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Volume L, No. 7 •April 2020
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Town works through health crisis What a change a month brings. I am thankful for the daily walks I take with my lovely wife in and about Granby. Reminds me how the world is larger than my phone and computer screens. Keeping any one perspective is hard with so many different issues. In town hall, focus on the budget, projects and the daily workflows suddenly by Jim Lofink had to respond to the health crisis as well. The town work does go on, but differently. Read on for some recaps on budgeting, projects and crisis management, knowing full well that the situation is evolving and changing so rapidly that by the time you read this, much may have changed. And so it goes, my neighbors. Stay safe and well. Town response to the health emergency On March 18, Town Manager John Ward declared a local state of emergency for the Town of Granby, as had been declared earlier by the state and federal government. On March 20, Granby town offices were closed as staff shifted to the new model of keeping social distance and/or working remotely if at risk. Staff is still (I hope) accessible via email and phone, and a physical Drop Box has been placed outside Town Hall for receiving forms and correspondence. The safety of both residents and town staff is of the utmost priority, and town hall services will continue but in new ways reflecting the changing situation.
Town Hall Talk
Emergency planning Eric Vincent entered his second year on the job as Town Emergency Management Director facing what could be the largest crisis in over a generation. Emergency planning coordinates with many local, state and federal agencies in planning for contingencies, and Vincent says that the Granby residents have been tremendous to work with, including the CERT team volunteers. For local information the state website (ct.gov/coronavirus) is a valuable resource, as well as the Farmington Valley Health District (fvhd. org) and the CDC (cdc.gov). Vincent says lessons are being learned every day, and plans that have been developed and in place over many years are constantly evolving to meet the challenges. The basics of the CDC guidelines – washing hands and surfaces, keeping social distance, self-isolating if symptomatic – are very important for all residents to follow. Town services are affected As of this date (March 20) the public libraries, parks and recreation programs and Senior Center are closed or programming cancelled until further notice, with a few exceptions. Those residents who may be in urgent need of essential items, such as groceries, toiletries, pharmacy items, or other urgent needs, should contact Social Services at (860-8445351) or email syost@granby-ct.gov. For those members of our community who wish to volunteer or make a donation during this time, please contact Social Services. Know the town is grateful for your support. Residents are encouraged to take ad-
Town Hall Talk cont’d. on p. 5
Gran-bee canceled
In light of the unprecedented events surrounding the Coronovirus (COVID-19) outbreak, and the recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control that recommends cancellation or postponement of large public events, the Granby Education Foundation has made the difficult decision to cancel the Annual Gran-bee Trivia Contest scheduled for April 24. For the past 17 years, the “Bee” has been the most important fundraiser for GEF. Proceeds raised have supported its Community Grants Program, which has served as a vital funding lifeline to various town non-profits. Some of the most recent GEF grants include seed money for the GHMS marketing program, and for the OWLS program run
by the Granby Youth Services Bureau. GEF will continue to assess future fundraising opportunities later in the year. In the meantime, we deeply appreciate the early support of our local sponsors, such as the YMCA, Avon Plumbing, Fredo Landscaping and Lost Acres. As they have supported us, we will continue to support them and Granby during this challenging time as well as continue to nourish educational excellence in our community. The GEF is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and entirely staffed by volunteers. Working together, the GEF will continue to enrich our community with quality arts and education programming for Granby residents of all ages.
Hockey team wins conference championship Wildcats Hockey, the high school hockey team for Granby, Suffield and Windsor Locks, won the 2020 Nutmeg Hockey Conference championship on March 3 in Cromwell. Granby members of the tournament team include: Sam Banever, Alex Becker, Eric Kinsley, Tyler Mackowski, Mark McWhirter, Evan Napierata, Will Peverly and Ryan Stone. The team’s head coach is Jake King, also a Granby resident. Photo by Doreen McWhirter
Pandemic restrictions impact budget referendum process The Executive Order handed down by Governor Lamont on Saturday, March 21, suspended in-person budget adoption requirements for municipalities to avoid the risk of spreading the Coronavirus Covid-19. It mandates the Board of Finance to “adopt a budget for the July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021 fiscal year and to set a mill rate…without holding votes required by charter or without complying with any in-person budget adoption requirements” (Executive Order No. 7I, Item 13). This wording specifically overrides Connecticut General Statutes and local Charter provisions. The next meeting of the Board of Finance is March 30. Shortly thereafter, a draft of the proposed budget will be available on the town website, granby-ct. gov. The week of April 6, the Drummer will publish its annual Budget Issue, including information on how residents may comment on the budget draft. A budget will be adopted by April 30, 2020. As the pandemic situation evolves, please check the town website, granby-ct. gov, for up-to-date information.
Presidential Preference Primary postponed to June 2
The presidential preference primary will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Community Gym at Granby Memorial High School. To be clear, this vote is to choose delegates for the national party conventions held this summer; actual voting for the President will be done in November. Voters will also have the option to choose an uncommitted delegate in this primary. Same day registration does not apply to primaries, it must be done prior to the primary. To be eligible to vote in the June 2 presidential primary you must be a U.S. citizen, registered to vote and affiliated as a Democrat or Republican by noon on Monday, June 1. Voters are encouraged to check party affiliation online at sots. state.gov; it is available 24/7. In Connecticut, those who are currently 17 years old but will turn 18 by Nov. 3
Primary cont’d. on p. 4
Photo by Peter Dinella
Page 2 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES FEBRUARY 18, 2020 PRESENT: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, John D. Ward, Town Manager; and Student Liaison Jillian Thrall Public Session Bill Regan, 62 Hungary Road, addressed the board requesting that the public have access to the information packets used during the meetings. He requested that the packets be online before the next scheduled BOS meeting. Susan Patricelli Regan, 62 Hungary Road, addressed the board with a request to have the budget workshops video-taped on Granby Community Television (GCTV). UNFINISHED OR TABLED BUSINESS Report Back on POCD The Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Committee reviewed all goals and tasks outlined in the plan. A lead entity has been assigned for each task with acknowledgement of partnering entities within the process. Priorities were also discussed and determined for the completion of each task. The work of the committee culminated with the creation of the Granby Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Plan. A list of tasks taken directly from the Plan of Conservation and Development document were presented, listing the Board of Selectmen as lead entity for all tasks and partnered with other boards in some instances. Each task was listed with its priority from zero to six years to ongoing. The groupings were environmental, budgeting and taxation, transportation, commercial and industrial development, Granby Center, open space and recreation, agriculture, government services and public facilities. The thought was to continue to the next meeting so the board has time to review the information.
First Selectman Kuhnly asked the board to review the chart and be ready for discussion at the next board meeting. Consideration of Developments in the area of Municipal Solid Waste In follow-up to the discussion during the Feb. 3, board meeting, Town Manager Ward made inquiries as to how other towns were handling the removal of their municipal solid waste and recycling. Specifically, inquiries were made to four towns not part of the Materials Innovation and Recycling Authority (MIRA) consortium. The 30-year commitment MIRA is looking for is not something the board feels it wants to get into or can even legally do. That would have to be researched. The signing of the non-binding Statement of Interest would be a placeholder for the town if no other alternative is found. New tipping fees are scheduled to be announced Feb. 28. The town has 30 days after the announcement to make the decision to sign with MIRA or opt out. On a motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to authorize Ward to submit the requested and non-binding Statement of Interest, indicating that the Town of Granby is interested in committing to MIRA. The board also authorizes Ward to issue an RFP for methods of disposing of municipal solid waste. Resignations and appointments to be considered No resignations were received. Vacancies: Conservation Commission (1) On a motion by Neumann, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to accept the following reappointments: Parks and Recreation: Sheri Litchfield (R) and Jennifer Bilodeau (R) for a two-year term through Jan. 10, 2022.
Development Commission: Martin Schwager (R) for a two-year term through Jan. 10, 2022. Consideration of Recreation and Leisure Services Granby Bluegrass, Brews and BBQ Festival – Closing of the Park and Approval of Alcohol Use During Their Event On behalf of the Recreation and Leisure Services Department, Director Kristin Vincent is requesting permission to close Salmon Brook Park at certain times to all other activities on Saturday, July 11. Festival structures will be set-up in the multi-purpose field during the day on Friday, July 10, and removed on Sunday, July 12. The entire park will be closed to all activities after 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 11. Permission is requested for a general overall use of alcohol throughout the day to operate a beer garden area during the festival from 2 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, in accordance with state law and the Ordinance Authorizing Promulgation of Rules and Regulations of Parks. Vincent is taking necessary steps to ensure that all state laws relating to the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages will be strictly adhered to. The beer garden will be operated by Thomas Hooker Brewery of Bloomfield. On a motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to approve the closing of Salmon Brook Park at certain times to all other activities for the Granby Bluegrass, Brews and BBQ Festival on Saturday, July 11, and to approve the general overall use of alcohol throughout the day to be operated in a beer garden area during the festival from 2 to 9 p.m. Ward indicated he will notify the Police Department, Fire Department, and other safety officials and user groups of this event.
Consideration of Resolutions for Board of Education Grant Application for Granby Memorial Middle School Roof Replacement The Board of Education is in the process of preparing all the necessary documentation for the grant application to the Commissioner of Administrative Services for the Granby Memorial Middle School Gym Roof Replacement project that was authorized by the Board of Selectmen in May 2019. In order to apply for the grant, the Board of Selectmen has to adopt the Resolution. On a motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted unanimously (5-0-0) to adopt the Resolutions for Board of Education Grant Application for Granby Memorial Middle School Roof Replacement. Resolved, that the Town of Granby Board of Selectman authorizes the Granby Board of Education to apply to the Commissioner of Administrative Services and to accept or reject a grant for the GMMS Gym Roof Replacement at the Granby Memorial Middle School. Resolved, that the School Project Building Committee is hereby established as the building committee with regard to the GMMS Gym Roof Replacement at the Granby Memorial Middle School. Resolved, that the Town of Granby Board of Selectman hereby authorizes at least the preparation of schematic drawings and outline specifications for the GMMS Gym Roof Replacement at the Granby Memorial Middle School. Budget Operations Ward reviewed Budget Operations for January 2020. Collections are at 95 percent and expected to increase monthly. Payment for Education Cost Sharing was received with a balance due in April. Planning and Zoning application permit fees are at 228 percent due to the proposed apartments. Everything is on target. Ohannessian noted that it has been a while since a report from Holcomb Farm has been received. Ward reported he and Kuhnly are scheduled to meet with HF representatives a week from Friday. Ohannessian also inquired about the status of Kearns School. There is an entity that has expressed interest. The town attorney is reviewing the RFP and it should be back in 30 days. Respectfully submitted, John D. Ward, Town Manager
Lions donate pants at Kelly Lane
On a recent Friday evening, the Kelly Lane Primary School nurse put out a request for new or gently used pants for students in need at her school. There was especially a shortage of boys’ pants. Over that weekend, members of the newly chartered Northwestern Connecticut Cyber Lions and Leo Clubs raised funds to purchase 16 new pairs of pants and delivered them to Kelly Lane on the next Monday morning. Lions Clubs International is the world’s largest service organization that meets community needs both locally and around the world. Where there is a need, there is a Lion and Leo. (Right to left) Lion Audrey Lampert, school nurse Kelly Santos, and past district governor Dave Roberts who delivered the new pants. Submitted photo.
