full time in the schools to enhance the safety of our students and staff. It is the hope of the district that the presence of a SRO at our schools will help not only in providing security in potential emergency circumstances, but also provide a resource for children who may need additional assistance or guidance from a trusted adult. Part of the success of a healthy and effective SRO program is in building relationships with students.

An SRO, properly planned for and utilized, will be an effective resource in making Granby schools a stable and effective learning environment. There will be further discussion regarding the SRO at the board of education meeting on Feb. 5, 7 p.m. at Town Hall—community engagement is welcome.

Of course, additional resources are necessary to provide for other supportive needs for our students. There is no question that there is increased demand for emotional and mental health support for students not only in Granby but throughout the country.

Granby schools consult with a medical advisor, Dr. Rob Parker, for assistance in managing the psychological and emotional challenges students are facing. Social workers and school psychologists are available in every school, and school counselors are available at the middle and high school levels to meet with students and consult with families about mental health and behavioral concerns.

Beyond what the school can do, home and community support is essential for kids. In materials that will be sent to family members in the future, Parker stresses the importance of finding ways to stay connected with children.

the BOE budget workshops and presentations. Information will regularly be updated on the district website and social media platforms @Superintendent_Burke on Facebook and Instagram.

Superintendent Community Conversations will be held on Thursday, Feb. 20, 9–10 a.m. and Thursday, Feb. 27, 6–7 p.m. via Zoom. Please contact Linda Powell in advance (powelll@ granbyschools.org) to receive a link for this meeting. This is a time where the community and parents/guardians can

Everyone’s days are busy, but nothing replaces spending time with your kids, even with shared activities like preparing meals, sharing a family dinner, or bonding over a shared movie or show. Spending time together can help engage in meaningful conversations and encourage open dialogue to help children feel safe in sharing their thoughts and emotions.

Parker also emphasizes that parents should watch for warning signs of mental health issues, including changes in mood, behavior, sleep, appetite or disinterest in usual activities. Parents should work to encourage positive coping strategies like exercise, art, reading or other activities that help manage stress and anxiety. As caregivers, having our own network of friends, family and other trusted individuals to rely on is essential and also helps provide children with additional guidance and support.

The support of families and community is paramount to making our schools safe. If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, there are several ways to seek support:

Connecticut Children’s Mental Health Services: Visit Connecticut Children’s Mental Health Services for valuable information, including blog posts such as How to Spot Mental Health Issues in Children and Coping Strategies for Parents and Caregivers. These resources provide practical advice on identifying concerns and supporting your child.

211: A free and confidential crisis helpline available 24/7 for mental health consultation/dispatching mobile crisis clinicians.

Urgent Crisis Centers: A convenient walk-in alternative to an emergency room, a UCC offers immediate assistance for children in psychiatric crisis. Located at the Village in Hartford. 911: If there is an immediate safety concern, do not hesitate to call 911.

ask questions about the budget or other educational issues.

On March 5, at 7 p.m., the FY26 superintendent’s proposed budget will be presented to the BOE in the town hall meeting room and via Zoom. The BOE budget workshop and budget adoption will be held on March 12, and March 19, respectively, at 7 p.m. in the town hall meeting room and via Zoom.

The public budget hearing is scheduled for April 7, at 7 p.m. in the GMHS auditorium.

Focus

Out of Town

Lifelong Learning registration open for

winter/spring semester

Beat the winter doldrums with a course or lecture at Presidents’ College Lifelong Learning at the University of Hartford. Taught by professors and community experts, the program’s 1.5-hour lectures and short, two-to-three session non-credit courses include topics like the arts, history, current events, literature, science and engineering. There’s no membership fee, and students pay a modest amount for only those courses they wish to take.

During the winter/spring semester, you can indulge your love of travel with a course on How Art and Music Migrated Along the Silk Road or European Literary Excursions. Delve into Why

Poetry Matters with Connecticut’s Poet Laureate or into the Effects of Declining Birth Rates. Explore Artificial Intelligence and the Future in Media or How Race and Place Influenced Pop Music. Join us for a lecture on The Hartt School’s production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Director Robert Davis and composer Kathryn Swanson will discuss their collaboration on the original musical score and dramatic sound design. Then attend the performance the following week. These are just a few of the offerings. Go to hartford. edu/pc. for details. Email pcollege@ hartford.edu to be added to the mailing list.

McLean to offer Five Wishes program

Ninety percent of Americans agree that it’s important to talk to their loved ones about their wishes regarding endof-life care, yet only 30 percent actually discuss this difficult topic. “We plan for holidays, birthdays and vacations, but many of us have not planned for or discussed what we would like the end of our life to look like,” says Peggy Coburn, MPH, administrator of Home Care and Hospice at McLean in Simsbury. Join Kevin Baran, M.D., medical director, and the McLean Hospice Team for a special McLean and Me Educational Series presentation to learn how to talk about and record your wishes for care through the end of life, so those wishes can be understood and respected. The presentation will be held

at McLean’s Garmany Performing Arts Center, 50 Sarah Lane, Simsbury, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m. The presentation is free but please register by Feb. 4 as seating is limited. A light dinner will be provided.

The panel discussion will be based on the Five Wishes program. Five Wishes is the nation’s only advanced-care planning program, covering personal, spiritual, medical and legal wishes. When completed, the Five Wishes booklet will allow your family or caregiver to know exactly what you want, in one document.

To register for the Five Wishes presentation at McLean, visit McLeanCare. org/Events, email Margaret.Clark@ McLeanCare.org, or call 860-658-3718.

East Granby Library activities

The East Granby Public Library, at 24 Center Street, welcomes residents from the surrounding communities to its programs. Register at egpl.org or call 860-653-3002.

Wednesday Afternoon at the Movies: Movies start at 1 p.m. Feb. 5, Killers of the Flower Moon (part 1); Feb. 12, Killers of the Flower Moon (part 2); Feb. 19, Unstoppable; Feb. 26, Sight Paper Organizing: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11 a.m. Overwhelmed by endless tasks, overflowing emails, stacks of papers and feeling on the brink of burnout? Whether you are sacrificing your wellbeing for work, at home or on the job, this workshop will help you identify the biggest obstacles to your productivity and well-being. Discover how to simplify priorities, align your mind, time and environment and leave with practical organizational strategies to thrive.

Stacy Giguere has a Ph.D. in clinical

psychology and is a certified paper solution organizer. Unlock Your Memories, an online writing workshop: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 6 p.m. Discover the power of storytelling in an engaging online workshop. Learn techniques to capture experiences and turn them into compelling narratives. This memoir-writing workshop provides practical techniques for capturing vivid details, and preserving personal legacies. Space is limited so please register early. Gabrielle Esposito holds a degree in creative writing from SUNY Geneseo.

2025 Juried Art Show: Throughout February, explore a stunning variety of artwork created by local artists of all ages. Stop by any time during library hours to admire the displays. Many pieces are available for purchase, with a benefit to the library.

East Granby Congregational Church is open and affirming

By C J Gibson

The open and affirming designation is offered by the United Church of Christ (UCC) to congregations that have taken the steps to educate their members, agree to the acceptance of this important initiative and to vote for the designation. UCC believes we are called to nurture the joy and fullness of creation with encouragement, inclusion and compassion. Following the teachings of Jesus, we hope to demonstrate God’s love and actively invite all to join us on this journey. We pledge not to discriminate against any person, group or organization in hiring, promotion, membership, use of our facility, provision of services or funding on the basis of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, faith, nationality, ethnicity, marital status or physical disability.

Moon, and Rev. Marilyn Sponzo, we learned that within our community people may feel sidelined by their past religious experiences, perhaps by a prejudiced response, unacceptance or physical barriers. By our announcement and affirmation of our desire to invite all of God’s people, we are proclaiming to the community that we want all people to join us today, tomorrow and as often as you wish to be with us. Come participate with us in the sacraments, ministry and mission of our church as we grow together as followers of Jesus. Your presence will enhance all of our experiences.

East Granby Congregational Church (EGCC) has been an open and receptive congregation for generations, often referred to as very friendly, caring and receptive to visitors. So why is this designation needed? Along with the enlightenment members received from multiple guest speakers to our pulpit including Elliot Altomare, Rev. Marilyn Kendrix, Candace Low, Rev. Denny

No matter who you are or where you are in your spiritual journey, we open our doors and our hearts to you. Our building is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. We are open to accommodating whatever your need may be in order for you and your family to worship in a safe and comfortable community.

The church is located at 9 Rainbow Road, East Granby—in the center of town at the intersection of routes 20 and 187. You can reach us at 860-653-2987 or visit egchurch.org for all upcoming events.

GRR excited to support national conference in Hartford

By Liddy Doyle and Cathy Watso

Granby Racial Reconciliation is excited to be a sponsor of the 26th annual White Privilege Conference (WPC) that will be held in Hartford, March 26–29. GRR sees the WPC as a vehicle to support its purpose to raise awareness and continue the conversation on racial justice so Granby can be a great place for everyone.

Though the title of this long-standing conference may be provocative, author and previous WPC presenter, Paula Rothenberg states, “White Privilege is the other side of racism. Unless we name it, we are in danger of wallowing in guilt or moral outrage with no idea of how to move beyond them. It is often easier to deplore racism and its effects than to take responsibility for the privileges some of us receive as a result of it… Once we understand how white privilege operates, we can begin addressing it on an individual and institutional basis.”

giving strategies to address issues of privilege and oppression and advance social and economic justice.”

Authors Jacqueline Battalora and Robin DiAngelo will be participating in this year’s conference. A GRR board member shares that their books impacted her own antiracist journey by addressing the gaps in her understanding of American History (look up Bacon’s Rebellion) and examining privilege’s impact on her understanding of community and who gets to belong.

Per the conference website, “Open to everyone, the conference… provides an opportunity for participants to discuss how white privilege, white supremacy and oppression affect daily life while

The list of other keynote speakers and presenters covers a wide range of thinkers and doers in the fields of education, disability rights, climate justice, organizational and community development, inclusion and belonging initiatives, poets, artists and musicians. Opportunities will abound for deep learning, relationship and community building with an emphasis on actionable steps towards building an antiracist culture and community.

Registration links are found at GRR’s website GranbyRR.com or directly through The Privilege Institute website, theprivilegeinstitute.com/wpc26

Volunteers needed for senior assistance program

The Granby Senior Center provides the Senior Van Medical Transport service for a $5 fee for Granby residents and $10 for non-residents, to receive a ride from home to medical appointments and back. Since some seniors need a little bit of extra help when boarding on and off the van, the town is introducing the new Seniors’ Assistance Program, where a volunteer will

Business

join a senior for the van ride and help the senior to get on and off the van bus. Volunteers are needed. When you sign up you will also be picked up and dropped off at home by the senior van. Contact the town manager at 860-8445300 or mwalsh@granby-ct.gov for more information and to sign up. Submitted by town manager’s office

Leaders

Breakfast features exciting speakers

The Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce is featuring two dynamic speakers on Friday, Feb. 28, at the Business Leaders Breakfast. They will share invaluable perspectives on navigating today’s fast-paced business landscape. The breakfast is at 7:30 a.m., followed by the speakers, at the Simsbury Inn.

ous innovation and change to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.

Skip Kodak, president of LEGO, will delve into the critical need for continu-

Chris DiPentima, CEO of CBIA, will discuss the strengths, weaknesses and unique opportunities of doing business in Connecticut, offering an in-depth look at current economic trends and data shaping the state’s future. Tickets are available at simsburycoc. com

In Town Focus

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet Monday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m., at the senior center. The program for the evening is Critiquing with Robert Floyd. Floyd approaches the critiques in a nonconfrontational way and always has something good to say about an image. He covers composition, cropping, editing and more. Bring several photographs on a memory stick and join in for a very informative and enjoyable evening. The meeting will be in person but in case of bad weather it will be a Zoom meeting. The scavenger hunt words are: cell phone photograph, ice and favorite. For Zoom information contact pjgranby38@gmail.com

Rubber Duck Race

Save the date! The Granby Grange will hold its annual Rubber Duck Race, on Saturday, May 10, at Salmon Brook Park, Pavilion 2. This fun-filled event will feature more than $1,200 in prizes awarded to the first 12 rubber ducks that cross the finish line and the last duck to finish the race. The race is open to all, and rubber duck entries can be purchased from any Granby Grange member. In addition, flowers will be available for Mother’s Day, and homemade baked goods and refreshments will be available.