April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 3
GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES MARCH 2, 2020 Present: Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, John D. Ward, Town Manager; and Student Liaison Jillian Thrall. Absent: First Selectman Kuhnly Public Session Conservation Commission member Kent McCord, 135 Hungary Road, addressed the board with information on the Explore Granby Scavenger Hunt. This an event where residents hike to specific landmarks, take selfie photos at each of the five locations and submit the photos to the Conservation Commission after all locations have been visited. The locations are clearly located on the trail maps available on the property manager’s website. Each participant will receive recognition of their accomplishment. The dates of the Scavenger Hunt are Feb. 1 to Oct. 31, 2020. Bill Regan, 62 Hungary Road, spoke about a packet of meeting information that was obtained from the Board of Education website and noted the contrast to what was available on the town website. Susan Patricelli Regan, 62 Hungary Road, requested the name of the current Emergency Management Director, and asked if he is the information center for any Granby preparation/concerns with the COVID-19 virus. GCTV is planning on having a show in the near future in regards to the State Emergency Management status on the virus. Town Manager Ward responded that Eric Vincent is the town’s Emergency Management Director and he would be the contact person as well as Farmington Valley Health District Executive Director Jennifer Kertanis. Kertanis is currently at a workshop in Washington D.C. on how to respond to this. She will be giving a presentation on March 5 to the Farmington Valley towns in regard to possible responses. Governor Lamont has issued responses through the State Public Health Department, which are basically the same as other airborne illnesses, such as washing your hands frequently with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds to reduce the chance of infection. UNFINISHED OR TABLED BUSINESS Report Back on Plan of Conservation and Development Ward indicated the purpose tonight is to adopt the list of tasks as written or to make changes. Selectman
Neumann referred to the task Open Space and Recreation, stating the priority listed as A (0-3 years). He feels it should be 0 (ongoing). Selectman Ohannessian sees this as a vision of the future and we are currently in budget season and may want to come back to this once that is over. In the meantime, we should read, study, and understand the list of tasks. Some of these tasks need to be done but we need to be realistic about the time and cost of implementation. The possibility of holding a workshop or refer to some items at the budget meetings. Selectman Ballard asked who the person “in charge” is. Ward responded it is a shared responsibility between Planning and Zoning, the Board of Selectmen, and ultimately the Town Manager. Also the Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Committee would be in charge as well. After discussion, it was decided to postpone the discussion on POCD until after the budget. BUSINESS Consideration of Solid Waste Fund Appropriation Due to the increasing bear population in Granby, residents have been experiencing issues with bears getting into their trash barrels. Problems of litter being strewn along town roads, as well as Paine’s truck drivers having to exit their truck to clean up trash and straighten the barrel has become a problem. Bears are returning on a regular basis as they become accustomed to a food source. People have requested bear- resistant barrels. K. Severance, Director of Public Works, reported he can order 54 barrels through Paine’s for a fee of $13,708 (freight included). There would be a one-time fee of approximately $250 to the homeowner for the barrel, which would stay with the house. On a motion by Selectman Neumann, seconded by Selectman King, the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to request an appropriation of $13,708 from the Solid Waste fund to purchase 54 bear-resistant barrels. Ward suggested posting on the website that bearresistant barrels are available. Ohannessian has concerns we will end up with a lot of barrels and not many buyers. Ward suggested that in that case, perhaps we could sell extras to another town, but Severance responded the barrels are labeled Granby
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with serial numbers. He also indicated that there would probably be 20 residents that would purchase a barrel as soon as they are available. In addition, he feels the number of requests for barrels would increase as time goes on. Ward indicated the town will be receiving a rebate of approximately $13,000 from MIRA that could essentially pay for these. Consideration of Establishment of a Committee to Review Agritourism and Farm Store Zoning Regulations The Granby Plan of Conservation and Development contains a recommendation to encourage and permit agricultural operations to engage in activities that seek to sell the agricultural experience and to use the agricultural experience to attract consumers and sell farm products. The plan also recommends working with the Granby Agricultural Commission to develop regulations that address the diverse commercial elements of today’s agricultural operations. In response, the Development Commission developed a draft regulation that addresses agritourism, and also suggested several modifications to existing farm store regulations. This was reviewed by the Agricultural Commission and then referred to the Planning and Zoning for review. The Planning and Zoning Commission thought it was important to examine this in more detail and to have public input. They recommend that a committee be established to undertake this work. The committee would consist of up to 10 members, two representatives from each of the following boards and commissions: Agricultural Commission, Development Commission, and Planning and Zoning Commission. Membership shall also include up to four residents. On a motion by Ohannessian, seconded by Neumann, the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to establish a Committee to Review Agritourism and Farm Store Zoning Regulations. Neumann indicated this is really an ad hoc committee and Ward felt they should be given a time limit to get things done. They would need to report back with a preliminary report in four months and a final report in nine months. On a motion by Ohannessian, seconded by Neumann,
the board voted unanimously (4-0-0) to establish names to the committee. The following names have been suggested by Planning and Zoning and the Town’s Community Development Director for nomination to the committee. From Development Commission: Ken Kuhl, Matt Brady. From Agricultural Commission: Erin Pirro, Ellen Whitlow. Residents: Michelle Neidermeyer (Lost Acres Vineyard, former Agricultural Commission member), and Jamie Woodside (employee of the U.S. Department of Agriculture). Town Manager Reports Budget Presentation Ward presented the FY2020-21 budget to the Selectmen. The total General Fund increase is 1.96 percent. Town Operations is +3.9 percent. Debt Service is $640,000 (23.0 percent). Capital Budget and CNEF is +$498,133 which includes the bond projects. The chief drivers of the budget are health insurance, wages, pension and tipping fees. Good news is that MIRA announced new tipping fees to be at $91 and not $101. Budget Workshop meetings start this Thursday. Sections to be discussed will be Public Works and Environment, Libraries, and Park and Recreation. Selectman Ballard asked how Ward arrived at these figures for the budget. Ward responded there was no magic recipe; everything was re-evaluated. He did not fund any new personnel requests from the DPW or PD. He trimmed some from operating budgets that are already pretty lean. Ohannessian asked Ward to tell them at the budget workshop what he did eliminate so they can understand. Ward reported the Board of Education finalized its budget and will start workshop meetings next week. Ohannessian asked if the workshops will be filmed. Ward responded he had not contacted GCTV yet. Ballard asked about posting the budget on the town website. Ward indicated that it would be posted. Also, is there a decision for an alternative to staying with MIRA? Ward responded that decision would be made by July 1, 2021. The town will stay in the contract one more year, then evaluate the situation. Respectfully submitted, John D. Ward, Town Manager
Drumrolls
Kyle Keir graduated in May 2019 from Tulane University with a B.S. in management with double majors in finance and management and certificates in energy and entrepreneurial management specializations. Amy Lenihan and Sophia Speliopoulos have been named to the dean’s list at Roger Williams University for the fall 2019 semester.
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Page 4 The Granby Drummer
Drumbeat Letters to the Editor 50th anniversary coverage
The Drummer continues to impress me with the town information it brings to readers. I read the beginning of your 50 year coverage of town events, budgets and economic information and will read the rest. Your dedicated volunteers are the glue that makes it possible. Bob Sproat
SBP Park House great for gatherings The Gathering Room is a great place to get everyone together. Granby Recreation and Leisure Services is not just for youth sports. In the last year, we have rented the Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park for two graduation parties and a birthday party. The room has chairs, round and rectangular tables. We were able to set up the event to suit our specific needs. The room seats 98 people with space to walk around. The Gathering Room has a kitchen with a refrigerator, sink and counter space. There are outlets to set up crock pots, warmers and kettles. We usually set up five rectangular tables for food and drinks with ten round tables for people to sit. There are large modern restrooms for guests. We easily applied for a permit to serve alcohol at one of the events. My wife and I often talked about get-
editorials, commentary & letters to the editor
Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer.
ting everyone together, but it becomes complicated when we think of all the people we want to invite versus the limited space in our house and driveway. The Gathering Room has inside space for heated or air-conditioned seating and outside area for activities during the warmer months. The room is well lit and open without any columns in the middle of the room. Clean up after each event was quick and easy. It is convenient to gather the tablecloths with garbage and dispose of it all in the on-site dumpster. It is much more convenient than stuffing it into our green barrel and hoping the bears don’t tip it for a snack. The Gathering Room is only one of many venues available through Granby Recreation and Leisure Services. We have rented the pavilions at Salmon Brook Park in the past with the same delightful result. I completed the application online and posted my deposit. Terri and Daphne were helpful, accommodating and enthusiastic about our events. Every event went off without a hitch. If you have any upcoming events and you want to invite more people than usual, I highly recommend considering the venues offered by Granby Recreation and Leisure Services. Patrick McGee
Primary cont’d. from p. 1 can participate in the primary if they register with a party by the cutoff dates listed on page 13. For all primaries in Connecticut, you must be a party member of the party you wish to vote for. State party rules prohibit cross voting in another political party’s primary. Unaffiliated voters are not allowed to vote in either primary. Of Granby voters, 38.2 percent are currently unaffiliated, 31.2 percent are Republican, 29.0 percent are Democrats and 1.6 percent are minor party members. To gain party affiliation, go online to complete a voter registration card and check the box marked “party enrollment change” and be sure to write in a political party. The website is: voterregistration. ct.gov/OLVR/welcome.do —until the postmark and online deadline to register to vote on May 28. The in-person deadline is noon on June 1. The registrar’s office is open from 9 a.m. to noon on that day. Party membership does not cost anything, nor are party members obligated to vote along party lines. The deadline to switch from one party to another has already passed. There is a 90-day waiting period for those switching political par-
ties to attain party privilege, so anyone switching parties between March 3 and June 2 would be ineligible to vote in either Presidential Preference primary. Unaffiliated and new voters who register as Democrat or Republican by noon the day before can participate in the June 2 primary. On Feb. 14, the Secretary of State announced the candidates qualified to be on the ballot. The list is printed below in alphabetical order. (Candidates need to officially drop out to be removed from the ballot.) On April 28, Denise Merrill will announce the order that the national candidates will appear on each ballot and sample ballots should be available for viewing on the SOS website: sots. state.ct.us Democratic candidates who qualified to have their delegates on the ballot: Joe Biden, Michael Bloomberg, Pete Buttigieg, Tulsi Gabbard, Amy Klobuchar, Bernie Sanders, Tom Steyer and Elizabeth Warren (and Uncommitted). Republican candidates qualified to have their delegates on the ballot: Rocky De La Fuente, Donald Trump and Bill Weld (and Uncommitted).
Bryant University has named the following students to its fall 2019 dean’s list: Abigail Sannizzaro, class of 2020; Gerald McDonald, class of 2020; Jacob Dunham, class of 2022; Cara Ferro, class of 2022, and Parker Hansen, class of 2023. The University of Hartford named the following students to its fall 2019 president’s list: Nathan Jennings, Shannon Jennings, Olivia Papa, Eva Pockoski, Joseph Accetura, Helen Newman and Samantha Novotny.