Women’s Breakfast

The Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will meet at the senior center on Wednesday, Feb. 5, with a program entitled Come Discover the Magic of Iceland. Jennifer Jalbert and Susan Scarcella explored Iceland separately with their spouses in 2024 and will entertain guests with scenic photos and interesting dialogue about their adventures. Breakfast will start at 8:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 9 a.m. Cost is $5 for members. Please reserve in advance by calling the Senior Center or visiting the Granby Senior Center website.

Men’s Breakfast

On Friday, Feb. 14, the Granby Men’s Breakfast Group will be serving hot breakfast prepared by its own trained volunteers. The cost remains at $5. The speaker will be Mark Ranstead with stories from his travels as a pilot. Breakfast starts at 8:30 a.m., and members are welcome to come early for coffee and a visit. The program starts at 9 a.m. Please call the Senior Center to register your attendance.

The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words. Submit to editor@granbydrummer.org

David Bonhurst Hart, 97, beloved patriarch of the Hart family, passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Taylor Community in Laconia, NH. He was the youngest of three boys born to Carrie Louise Bonhurst and Edward Osgood Hart. They lived in Fulton and Syracuse, NY. Dave graduated from Eastwood High School, class of 1945, and served in the US Army from 1946–47. Both older brothers served in World War II as well.

David graduated from Denison University in Granville, OH, in 1951. He earned a master’s degree in education from Columbia University. He taught history and social studies in the public schools of Sherburne, NY, and West Hartford, CT, before becoming a re-insurance underwriter and manager with the Travelers Insurance Company in Hartford from 1957–89.

On August 23, 1952, in Haddonfield, NJ, he married his college sweetheart, Lee Sharp, and settled in Granby CT, where they raised their family. He was active in the Granby Public Health Nursing Association, and the First Congregational Church, UCC. For 29 years, Dave organized a crew of bakers who produced over 400 loaves of cheddar cheese bread for the church’s annual fall craft fair!

He and his boys were avid hikers. Dave continued to hike and backpack solo in NH and ME into his 70s.

In 1997, David and Lee became permanent residents of the Taylor Community in Laconia. Over ten years, he completed a literary work researching the history of the Taylor Community, to honor the 100th anniversary of the its founding.

They joined the Sanbornton Congregational Church, UCC in 1998 where Dave sang in the choir and served on the board of trustees.

Lee, “the treasure of my heart” and beloved wife of 63 years, predeceased him in September 2015. He is survived by his son Bruce and his wife Jill; daughter Carol Hart and her husband Malik Haig; son Edward and his wife Laura; honorary son Ron Brown; granddaughter Megan Leigha; granddaughter Stephanie Krist, her husband Nate, and their son Julien David, and many dear extended family members and friends.

Celebrations of Life are planned for 2025: Sat., February 1, at Sanbornton Congregational Church, UCC, and Sat., February 8, at Granby Congregational Church, UCC.

Donations in David’s memory may be made to Sanbornton Congregational Church UCC: www.uccsanbornton.org/stewardship

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/ 603Cremations.com is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.

David Bonhurst Hart

Social Services

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

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

Energy Assistance

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP): is designed to help offset home energy costs of Connecticut’s lower income families, specifically those households whose annual income falls at or below 60 percent of the state median income ($87,751 for a family of four in 2024). Call Granby Social Services at 860-8445350 to schedule an intake appointment or apply on-line at: portal.ct.gov/heatinghelp/connecticut-energyassistance-program-ceap

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

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

Granby Local Assistance Program: Granby residents facing financial hardship may access funds once in a 12-month period. The gross household income cannot exceed 60 percent of state median income unless extenuating circumstances can be documented.

Resources and Services

Child Welfare Resources: Tools for supporting virtual times for families and child welfare workforce tools are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at: cwig@communications.childwelfare.gov

Domestic Violence: If you need help or just someone to talk to, please visit CTSafeConnect.org or call or text 888-774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.

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

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273- 8255 When it Builds Up, Talk it Out: Campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833-258-5011 or talkitoutct.com

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

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

Food Resources

Winter can be especially harsh for those suffering from food insecurity. Your donations in support our wonderful community food support organizations are greatly appreciated.

Granby Food Pantry: 248 Salmon Brook Street, Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon and Thursdays, 2–3:30 p.m. Before using the food pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-844-5350 to schedule.

Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen: Free meal available every Wednesday, 3–5 p.m. at Granby Congregational Church-South Campus, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

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

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

Open Cupboard Pantry: Granby Congregational Church, North Campus, 219 North Granby Road. Distributions are on Fridays, 3–4 p.m. on a drive through basis. Enter the church parking lot via north entrance on Stratton Road. Call the church at 860-653-4537 with questions. SNAP: CT Foodbank will continue to facilitate SNAP applications by phone. For help with SNAP call 860-856-4357. This process will take approximately 30 minutes and CT Foodbank will mail you a packet to sign and return.

PUBLIC WORKS

Holidays: Presidents’ Day (Feb. 17) is not a trash holiday. Trash and recycling must be out on your regularly scheduled day. Paine’s has an alert system that will notify you of any changes to your pickup schedule. Signup at painesinc.com

Salt and Sand: A mix of sand and salt mix is available at the Granby Animal Shelter across from the McLean Game Refuge on Route 10. Residents are welcome to the equivalent of one 5-gallon bucket at a time.

DPW crews: The weather this winter has allowed us to continue working on jobs such as tree cutting and ditch cleaning. Please use caution when approaching any area where a crew is working.

Recycling: Do you have questions on recycling? Check out recyclect.com or follow them on Facebook.

Plastic Film: Plastic bags and plastic wrap should never go in your single stream barrel. Plastic film is recyclable but only in designated collection boxes at local stores. Plastic shopping bags, clean plastic wrap, wrap from products such as toilet paper, napkins, etc. can be placed in collection containers located at the entrance of some local stores.

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

Charge into Fire Safety Campaign for lithium-ion battery safety

By Brian Long, Fire Marshal

The Town of Granby Fire Marshal’s Office and Lost Acres Fire Department are working in coordination with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to raise awareness about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and ways to minimize them.

NFPA’s new campaign, Charge into Fire Safety™, includes an expanded series of resources, guidelines and information in response to the concerns fire officials have about the growing number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries that power micromobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters, smaller electronics such as cell phones and laptops and electric vehicles. As the use of these items has increased in recent years, so, too, has the number of fires associated with them.

NFPA and Granby Fire Marshal’s Office recommend these tips when buying, charging, storing and using lithium-ion batteries to help prevent fires:

• Only purchase and use devices, batteries and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly.

In Memory of . . .

• Use charging equipment that is only compatible with your device. To be safe, use only the charging equipment that is supplied with your device.

• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.

• Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions.

• Stop using your device if the battery shows signs of damage, such as an unusual odor, excessive heat, popping sounds, swelling or change in color.

• Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.

The Granby Fire Marshal’s Office encourages residents to learn more about the hazards of lithium-ion batteries. By better understanding how lithium-ion battery fires start, people can take the necessary steps to minimize associated risks and safely use their electronics and other devices powered by these batteries.

Learn more about the campaign and download free safety tip sheets at nfpa. org/lithiumionsafety

Thompson, Nancy J., 61, wife of Jeffrey E. Thompson, November 22 Yuhas, Rosamond M., 103, wife of the late John Yuhas, November 28 Hart, David B., 97. husband of the late Lee (Sharp) Hart, December 9

Annulli, Dorothy Ann (Kanak), 95, wife of the late Frederick C. Annulli, December 19

Guglielmetti, Richard Louis, 77, husband of Elayne Guglielmetti, December 21 Bisson, Romeo, 90, companion of Annette Miller and former husband of Candide Roy Bisson, January 5

A new life for Belmeade Signs

By Shirley Murtha

This is a heart-warming story in more than one way. Let’s start with saying goodbye to Jean-Luc Godard, original artist and owner of the local company known as Belmeade Signs. Godard recently married and moved to France, leaving behind his beloved company. One of Godard’s friends, Granby artist Debby Reelitz, knew of a young man who is very creative and likes to work with his hands—Lars Roti, currently a senior at Granby Memorial High School. Discussions between Lars, his dad Art Roti and Godard culminated in the Rotis purchasing the business on Aug. 1, 2024. It pleases Godard to know that his business is in capable hands. Both Rotis have always had an interest in carpentry. Art worked in a hardware store while in high school and then worked as a bicycle mechanic until he got his mechanical engineering degree from UConn, and later an MBA from Rensselaer. Lars has always had a desire to create things and, like his dad, has always had an interest in carpentry. Art taught him how to use power tools—what each one is used for and how to safely use it. When he was younger, he made skateboard decks, and recently he and Art have built several bicycle frames for Guipago Cycles and Columbia Bicycles in Westfield, Mass. Art notes that, “the carpentry thing runs in the family as my grandfather was a finish carpenter in Illinois. He built my grandparents’ house!”

In the new business, Lars designs the signs and does most of the carving. He re-designed the Belmeade website and created software to help with quoting and managing projects. He is also skilled in 3D printing, which will be an as-

set to the company as it grows. Currently Art handles the marketing and sales and assists with carving and painting when necessary. Once graduated, Lars will focus entirely on the business, perhaps taking a course or two along the way.

Housing the family’s lawn mower tractor and snowblower and having only a small workspace, the run-down two-stall barn in the Rotis backyard was not suitable for much of anything else. It was replaced some time ago with a new two-storied barn with the intention of “doing other things out there at some point.” With the purchase of the sign business, it was clear what those other things would be. All the yard machinery is now housed in the garage and the new barn has plenty of room for the router, table saw, sander and other tools of the sign making business. It is insulated to keep it warm enough to work in during the winter and kept cool in the warm weather with a small mini split.

When they aren’t working, both father and son are passionate about all things bicycle. Lars races mountain bikes and snowboards. Art also races mountain bikes and is a cyclocross

racer (and team manager) on the Columbia Bicycles Cyclocross Team. Art also coaches the Stoke Collective, a junior team of which Lars is a member. Art and Lars find satisfaction in helping children advance in cycling, whether it’s for racing or just riding for enjoyment.

The final heart-warming part of this story is that Art is finally getting to follow his dream to be an entrepreneur. It started with a heart attack following a bike race in 2021. He was 10 minutes from a hospital and his clogged artery was quickly attended to and a full recovery followed. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t been paying attention to his diet and exercise, knowing that his dad had a cardiac event at age 50, but genetics sometimes overpowers our best efforts. After his own heart attack, Art made an even greater commitment to his fitness, and also to make life an adventure, to “do stuff,” make some changes. When the Belmeade business opportunity occurred, he left his 30+ years in manufacturing, most of it in aerospace, and seized the opportunity to follow his dream. To do it with his son is icing on the cake.

Contact Belmeade signs at belmeadesigns. com.

GRANBY GRANGE CELEBRATES 150 YEARS

Granby Grange #5 marked a remarkable milestone in January, celebrating its 150th anniversary. Established on Jan. 12, 1875, the Grange has been a staple of community life in Granby and a key part of Connecticut’s agricultural history.

The anniversary celebration took place during president Judy Doyle’s chaired regular monthly meeting. Members of the Grange and guests gathered to reflect on the organization’s deep roots in the town and its continued legacy of community service. Connecticut State Grange Vice President Ted Powell and State Representative Mark Anderson, a member of the Granby Grange, attended and offered their congratulations and best wishes for the future.

Granby Grange has long been a vital part of the community, and thanks to the support of neighboring Riverton Grange members, who assisted in revitalizing Granby Grange, the organization is thriving.

Granby Grange was the fifth community grange to be chartered in Connecticut. Harvey Godard, Granby Grange’s first president, was also the first president of the Connecticut State Grange. The Grange moved into its current hall at 212 North Granby Road in 1940, a historic building that once served as the town hall and a schoolhouse.

Granby Grange’s 150th-anniversary celebration marks a historic milestone and a continued commitment to the values of community, cooperation and service that have defined the organization since its founding.

Submitted by Dave Roberts, Secretary, Granby Grange #5

Lars Roti (l.) and his dad Art at work on a custom sign for a new client.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

Submitted photo

Join the Granby Land Trust today

Just as the Granby Land Trust’s Dewey-Granby Oak began as a small acorn, the Granby Land Trust’s efforts to conserve and protect land started small, with the support of a small group of individuals—the land trust’s earliest members—who believed in preserving land for the benefit of future generations. And just as a small acorn over time can grow into a mighty oak, the support of these members, joined by so many others through the years, has led to significant, lasting change. But there’s still more to be done.