FIND US
Please Note: although Food Bank is closed until further notice we have a system to provide goods for “urgent needs” so donations are still needed.
We currently need: Peanut butter/jelly Baked Beans/chili Canned TUNA Canned Fruit Assorted box cereals Toilet paper Paper Towels Sanitizing products & wipes Dish soap
Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2020 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved. CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble
Donations can be dropped off at the VNA office on Salmon Brook Street
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Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Elaine Girard, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley Reporters & Contributors Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Jay Harder, Carol Laun, Jim Lofink, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, John R. Nieb, Camden Robertson, Lisa Salazar,
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.
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Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Subject to change, Call Town Clerk
Board of Finance, April 13, 7:00 p.m., Budget Hearing, GMHS Auditorium; April 27, Budget Referendum, Town Hall Meeting Room Board of Education, 7 p.m., Central Office, Wednesdays, April 1, April 15
Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, April 8
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A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1970. The Granby Drummer (ISSN 1547-1497) is published monthly except January and August by Citizens for a Better Granby at 11 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. It’s delivered free of charge to all Granby households and businesses. Out-of-town subscriptions are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Granby, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to P.O. Box 165
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April 2020
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 5
Town Hall Talk cont’d. from p. 1
OpEd
Fat budget needs a diet By Susan Patricelli Regan As with any family, a budget sometimes needs to be amended based on internal or external fiscal factors. I would like to challenge each of the departments to consider a reduction of two percent to their budgets not by simply trying to meet the current plus-2 percent budget-increase target. We should be tightening our belt and adopting a lower calorie diet if you will. We need to adjust our thinking to consider not just what we can live without but learning to live without certain aspects of what we’ve come to expect and be more self-reliant. This has become more evident with the global Covid-19 virus that will change individual and family revenue sources; we cannot afford to create that stress at this time. Our prior “greatest generation” lived without many luxuries and necessities during WWII. They adjusted and ultimately had the realization that “… by overcoming difficulties, we gain strength and maturity.” Mediate union contracts when they come up. We can’t sustain the demands and current commitments but must broker to reduce/delay pension/salary increases with only potential exemption for cost-of-living adjustments. Connecticut has approximately $2.3 billion in its rainy day/contingency fund with an estimated $80 billion in unfunded mandates, which may impact us further. April is metaphorically bringing us showers. Using some of the rainy day/ general fund to selectively reduce or retain flat budgets is an option. We could increase the budgets of some departments, say the emergency/first responders by only two percent and tem-
porarily reduce other budgets because school may be out for a while with the virus issue. Planned facility improvements/new education classes could be put on hold. The Public Works Department can dispense with its anticipated wish list. Home schooling could be a future consideration for some families, particularly with stay-at-home parents. Selling or leasing assets should always be in the marketing plan, which by the way, we still do not have. Using that income to pay off any bond-balance respective debts would help with long term debt. We must cut the budget to minimum expenditures without perks and “feel goods.” Taxpayers cannot be treated as the town’s blank check and forcing families to make personal living adjustments to pay property taxes or selling their house short to be able to leave Connecticut. The town must adjust to more prudent thinking. Otherwise we will be subject to the “only two percent increase every year” challenge that will slip to three or four percent as the state enforces unfunded mandates on the municipalities. If the special needs costs can be addressed, the Board of Education, and ultimately the town, will see a savings that can be beneficial to the taxpayers. This should be in the marketing plan. There is always fat in the budget that is hiding in line items that are anticipated or wanted. It’s known as a “sludge” factor for bad calls or it’s used later for purposes other than originally identified. We’ve done enough budgets to give us the ability to do better than this and get us to a zero-raise budget and a flat mill rate.
vantage of a number of e-government 2022. Donahue and Simsbury Road services offered by the town during bridges will start construction likely the this crisis. See current information at spring of 2023 or 2024. granby-ct.gov, or call town hall (see School Projects: The middle school list in box). roof/HVAC metal roof has been repaired from hail damage, and the architect reBear-Resistant Trash containers will tained for the flat roof portion. Gutters be available soon and trim materials will be replaced after As bears awake from hibernation the roof is completed. The 18-year-old (okay that’s a myth, especially this high school roof must be 20 years old to year) Granby Dept. of Public Works qualify for grant funding, so it will be re(DPW) has just placed an order for bearplaced in 2021. Other projects are in the resistant trash containers. These will RFP process for architectural services. be available for a fee. These have been Holcomb Farm: Roofs on the main purchased with Paine’s to cut costs and barn and the workshop have been redelivery is planned in late April. If you placed, as well as portions of the farm would like to get on the Wait List, with house roof. A playscape and walkway the understanding that there are a limare being budgeted, and a STEAP grant ited number available, contact DPW at request prepared for new bathrooms in 860-653-8960 and find out more about the main barn. the trash container CALL FOR ASSISTANCE Cossitt Library: exchange program. The architect has Follow @Granby Assessor’s Office: 860-844-5311 CT Department of Building Department: 860-844-5318 been contracted to prepare the facilities Public Works on Public Library: 860-844-5275 study. Facebook for further Public Works: 860-653-8960 Kearns former updates. Recreation Office: 860-653-8947 school property: AfBudget preparation Registrar of Voters: 860-844-5300 ter the BOS decision continues Senior Center: 860-844-5352 to seek a commerBy the time you Social Services: 860-844-5351 cial broker to sell the read this, the Boards property, a new factor Tax Collector: 860-844-5315 of Selectman (BOS) surfaced. Town ManTown Clerk: 860-844-5308 and Education (BOE) ager Ward advised the Town Manager: 860-844-5300 will have transmitted BOS that in the case their operating bud- Youth Services: 860-844-5350 where a broker finds a gets back the Board qualified buyer, but a of Finance. The guideline to keep the town vote does not approve the sale, the tax impacts below a 2 percent increase is town could be liable to pay the broker still in effect, and that means some cost fee in any case. As that had not been cutting that will be further explained contemplated at the time of the decision, in the Drummer’s budget issue. As of it will be brought back for discussion this writing, the Town Meeting on the before releasing the RFP. budget is still planned for April 13, Thanks to you who called or wrote; 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium, your feedback is much appreciated. and the referendum (machine vote) on Continue to let me know how I’m doApril 27, from noon-8 p.m. at the Town ing at jclofink@gmail.com and follow Hall, as both are legally specified in the @GranbyDrummerOrg on Facebook Town Charter. Watch the town website for timelier, in-depth reporting. Even (granby-ct.gov) for developments. more importantly, if you see us out on a Recap of some town projects walk, smile, wave and say howdy. Be a Bridges: Griffin and Hungary Road good neighbor. We need each other, now bridges are entering the design engineerperhaps more than ever. — Jim Lofink ing phase, with construction planned to begin spring of 2021. Moosehorn bridge replacement is expected for April
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Page 6 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES FEB. 25, 2020 Present: Mark Lockwood (Chair), Jonathan Boardman, Margaret Chapple, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Abby Kenyon, Director of Community Development. Public Session – Items that are not a public hearing item on the agenda Kate Bogli, 198R Salmon Brook Street, addressed the commission regarding the draft agritourism zoning regulation, noting the importance of supporting and helping farmers and not adding more paperwork and fees for farmers. Virginia Wutka, 130 Lost Acres Road, asked the commission what the impetus is for the proposed changes. Action on the minutes of Feb. 11 On a motion by C. Chinni seconded by E. Lukingbeal, the commission voted (6-0-1) to approve the minutes of Feb. 11, with the following amendment: the vote to approve an application seeking a zone change from Center Edge (CE) and Center Commons (CC) to Commercial Center (COCE) for property located at 37 Hartford Avenue was (7-0-0). M. Chapple abstained. Public Hearing Application seeking a Special Permit for a garage in excess of 1,000 square feet for property at 70R Day Street. (Postponed from Jan. 28) Christian Alford, Alford Associates, Inc., Windsor, addressed the commission. The applicant, Brian Guarco of 70R Day Street, proposes to construct a 3,200 square foot garage/barn, measuring 80 feet by 40 feet. He proposes to revise the lot lines to increase the size of his property to 8 acres. In response to commission questions, it was noted the height of the barn would be 25 feet; the building will be grey vinyl siding; small residential-type light fixtures are proposed, there will not be lighting in the peaks or cupola, and the interior space will include a bathroom. A letter from a neighbor at 76 Day Street was read into the record. In response, the applicant stated the barn will not be utilized for commercial use; it will store antique cars. The proposed structure will be set back from Day Street and he stated it will barely be visible to neighbors. The commission questioned the note on the plan regarding the bedroom. This was used to determine the septic system design. Guarco stated a bedroom is not proposed for the structure. The Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission reviewed the application and delegated approval to the Wetlands Agent. There were no comments from the public. The public hearing closed at 7:23 p.m. Application seeking a Special Permit for an accessory apartment for property located at 155 Notch Road.