The Granby Land Trust acquired the Dewey-Granby Oak in 1997. At that time, the GLT oversaw the protection of 492 acres of land. Today, the GLT oversees the care and protection of 3,334 acres of land, including the Mary Edwards Mountain Property, the Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve, the Western Barndoor Hill and the DeweyGranby Oak (visit GranbyLandTrust. org for the full list of land trust properties). The GLT now maintains more than 15 miles of hiking trails and oversees the protection of thousands of acres of important wildlife habitat. Its properties help define the character of Granby. The GLT relies on donations from individual members to help make this happen.

Mighty oaks from little acorns grow

To support the care and protection of GLT properties, as well the conservation of additional land, join the Granby

Land Trust today. A family membership starts at just $30. In return, you will be invited to hikes and membersonly special events, you will receive a quarterly newsletter filled with news about what’s happening on GLT properties, and you will have the satisfaction of knowing you helped protect land in Granby. You also will receive a GLT decal, so you can showcase your commitment to our cause.

Make your membership gift online at GranbyLandTrust.org or by mailing a check to Granby Land Trust, PO Box 23, Granby, CT 06035. Thank you for your support of the GLT!

Submitted by Trish Percival, Granby Land Trust

Photo by Rick Orluk

Snowy trail on the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve in North Granby. This beautiful place was preserved forever by longtime GLT Board Member Jamie Gamble who donated the 210-acre property in 2020. The GLT is so grateful for Gamble’s vision and generosity.

Photo by Rick Orluk

The late afternoon sunlight casts a warm glow on the GLT’s spectacular Mary Edwards Mountain Property in North Granby. Photo by Rick Orluk

Warm hearts and Linzer tarts

By Nina Jamison

An old adage proclaims, “As the days lengthen so the cold strengthens,” though the month of February features a holiday heart warmer—Valentine’s Day!

The holiday’s earliest history is muddled, with origins in pagan festivals. The most popular explanation begins with the execution of Valentine, a Christian priest, by Emperor Claudius II sometime within the third century AD. Valentine’s crime was presiding over illegal marriages, and he himself fell in love with the prison guard’s daughter. Before he was taken to be killed on Feb. 14, he sent her a love letter signed “from your Valentine.” His martyrdom was celebrated by the Catholic Church as St. Valentine’s Day. So, when did we start to define “love” with paper cards and frilly boxes filled with chocolate? Valentine’s Day cards were originally made by hand in the 18th century as tokens of affection. The first mass-produced cards in America were made by Hallmark in 1913. And we can thank Richard Cadbury for those frilly lace chocolate boxes, introduced in 1861 as a keepsake where once the chocolate was gone, one could use it to store mementos—like Valentine’s Day cards.

Ingredients

1 cup butter, room temperature

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup finely ground almonds or hazelnuts

1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

3/4 cup seedless raspberry jam confectioner’s sugar cookie cutters, heart-shaped or round, both large and smaller

Directions

Beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and extracts and beat until blended.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, nuts, cinnamon and nutmeg. Add to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until blended. Gather the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for one hour.

Divide the dough into four portions and roll out each portion to 1/8-inch thick. Cut out heart or round cookie shapes with the larger cutter, and then cut center holes in half of these with the smaller cutter.

Place the shapes on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 9–12 minutes at 375° until brown on the bottom. Let cool and spread jam on the solid cookies, then top with the center hole ones. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar.

A very busy winter bird— the white-throated sparrow

By Shirley Murtha

Arriving in mid-fall to all areas of New England, the white-throated sparrow is a very familiar bird in Granby backyards, especially if bird feeders are up and there are protective thickets nearby. Local bird aficionado John Weeks reports seeing them lately at Holcomb Farm and McLean Game Refuge in Granby, at the Southwick Wildlife Management Area and at Rosedale Farm in Simsbury. Weeks notes that they mingle well with all the other sparrow species.

A medium-sized bird, white-throats are five to seven inches long. Their upper parts are streaked, under parts clear gray. Their heads have black and white stripes with a “sharply defined white throat patch and dark bill.” (Audubon Society Field Guide)

White-throats come in two color forms: white-crowned and tan-crowned. The two varieties continue to exist because the birds almost always mate with a bird of the opposite color! Also, although they look nothing alike and are not closely related, the white-throats occasionally mate with dark-eyed juncos, producing grayish birds with white outer tail feathers.

White-throats usually make a nest of grass, rootlets and moss on the ground or near it on low-hanging tree branches. It often means re-building a nest since these locations are readily available to predators. Eventually the four or five pale greenish/bluish brown-spotted

eggs successfully hatch and join flocks of dozens of white-throats foraging together on the ground near thickets, kicking backwards with both feet simultaneously. Their scratching action is quite audible. Millet is their favorite food, but black oil sunflower seeds are also popular. In the mild weather, they will eat several kinds of berries and even insects in the summer. In the winter, they gather in the evening in dense thickets, their flocking call almost as evocative as their easily recognizable whistled song.

The white-throats’ attraction to artificial light has earned them the nickname of “super-colliders,” due to their frequent crashing into well lit buildings at dusk. They also have many avian predators, especially sharp-shinned hawks and screech owls in our area. Luckily, their reproduction numbers and successful feeding counter these unfortunate circumstances.

Thanks to all who joined us for the 17th annual GLT New Year’s Day Hike on the Mary Edwards Mountain Property! We especially thank GLT member Fran Armentano for leading the walk once again—and for taking these photos.

Photo by Don Shaw, Jr.

Fran’s Linzer Tarts, makes 24 to 30 sandwich cookies. Photo by Nina Jamison

Support the Granby Ambulance: Your life could depend on it

By Nicole Muller

Did you know that the Granby Ambulance Association (GAA) is an independent, non-profit organization that is hired by the towns of Granby, East Granby and East Hartland to provide life-saving services to residents?

“Each town pays us an annual fee,” explained Lorri DiBattisto, president of the GAA board of directors. “The fees paid by the towns comprise a very small percentage of what we need to operate. People seem to think our service is fully funded by their taxes, but in the case of Granby, the town’s annual payment of $20,000 breaks down to $1.78 per resident. We’ve been receiving $20,000 from the town of Granby for the past eight years.”

DiBattisto said that since 2017 when the existing contract with the town of Granby was signed, GAA has seen an 11 percent increase in volume of calls in Granby with no increase in financial support. With a growing population, this increase in calls for service is expected to continue. In 2024, 54 percent of GAA’s 1,954 calls for service were in Granby, 29 percent in East Granby and 6 percent in East Hartland.

East Granby pays an annual fee of $48,000, or $9 per capita, more than double what Granby contributes to maintain three ambulances and a fly car (a fully-equipped vehicle that does not carry stretchers), to pay staff and to purchase equipment, uniforms and protective clothing, supplies and medication and to maintain the Granby

and East Granby stations, DiBattisto noted.

GAA has a $1.3 million budget.

“We bring in $1.1 million through fundraisers and charges for service,” DiBattisto explained. “Our treasurer Carol Brennan gets the blood out of stone, doing her best to pay our bills every month, including roughly $25,000 per month in salaries alone.”

Chief of Service and volunteer paramedic Kate Coupe oversees six medics and three EMTs, all full time, plus 15 per diem medics and EMTs.

Service is provided 24/7/365 and covers 75 square miles. When all vehicles are busy, dispatch calls nearby towns to request mutual aid, which GAA provides to them in kind, whenever possible.

In addition to emergency services, GAA conducts CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), AED (automatic external defibrillator) and pediatric first aid training for citizens; first-responder training for scouts; disaster drills; LIFE STAR aeromedical helicopter training with its member towns’ volunteer fire departments; participates in Granby Public Schools’ preparedness meetings, and more.

With budget discussions in Granby coming up in March, DiBattisto asks residents to actively support an

increase in Granby’s contribution to GAA’s work.

“The board of selectmen and finance board have turned us down the last five years, and our expenses continue to increase,” DiBattisto said. “Town Manager Mike Walsh has been a Godsend because he understands the math. If we don’t break even, we have probably five-to-seven years left before we exhaust our savings.”

DiBattisto also encourages Granby residents to support GAA’s March 1 fundraiser, A Perfect Pairing, celebrating fine wines, craft beer, premium bourbon and local art at the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks. All proceeds will go toward the purchase of two new, fully-equipped ambulances. Ticket information can be found at granbyambulance.org

Fresh take on a worship song

Patrick Fitzgerald, worship arts director of Valley Brook Community Church, recently released a new arrangement of a worship song called Not in a Hurry. The song was originally recorded by United Pursuit and Will Reagan in 2017, and it features a theme of patiently pursuing a relationship with God.

Fitzgerald was inspired to use the song during a season when the church was studying the practice of taking time to observe the Sabbath. This spiritual discipline emphasizes setting one day or a portion of one day each week to rest from work and slow down and pursue the things of God.

As Fitzgerald played and practiced the song, he was drawn to create his own arrangement. About the song he says, “The message of waiting patiently on God to speak is one that should be delivered urgently. I love this paradox, and it led me to see if the song could be reproduced with more energy. The result was something special, and since our congregation sings this arrangement on Sundays, I wanted to give

them the opportunity to listen during the week. For anyone who listens, I pray that the lyrics stir up a desire to wait on God to speak to you.” In the recording Fitzgerald sang and played the accompaniment.

The single was released this summer and can be heard and purchased on any platform where you buy and download music. This isn’t the first time that music has been produced and recorded out of Valley Brook. The church released a CD in 2003 called Music from the Brook. Valley Brook Community Church offers weekly worship to the community featuring contemporary worship music performed by a band. The worship service is on Sundays at 10 a.m. on the campus at 160 Granville Road in North Granby. The church also offers small group studies for adults and classes and programs for children and students. For more information about Valley Brook visit valleybrook.cc

Submitted by Becca Smith, communications and creative director, Valley Brook Community Church.

Kate Coupe, chief of service and volunteer paramedic with Granby Ambulance Association, demonstrates a compression technique during a Jan. 18 Stop the Bleed training session sponsored by the Granby Public Library. Photo by Nicole Muller

Familiar Faces

By Nicole Muller

John Myers embraces life

He’s known as “John the Englishman” by frequenters of Starbucks. But behind John Myers’ British accent lies curiosity, intelligence, skill, creativity, humor and above all, gratitude for a second chance at what by any measure is a life well lived.

Born in the mining community of Cannock in the British Midlands, Myers grew up in a home that had no running water and no central heat. “We had an outdoor toilet, a pump in the kitchen and one fireplace,” he recalls. “My father was a do-it-yourselfer who loved woodworking. He’d buy old wood with nails in it, and my job was to straighten the nails and help him with building projects. Both my parents had tough upbringings, so frugality was a way of life.”

At school, Myers’ favorite teacher was Andy Morton who taught woodworking. “In high school I built boxes and lamps, and I followed my father around with a hammer when he was building fences, learning both skills and ethics,” Myers says.

Always the shortest boy in his class (he is now just short of six feet tall), Myers found ways to compensate. “I developed a sense of humor based on wry self-deprecation,” he says. That sense of humor has lasted a lifetime and is sprinkled throughout the two books he has self-published.

Myers excelled at woodworking and at tennis, which he continues to play today. He taught himself to play golf with borrowed clubs, a game he has perfected over some 60 years.

After graduating from Wolverhampton Polytechnic and a short time working in Southwestern England, Myers landed a job with IBM in Birmingham. “In 1976, IBM moved me to London because I was a really good systems engineer,” he says. In 1984, he was transferred to New York City, but that office was closed a year later. “They told me I could go back to England or stay in America. I stayed and got a job with Vantage Computer Systems in Wethersfield. It’s where I met my wife, Beth.”

The couple lived in Newington, but after buying a lake house in Tinmouth, Vt., the weekend commute became tedious, so they started looking at houses closer to Vermont. They have been in Granby for 25 years.

he lost his beloved golden Cocker spaniel Rocky.

At 76, having survived two heart attacks and quadruple bypass heart surgery, Myers is still going strong. He cooks all the couple’s meals (Beth is on clean-up duty). He built a wooden mantle and surround for his living room fireplace. He replaced the large deck floor. He plays drums and guitar. He is working on a third book. And he still writes poetry, recently winning first prize in the Mending Hearts poetry contest for a poem dedicated to his rehab nurses.