Amanda and Nicholas Mele, 155 Notch Road, addressed the commission. A. Mele stated when she and her husband purchased the home an accessory apartment was already in place and they weren’t aware it wasn’t properly approved. The accessory apartment is located in the basement and is about 528 square feet and contains one bedroom, one bathroom, living and kitchen area. A door off the driveway provides separate access to the apartment. The building official inspected this space and has no issues. In response to a question, the commission confirmed that the property owner must live on the premises for the duration of the permit and once approved, the permit runs with the land provided the next owner complies with the regulations. There were no comments from the public. Consideration of above applications, where the commission has concluded the public hearing. In discussing the 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 at 70R Day Street, the commission noted the barn has been designed to be in keeping with the character of the area and given the topography and setback from the road, it will hardly be seen. It was also noted that the Zoning Regulations do not require a barn to be screened from view. On a motion by M. Chapple seconded by J. Boardman the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve an application seeking a Special Permit for a garage in excess of 1,000 square feet for property at 70R Day Street, with a condition that a bedroom is not approved in this structure. In discussing the application seeking a Special Permit for an accessory apartment for property located at 155 Notch Road, it was noted the accessory apartment has been inspected and is in compliance with the Zoning Regulations. On a motion by E. Myers seconded by C. Chinni the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve an application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.5 for an accessory apartment for property located at 155 Notch Road. File Z-04-20. Review and discuss minor changes/cross references to Zoning Regulations Section 8.25 Utility Uses A. Kenyon addressed the commission. She noted various sections of the Zoning Regulations list Utility Uses as both a Permitted and Special Permit use within the same zone. In some cases, the zoning regulations also incorrectly reference Section 8.24 when Section 8.25 should be referenced. It is suggested the cross references are corrected so
it is clear under what conditions the use would be permitted and when it would require Special Permit approval. While the proposed changes do not affect the language or make substantial changes to the regulation, it will still require a referral to CRCOG and a public hearing. In response to a question about solar and wind, Kenyon stated when Section 8.25 Utility Use was adopted, it did not appear to address alternative energy systems. Rather the intent was to address unoccupied utility buildings and smaller utility boxes. She stated a draft regulation will be presented in the near future regarding these other systems. Answering a question, Kenyon noted the proposed solar regulation would largely address ground mounted arrays only and not rooftop. The commission decided to address the proposed changes to Section 8.25 and a new alternative energy system’s regulation at the same time. Review and discuss Zoning Regulations Section 8.15 Agriculture, including farm stores and draft agritourism regulation M. Lockwood noted a recommendation outlined in Granby’s Plan of Conservation and Development is to develop regulations that address commercial elements of today’s agricultural operations, including agritourism. Kenyon provided an overview of the draft regulation, which was created by the Development Commission and reviewed by the Agricultural Commission at its February meeting. Recommended changes include the adoption of a new sub-section to address agritourism as well as suggested changes to the existing farm store regulation to expand the types of products that may be sold. The proposed changes
are intended to support agriculture and provide better guidance for both applicants and the commission when evaluating proposed uses. On a motion by Chapple, seconded by Myers, the commission voted (7-0-0) to reopen public session. Paula Johnson, 289 Simsbury Road; Virginia Wutka, 130 Lost Acres Road; and Erin Pirro, 181R Broad Hill Road, addressed the commission. Their comments include how the commission should be mindful of the impacts of over-regulating farmers and the commission should hold an informal discussion with farmers for their input. The commission suggested creating a committee including up to four members of the public and two members each from the Agricultural Commission, Development Commission, and the Planning and Zoning Commission to review the draft regulation in more detail. Discuss Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Tasks The commission agreed to update Section 8.15 pertaining to agritourism and farm stores and Section 8.25 Utility Uses as immediate goals. After completion, the commission will look at other tasks and decide what to pursue. On a motion by Myers, seconded by J. Boardman, the commission voted (7-0-0) to adjourn the meeting at 8:14 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary To read minutes from other P&Z meetings, go to granby-ct.gov/node/219/minutes/2020
Stop & Shop’s gold medalist Dan Skinner (left), a long-time employee at Granby’s Stop & Shop, is congratulated by store manager Angel Cruz for the medals he won in the Connecticut Winter Special Olympics. Skinner won a gold and two silver medals. Photo by Rosia Kennedy
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 7
GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES FEB. 19, 2020 Present Members: Jenny Emery, Melissa Migliaccio, David Peling, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster, and Jack DeGray and Dwaritha Ramesh (Student Representatives). Absent Member: Mark Fiorentino Superintendent’s Announcements Welcome to our guest legislators, Senator Kissel, Senator Witkos and Representative Simanski. Hired an Interim Assistant Superintendent, Marian Hourigan, and will communicate to staff tomorrow. Hourigan is a retired Assistant Superintendent in charge of Instruction and Curriculum from Rocky Hill Public Schools. She will begin her interim position on March 11. Christopher Tranberg’s last day is March 13. Toured Ecology Center with the Emergency Management Director to assess using the facility as a shelter for animals in the event of a town-wide emergency. NEASC is continuing the high school’s accreditation. Received approximately 50 applications for the middle school principal position. Ten candidates have been selected for interviews starting in early March. Thank you, Mark Fiorentino, for being on the committee. The BOE will meet the candidate at the April 1 meeting. Student Representative Reports Boys’ basketball is 13-6 after beating Simsbury on Saturday, which was Granby’s first win since 2013. The team will be celebrating their senior night tomorrow against Weaver. Girls’ basketball is 12-8 and lost last Friday against Canton on their senior night. Teams are now preparing for the NCCC Championship that begins on Friday. Lauren Roy tied for second in the long jump and Connor Hennessey, Lauren Roy and Tristian Hugabook qualified for State Opens. Guest Legislators Senator John Kissel, Senator Kevin Witkos and Representative William Simanski discussed legislative issues related to education with the board. Simanski sits on the Education Committee and stated two meetings have been held to raise concepts and only 35 were raised, some of which are personal and financial management curriculum, teacher retention, school start times, special education cost cooperative, agricultural science education center, including Native American studies in the social studies curriculum, school district policies that discriminate against natural hair styles, and climate change in public school curriculum. Witkos commented that it was a great choice on selecting Dr. Grossman, stating he was on the Board of Education in Canton when he was hired in Canton and that he will do great things for Granby. Witkos spoke about a concern he had with a potential act of
removing a BOE member who had a felony record. He said there is no way to remove a BOE member until the next election. He also said there would not be any draconian cuts to education funding and that the bipartisan budget has incorporated many good practices. Melissa Migliaccio inquired about regionalization and the legislators said it is not moving forward at the moment. She asked them to please follow the bill for captive special education funding and that ECS funding would play into this. She said Connecticut is one of only four states in the country that puts the burden of proof back on the school district. With regard to the curriculum proposals, she stated all or many of these are good ideas but to leave it up to the local BOEs as they know their districts best with regard to curriculum and that it takes local control away. She also asked them not to support a bill to remove BOE members as this is done by the voters. Jenny Emery commented on the special education cost coop and that it is an intriguing idea. She stated her experience so far is there is a lot of cost management on the BOE and she would like relief from the volatility that happens now and there has to be an element of adjusting the funding. Simanski said he will let Grossman know when a public hearing comes up so BOE members can send written testimony. Witkos stated that, on average, the cost remains relatively consistent at $490M statewide. Emery said she would be interested in commenting via testimony. Emery also commented on Granby’s plan to build a solar array which has dissolved. Connecticutrequired hurdles that Granby needed to jump through are immense. It is on the district’s radar to identify additional energy and solar opportunities. Granby will try again to tackle the fixed cost of $600K for electricity that is a burden to tax payers. Peling commented he has been an educator for 27 years getting up at 5:30 in the morning. He stated last year, more than 100 of his students were not supportive of late start times. He suggested getting student input if this topic gets to the legislature. With regard to agriculture curriculum, he stated this is an important idea and that many students are not on the path for a four-year school. He also commented in regard to forcing out BOE members who are felons. This is a slippery slope and the same rules should apply for all government bodies. Thrall commented that the personal financial management curriculum is incredibly important for young people. Student Representative Jack DeGray said he is against starting school late and Dwaritha Ramesh stated she is vehemently against it also for a variety of reasons and is glad the decision was postponed.
Brandon Webster inquired if special education was brought up in prior sessions and Simanski stated these things do not happen in one session and he does not think it will be acted on this year. Witkos informed the board of a group that developed the ECS formula that the legislature adopted.This group will not be part of captive special education funding. It will be solely owned by member towns. He said that it will take a lot of time for something like this to be digested and he would send information to Grossman for the board to review. They presented a state proclamation for the girls’ field hockey and soccer teams to the board to acknowledge the championship teams’ accomplishments. Schools in the Spotlight Michael Dunn, principal of Granby Memorial High School, and a few students showcased the high school’s College Connections partnership with Asnuntuck Community College. Dunn stated a record 21 students are attending this year and there are three different tracks for the program (manufacturing, electronic and welding). Jaleel Aldridge stated he has been in the Asnuntuck program for two years and shared a couple of his welding projects with the board. He stated he would like to go back to Asnuntuck to get his certificate in welding and would like to go into aerospace tig welding (repairing airplane parts) as a career. Connor Fairchild also shared his experiences and informed the board that the amount of information and success he has received from this program is incredible. Conrad Ginz shared his Capstone presentation on why career education is a better choice than traditional college due to lower costs for learning, more direct training and more money to be made. Grossman commented that the students have shared their pride about the program with him. He is very proud of the students and what they are doing, and that they share the program’s opportunities with younger students. Business Manager’s Report Business Manager Anna Robbins presented the January 2020 statement of accounts and stated that the BOE has a negative forecast of approximately $160K and that special education expenditures are unfavorable by $290K with regular education favorable $131K. The overall forecast is slightly favorable over the previous month. Salaries and benefits are favorable $144K. At this mid-year point the district is looking at quite a few adjustments in accounts. S&B favorable $73K. Additional adjustments include a negative forecast in instructional purchased services, including an over-budget condition in special education
evaluations, contracted services and outsourced districtwide substitute account. Other over-budget conditions exist in transportation and utility accounts. Movement in these accounts will continue as we continue the year. Revenue to the town of about $40K, overall forecast revenue just under budget by $10K—major driver being lower cost. Emery said this was reviewed in Finance Subcommittee this evening. The big picture focus is to continue tightening the belt as much as possible without affecting the classroom. Two areas over-budget are Asnuntuck and the new way of filling subs requiring a budget adjustment. Minutes A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Thrall that the Granby Board of Education adopt the consent agenda. This motion passed unanimously at 8:16 p.m. Approval of Educational Specifications for the Granby Memorial Middle School Low-Slope Roof Replacement Project The board discussed the approval of the educational specifications for the low-slope roof replacement project for Granby Memorial Middle School. A motion was made by Emery and seconded by Peling that the Granby Board of Education approve the educational specifications for the low-slope roof replacement project for Granby Memorial Middle School as recommended by the Finance/Personnel/Facilities Subcommittee. Emery stated part of the middle school roof was replaced by insurance, which was included in the bond referendum. If the specifications are approved with the minutes stating so, the project will be put into the queue at the state level. This motion passed unanimously at 8:21 p.m. Board Standing Committee Reports Finance/Personnel/Facilities The subcommittee met this evening to discuss a leave-of-absence for next year, which was endorsed. Hartford Public Schools has requested the burden of proof of residency be the receiving district’s responsibility. This has been tabled for one year. Granby Education Foundation Emery did not attend. Grossman attended and the GEF discussed the Gran-Bee. He volunteered to be a judge. The Gran-Bee will be held on April 24 in the high school auditorium. BOE members will sponsor a team or two. Emery inquired if vendor sponsorships will be sent out again this year on behalf of the BOE. Grossman said, yes. Respectfully submitted, Rosemarie Weber Secretary
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Page 8 The Granby Drummer
CTVV: An interview with Oz Griebel
Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT SAM’s focused objectives are, one: Valley Views had the opportunity to interopen Connecticut’s taxpayer-funded view Oz Griebel, chair of Serve America primaries; two: adopt ranked-choice Movement (SAM) that voting for all elections, was initiated on a naand three: mandate term tional basis in 2016, limits for all constituand more recently, in tional and legislative 2019, in Connecticut. offices. Griebel previously was This CTVV segment president and CEO of is a must see for all Metro Hartford AlConnecticut taxpayers liance and twice ran and voters as this movefor governor, first as a ment is to reinvigorate Republican and then as the kind of “citizen govan Independent with ernment” envisioned by Susan Patricelli Regan, and Oz running mate Monty our country’s founders. Griebel, chair of Serve America Frank, a former DemFor further information Movement. Submitted photo ocrat. His experience see joinsamct.org To see this interview check with your in the political and business arenas local PATV station’s airing schedule in provide significant knowledge required April or on our website at ctvalleyviews. to lead the SAM mission’s Connecticutcom where you see all of the shows. based organization.