The Myers do not live alone. Two weeks after their beloved golden Cocker spaniel Rocky died in 2009, Myers and Beth arrived one Friday night at their lake house to find a young Maine coon cat sitting on their front steps. Never a cat lover, Myers brought the stray to a feline-loving friend across the lake. When he returned the following Friday, there sat the cat, waiting. When this happened again, Myers got the message. He believes that Rocky sent the cat he named Hobo to ease his grief and keep him company. And that Hobo continues to do. Hobo will be memorialized in Myer’s work-in-progress about the life of a cat who chose and trained his owner.

For Christmas, Myers bought himself a pale blue Volvo XC40. So, if you don’t hear a British accent at Starbucks, wave when you see “John the Englishman” driving around town in his shiny new car.

WINNING A NATIONAL POETRY AWARD

By John Myers

On Jan. 14, 2016, I had a heart attack but having never had one before, I thought I was just feeling sick for some reason. I ignored the symptoms and then on Sunday, Jan. 17, I had another. Heart palpitations, pain, writhing on the bed face down, I had a weird out-of-body experience looking down on myself from above. My wife called 911, and the ambulance took me to the ER at Hartford Hospital. They confirmed a heart attack and blockage in my arteries.

I was admitted, and on the 20th underwent quadruple bypass surgery. I had multiple visits from several Mended Hearts volunteers offering encouragement while in the hospital. During the period of recovery several weeks later, I was looked after by the awesome nurses at cardiac rehab. It was while I was there that I thought about writing them a poem expressing my gratitude. On my last day there, I gave each of them a copy and tried to read it to them. It was an extremely emotional event. They took a copy of my poem and hung it on the wall in their office.

I also put together my own Ten Commandments. They can be read in full at betternowthanks.com but in summary they are:

1. Mornings

2. Meditation

3. Medication

4. Motivation

5. Mobility

6. Meals

7. Massage

8. Mentality

9. Moderation

10. Music

One other simple word of advice. Try not to sneeze!

Who are Mended Hearts?

Mended Hearts was formed in 1951 and is the nation’s premier support program for patients with cardiovascular disease serving millions by providing support and education to patients as well as family and caregivers. It is a non-profit and staffed by volunteers who have gone through heart issues themselves. Since its inception, it has formed two separate entities for children and young adults. There are 260 local chapters and satellites nationwide, and it partners with 350 hospitals and rehabilitation clinics across the country.

In August 2024, Mended Hearts held a nationwide contest asking people to submit an essay or poem about their heart issues and surgery. My poem, The Beat Goes On, won first prize and is available to view on my website (betternowthanks.com). I was also featured in the organization’s nationwide publication, Heartbeat Magazine.

My story is intended to provide the same kind of encouragement to people that Mended Hearts gave me. Since my surgery, I have lost a lot of weight (great opportunity to buy new clothes), and exercise almost every day. My diet has changed dramatically, and I am fitter now at 76 than I was prior to my surgery! Thank you to everyone who helped me through this journey, especially my loving wife Beth.

Perfect potatoes for Valentine’s Day dinner

By Judy Guarco

I made these potatoes for a family dinner over the holidays and got rave reviews. Absolutely delicious and easy to make—definitely a special dish to serve with any menu. Enjoy!

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup half and half

1 (5-ounce) package Boursin cheese with herbs and garlic, broken into small chunks

3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced

2 Tablespoons fresh chives, chopped salt and black pepper to taste Directions

Preheat an oven to 400º F and arrange a rack in the center position. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, add cream, half-and-half and cheese and heat over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and the cheese has melted. Remove pan from heat and set aside.

Submitted photo

Arrange half the sliced potatoes in overlapping rows in the prepared baking dish. Generously season with salt and pepper and pour half the cream and cheese mixture evenly over potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream mixture.

Bake, uncovered, in preheated oven until potatoes are tender and the top is nicely browned, about 55-60 minutes

John Myers of North Granby holds Hobo, the homeless Maine coon cat who purred his way into Myers’ heart after

Courtesy photo

SPECIAL EVENT

Valentine’s Lunch: Wednesday, Feb. 12 at noon. Love is in the air! Enjoy a delicious lunch with wonderful entertainment by Freddie Marion. Cost: $5.

AARP TAX PROGRAM

The program begins on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Appointments available on Tuesdays (9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.) and Wednesdays (afternoon only) through February and March. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides in- person tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, by appointment only, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS certified every year to make sure they understand the latest changes in addition to tax codes. Cost: free with active membership.

LIFELONG LEARNING

S.A.F.E: Monday, Feb. 3, 2 p.m. (snow date: Feb. 10) Situational Awareness for Empowerment (S.A.F.E.) program designed and instructed by Cheri De Maria. This two-hour class focuses on awareness and prevention and takes a common sense approach to personal safety geared toward senior citizens. Learn how to navigate and recognize potentially dangerous situations and individuals and how to listen and trust your gut feelings before there’s an issue. Learn basic but effective self-defense techniques that focus on how to escape grabs and holds gaining valuable seconds to get away. Discuss the use of non-lethal self-defense tools, as well as how to use canes and walking sticks to your advantage. It is not necessary to participate in the physical portion of the program, but you are encouraged to stay and observe. Free.

Horizon Wing Birds: Monday, Feb. 24, 2 p.m. Horizon Wings was formed in 2001 by Mary-Beth Kaeser as a non-profit Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. The center has several raptors that cannot be released into the wild but fortunately remain at the center and participate in educational programs. Free.

Ways of Listening: Consoling Beauty: Fri-

Winter

day, Feb. 28, 10 a.m. Some of the most beautiful music ever written is also intensely sorrowful. It is the nature of all art to delve deeply into the experience of being human, but music has the capacity to lead us through the depths and into something beyond. Listen to a great masterpiece by Beethoven and explore its place in his life, as the composer encounters his own sorrows and shapes them in musical experience. Using performance clips and illustrations at the piano, David Stein will help explore this remarkable music. Free.

TRIPS

Shopping: Super Walmart: Monday, Feb. 3, depart center at 9 a.m. Cost: $5.

Connecticut Flower and Garden Show: Friday, Feb. 21, depart center at 9 a.m. Spring in February arrives annually at the Connecticut Convention Center. Explore exhibits overflowing with fresh flowers, plants, herbs, bulbs, seeds, gardening books, garden equipment and much more. View beautifully landscaped gardens and stop by the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut design and horticulture competition. Lunch afterwards on your own at Red Rock Tavern. Cost: $25.

Dine and Drive: Pottery Cellar, Westfield Ma: Friday, Feb. 28, depart center at 11 a.m. Cost: $5.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

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

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

Set Back: Tuesdays, 1–3:30 p.m. Free.

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

If you are a Granby Senior Center member, please register for programs through SchedulesPlus.com/granby If you are not a member of the Granby Senior Center or you do not have access to a computer, please call 860-844-5352 Please note that the center is closed Feb. 17 for Presidents’ Day.

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

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

History Revisited: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Jerry Perkins, former professor and high school history instructor, has a unique way of bringing history to life. Join this informative and fun view of events from Pre-Columbian times to the present. Class attendees will have the opportunity to request specific subjects to review. Free.

ASK THE…SERIES

Ask the Attorney: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., by appointment at the Senior Center. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call to set up an appointment for a free half-hour consultation.

Ask the Realtor: Wednesday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., by appointment only. Lifelong resident of Granby, Judy Guarco has worked for more than 20 years representing both buyers and sellers. Her goal is always to be a trusted advisor to help navigate the ever-changing world of home ownership with good advice, solid market knowledge, customer service and attention to detail. Please call to set up an appointment for a free 30-minute consultation.

Ask the Registered Dietitian: Wednesday, Feb. 19 ,10 a.m.–12 p.m., by appointment only. Amy Woodman, registered dietitian from Farmington Valley Nutrition and Wellness, will meet with you for a free 30-minute consultation to answer your nutrition questions.

Ask the Financial Advisor: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., by appointment only. Meet with Financial Advisor Matthew Sondrini from The O’Brien Group for a free 30-minute consultation.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Chair Massage: Tuesdays, Feb. 4 and 18, 10 a.m.–12:45 p.m., by appointment only. Bev offers 15-minute chair massages for $10.

Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic: Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. No appointment needed. Held in the Senior Center community room. Courtesy of the Visiting Nurses and Hospice of Litchfield County.

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

Foot Care by Sarah: Wednesday, Feb. 12,

by appointment only. Sarah from Mobile Manicures will be here on the second Wednesday of every month for 30-minute foot care appointments. Cost: $35

EXERCISE PROGRAMS

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

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

Total Body Tone: Mondays, 12:45–1:45 p.m. Class will consist of circuit style strength training/cardio using a variety of equipment like bands, weights and steppers, etc. Each class will be different to keep our muscles guessing, keep it interesting and most importantly to keep it fun! Class will include chair and standing exercises. Instructor, Michelle Rancourt. Chair Yoga: Tuesdays, 2:30 p.m. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

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

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

Everybody’s Exercise: Thursdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. This exercise class is suitable for anyone and everyone. This class will include strength and weights, some cardio, balance and flexibility. All movements can be modified for chair or standing. Instructor Mary Root will personalize your routine based off current flexibility, strength, etc.

All about Balance: Thursdays, 2:45 p.m. This class focuses on strength for balance efficiency, such as squats, handheld weight maneuvers, and walking drills, as well as core conditioning. Instructor: Paula Pirog.

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

fun before the snow

Skaters were taking advantage of the ice at Christiansen’s Pond before a snowstorm.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

Browse & Borrow

New Year, New Library!

Stop by the Granby Public library and check out the new and improved space. Renovations transformed the adult area into a fresh, welcoming environment for the community. The installation of new carpeting throughout the building has enhanced comfort and improved acoustics, creating a more pleasant atmosphere for visitors. Fresh coats of paint in modern, soothing colors breathe new life into the walls, providing a bright and inviting setting for reading, learning and collaboration. These updates, along with other improvements, reflect the library’s dedication to maintaining a functional and inspiring space that meets the needs of its patrons while fostering a sense of pride in this essential community resource.

Adult Programs

History of the Gee’s Bend Quilting Legacy: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 6:30–7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Discover the fascinating history of Gee’s Bend, Ala. through the eyes of a granddaughter and niece of two of Gee’s Bend area quilters. Hear about their involvement with the Freedom Quilting Bee and the White House, as well as presenter Betty Anderson’s connection to the Civil Rights movement. Register to receive the Zoom program link to the live presentation. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries and Salmon Brook Historical Society.

Monday Movie Matinee, The Fall Guy: Feb. 10, 1:30–3:30 p.m.; GPL Fox Meeting Room. For adults and teens 16+. Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt star in this action-packed comedy. A stuntman, fresh off an almost career-ending accident, is tapped to track down a missing movie star, solve a conspiracy and try to win back the love of his life. Enjoy the feature film with complimentary snacks. Space is limited. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries. Connecticut’s Connection to Machu Pichu: Thursday, Feb. 20, 6:30–7:30 p.m.; GPL Reading Room. In 1911, Yale professor Hiram Bingham located what he called the “Lost city of the Incas” in the highlands of Peru. Learn more about the history of Machu Pichu, its architecture, and understand current day considerations when traveling to the ancient landmark. Kitchen Adventures, Sweet Treats: Thursday, Feb. 13, 10:30–11:30 a.m.; GPL Reading Room. For adults and teens 16+. Decorate a cupcake for your Valentine sweetheart! Space

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

granby-ct.gov/Library

860-844-5275

gplibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Hours – Granby Public Library Main

Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Sunday: 1 – 4 p.m.

Library Hours – F.H. Cossitt Library Branch

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

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

Holiday Closing: The main branch will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17.

Registration is required for all library programs unless otherwise indicated. To register, visit granby-ct.gov/Library, and click on “Register for a Program.” or call the library at 860-844-5275. To learn more about upcoming programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter. For the most updated information on dates and programs, refer to the library’s online calendar.

GPL – Granby Main Branch FHC – Cossitt Branch is limited. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries

Music In The Stacks

The Blues With Ramblin’ Dan: Thursday, Feb. 6, 6:30–7:30 p.m.; GPL Reading Room. Traveling blues musician Ramblin’ Dan Stevens performs live on authentic vintage instruments and traces the development of this unique music genre from its origin in the late 19th century. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries and the Connecticut Blues Society.

Art Of Songwriting: Sunday, Feb. 9, 2–3 p.m.; GPL Reading Room. Every song has an origin story—something that inspired the songwriter. Connecticut musician and songwriter Dean Bolt shares how he creates music and performs original pieces on acoustic guitar. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Iberian Guitar Trio: Sunday, Feb. 23, 2–3 p.m., GPL Reading Room. Music from the Iberian Peninsula is a blend of Influences that reflect the region’s history and cultural diversity. The Iberian Guitar Trio bases its repertoire on a style influenced by Django Rinehardt, a musical innovator who experimented with chord extensions to create colorful harmonies. Enjoy the entertaining sounds of gypsy jazz! Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries. CCS Makerspace Programs at FHC CCS Equipment Demonstration and Training: Days and times vary; check library website

for most up-to-date information; FHC. For adults, teens 16+, youth ages 10 and up with an adult.

Give your creative ideas life. Visit the library’s makerspace and learn to use the 3D printer, laser cutter, sewing and embroidery machines, sublimation printer, vinyl cutter, mug and bottle presses, and all manner of digitizing equipment. Find more information on the library webpage.

Sketchbook Basics: Tuesdays, Feb. 4, 11 and 18, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m., FHC upper level. For adults and teens 16+. Artist Doug Williams instructs beginners and advanced beginners in various sketching techniques. Learn to simplify what you see, create value scales, practice lines/shapes, and gain an understanding of shading and perspective. Materials list provided upon registration. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Introduction to Tinker CAD: Saturday, Feb. 8, 12–1:30 p.m.; FHC Makerspace. For adults and teens 16+. Are you inspired to design in 3D? Do you want to create an object based on your own specifications? Join us to learn about Tinker CAD, an online 3D design program that brings your ideas to life! Participants will receive an overview, have an opportunity to practice design skills, and print a free 3D object using the makerspace’s Bambu Lab P1S 3D printers. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Crafters Café, Tin Sacred Hearts: Saturday, Feb. 8, 10:30 AM–12 p.m.; FHC Upper Level. For adults and teens 16+. Explore the vibrant world of Mexican folk art by crafting a Milagro with guidance from local artist Katherine Tolve. Design and decorate these beautiful symbols of love and devotion using a variety of materials and embellishments. Tolve teaches traditional techniques and shares insights into the art form’s cultural significance. All materials provided. $5 program fee. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Jewelry Making, Beaded Earrings: Thursday, Feb. 13, 2– 3 p.m.; FHC upper level. For adults and teens 16+. Learn to make custom earrings using decorative beads, headpins,

findings and ear wires. Lori Catlin Garcia provides basic jewelry-making instruction to inspires creative jewelry projects. All materials and tools will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own beads and/or precious metal findings. $5 program fee. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries. Sew Simple, Throw Pillow Cover: Wednesday, Feb. 26; FHC Makerspace. For adults and teens 16+. Make a colorful zipper-less cover for a 16” x 16” throw pillow. Sandra Salazar provides step-by-step instruction, from selecting fabric, pinning and cutting, and stitching the cover using the Brother sewing machine. All materials and equipment provided. $5 program fee. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Hooked On Stitches, Knit and Crochet Group: Saturday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; FHC upper level. For adults and teens 16+. Get hooked on stitches! Knitters and crocheters are invited to a monthly meet-up to work on individual projects. All skill levels are invited to join the fun the fourth Saturday of the month. Dropins are welcome when space allows.

Book Clubs

Books for book discussions are available at the library, online and through curbside pickup. Register online or call the library 860-844-5275 to reserve your seat.

Millennials Read: Wednesday, Feb. 7, 6:30–8 p.m., via virtual link. At this no-stress book discussion, join readers in their 20s, 30s and 40s to talk about current book picks. You do not need to be reading anything specific, come and fill up your TBR list. This month’s meet up is our annual Virtual Trivia hosted by Danbury Public Library. Join the MR team and help bring us to the championship.

Something About The Author Book Club: Monday, Feb. 3, 1:30–2:30 p.m., GPL. Discussing In Order to Live: a North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom by Yeonmi Park. Park’s memoir details her escape from North Korea and her journey to freedom in South Korea. It provides a personal account of life in North Korea, the hardships of being a refugee in China, and the challenges of adjusting to life in South Korea. John Rusnock leads the discussion.

Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 6– 7 p.m., GPL. Discussing The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. This is a standalone fantasy book written in a very beautiful and lyrical writing style that tells the story of the rivalry between two different forms of magic, the old and the new, and the competition and love affair between two young magicians who are destined to face each other in a magical duel to the death. Jim Gorman leads the discussion.

Teen Programs at GPL

Teens, Fiber Arts Club: Wednesdays, Feb. 12, 3–5 p.m. For grades 6–12. Join our Fiber Arts Club for teens and explore the world of crochet, needlepoint, sewing or paper crafts. This month we’ll transform leftover yarn into Library cont’d. on p. 23

adorable, colorful birds. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, this project is a great way to upcycle materials and make a cute keepsake to brighten your space. Light snack provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Library.

Teen Tuesdays, Dungeons & Dragons: Tuesday, Feb. 11, 3–5 p.m. For grades 6–12. Join us for the next thrilling session of Dungeons & Dragons with Dungeon Master PK. This game is for participants who are already familiar with how to play D & D. Prepare to face new challenges, exciting battles, and explore deeper into the fantasy world. Adventure awaits—are you ready? Light snack provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Children’s

Programs At GPL

Drumming Around You with Bob Bloom: Saturday, Feb. 1; 11–11:45 a.m. Our library is going to sparkle. Bob Bloom provides a colorful and lovable array of drums for everyone, all ages, to enjoy getting their hands around. Together with him at the wheel, we’ll all drive legendary songs that have great melodies and heartfelt beats. Bob’s 100 percent participatory music has energized entire audiences at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, New Haven International Festival of Arts and Ideas, New Year’s Eve First Night celebrations in Hartford, Mystic, Westport, Worcester, Providence and Boston. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Hands-On Innovators, Snowball Slingers: Monday, Feb. 3, 4:30–5:15 p.m. For grades 3–5. Design and build your very own snowball slinger using a variety of materials. Test your creation to see how far your snowballs can soar. Join us for a fun-filled adventure in creativity, engineering and wintery fun! Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Keychain Exchange, Perler Beads: Tuesday, Feb. 18; 1–2 p.m. for grades 3-5; and 3–3:45 p.m. for grades K-2. Create a colorful Perler bead keychain and join our keychain exchange. Make one trade for another and leave with a fun, unique keepsake. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Simplyart, Birdhouses: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 4:30–5:30 p.m. For grade 4–5. Get creative at our SimplyArt program and decorate wooden birdhouses using colorful tissue paper and fun decoupage techniques. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Young Explorers, Miniature Sleds: Monday, Feb. 24, 4:30–5 p.m. For grades K–2. Join Miss Beth for exciting, hands-on STEM themed activities. This month put your engineering skills to the test. Design and build a miniature sled using materials supplied and then see how it performs on our test ramp. Experiment with different designs and see if your sled will be the fastest or most durable. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries.

Weekly Storytime/Music Programs

Check the library calendar to confirm weekly storytime dates. Some weekly storytime classes are subject to change.

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, Feb. 11, 18 and 25, 10:30–11 a.m. For ages birth–14 months. Babies and their caregivers are invited to an interactive lap-sit program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and baby sign language.

Mother Goose On The Loose: Wednesdays, Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 10:30–11 a.m. For ages 2–4 years. Young children and their caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring nursery rhymes, stories and music activities that promote language development, visual literacy, social and emotional skills.

Toddler Time: Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20 and 27, 10:30–11 a.m. For ages 15–24 months. Toddlers and their caregivers are invited to an interactive program featuring a story, nursery rhymes, songs and sign language.

Nightfall Stories and Stretch: Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20 and 27, 6–6:30 p.m. For ages 4–7 years. Children are invited to join us for an independent mindfulness program featuring stories, stretches and an interactive activity.

Mini Movers: Fridays, Feb. 7 and 21, 10:30–11 p.m. For ages 15 months–4 years. Children are invited to join us for an interactive music program featuring songs, dancing, scarves, and egg shaker activities.

Valentine’s Day Storytime: Friday, Feb. 14, 10:30–11 a.m. For ages 2–4 years. Celebrate love and friendship with a delightful Valentine’s

Women enjoy holiday concert, briefing from town leaders

On Dec. 5 the attendees of the Granby Women’s Breakfast enjoyed the music of the Granby High School Chorale led by Chorale Director Mindy Shilansky. The Women’s Group invited Town Manager Mike Walsh, Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Police Chief Scott Sansom to speak at its Jan. 8 meeting. Submitted by Joan Ducharme

Day-themed storytime. Join us for sweet stories, engaging songs and a fun craft. Sponsored by The Friends of the Granby Public Libraries New Service

Homebound Delivery Service: The Granby Public Library is excited to announce a new Homebound Delivery Service. This service is designed to bring the joy of reading and access to library resources directly to individuals who are unable to visit the library due to age, illness, disability or other mobility challenges. This includes new moms and dads as well! This ser-

vice ensures that all community members can continue to enjoy books, audiobooks, DVDs and other materials from the library’s collection without leaving their homes. Library volunteers deliver items on a monthly schedule, based on the preferences and interests of the participants. The service is free of charge and reflects the library’s commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and fostering a love of lifelong learning for everyone in the community. Visit the library at granby-ct.gov/library to apply for this service or give us a call at 860-844-5275.

From left, Joan Ducharme, Corinne Dickerson, Scott Sansom and Kurt LaFlamme. Photo by Amanda Lindberg

American Legion Post 182: 2024 Year-in-Review

By Bill DeNio

Shannon-Shattuck Post 182 had a very rewarding year and phenomenal support from the community. Here is a rundown of many 2024 events and activities.

Memorial Day Parade

As the parade marched through the pouring rain, spectators cheered as we passed by! When the Granby Memorial High School Band had to protect its instruments from water damage, they couldn’t play the national anthem at the cemetery wreath-laying ceremony. Despite the heavy rain, Granby citizens proudly sang The Star-Spangled Banner in honor of our departed heroes. When Granby patriots cheer and sing in a downpour, how can their American Legion Post do anything but succeed?

Second Saturday Pancake Breakfasts

Post 182 began serving Second Saturday Pancake Breakfasts to area veterans and first responders more than a year ago, proudly dishing out pancakes and sausage, free of charge. The post welcomes fire-fighters from Lost Acres and East Hartland, Granby’s finest from the police department, and EMTs and ambulance drivers from the Granby Ambulance Association on the second Saturday of every month, 8–10 am at Legion Hall.

Honoring Our Flag

Granby citizens know legionnaires sell American flags on two weekends in May at area grocery stores. The post also partners with area scouts to place flags at veterans’ graves at Granby Cemetery on the Saturday before Memorial Day, places signs and flags at outlying gravesites, sells U.S. flags at cost to town and area businesses for year-around display, teaches Cub Scouts and Webelos flag etiquette, collects flags for honorable retirement according to the U.S. Flag Code and lowers the flags to halfstaff at town war memorials then raises them when the mourning periods have passed.

Opening Day Breakfast—A Granby Tradition

Post 182 hosted Opening Day Pancake Breakfast on April 13 to kick off the fishing season. In 2025, catch-andrelease begins March 1; fish may be kept beginning on April’s second Saturday.

Post 182 will again serve Opening Day breakfast, on April 12, 7–11 a.m. All are welcome—proceeds benefit the Brian Eukers Memorial Scholarship that challenges GMHS seniors to write a patriotic essay. Charles Orluk and Nathan Griswold both won $2,000 awards

in June 2024.

Scholarship Raffle

Bridget Annuli’s winning Scholarship Raffle ticket was drawn on Nov. 9. She and husband Peter Annuli were presented with a check for $1,000 by Robert Moss and Bob Groper. Commander Cliff Burrell commented, “Granby residents generously purchased tickets to support our scholarships. The funds raised allow us to build a reserve

account for future scholarships and support operating costs of the Post.”

Eagle Scout Court of Honor

On June 22, Post 182 hosted a Boy Scouts of America Court of Honor awarding Eagle Scout to Juniper Zinck. She located veteran graves by GPS in the Granby Cemetery and found many missing veteran graves in the process. More than 30 people attended, eight of whom were Eagle Scouts.

State Representative Mark Anderson presented a citation from the Connecticut General Assembly in recognition of Juniper’s accomplishment.

Replacing the Town Clock

Shannon-Shattuck Post 182 partnered with businesses, community groups and donors to replace the broken clock in front of the Granby Police Department. This wonderful collaboration demonstrated the strength of combining efforts to achieve lasting benefits to our town.