Foxfield F.A.R.M supports Senate bill Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation’s president Susan Patricelli Regan presented her testimony in support of S.B. 217, raised by Senator John A. Kissel, CT Senate District 7, on Feb. 27. The Senate bill is for an equine instructional program for veterans with PTSD to be included under the Veterans Health Care coverage. S.B. 217 is in consideration by both the Veterans Administration and the real estate and insurance committees and was enthusiastically supported by a number of attending veterans and public representatives’ commentary. Justification lies in the fact that the current clinical therapies and medical prescriptions have not assuaged the impact of PTSD on service men and women and actually have increased opioid overdose, selfmedication and the suicide rate. These
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risks can be avoided by the institution of the natural equine equitation that has been effectively utilized for PTSD and physical infirmities of children and adults worldwide. To see the S.B. 217 presentation (approximately 21 min.) go to: drive.google. com/file/d/1Mo0X48EPhZcVhH6jEVQ vRuKim3HuqhVD/view?usp=drivesdk To see the entire VA Committee program for Feb. 27, go to ct-n.com/ ondemand.asp?ID=17207 To learn more about Foxfield’s mission and the opportunity to make a donation, see foxfieldreoverymission. org For a copy of the actual VA Committee presentation in order to support S.B. 217, email sdpregan@gmail.com
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Granby to participate in Neighborhood Assistance Act Program By Sandra Yost To be considered, community organizations must submit an application to Sandra Yost, Director of Human Services, Town of Granby, 15 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035, by May 22. Selectmen will have a public hearing on June 1 to approve proposals for submittal to the Department of Revenue Services by July 1. Applications and information about the NAA Tax Credit Program can be found on the DRS website at ct.gov/DRS, searchable by entering “Neighborhood Assistance Act.” For assistance with the process, please contact Sandra Yost at 860-844-5351, or syost@granby-ct.gov
Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) has announced the 2020 Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act Program Proposal. This program provides tax credits to businesses that make cash investments in qualifying community nonprofit programs. Past approved projects have come from public service departments such as police, fire and ambulance, health service agencies, land trusts and more. Requests have included energy-saving measures such as new windows, boiler replacement and fuel-efficient vehicles, as well as programs for youth, parents and seniors.
Salmon Brook Music Series spring concerts Dave back in 2020. He is best defined as a master craftsman. Over the course of 23 years and 12 albums, this Nova Scotian folk singer/songwriter has diligently sharpened his skills. He has developed into a poetic storyteller and his songwriting skill has been internationally recognized. Tickets are available for $15 online at salmonbrookmusicseries.com or by calling 860-916-5066. Tickets may also be available at the door for $20. Doors open at 7 p.m.; the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Gunning’s show sold out last time so buying your ticket in advance is the best way to ensure that you will be able to see this wonderful performer. Both shows are at South Church, 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby. Proceeds support the mission of South Church.
On Saturday, April 25, Last Fair Deal will perform with stellar vocals and unique acoustic synergy, drawing from an eclectic repertoire of old-time stringband bluegrass, swing and popular music. The band’s shows feature originals from their current and previous three albums and they put their own spin on tunes by John Hartford, Gilliam Welch, Dan Hicks, Lennon/McCartney, John Hiatt, and Bob Dylan. Tickets are available for $15 online at salmonbrookmusicseries.com or by calling 860-916-5066. Tickets may also be available at the door for $18. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. The venue is small so buying your ticket in advance is the best way to ensure that you be able to see this terrific show. On Thursday, May 7, Dave Gunning will return and we are thrilled to have
In Memory Of…
Skelly, Catherine Natalie, 90, Feb. 13 Hoffman, Jay F., 71, husband of Cheryl (Dawkins) Hoffman, Feb. 21 Maus, Whitney Douglas, 33, husband of Jenny (Chen) Maus, Feb. 24 Cyrankowski, Alda (Stines), 96, wife of the late Edward S. Cyrankowski, Feb. 26 Kearney, Marjorie Laura (York), 99, wife of the late Ray Kearney, Feb. 27 Coloccia, Joseph A., husband of the
late Margherita Coloccia, March 5 Heffner, Frederick “Fred”, husband of Lucille “Marquis” Heffner, March 5 Voskowsky, Henrietta (Hennie) (Hays), 93, wife of the late Henry William Voskowsky, March 5 Pierce, Martha R., 92, wife of Harold L. Pierce, March 8 Smith, David Robert, 87, husband of Patricia (Rochford) Smith, March 20.
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Granby resident announces state representative campaign Longtime Granby resident, financial analyst and community organizer Audrey Lampert has launched her campaign for the Connecticut General Assembly. “I am delighted to declare my campaign for State Representative of the 62nd District.” Lampert said. “Good governance begins with sound fiscal policy. Three decades of experience as a financial analyst, evaluating thousands of companies and municipalities, from small non-profits, to the largest global banks, provided me with a very broad look at how the diverse threads of our economy are woven together. My experience means I can represent my district’s economic interests effectively.” Granby Board of Finance member Fred Moffa commented, “I’m excited about Audrey’s candidacy. She knows the issues and has the experience we need to lead Connecticut forward.” Lampert adds, “I’m also fully engaged on social issues, and understand how
they’re interconnected to our statewide economy. I’ve worked with individuals from all backgrounds, and know how important it is to cut through divisive rhetoric in order to remain focused on our mutual goals. I am looking forward to Audrey Lampert finding common sense solutions for Connecticut.” Lampert grew up on a family farm in Missouri, and is a graduate of Lindenwood University. She and her husband Doug, a Gulf War veteran and addictions therapist, have two grown children. She is a member of the Democratic Town Committee and serves on the Granby Library Board. More information is available on the campaign website, LAMPERT2020.com
Lions Club scholarship deadline is May 1 Granby Lions Club Scholarship applications for Granby resident high school seniors attending Granby Memorial High School or any other accredited high school, must be completed and returned to Julie Caruso, guidance department, GMHS, by May 1. Scholarships will be awarded to high school students planning to further their education by attending a college, uni-
versity, technical or trade school. These awards will be judged on specific criteria including grades, financial need and community service. Applications for these scholarships may be obtained from the high school guidance department during school hours. Further questions or comments may be directed to John Spatcher, Granby Lions Scholarship chairman at 860-653-3086.
Help make a difference in the community
Become a Memory Care volunteer with McLean, and help support those in the community who are living with dementia and their caregivers. Register now for the April volunteer training sessions, April 28 and 30. Memory care volunteers are a close-knit group of caring individuals who provide a range of non-medical services to those with memory impairment and their families. Services for clients may include one-toone social interaction, sharing a passion for hobby, music or art therapy, writing someone’s life history with them, reading aloud, or just simply engaging in a much-needed conversation. Visits may take place in the client’s home, an assisted living community, or a skilled nursing environment. The
frequency may vary depending upon client needs and volunteer availability. McLean will provide you with an orientation and training session to get you started. This includes an eight-hour class featuring a curriculum handbook and presentations from expert guest speakers covering a wide-range of relevant topics. Volunteers also gain a practical understanding of the work through a mentoring program and are encouraged to participate in valuable monthly in-service training on timely and useful subjects. The training sessions will take place on April 28 and 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call Ann Pavano at 860658-3941, or visit McLeanInspiredLiving. org/resources and click on Memory Care Volunteer to download an application.
Madeline Moore and Julia Redfield (r.) have been raising money for the Make a Wish program since they were sixth graders. Submitted photo
East Granby seniors celebrate seven years fundraising for Make-A-Wish® As part of the Make-A-Wish Kids For Wish Kids program, Madeline Moore and Julia Redfield have raised more than $20,000 on behalf of Make-A-Wish® Connecticut, beginning small with lemonade and hot chocolate stands and moving to two Ski-A-Thons per year. They just hosted Ski-A-Thons, March 7 at Mohawk Mountain in Cornwall and March 8 at Ski Sundown in New Hartford. Madeline and Julia, seniors at East Granby High School, have made an extraordinary impact on children across the state. But Madeline and Julia are not wish kids or affected by critical illnesses; they are two girls who recognize the transformative power of a wish and are passionate about helping local children receive their one true wish. Their fundraising for Make-A-Wish started seven years ago when they were in sixth grade. It all began with small lemonade and hot chocolate stands, but their dedication and vision led them to something much bigger. They incorporated their love of skiing with their devotion to give back to Connecticut children. Madeline says that “the choice to donate to Make-A-Wish was an easy
O’Brien
GRANBY
one—I was inspired by a family friend who was active with fundraising and chose Make-A-Wish as their charity. Then we met a wish kid. We were so amazed by her remarkable story and about the impact we could make and the children we could help.” In the winter of seventh grade, Madeline and Julia devoted their time to speaking with local, small businesses and asking them to participate, either monetarily or by donating gift baskets for a raffle. The first Ski-A-Thon was a success due to the immense love and support the girls received from friends, family and the community. The girls quickly decided they wanted to commit to planning and executing it every year. Since their first Ski-A-Thon, they have raised more than $20,000 to help grant wishes to children with critical illnesses. Although Madeline and Julia are graduating this upcoming spring, their involvement with Make-A-Wish and their Ski-A-Thons is far from over. The girls will go to college but they still hope to continue their Ski-A-Thon legacy. For more information about Make-AWish Connecticut, visit ct.wish.org.
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April 2020 Granby Drummer
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Page 10 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
CSAG scholarship deadline is May 1 Safe Grad Night art winners are from l.: Arin Mikalonis, third place; John Hitchiner, second place; Natalia Vicencio, first place, and Hollie Hecht, teacher. Submitted photo
Safe Grad Night art competition winners announced Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation has announced the winners of its 2020 art competition. The first place entry will be used in the invitation design and for free tee shirts for all students attending Granby Memorial High School’s free graduation party. The party is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16 at the Farmington Valley YMCA. This year’s first place winner is Natalia Vicencio. The second place winner is John Hitchiner, and the third place winner is Arin Mikalonis. The winners receive prizes of $125, $75 and $50, respectively. Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation sincerely thanks art teacher Hollie Hecht for helping to promote the contest every year. Safe Grad Night is a free, fun-filled, substance-free “all night” event offered to GMHS graduates on the night of graduation. The event features games, activities, contests and prizes, as well as food and drinks. Graduating seniors may participate in all activities at no cost to them. The GMHS Safe Grad Committee is asking parents of underclassmen GMHS students to volunteer for the event, so that parents of seniors can enjoy graduation
festivities with their families. For this reason, it is especially important for new volunteers to step up each year. Help is needed with room set up, chaperoning and assisting with various activities. There are also several tasks required in advance of the event, if a parent is able to lend a hand but isn’t available for the party itself. The committee is planning upcoming fundraisers to support the event. One way to support Safe Grad is by surprising friends with a flock of pink flamingos roosting on their lawn for 48 hours. After their visit ends, the flamingos mysteriously migrate to roost at another address. Anyone interested in flocking a friend for $25 can contact Sara Scotto at scottofamily@cox.net To keep up to date on committee happenings, follow the Facebook page at facebook.com/granbyctsafegrad/. Interested in learning more or signing up for a volunteer position? Please contact Safe Grad Committee chair Coreen Thompson at coreenlt@gmail.com Please help support this proud Granby tradition.