Veterans Day Events

GMHS honored veterans at its Friday night football game, Post 182 held its annual Armistice/Veterans Day dinner on Saturday and GMHS hosted panels of veterans on Monday for each class. On Nov. 18, Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz and Veteran Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch recognized 70+ Vietnam era veterans Outdoor Sound System

Aware that Memorial Day speeches given at Granby Cemetery were difficult for many people to hear, legion officers collaborated with 21 households and the Lions Club to purchase a robust sound system. On Dec. 7, legionnaires deployed four 1,000-watt speakers at two locations for lighting of the holiday trees. Everybody easily heard the comments by First Selectman Mark Fiorentino and Santa Claus, despite noise from nearby traffic. Post 182 hopes to add powerful sound support to future community and charitable events.

Post 182 Legion Hall is located at 244 North Granby Road. Legion meetings are held on the second and fourth Fridays at 7:30 p.m.

Contact at AmericanLegionPost182@ gmail.com or 860-906-2614.

Juniper Zinck and State Representative Mark Anderson. Photo by Bill De Nio

From left, Robert Moss, Bridget and Peter Annuli, Bob Groper. Photo by Bill De Nio

Merrill W. Clark A lifetime of service to Granby

By Todd Vibert

Many individuals have spent their entire lives in Granby contributing to the town’s growth and community spirit. One such was Merrill W. Clark, a dedicated town resident whose legacy of hard work and service left a lasting impact on Granby.

Born in Granby in 1901, Clark worked for 42 years as a mail carrier before retiring in 1967. He served the North Granby area, and parts of Granville and Southwick. In the 1940s, Clark’s mail delivery duties often took four to five hours each day. After his rounds, he would work on his father’s farm at 100 East Street, tending to the garden and raising chickens. He grew potatoes, pumpkins, tomatoes and other vegetables in addition to collecting eggs from the chickens.

Throughout his years as a mail carrier, Clark never had an accident. In 1967, he was recognized for his dedication to safe driving with a special award from the National Safety Council. Police Chief Don Algren presented him with a pin for his years of accident-free driving. When Clark first began his mail delivery career, he served just 73 mail boxes and drove only 22 miles. By his final year, he was delivering to more than 300 mailboxes and covering more than 60 miles daily.

In the early years, he always carried an ax to clear any trees blocking

Police Chief Don Algren (l.) awarding a special safe driving award from the National Safety Council to Merrill Clark. Photo courtesy of the Hartford Courant

the road. During mud season or snowy winters, he would use a horse and buggy to deliver the mail. At the start of his career, Granby had only one paved road—the rest were dirt. By 1967, all but one road in town had been paved. Clark’s contributions to Granby went far beyond his work as a mail carrier. He was an original member and secretary of the Lost Acres Fire Department, which was formed in 1936.

Getting to Know Us

Name: Patty Sansone

Position: Textiles Volunteer

Lived in Granby for 58 years

Occupation: Legal Assistant Retired from Hamilton Sundstrand

Patty and her husband, Jim, are long-standing members of the Historical Socie ty. Patty previously served on the Board of Directors, including as an officer, and organized the Annual Dinner and Wassail Party for many years. Since 2012 she has been a regular Thursday morning volunteer in Textiles, helping to preserve the magnificent dresses, coats, quilts, uniforms, linens, etc. that are donated from families with Granby lineage. If Patty's not working in Textiles, you might find her at the Society's semi-annual Flea Market or at activities at the Wilcox House. In 2023 Patty was presented with the Ethel Linnell Memorial Award in appreciation of her service to the Socie ty.

The Historical Society is not the only organization lucky enough to benefit from Patty's efforts. You may find her distributing Holcomb Farm vegetables at the Senior Center, cutting scrumptious desserts for the diners at Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen, rallying the Friends of Stony Hill to spruce up the Village, or leading the Granby Community Fund in its efforts to support everyone in town!

Both Patty and Jim have been active volunteers in Granby since moving here as newlyweds from Simsbury Their 3 children, now adults, all attended Granby schools. Patty finds her greatest joy in staying busy and helping others.

As a 65-year-long member of the Granby Grange #5, he also served as past master of the Grange. Clark was a member of the Independent Organization of Odd Fellows for 66 years and served as past master of St. Mark’s Lodge No. 91, AF and AM of Granby. Clark’s dedication to the community extended to local government—he served on the zoning board and was appointed chairman in 1951.

During the 1940s Clark developed a long correspondence with Retta Thompson of Wethersfield who originally hailed from Granville. Clark had known Retta for many years, and their letters often discussed his long, busy days and his advice for Retta, who worked as a housekeeper. Their friendship blossomed into love, and they married on New Year’s Day in 1947.

Clark’s retirement on Oct. 14, 1967

Drumrolls

was celebrated with a dinner at High Meadow, where more than 200 people gathered to honor his service. Among the attendees were Postmaster Batayte and his wife, First Selectman Don Switzer, Board of Education Chairman Ken Carson, Probate Judge Arlene Mooney, Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Dewey, Mr. and Mrs. William Pease, and many others. After retirement, Clark stayed active in his gardening and continued to participate in various community organizations. He also enjoyed assembling puzzles in his free time. Retta died on Nov. 4, 1986, at the age of 90 after 39 years of marriage. Merrill lived to age 91. Both are buried in the Granby Cemetery. To learn more about Merrill and Retta Clark or the Granby Post office at that time, join the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713 or visiting salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

Brooke Popella, of East Granby, and Ryan Ziskin, of Granby, were named to the dean’s list at Bucknell University for the fall semester.

Mackenzie Janski, of Granby, was named to the dean’s list at Millersville University for the fall semester.

Ralph Rossi, of Granby, was named to the dean’s list at Stonehill College for the fall semester.

Nathan Griswold, of Granby, was named to the fall dean’s list at Western New England University.

Editor’s Note: Universities are no longer regularly notifying the Drummer of honors and graduations so Granby residents are encouraged to let us know by sending information to editor@granbydrummer.org

A valentine

The Year Ahead

'llhrough the days bejoee thee "JT/®y the ,5kiee5 be foir, Ever e56inin3 o'er t6ee )lrig6t beyond cornjoc,ee. "JT/ay no mie5t of saolnee5,5 Rise t6y fije lo olirn,

The volunteers are busy at the Society all year long, but our public-facing activities start off with a buzz in April with our participation in the Gran-Bee! The month of May brings our very popular Spring Flea Market and tours with local elementary schools. Tours for the general public will begin in June and will include monthly tours of the Wilcox House, with weaving demonstrations on our 300-year old loom. There will also be monthly viewings of our Aaron Draper Shattuck Collection, which has grown to 18 paintings plus other family items. September brings Open Farm Day and the Appraisal Fair and the end of our tour season. Our Fall Flea Market will take place in October and we'll have our Photo Day in November, in time for you to get cards printed for the holidays! Stay tuned for specific dates and times for all of these events. We look forward to seeing you in 2025!

Stony Hill Village: a little-known community asset

By Helen Frye, GHSC Treasurer

Have you ever driven through the center of Granby and seen the large sign that says Stony Hill Village? The sign stands between the Brignole, Bush and Lewis offices and the Small World Learning and Childcare Center at 259 Salmon Brook Street. Many of us have driven by for years and thought it was an apartment complex. It is much more than that. Granby residents might not realize that Stony Hill Village is an important community asset that provides a safe, supportive and affordable living environment for seniors and persons with disabilities.

Stony Hill Village was built in the 1970s and 1980s by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Assistance Program. It was originally built for seniors (62+) but now includes persons with disabilities. It consists of 49 one-story units, each with a small backyard. There is also a community center where tenants gather and socialize.

The complex is owned by Granby Homes for Senior Citizens, Inc. (GHSC), a local 501c(3) non-profit. Its mission is to provide safe, affordable housing with dignity and a sense of community for seniors and persons with disabilities and to foster a more diverse and inclusive community. Granby is fortunate to have this important housing complex that assists a growing aging population, many of whom have limited incomes. Appropriate affordable housing provides better health and safety outcomes for aging and disabled persons and helps provide economic stability, allowing people to spend more

of their income on healthcare and food.

Stony Hill Village residents are either income-eligible at 62 years of age or older, or 18 years of age with disabilities. GHSC is a USDA supported residential community. Currently, 40 of the 49 units are rented to senior or disabled residents through the Rural Assistance program, which subsidizes up to 70 percent of the rental cost. This is wonderful for the seniors and others who qualify to live there but does not provide enough income to keep up repairs and other services for this complex. GHSC’s goal is to maintain this property in a manner that we would want for our parents and other family members.

GHSC has a committed board of directors with plans to continue to improve the grounds, facilities and social services to the residents of Stony Hill Village. The community support provided to Stony Hill Village is so important, and we hope that you will want to learn more. If you would like to tour the property or have questions, please send an email to stonyhillgranby@gmail.com If you would like to make a donation to Granby Homes for Senior Citizens, Inc., it would be greatly appreciated. You can go to granbyhomesforsenior. org and click on the link under the Donate tab; or if you prefer you can mail a donation to Granby Homes for Senior Citizens, Inc., 259 Salmon Brook Street-SHV1, Granby, CT 06035. Also, look for an article in the Drummer in April about the Community Serve Day on Saturday, May 3. You can volunteer to help the tenants move furniture, do yard work, plant flowers, etc.

Granby Greater Together Community Fund is excited to announce our first-ever grant cycle! This year, we’re awarding up to $100,000 in total giving to support proposals that directly benefit the Granby community

Applications open Feb 1st - March 1st, 2025

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY MINGLE!

Monday, February 24th, 6 - 8 PM

Granby Senior Center

An open house for nonprofits and interested Granby residents Share your insights on Granby’s needs and opportunities. Learn more about grant eligibility and how to apply!

Don Shaw gives CNN an interview about Jimmy Carter

By Shirley Murtha

Granby resident Don Shaw received a call on Dec. 30 while he and wife Peggy were packing food bags at Granby Congregational Church’s Open Cupboard Pantry. It was from the CEO of Habitat for Humanity of North Central Connecticut, telling him that representatives of the Isa Soares Tonight show that airs on CNN International in London wanted to interview him about his experiences and memories of working with former President Jimmy Carter who had died the previous day. Soares had seen an ABC news piece featuring reminiscences about Carter by Shaw and his friend Tom Trumble on the evening of Carter’s death. Shaw and Trumble had recorded the piece when Carter entered hospice care.

Shaw finished packing the food bags and went home to link with CNN technicians who helped him prepare his computer for the 2 p.m. live interview. Sound and lighting checks were needed by noon for the 7 p.m. live broadcast from London—2 p.m. here in Connecticut.

The Soares’ interview began with a retrospective on Carter, and then went live with Shaw, who explained that he began working with Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Projects in 2002 in Durban, South Africa. From there, he

went on to join the team in Mexico, India, Thailand, Haiti (post-earthquake), Canada and Nashville, Tenn. Don and Peggy were honored to be invited to one of the Habitat for Humanity Carter Weekends in Plains, Ga., where they met Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter and attended Sunday School at Jimmy’s Maranatha Baptist Church. In summing up his impression of Carter, Shaw notes, “Carter’s profound faith was the driving force in his life. For him, service to others was the highest calling. He led by example. As Carter’s legacy of life-long accomplishments grows, it will be increasingly clear that his is the way to lead a life well-lived.” Google the following for the link to watch the Soares interview on CNN: GCC member Don Shaw CNN interview on Jimmy Carter.

Editor’s Note: Shaw began working with Habitat for Humanity almost 30 years ago. He served several years as chair of the board of directors and later as interim executive director. He was elected Board Director Emeritus of Habitat for Humanity North Central Connecticut, which has built or rehabilitated almost 400 affordable homes for families in Hartford and Tolland counties since 1989. He spearheaded the building of a Habitat home in West Granby in 2016.

For more information: Visit www hfpg org/granbycf or scan the QR code

Peggy and Don Shaw with Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter at a reunion in Plains, Ga.

Courtesy photo

Winter activities at the YMCA

By Brian Liss, Executive Director

As winter settles in and we count down the days to the return of warm summer rays, the Y is here to brighten the season. We’ve rounded up an exciting array of activities for families, youth and adults to keep you warm, happy and engaged during these cooler months. Bike for the Battle

Cancer touches so many lives—whether it’s a family member, a friend or a personal experience. When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, our first thought is often, “How can I help?”

the Farmington Valley YMCA. We offer exciting, adventure-filled days for children ages 5–12. Campers will enjoy daily swim instruction, archery practice, rock wall climbing, gym games, gaga pit fun and so much more.