By Lisa Holm Community Scholarship Association of Granby (CSAG) offers annual scholarships to graduating Granby Memorial High School seniors. Applicants must be Granby residents who are soon-to-be high school graduates accepted at an institution of higher learning approved by the selection committee. The largest scholarship, the David A. Schupp, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, will be awarded to a student pursuing a STEM major. The primary basis for selection is scholarship, with consideration given to need, initiative, character and responsibility. CSAG has awarded scholarships since the first graduating class of Granby Memorial High School. To date, CSAG manages contributions of all kinds, but particularly funds from a Holcomb family endowment and annual fundraising in conjunction with the Granby Road
Race. CSAG has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars to nearly 400 students making a significant impact on their young lives. With the steadily rising costs of a college education, CSAG asks former scholarship recipients, as well as the Granby community, to consider making tax-deductible contributions to CSAG so that the organization can award more scholarships and provide more substantial awards. Contributions should be made out to CSAG and mailed to Steve Schock, Treasurer, 19 Moosehorn Road, West Granby, CT 06090. Scholarship applications are available online through Naviance, at the College and Career Center or through the high school guidance counselor. Completed applications should be submitted to Mrs. Caruso in the GMHS counseling office on or before May 1.
Cookies galore! Continuing their sevenyear tradition, members of the Granby Senior Center’s Civic Engagement Team baked enough cookies so that each Granby Memorial High School senior received a selection. The 888 cookies were delivered on Cap and Gown Day, to the delight of the students. (l-r) Sharon Peoples, Shirley Warn, Diane Hernsdorf, Donna Snyder Submitted photo
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 11
Granby Artists Association announces 2020 events
Granby Artists Association officers and elected directors Submitted photo
By Susan Canavan The Granby Artists Association is calling all Granby creatives join the group. Now in its 19th year, the GAA is looking forward to a busy 2020. It has expanded leadership and is busy organizing annual events that showcase the variety of work created by talented Granby visual artists. The group encourages anyone interested in visual arts to get involved and become a member, whether as an exhibiting artist or as a patron. The association will be led this year by co-presidents Avis Cherichetti and Wendy Van Welie with Annukka Ritalahti, vice president, Gary Ebersole, treasurer, and Stu Browning, secretary. The following members are elected directors: Laura Eden, Pam Jones, Linda Yurasevecz, Doug Williams, Barbara Schmitt and Katherine Tolve. Thank you to past president, Debby Reelitz, for all her hard work and the other officers and directors who have given their time to support this association. The association presents several annual events including art shows and demonstrations, all free of charge. This year’s first event is the Simsbury Library Art Show, May 2 to May 29. Other fall and winter events start with the Granby Artists Member Show in early October at Lost Acres Vineyard in North
Granby. This show is open to all members of GAA, not just exhibiting artists. Also in October, is the popular GAA Open Studio weekend, the annual celebration of Granby art. Spend the weekend of Oct. 17–18 touring Granby art studios, watching demonstrations, and meeting your neighbor artists. The Granby Land Trust (GLT) Show, also at Lost Acres Vineyard, is on display Oct. 29 through Nov. 29. This juried show is a partnership of the GLT and GAA. It is an annual celebration of art, nature, community and talent. All works are available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the GLT to support its mission to preserve Granby’s natural beauty. The final event is the Holiday Gift Show at Holcomb Farm on Dec. 5 and 6. Come and shop for unique handmade holiday gifts made by Granby artists. One aspect of GAA’s mission is to promote art education within the community. The GAA established the GMHS Art Scholarship Fund in 2013. It is funded di-
rectly from donations received for this purpose throughout the year. Please consider contributing to the scholarship fund presented annually to a graduating GMHS senior who will be studying the visual arts at the college level. To apply for the scholarship, eligible students should submit a letter of intent to TracyMarlor at tracy.marlor@cox.net by May 18. Granby Artists Association welcomes all Granby residents to become a Friend of Granby Artists. There are individual, family and high school memberships. Membership benefits include invitations to participate in the quarterly creativityboosting events and the annual Open Show, plus members receive informative members-only newsletters. Thanks to our business sponsors, we are also able to keep offering our annual events. Please visit granbyartists.org for more information about Granby artists and their work, as well as about memberships, events, sponsors, and the scholarship fund.
Abigail Phelps essay contest winners named Families, teachers and members of the Abigail Phelps chapter of DAR gathered on March 8 to recognize winners of the American History essay contest. The essay topic was in honor of the 400th anniversary of the voyage of the Mayflower and the founding of the Plymouth Colony. Students in grade 5–8 were to imagine being one of the passengers on the Mayflower. Knowing what materials were available in 1620, what would you pack to prepare for the trip and start a new life in the wilderness? After experiencing more than two months at sea then finally landing at Plymouth Colony on Nov. 9, 1620, do you think you
would have made different choices and why? There were many excellent essays, making it a challenge to pick the top three from each class. Sydney Henry, a Granby Memorial Middle School student, won first place
among 7th grade entrants, Among the other winners are: from East Granby Middle School, 6th grader Hansika Lenkala, second place; 8th grader Jackson Moore, second place; 8th grader Taylor Hayes, third place. Thanks to the teachers and parents who encouraged the students to participate. This is one of the chapter’s favorite events. However, it could not happen without the volunteer judges who dedicate hours in December reading and scoring the essays. (l-r) Shirley Cowles, enrichment teacher, Sydney Henry, and Susan Henneberry, GMMS principal, celebrate Sydney’s first place win for the 7th grade essay. Submitted photo
TOOTH TALK by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D
ATTENTION MOMS Q. Does Chewing Gum Prevent Cavities? A. Yes. Studies have shown that children, who chew sugarless gum containing Xylitol three times per day, show a dramatic decrease in the incidence of cavities detected. If it is not possible to brush after every meal, then chewing a sugarless gum containing Xylitol is the next best thing. Swishing the mouth out with water is also helpful in neutralizing the acids produced after eating. New research also shows a decrease in the number of cavities in the children whose mothers chewed Xylitol containing gum, while their young children were between the ages of 3-24 months. It is known that the bacteria found in a mother’s mouth are passed on to their children. So if an affectionate mother of a young child is assisting their baby to eat, and testing if the food is too hot, or blowing on a spoonful to cool it down, she is passing on her mouth bacteria as well. By chewing a Xylitol gum, she is lowering her chances of passing on cavity causing bacteria to her child. Examples of xylitol containing gum are Xylishield, by Ultradent, and Spry, by Xlear 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 even offer CEREC, an amazing new technology that allows us to fabricate porcelain crowns and onlays 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! At the Granby Dental Center, we offer “Smile Vision,” which allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with whiter, straighter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION! If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com
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Page 12 The Granby Drummer
Out of Town Summer STEM program in Simsbury
Camp Invention®, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment camp program, is coming to Simsbury High School the week of July 6 – 10. A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame® (NIHF) in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Camp Invention challenges children in grades K–6 to find their inner inventor by learning the process of innovation. Using hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance, resourcefulness and problem-solving skills; and encourages entrepreneurship—in a fun and engaging environment. Each year, the program features a new curriculum inspired by some of the nation’s most world-changing inventors, the NIHF Inductees. This year’s Elevate curriculum features several video challenges from these Inductees encouraging children to be confident in their ideas and explore their
innovativeness. These hands-on activities include: • Camp Invention Flight Lab: Imaginations soar as children learn about flight. • Design Thinking Project: Campers learn the value of their creativity as they bring their biggest ideas to life. • Rescue Squad: Using teamwork and problem-solving skills, children protect the Earth’s ecosystems. • Camp Invention Champions: As they discover the unseen inventors behind their favorite sports, campers apply their own ingenuity. At the end of the program, each camper will bring home a robot. Learn more about this year’s all-new curriculum. All local Camp Invention programs are facilitated and taught by certified educators who reside and teach in the community. Camp Invention serves 130,000 students every year and partners with more than 1,800 schools and districts across the nation. For additional information visit invent.org/camp.
April 2020
Public Works
Household Hazardous Waste: Granby will again partner with local towns to host hazardous waste collections. The first collection will be Saturday, April 25, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at 10 Monteith Drive, Farmington. For a list of accepted items, check the Public Works page at granbyct.gov. During 2020, there will be two additional hazardous waste collections held in Simsbury. Street sweeping: Weather permitting, street sweeping of development roads will begin the week of April 20. Yard waste: Yard waste is banned from disposal in your curbside barrels. Grass and leaves are accepted free of charge at the transfer station. Brush is accepted for a fee; the charge is based on the size of the load. If possible, compost yard waste on site. Recycling: If you have questions re-
Animal Talk
Book Sale in Southwick The Friends of the Southwick Public Library will hold its Annual Book Sale on Thursday, April 30, Friday and Saturday, May 1 and 2, during library hours. Book lovers will enjoy looking for that special topic or summer stash of books. Nonfiction books are sorted by topics such as
parenting, science, arts and biography to name just a few. There is a preview for members only on Wednesday, April 29, 5–7 p.m. New members may join at the door for $5 or family for $10. For more information, or the library hours, call 413-569-1221.
Garden Tool Time
The Gardeners of Simsbury will host Garden Tool Time, with Kevin Wilcox, on Tuesday, April 28. The group meets at the Simsbury Public Library, 725
Hopmeadow St., Simsbury, in the large meeting room from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The event is free.
Dementia Support Group
Do you know someone who is living with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other memory impairment? Join us to connect with others who understand the challenges you face in a safe, supportive and engaging environment. Meets the
last Wednesday of the month, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Suffield by the River, 7 Canal Road, Suffield. To register, contact Karen Moemeka at 860-804-4679 or kmoemeka@suffieldriver.com
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Covid-19 and your pet Keeping you and your family healthy during this corona virus COVID-19 pandemic is utmost in our minds these days. There are many ways our pets can help us stay a little healthier. As our routines are upended, the presence of our beloved pets can help alleviate the stress we feel as we face this unprecedented challenge. Taking your dog for a walk or grooming your cat can relax both you and your pets. Remember that our pets are sensitive to our moods and will be looking for a little reassurance. We luckily do not have to worry about our pets becoming sick from the virus. There is one report from Hong Kong in which a 17-year-old Pomeranian tested “weak positive” to a part of this novel corona virus. The dog did pass away but no necropsy was done to confirm a cause of death. The virus does not transfer well from the fibrous hair coat of animals so they are not considered contagious. The virus is much more easily picked up from hard plastic or metal surfaces. If your animal has been in contact with a COVID-19 positive person you should disinfectant plastic or metal surfaces on or around your animal, such as collars, harnesses or cat carriers. Access to our pet’s health care is affected by this pandemic. Continuing to provide excellent care is the primary goal of veterinary hospitals but this care is taking an evolving shape. In an effort
to protect the staff in our hospitals, we need to limit direct contact with people. Within the relatively confined spaces of the veterinary hospital, your animals are welcome but safe contact with you is best done over the phone! Most hospitals are instituting driveby service where the pet’s information and history is given over the phone to the receptionist when the appointment is made. On your arrival your pet will be brought into the hospital by a veterinary technician. The doctor will examine your pet and discuss diagnosis and treatment options on the phone. The technician will then return your pet to you in your car. Sick pets take priority. Elective procedures or routine appointments may be best rescheduled. Surgical procedures could be impacted if the shortage of surgical masks and gloves becomes more acute. The COVID-19 corona virus does not affect horses and cows. Veterinarians work with these animals on the farm and can more easily maintain safe distance from people. Contact your veterinarian regarding specific procedures as things are changing by the day. There is no need for social distancing from our pets. Feel free to give them as many hugs, throw them as many balls, and take as many naps with them as you like. They will love you for it!