Since 2011, the Y has offered the LiveSTRONG® program, a free 12week program designed to support individuals living with, recovering from or beyond cancer. Participants build lasting bonds with fellow survivors while working to regain fitness and confidence under the guidance of instructors trained in cancer survivorship and post-rehabilitation care.

To ensure this life-changing program remains accessible, we host two fundraising events: Bike for the Battle and Dance for the Battle, annual fundraisers that combine fitness and community spirit for a powerful cause. Participants take part in a high energy spin or dance class, raising funds for the LiveSTRONG® program. Every dollar raised goes directly to supporting cancer survivors, providing them with the resources, encouragement and community they need.

Whether you’re a cycling pro or new to spinning, this event is an impactful way to make a difference while getting a great workout. Join us Feb. 21 or 22 in dancing and pedaling for progress—or if you’re unable to attend, please consider making a donation to support this incredible cause.

Friday Nights Out

The Y is the place to be on Friday nights. We’ve got exciting activities for kids of all ages, giving them a chance to have fun, make friends and enjoy independence.

Kids Night Out (Ages 5-8): Enjoy crafts, gym games, rock wall adventures and a pizza dinner with peers. Held on the first Friday of every month, 5 to 7 p.m.

Middle School Night Out: Middle schoolers take over the Y for glow-inthe-dark basketball, swimming, movies, gaga, ping pong and more! Held on the second Friday of every month, 7 to 9 p.m.

Big Kids Night Out (Grades 3-5): Mix of crafts, games and pizza on the third Friday of every month, 6 to 8 p.m. These events are free with a family membership or $25 for non-members. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars! Granby Road Race: The countdown is on The 55th Annual Granby Road Race is just around the corner on May 3, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue this cherished community tradition. This year’s highlights include a 5K, 10K, and Kids’ 1-Mile Race, the Granby Schools Competition—let’s see which school has the most spirit and runners! We are also calling all volunteers. Email brian.liss@ghymca.org to join our team of volunteers. Ready to race? Registration is open now: ghymca. org/granbyroadrace Let’s make this year’s race unforgettable! #GranbyRoadRace2025 #CommunityTradition #RunGranbyRun Summer Camp

Dreaming of warm, sunny days? Summer camp registration is now open at

Our camp fosters the core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility in every activity. We are a state-licensed site that accepts Care4Kids and offers financial assistance. Need extra coverage? We provide before care (7–9 a.m.) and after care (4–6 p.m.) to fit your schedule.

This year, we will offer a 10th week of camp for that tricky week before school starts. Spaces fill quickly, so register now to secure your spot.

Don’t let the winter blues get you down—join us at the Y for activities that bring you warmth, community and joy.

Girl Scouts help local dogs

By M Salvini, GMHS Class of 2026

Recently, local Girl Scout troops sewed blankets and made knotted dog toys for the Connecticut Humane Society. It was an instant success for the animals. The girls worked together to create more than 64 blankets and 26 dog toys, and donated more than 380 lbs of dog food. These wonderful girls made an impact on their community, helping those in need.

The Salmon Brook Service Unit (Girl Scout Troops from Granby, East Granby and Hartland) provides opportunities for girls of all ages to become involved with a variety of activities including community service. To learn more about Girl Scouts, to join a troop or to become a volunteer, contact Girl Scouts of Connecticut customercare@ gsofct.org or the Salmon Brook Service Unit salmonbrook717@gmail.com

Ryan Rea

Ryan Rea

Whether you are looking to buy or sell anywhere in Connecticut, Ryan is an experienced award winning Realtor with a vast knowledge of residential and commercial real estate His strong negotiating skills can help you navigate through this ever changing market Ryan is a resident of E Granby and lives with his wife Lane, their three children and their dog Roxy Beyond real estate, Ryan is active in the community, coaching youth sports and staying fit

Girl Scouts at work making dog blankets. Submitted photo

There’s no place like home

Just ask the pet who doesn’t have one.

Please consider adopting a pet from your local shelter or rescue group.

Happy New Year! The Friends of Holcomb Farm have so much going on, and some exciting news to share, so let’s get to it.

Important

Investments

Working with the Friends, the town undertook some important capital investments at the farm this fall, making great use of American Rescue Plan Funds. With the increased utilization of the tree trail on the east side of Simsbury Road, a crosswalk was needed for people to safely get from the parking lot and campus buildings, across the road to the trails access. We are happy to report that this crosswalk now exists. At the same time, some walkway repairs and new fencing was completed at the farmhouse, where our farm manager and his family live. Also, new audio/visual equipment was secured for both the Workshop and the North Barn Pavilion, enhancing these spaces that the town manages as rentals. Finally, together with a neighborhood assistance act grant that the Friends secured, the town contracted for the installation of energy efficient “mini split” ductless heating and cooling for the previously unheated Annex—the portion of the farmhouse where some of our summer farm crew resides each year.

Successful year of food production means winter shares

While there remains much work to repair the soil after the torrential rains of 2023, and ongoing investments are needed for increased sustainability, Joe O’Grady and his farm crew produced a bountiful harvest this past summer and fall, allowing for the Winter CSA to return. Coupled with incredibly productive greenhouses with luscious, mid-winter greens, by the time you read this we will have wrapped up four hearty Winter CSA distributions, with one left to go. We have also been able to offer winter share distributions to one of our Fresh Access partners, Wheeler Health, and have visions of expanding this in future years. That’s the good news. The challenge is that winter-friendly workspace is virtually non-existent, making the effort required to prepare the produce for our customers and partners a true labor of love. Which leads us to exciting news in the article at right.

Winter Trail Work

Meanwhile, our work on the trails and tree trail continues, with winter being a great time to tackle invasives. Volunteers are invited to dress appropriately and come with a variety of tools every third Saturday of the month. In January, a crew of eight hearty souls showed up, loppers in hand, and worked to clear the rock wall that stretches to the west, downhill from the pond in the East Fields.

Take a Hike, Virtually

Never been there but not up for hiking? Love hiking but not in the dead of winter? Miss the beauty of the trails and meadows overlooking the Holcomb Farm? Thanks to a donation from Put and Nannie Brown, and to our board member/volunteer Sue Canavan, we now have a lovely video that can transport you to this special place from the comfort of your couch. Search YouTube for the Holcomb Farm Tree Trail. We hope it warms you as it does us.

To be transported to a warm, sunny afternoon on the Holcomb Tree Trail, complete with birds chirping and pollinators gliding from flower to flower, simply search YouTube for “Holcomb Farm Tree Trail” and enjoy!

Bins of freshly washed winter vegetables are readied for distribution through the Holcomb Farm Winter CSA.

Intrepid volunteers, in photo at right, work to rid historic stone walls of the invasive plants that have smothered them during the Stewardship Volunteers’ January work party. Photo by Peggy Lareau

Exploring the Repurposing of the West Granby United Methodist Church

In 1975, the West Granby United Methodist congregation opened its new church facility, funded with a gift from Tudor and Laura Holcomb, on five acres of land carved from the Holcombs’ farm. For almost 50 years, this congregation thrived, utilizing the space to provide community, connection and service to both members and other neighbors and community members. Changing times, a pandemic, and a leaky roof led to the closing of the church at the end of 2021. Ultimately, as called for in the original deed, the property was transferred to the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, and in November 2024, working with support from the Friends of Holcomb Farm and the Granby Land Trust, the town accepted it from the Foundation and successfully repatriated the property to the farm.

The Friends immediately set out to assume usage of the former tobacco barn and the land, which is immediately adjacent to the CSA Barn and Farm Store at 111 Simsbury Road. This left the question: what to do about the church building?

Some context is important. The Friends of Holcomb Farm have been exploring ways to expand facilities to better accommodate our farm crew, provide year-round, temperaturecontrolled space for post-harvest processing of produce and increase CSA and Farm Store sales opportunities in the November to May timeframe.

Can the church building be repurposed to meet our needs? Would the use of this building contribute to the economic viability of the Friends of Holcomb Farm whose farming programs are and must continue to be the self-supporting resource engine of our nonprofit community service organization? We don’t know for sure … yet.

The Friends’ agreement with the town allows us a six-month period—until mid-2025—to assess the feasibility and viability of assuming operational control of the church building. During the study phase, the Friends have assumed all costs associated with the building. A church task team has been formed, comprised of several town representatives, former church members, and appointees from the Friends Board of Directors. We are grateful to the town for allowing us to explore this opportunity which, if it comes together, can make us an even stronger partner of the town, the community and the region. The economic question—does the revenue opportunity justify the cost—is important. Equally important, we believe, is the question of how and whether this fits with the intent of Granby’s most prolific benefactors, Tudor and Laura Holcomb. To put it succinctly: can the Friends’ use of the building continue the legacy of support for community, connection and service that the West Granby Methodist Church represented? Stay tuned.

Photo by Hanna Malzenski

The former West Granby United Methodist Church, seen here in the lower right, was built on land originally and now once again a part of the Holcomb Farm. Photo from archives

Granby and the First Amendment

Part Four: The Result of Virginia’s “Awakening”

By Skip (Walter) Mission

In part three, we saw that Connecticut’s harsh response to the religious Awakening drove New Lights south for continued revival in those colonies. Back in Granby, a decade of contention by two independent God-fearing sides ended in peace under the guidance of a new pastor, Joseph Strong. This 23-year-old carefully navigated differences without fire and brimstone obedience. Instead, he used gentler plain talk of “wisdom from above, which is peaceable, easy to be intreated.” He introduced New Light changes such as singing yet honoring the state church in principle. On the one hand, he baptized infants into membership while on the other hand he nurtured conversions by professions of faith in Christ.

Meanwhile, the response by the Virginian Episcopal state church to the separatists was even more severe than in Connecticut. Jail time and more was served by over 40 pastors in Culpeper and Orange counties. Ironically, the greater the persecution, the bigger the crowds became to witness the punishment, including some of the Founding Fathers.

While praying after preaching, Pastor Jaime Ireland was seized by the collar by two men. He was given an ultimatum: promise not to preach there any longer or go to jail. He chose jail. He preached through the bars, despite all efforts to disturb him and the listeners. This included riding horses through the listeners, urinating in his face, attempting to blow him up with gunpowder, and suffocating him by burning brimstone under the floor of the cell. The jailer and a doctor tried to poison him, and he was dunked in water with the threat of further dunking and public whipping. He was placed in cells with drunks to harass him. Two women tried to poison his family, resulting in the death of one child and almost killing his wife. He personally suffered ill health because of this treatment, yet he signed his letters “from my palace in Culpepper.”

Pastor “Swearin’ Jack” Waller was jailed four times for a total of 113 days for preaching (“Swearin’ Jack” was his nickname before his conversion). On one occasion, it was because he conducted a worship service in his home. John Weatherford preached through the grates in the cell with hands out. Men slashed his hands with knives until the blood streamed down in front of those who listened to his message of redemption. After five months, the jailer refused to release him until the jail fees were paid, which happened anonymously. Some 20 years later, he found out the fees were paid by Patrick Henry.

Besides Henry, other Founding Fathers who lived in these counties came to the defense of the jailed pastors. Thomas Jefferson had attended Separatist Baptist church meetings, and the persecution influenced him to later write the Statute of Virginia for Religious Liberty. He requested that the accomplishment be recorded on his gravestone. George Washington was also influenced and would later write to the Virginia Baptist Association, “that if the Constitution might endanger the religious rights of any, I would never have placed my signature to it.”

James Madison was deeply disturbed by the degeneration of the clergy. At age 19 he penned, “the worst I have to tell you is that hell-conceived principle of persecution rages among some clergy. This vexes me the worst of anything so I must beg you to pity me and pray for the liberty of conscience to all.” In 1776, at age 24, he objected to the term “toleration” being used in the Virginia Declaration of Rights. “Out of duty to our creator” he insisted, “all men are entitled to the exercise of free religion according to the dictates of his conscience.”

Where did he get such thinking? John Leland, an evangelist from Massachusetts, was only 22 when he arrived in Virginia the year before. He was a leader of the separatist Baptists and a neighbor and close friend of Madison and Jeffer-

NEED EXTRA SPACE?

Exotic Pet Series – Part One

Over the next few months, I will be covering topics related to exotic pet ownership. These articles will include information and data on ownership of reptiles/amphibians, small mammals and birds. Exotics can be fun and rewarding to keep as pets but typically have very specific needs depending on the species.

The American Veterinary Medical Association conducts a pet census every year. In 2024, 11.6 percent of pets in the US were in the “other” category. Of those, 14.8 percent of people owned reptiles (snakes, turtles, and lizards). Only 28.7 percent of “other” pet owners have a relationship with a veterinarian, which is much lower than the 86.8 percent of dog owners and 77.1 percent of cat owners.

In general, exotics don’t often come to the vet for wellness visits. They do not have any vaccines or preventatives that require an annual vet visit. Even without those needs, it is still recommended to have an annual check-up with a veterinarian.

You can legally own many different reptile species in Connecticut. The most common reptiles kept as pets in the US are bearded dragons, ball pythons, and leopard geckos. Each of these species will have specific temperature and humidity requirements, which is something to think about before getting a reptile for a pet. Reptiles do not control their own body temperatures but rather regulate their temperature with the environment around them. While many reptiles have fewer daily needs, they

son. In letters to Madison, Leland wrote that “government should protect every man in thinking and speaking freely” and that “the liberty I contend for is more than toleration.” Leland’s view of freedom was “that the notion of a Christian commonwealth should be exploded forever. Whereas all should be equally free, Jews, Turks (Muslims), Pagans

do require special equipment and skills to provide their appropriate husbandry. The most common health problems that we see with reptiles are due to improper husbandry. Without the appropriate temperatures, they may not be able to eat or digest foods. Without the appropriate humidity, they may not be able to shed efficiently. Without the proper supplementation and lighting, they may not have enough calcium to keep their bones healthy. All of these things should be considered before choosing a reptile for a pet.

Once you have decided a reptile is right for you, there are many different reptile species to chose from. One consideration is diet type. Some reptiles are carnivores, like snakes and some turtle species. Some reptiles are herbivores, like certain species of iguanas and Uromastyx. And then there are species that are omnivores, meaning they eat a mix of proteins and plants, like bearded dragons. Just like humans, variety in their diets can help hit nutritional milestones.

When handling reptiles, it is important to remember that most reptiles carry salmonella. So wash your hands after handling them and maintain appropriate hygiene.

If you are thinking about adding a reptile to your family, the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians is a great resource for finding a veterinarian in your area or for more information about owning and caring for reptiles.

and Christians.” In his writings and preaching, one was accountable to his or her creator for this inalienable (God given) right of conscience.

Next: How did this freedom of conscience and Madison’s Virginia Declaration of Rights in 1776 get to be the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1789?

Local nurseryman wins prestigious award

By Shirley Murtha

On Nov. 21 John O’Brien received the 2024 Gustav A.I. Mehlquist award, the highest honor given annually from the Connecticut Horticultural Society at the society’s annual meeting. Established in 1987 the award honors Mehlquist’s extraordinary contribution to horticulture.

O’Brien is now considered to be one of the leading horticulturists in our state. “It is hard to think of another individual who has done more to offer first-rate plants in an increasingly beautiful setting,” remarked Nancy DeBrule while introducing O’Brien for the award. She additionally noted that he is outstanding in promoting community among gardeners by introducing customers with common interests to each other.

Fifty years ago, O’Brien began his horticultural career at age 15 working in a garden center in Vermont. He began his own company in 1983, which for the first 20 years specialized in landscaping. His first loves were Japanese maples and dwarf conifers, but “hostas put me on the map,” he notes today. It is well acknowledged that O’Brien Nurserymen is New England’s premiere hosta nursery,

with 1,300 varieties of hosta along with many other shade plants and his beloved conifers. “I like to make people happy with plants. When someone new comes to the nursery, I love showing them around,” O’Brien comments. If you have never been to this stunning piece of Granby landscape, come springtime visit the business at 40 Wells Road. You will most likely be astonished.

CTVV INTERVIEWS

State’s Healthcare Insurance Administration

Susan Regan, host of CT Valley Views, recently spoke with Morgen Greenjean, a veteran administrator and billing coordinator for a surgical practice in Waterford for a decade. Greenjean has a wealth of experience in the smooth operation of the healthcare process and this interview will expose the pitfalls and challenges patients face when they submit claims to their insurance carrier. Not only have premiums substantially increased, but the Return on Investment for the payers causes confusion and delays coverage payments.

Greenjean will be establishing a podcast in the summer as a source of information for the public to find information on how best to navigate healthcare billing and coverage practices.

Podcaster Mike Allen

Susan Regan, host of CT Valley Views had the pleasure of speaking with Mike Allen, producer and host of the podcast Amazing Tales from Off and On Connecticut’s Beaten Path. Allen interviews experts on a variety of historical topics and also makes public appearances on a number of the subjects. The podcast link is amazingtalesct.com

Allen has lived in Connecticut for more than 50 years, currently residing in Danbury. His podcast is extremely popular across the demographic range of young school children to 90 years old, so any of our viewers could find something of interest on his site.

See these segments and all CTVV current shows at ctvalleyviews.com

NOT WANTED

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

By David Desiderato

Heaven’s End

This may be the last picture of the grandparent Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) at Holcomb Farm. A notable tree by any definition, three feet across, it was probably intentionally planted decades ago directly across the field from the Holcombs’ front door.

Imported from its native China starting in the late 18th century, Tree of Heaven grows rapidly and spreads via long root systems that send up shoots near and far; it also spreads by seed. It’s a serious invasive problem because its growth is uncontrolled and, more recently and urgently, because it is the preferred host for a new and cataclysmically invasive insect, the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), which is rapidly radiating from its epicenter in Berks County, Pa., and insatiably devouring vineyards and farms.

This landmark tree and dozens of younger relatives have been the target of a determined multi-year campaign by Granby residents volunteering with the Granby Conservation Commission’s Invasive Action team and the Holcomb Farm Tree Trail. The strategy involves girdling—cutting through the bark and the live layer beneath—and precision poison painting on the freshly exposed tissue. This method is used because simply cutting live Trees of Heaven stimulates the root sprouting system, resulting in many more tree shoots. In the process, volunteers severed massive vines of invasive Asian bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) that warped the tree’s form over decades. Volunteers targeted all the known Trees of Heaven in several clusters at the Farm, and the dead trees have started collapsing across trails. Signs warn visitors to avoid these areas. A contractor will soon cut and chip and dispose of the trees. Volunteers will continue

Photo by David Desiderato

to monitor and treat the inevitable root sprouts and seedlings for years. The trees are reportedly valuable to woodworkers; its smooth grain is easily worked and stained—any interest? Trees of Heaven are everywhere. There’s a dense concentration around Barbour Street in Hartford; for many blocks it seems to be every other tree. In Granby there’s a mature cluster north of the Stop & Shop parking lot, spreading its root shoots and seeds far and wide. Residents who may have Trees of Heaven on their property or notice them in town can help control them and the spotted lanternfly by contacting Invasive Action. Use the contact form at the bottom of the welcome page at GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly.com; we can consult, visit and help with control. For more information, search the site for previous NOT WANTED columns on Tree of Heaven and spotted lanternfly and a host of linked resources.

John O’Brien acknowledging his award at the Connecticut Horticultural Society meeting in November. Photo by Tracy Weiss

Simpson painting made permanent in Waterbury museum

By Shirley Murtha

Local artist William (Bill) Simpson has had one of his charcoal drawings accepted into the permanent collection at the Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury. The piece, Fishing with Nick, was a visitor favorite during the 2022 Juried Members Show at the museum, so much so that Simpson was invited to return it and three additional drawings in December 2023 as part of a group show titled Connecticut Artists Depict Trees and Forests Simpson notes that most museums depend on donations of work by contemporary working artists to enhance their collections, and most artists are grateful to the museums for being included in solo or group shows. “Like myself, it is considered a n honor and a confirmation of the work’s value. I’m very proud to have a piece of mine in the Mattatuck’s collection.” He thanks Chief Curator Keffie Feldman, Collections Manager Wayne Eldred and Museum Director Bob Burns for their interest in and support of his work and that of other emerging artists.

Mattatuck Museum Collections Manager

Wayne Eldred (l.) and Chief Curator Keffie Feldman stand with artist Bill Simpson as his painting, Fishing with Nick, is accepted into the museum’s permanent collection. Photo courtesy of Bill Simpson

Fishing with Nick has deep emotional context for Simpson that began as the water he was drawing began to move up into the trees. Although not his intention, it began to look like a swamp, and his mind filled with memories of one of his favorite short stories, Big Two-hearted River, one of a series written by Ernest Hemingway in 1925 based on Hemingway’s experiences growing up on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. In this story, a wounded and traumatized veteran named Nick Adams wanted to fish that day, but he could not make himself wade through the deep water to fish in the swamp. “He looked back. The river just showed through the trees. There would be plenty of days coming when he could fish the swamp.”

After that, it was clear to Simpson that the title of his painting would be Fishing with Nick

The Mattatuck Museum, located at 144 West Main Street in Waterbury, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Art Foundation donates portraits

By Susan Regan

The Sylvia Davis Patricelli Art Foundation recently donated two portraits painted by Patricelli to a West Hartford church and a local country club.

A portrait of Sister Pietra, an Ursuline Nun of the Hartford Diocese, was painted in 1950. The nuns were given special dispensation to visit at Patricelli’s home in West Hartford to take weekly art lessons from her. The portrait of Sis-

ter Pietra was received by Father Dolan of the Timothy Parish in West Hartford.

Another Patricelli portrait, done in 1985, of the late John Murphy, country club head professional and Connecticut PGA member for 40 years. Henry Wrotiak, president of the Country Club of Farmington accepted the portrait, which will be featured in the “John Murphy” room overlooking the golf course.

Winner’s Spotlight

Mark Williams wins award

By Faith Tyldsley

As January arrives each year, The Granby Drummer submits articles published during the preceding year to the Connecticut Press Club’s annual communication contest. Writers, editors and other media professionals across Connecticut vie for awards in over 60 categories.

In the competition for articles published in 2023, Mark Williams received a second-place award in the History category for his piece entitled, Threehundred-year-old loom will again produce woven cloth Williams chronicles the discovery and rejuvenation of the loom from the time it was discovered in the attic of the Sadoce Wilcox house (c. 1800) after the structure was acquired by the Salmon Brook Historical Society in 2019. It is no exaggeration to say that this ungainly relic of the past, estimated to date to the early 1700s, has experienced a remarkable resurrection, as described by Williams in his article. During 2023, the loom underwent painstaking dismantlement as experts

SAVE THE DATE

Granby’s annual Empty Bowls dinner will be held on Friday, March 28, 5 to 7 p.m. in GMHS cafeteria. All proceeds benefit the Granby and Hartland food banks. See March issue for details!

prepared to move it from the attic to the first-floor parlor. Now reassembled and “dressed” (the process of preparing the loom for weaving with the necessary threads), the loom has come back to life.

Specialists in early American weaving techniques have demonstrated the loom’s abilities during several open house days. In 2024, tea towels woven in historical colors and patterns have fulfilled the prediction of the winning article’s title.

The article can be read by visiting the archives section of the Drummer’s website (granbydrummer.com) Click “read online” and select the September 2023 issue. The article is on page 29.

Mark Williams with tea towel produced by Wilcox House loom. Photo by Faith Tyldsley

Winter is here!

John Dewey photographed this broad winged hawk sitting on a plastic owl, watching birds at the feeder at his house on Hungary Road. It was taken during one of January’s many windy days so its feathers were ruffled from the wind.

Closer to Home

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Beman Hardware 20

Berkshire Hathaway - Harness Way 31

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Cambridge House Brew Pub 18

Carmon Funeral Home 3

Carter, Robert Painting 10

Chiropractic Care of Granby 5

Christopher Bryant 15

D’Agata-Perry Granite & Bronze 21 Evans Automotive 11

Granby Community Fund 28

Granby Congregational Church 10

Granby Dental 15, 31

Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 6

Granby Food Bank 4

Granby Greater Together Community Fund 26

Granby Self Storage 29

Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce 24

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Higleyville Coin Co. 13

Lost Acres Fire Dept. Auxiliary 9

March 2025 deadlines

ADS: Monday, Feb. 10 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, please leave a message.

Email: ads@granbydrumer.org

ARTICLES: Monday, Feb. 17 at noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

WORK DATES: Feb. 10 to Feb. 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 on the website at granbydrummer.com

December view of the North Marsh on the GLT’s Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve in North Granby. The Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve on Loomis Street is open dawn to dusk daily.

Photo by Rick Orluk