Sydney T. Menard was named to the dean’s list at the University of Connecticut for the fall 2019 semester. She was also recognized as a 2019 New England Scholar based on her grade point average for the spring and fall semesters.
The following were named to the dean’s list at Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2019 fall semester: Anthony Delprincipe, computer science program; Ben Hebert, mechanical engineering program; Jake Peverly, computing security program.
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garding recycling, visit recyclect.com. Try the recycling wizard—a tool that allows you to ask about a specific item. If you still have questions, call Public Works, 860-653-8960. Do not bag your recycling: Plastic bags and plastic film are a major source of contamination for the recycling plant. No plastic bags should go in your bin. To see how to recycle plastic film, visit plasticfilmrecycling.org. Bulky waste: You cannot dispose of large items in your curbside barrel. This includes items such as rugs, chairs, wood, etc. These items can cause issues for the trash truck. Bulky items may be brought to the Granby Transfer Station or you can arrange for a curbside pickup for a fee; call Paine’s, Inc., at 860- 844-3000. Check out the DPW Facebook page, Granby CT Department of Public Works.
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 13
In Town Focus
The following events were being planned when the Drummer went to press. However, closures and cancellations may have occurred since that time. Please check organization websites or call contact numbers for updated information.
Lost Acres Art Exhibit
Camera Club
Lost Acres Vineyard opens the season March 27 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with the Karen and Gene Suponski Artist Reception. This talented duo has lived in Granby for 42 years. Their awardwinning art has been seen in juried exhibitions throughout the northeast, including the Granby Land Trust Juried Art Show. The exhibit runs through April 29. The vineyard is located at 80 Lost Acres Road in North Granby.
The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, April 6, at the Granby Senior Center at 7 p.m. The program will be sports photography. Members are asked to bring up to eight pictures they have taken of sport events and to share the who, what, when, where, and how of their photographs. Please bring photos on a memory stick so we can share them on the big screen. To learn more about the club, visit GranbyCameraClub.com
On Wednesday, April 1, author Barbara Beeching will present a program entitled Black Community in the 19th Century Hartford for the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group in the community room at the Granby Senior Center. Cost is $4 per person. Breakfast starts at 8:30 a.m. and the program at 9 a.m. Call 860-653-9891 to reserve a spot.
The Granby Civic Club will meet on Thursday, April 16, at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center, to share thoughts and remembrances of a dear member, Lila Innes, who recently departed life on earth for heavenly places. Lila was a true Granby treasure who cherished her family, loved and served her community—always with laughter and giving. Join us for this special day and share your memories of Lila. Non-members always welcome. Tea and cookies will be served. For more information, contact Ginny Wutka at ginny@lostacres.com
Women’s Breakfast
MS Support Group
The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at the Senior Center at 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-4282463.
Community Garden
If you love to garden, but don’t have a sunny garden spot, the Granby Community Garden might be just the place for you to grow a variety of vegetables and flowers. Find a friendly community of growers who share the enjoyment of gardening as well as ideas and growing methods. Enjoy sharing this joy with others: consider applying for a 20’ x 20’ plot at the Granby Community Garden, located on Hungary Road. You may even wish to share a plot with a friend. To learn more and to apply, visit PlanetEandMe. com/granby-community-garden
Civic Club
SBHS Events
Historic Sites of Connecticut’s Farmington Valley Bus Tour Saturday, May 2, 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Visit historical societies in Barkhamsted, Granby and Simsbury and hear Lively Lore and Legends—Fact or Fiction? $45 per person includes bus ride, goody bag, lunch and pre-tour lecture on April 30. Contact Nancy Anstey with questions or reservation, 860-680-5298 or nancy. anstey@comcast.net Summer Open House Tours Sundays, June to September, except July 5 and Sept. 1, 2–4 p.m. Special exhibit: Politics and Puzzles. Fall Flea Market Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. on society grounds. Vendors contact Dave at 860-653-3965.
Parks & Recreation The Granby Parks and Recreation Department is closed as the Drummer goes to press. Updates will be posted on the website (granbyrec.com). Check there for the latest on programs and activities
Shoe Donations Needed
The Connecticut chapter of Savvy Giving by Design is launching its first significant fundraiser with a shoe collection. Consider donating gently-used shoes and boots. Even better, get together a group and fill a bag. The goal is 100 bags of 25 pairs of shoes each. In town, there are drop bins at Beman True Value Hardware and Wine, etc. For a pick up, contact Kim McCord at kimmccord1169@gmail.com
Volunteers Needed
Mary’s Kitty Korner, Granby’s no-kill cat shelter, is looking for volunteers to help care for its kitties until they find their fur-ever homes. Currently, the greatest need is for Thursday and Friday mornings. Call 860-379-4141 or visit maryskittykorner.org
The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.
@
by post: The Granby Drummer P. O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165
by e-mail:
editor@granbydrummer.org
Key Dates from the Registrar’s Office
Tuesday, April 7, absentee ballots for the primary are available from the Town Clerk. Monday, April 13, public hearing for the town budget at the GMHS Auditorium Tuesday, April 14, Special Primary Enrollment Session, noon to 2 p.m. at Town Hall Monday, April 27, Budget Referendum in the Town Hall Meeting Room, noon to 8 p.m. Monday, May 11, potential date for a second budget referendum at Granby Town Hall, if needed. Tuesday, June 2, Presidential Primary, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the GMHS Community Gym; only registered party members can participate. The Registrars’ Office in the Town Hall is open every Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please feel free to contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Sonja Smith, 860-844-5322 or registrarofvoters@ granby-ct.gov
Faith Matters
Dear Granby, I’m writing this March 12, the day after President Trump’s Oval Office address on coronavirus. The leadership here at First Congregational Church of Granby has been monitoring the rapidly evolving situation closely and taking appropriate action to keep everyone safe and healthy. Right now the overall approach to the pandemic is mitigation. Basically, this means slowing the spread of the virus and protecting our most vulnerable citizens: those over 60 years of age and those with underlying health conditions. You can find guidance for keeping yourself and your family safe at www.cdc.gov. Like many businesses, organizations, and schools around the world, we at First Congregational Church of Granby are adjusting our calendar, event schedule, and programs to comply with best practices for mitigating the spread of coronavirus. Please check our new website www.firstchurchgranby.org for the latest information on worship services and events. Regardless of what happens with coronavirus, we know that we-along with millions of Christians around the world--will celebrate Palm Sunday April 5 and Easter April 12. We hope to be able to gather in our historic meetinghouse with family, friends, and many of you! Our current plans are for beautiful and exciting worship services. Regardless of what shape our lives together take in the coming weeks, we will find creative ways to connect and remind each other of the resurrection hope that has survived over two thousand years of world crises and will continue long after coronavirus is a distant memory. Pastor Todd Yonkman
Worship Sundays 10am Sunday School 10am Coffee Hour 11:15am
Demand Better! Brenda Nuhfer Realtor 860-830-5355 Brenda.Nuhfer@cbmoves.com 1 Mountain Rd, Suffield, CT. 06078
First Congregational Church of Granby 219 North Granby Road, Granby, CT
860-653-4537 www.firstchurchgranby.org
Page 14 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
A Connecticut legend from Granby By Todd Vibert What do the Connecticut State Library and Cossitt Library have in common? George Seymour Godard of North Granby. Godard was responsible for the construction of both buildings as well as finding hundreds of books to fill the Cossitt shelves. From 1889 to 1891, with money bequeathed from Fredrick Cossitt, he oversaw the construction of the Cossitt Library and became its first librarian at the age of 24. He was also its president from 1918 to 1936.
began in 1908 and was completed two In 1900, Godard was appointed as the years later. Godard organized the state lithird librarian in the Connecticut State brary as well as the law library of Library. At that time, the state lithe Connecticut Supreme Court. brary had four rooms in the State He also collected and organized Capitol, one of which is where the Connecticut church records, State Senate presides today. As probate records, and Connecticut the state library and the state govmilitary records. ernment grew, there was no more If you want to know more room in the State Capitol. Godard about George Seymour Godard was able to persuade the governor and his contributions to Granby and the State Legislature to build a new building to house the state George Seymour and the state of Connecticut, Godard become a member of the Salmon library and the Supreme Court Brook Historical Society. Learn across the street. Construction
Rotary Club to the rescue Tuesdays and Thursdays are important days at the Granby Senior Center. Those are the days we serve Community Café Lunch. While many diners come for an affordable meal, even more important is the camaraderie and conversation they experience. The program is primarily funded by the Older Americans Act of 1965 in order to ensure that seniors have an affordable meal option. Unfortunately the program has run into financial difficulties due to the overwhelming demand. As a result, there has been a cut back on the number of service days for all meal sites. For Granby, that means that no lunch will be provided on the first Thursday of every month. We felt it was extremely important to provide two meals a week to the community. In order to prevent a disruption to the routine, we reached out to the Simsbury-Granby Rotary Club who came to the rescue. It has generously offered to fund the program from June through September. On March 5, participants enjoyed grilled ham and cheese sandwiches with tomato basil soup. We are extremely grateful to the Simsbury-Granby Rotary Club for supporting this effort.
Cossitt Library
more by visiting salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com, or leave a message at 860-653-9713.
Drumrolls
Matt Spence, a freshman business major at Merrimack College, has been named to the fall 2019 president’s list. He is the son of Tricia and Jeff Spence of North Granby.
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Rotarian Steve Basile assists with meal service alongside volunteer Marie Martusis and Café Manager Cherie Wickham. Submitted photo
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 15
Holcomb Tree Trail The Friends of Holcomb Farm invites everyone to visit a new project: the Holcomb Tree Trail at Holcomb Farm. This project is fully funded through the financial support of grants from the Hartford Foundation from Public Giving and some very generous individuals. The Holcomb Tree Trail falls under the Friends of Holcomb Farm’s mission to “preserve, promote and utilize” Holcomb Farm. Indeed one of the requested uses of the farm, as described in the deed of gift by siblings Laura and Tudor Holcomb, was for arboretum purposes. The tree trail is located on the east side of Simsbury Road in West Granby, across from the main farm complex. It includes older mature trees along the woods trails and in the hedgerows bordering the East Fields as well as newly planted trees. These fields comprise about 40 acres; the woods extending further to the east consist of about 130 acres. As of the end of 2019, the friends have planted 28 trees and plan to plant 10–15 more trees annually. After several years of planning, the Tree Trail steward volunteers established design principles to guide planting as the trail expands. These include: preserving the existing long views; encouraging agricultural uses where appropriate; managing invasive species in the fields principally by mowing, but also by manual or mechanical means along the hedgerows (no chemicals); planting both natives and non-natives, with an emphasis on spring bloom and fall color and supporting bird habitats by planting trees that attract birds. The Tree Trail steward volunteers are longtime Granby residents: Jack and Peggy Lareau, Barry Avery, Walt Zultowski, Sue Canavan, Walter Ford, and Eric Lukingbeal—three of whom are on the Friends of the Holcomb Farm Board of Directors. It is important to note that the average age of these volunteers is
well north of 60—three are over 70. We will not see these trees mature, but our children and grandchildren will. We invite and encourage younger folks to get involved because, if properly cared for, an arboretum like this can last hundreds of years or more.
Submitted photo
First planting: 2018 After several years of planning, talking to experts, visits to large and small tree collections from Boston to San Francisco, and with the permission of the Board of Selectmen and Town Manager, we planted the first 16 trees in October 2018. These trees are native to northeastern United States. We planted three Kentucky coffee trees, three American lindens, three American elms cultivar “Princeton,” three swamp white oaks, and three shingle oaks as well as one black Tupelo cultivar “Afterburner.” They ranged in height from five feet (Tupelo) to 15 feet (elms) and were all 1.5-inch caliper (diameter). These trees were paid for by a grant from the Pomeroy-Brace Fund, administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. The grant also paid for 80 labels for 31 different species of mature trees along the woods trails and in hedgerows,
and for eight weatherproof interpretive signs. Additional funding for the interpretive signage was provided by a grant from the Granby Education Foundation. Installation of these signs will happen this spring. Second planting: 2019 In October 2019, we planted three Japanese tree lilacs, three Cornelian cherries, three Kousa dogwoods, and three Sargent cherries. All of these have excellent spring blooms. These trees were paid for with funding provided by Friends of Holcomb Farm and by a very generous gift from Shirley Murtha. Missouri Gravel Bed Method With the exception of the Tupelo, all the trees were grown at Rare Earth Nursery in Cazenovia, N.Y., which uses the Missouri Gravel Bed Method (MGB). Trees at the nursery are planted in 18 inches of pea stone instead of soil. The gravel is irrigated with nutrients added to the water making this method a form of hydroponics. During one growing season, the trees develop a very thick root mass. In the fall, the trees are pulled out of the pea stone, which is easily shaken and washed off. An average person can easily pick up these bare-root trees with one hand. MGB trees are ideal for planting by volunteer groups, as no machinery is required. The hole for the tree is 42 inches wide by only eight to ten inches deep, much shallower than a hole for a balled and burlap-wrapped tree of the same size. Planting the trees We located the tree planting sites— with town review and approval—in early summer and began preparing them. Sites were weed-whacked to bare ground and then mulched heavily (6 to 8 inches) to suppress the underlying vegetation that competes with young trees. In early fall, the mulch was taken off and the holes were dug. The trees were transported by stewardship volunteers from the nursery in New York
and left at the farm overnight, covered with a large tarp. Early the next morning the volunteers planted and heavily watered the trees, taking care to avoid air pockets. The mulch was re-spread to two inches over the roots. Half-inch hardware cloth was installed around the trees up to three feet. This was to protect against buck rub (bucks love to rub their antlers on young trees, which can kill them) as well as to keep mice from eating the bark. Finally, the trees were triple staked to prevent toppling in high winds. Visitors are welcome to the Holcomb Tree Trail any season. We have information about the trail on our website, holcombfarm.org. You can also follow our Instagram account @friendsofholcombfarm to learn about recent plantings, invasive species, wildflowers, trail work, and events on the farm. The 28 trees are just a start, but they join thousands of trees in the woods along the trail network. We plan to add more trees annually, provided we can raise funds and keep up with watering. New trees need watering during the first year and after that during drought. Of course, given our ages, we will need to find younger folks willing to volunteer. While it has taken 40 years to plant the first tree, there is a saying among arborists: “The best time to plant a tree is 100 years ago. The next best time is today.”
We are pleased to be a part of the Explore Granby Scavenger Hunt, a fun activity brought to you by the Granby Conservation Commission and Granby Recreation and Leisure Services. The young Black Tupelo is the featured location to find at Holcomb Farm.
Help Us Prepare a
Scavenger Hunt How can you help new people love your town and become part of the community? By sharing your favorite places and telling us where you love to be in Granby. Maybe, you love the gazebo during a summer concert. Or, a quiet corner tucked away from the noise. A park? A restaurant? Send us an email with a picture and a description of your spot. With your input, we can put together a map of all the special places and create a town-wide hunt. Once it’s done, we’ll make it available to anyone who would like a copy. You, too, might discover someplace new! Do you know where this place is? This favorite place photo was contributed by Robin Zatony from our office. (Hint? You don’t need a hint on this one!)
You can count on:
Truth in our Words Humility in our Actions Kindness in our Hearts
While this may not exactly be real estate, we can help you with that, too. Give us a call! We are very happy to answer questions or help you put a plan together. Robin, Melanie, Cyndie, Jill and Roland
3 57 N M a i n S t S u f f i e l d , C T | 8 6 0 . 6 6 8 . 6 5 4 9 | i n f o @ D o w d Re a l t y G r o u p . c o m | w w w. D o w d Re a l t y G r o u p . c o m
Page 16 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 17
Volunteering at Salmon Brook Historical Society When she was asked to take some photos for a magazine article about the Salmon Brook Historical Society, Shirley Murtha knew the best time to do that is on a Thursday morning when many volunteers are present and busy working at their various specialties. She thought Drummer readers would like to see some of these dedicated folk who keep the society humming.
Melba Griffin (foreground) and Sally Markey record items donated. Melba writes up the cards, and Sally draws a picture of the item.
Martha Korostynski (l.) and Carol Laun accession recent donations to the archives.
From l., Jean Potetz, Patty Sansone and Pam Palmer determine the age of a bodice to a two-piece dress.
Howard Berg and David Laun make sure the vintage cheese press is in working order.
Faith Tyldsley (l.) and Ellen Cunha check out the vintage stove.
John Horr and Jim Glenney repair a bookcase for the Society library.
Photos by Shirley Murtha
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Page 18 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
1978 1979 Visiting the Granby Drummer archives
What happened in Granby in the late 70s? VOL IX 1978
Tudor Holcomb passed away on Feb 11, 1978. He was highly respected and admired for his lifetime of giving and leading Granby. He was a town benefactor, state legislator, tobacco farmer and donor of land for Town Hall, the West Granby fire house, the West Granby Methodist Church, and the greatest gift of all, his 400-acre farm to UConn and ultimately, the Town of Granby. Meals on Wheels arrived in Granby. Local volunteers were sought to deliver meals prepared in the McLean Home kitchen to Granby residents. The Board of Selectmen approved an ordinance granting tax exemptions for residents installing solar energy systems within the following 15 years. Community fundraising and an auction helped move the one-room Cooley Schoolhouse from its original site at the corner of Cooley Road and East St. to the Salmon Brook Historical Society grounds. It was the only surviving 19th Century district school that had not been converted to a home or other use. Superintendent Starble announced implementation of the new state law making immunizations mandatory for all Conn. public school students by Jan. 1, 1979 with suspension for noncompliance. William Smith became Granby’s new Chief Administrative Officer, beginning
a career that would span four decades. Over 600 citizens signed a petition stating library services were inadequate, revitalizing discussions for a new central library. The architectural plans from 1976 were still viable. A government grant bid had failed and a lack of town bonding prevented the earlier project from going forward. A committee was created to study the issue. The DOT’s Center Intersection Improvement Plan was scheduled for spring of 1979. Years of promises, revisions and delayed funding were finally overcome. The “fix” for the center traffic nightmare that was delineated by three islands at the 202/10–189 intersection was going to happen. (We’ll revisit that “fix” sometime in the next year or so). Large class sizes, space lost to Special Education programs and general crowding in Granby schools led BOE Chairman Vibert to suggest a study committee to identify needs and solutions that probably would not include redistricting.
VOL X 1979
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gave each station a fair share of business. Northwoods, phase one (Law development between Silver and Granville Roads) was approved along with its ponds, tennis courts, riding trails and horse paddock. Lots along Silver Street were the first of a proposed 150 lots on 350 acres. The Center “road work” began. The carefully orchestrated plan, at a cost of $512,381, had a hoped-for completion date of Dec. 10, 1979. BOS toured the Simsbury sewer disposal plant prior to signing a contract for Granby to connect to that facility. Project completion was projected to take 17–22 months from signing. Energy conservation and financial help for low-income families caught in the energy crunch were discussed and implemented. Selectman Jones, CAO Smith and local citizens created a fuel-aid loan system to help families that had lost state assistance when new income limits were imposed. Researched and complied by Chris Levandowski
As was the case year-after-year, the year started with pleas for residents to attend and contribute to the scheduled budget discussions and workshops. That year’s attendance was noteworthy; 100 attended the BOE hearing and about 50 commented at the BOS hearing. A 400-acre development between Silver
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St. and Granville Road was proposed by Harold C. Law with the caveat that it would be developed slowly in three sections. A formal application would be submitted. BOE and BOS budgets were cut before the 1979-80 budget of $4,706,272 was presented on May 7 to the Budget Town Meeting. Mildred C. Allison and Carolyn C. Avery donated three acres of land near the center as the future site of a new firehouse. LAFD would build a new facility on the land, replacing the old, two-bay building directly across Routes 202/10. In June, long lines of cars at gas stations were again a Center conundrum. How to serve customers without creating lines that snaked down Route 189 and sometimes onto Bank Street was discussed by gas station owners, Chief Algren, CAO Smith and selectmen. The plan they devised would ease the chaos created by the Governor restricting sales to even/ odd days and limiting gallons sold to each customer. Coordinated morning/afternoon hours included Saturday mornings and
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April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 19
Waypoints By Mark Fiorentino
What goes around comes around “You catching anything?” I have been watching the man and his boat for a while now, so I know he hasn’t had much luck. But I’m out of hooks and bait, and I don’t have the courage to just ask him if he has any to spare. I’m 11 years old, sitting at the end of a pond that is walking distance from my house. It’s early afternoon on a Saturday. I lost my last hook and worm to a snag more than an hour ago. But I’m not ready to go home. There’s too much turmoil there. The pond is one of my favorite places to be. I spend as much time as I can here, fishing and avoiding home. There might be more hooks back in the garage, but I’m afraid to go look. Afraid I might get caught in whatever struggle is happening at the moment. If she sees me, my mom may forbid me to go back to the pond. That’s the way she copes sometimes: dragging me into her troubles, even though I have no capacity to help. The man drifting toward me controls my fate. He’s my last hope. There’s no one else around and I’ve already scoured the shoreline looking for lost or discarded hooks. Will I get to spend the next few hours fishing, or be stuck with just killing time? I was about to ask him again how he was doing when he spoke. “Caught some bass on the other end of the pond, but not much for a while now. You doing any good at this end?”
“I caught some nice bluegills earlier.” Then I hesitated, not sure if I could, or should, say more. He saved me the trouble, asking: “How come you’re not fishing now?” “I lost my last hook and worm on a snag.” “Well, I’m headed in. You can have the rest of my worms, and I’m sure I have an extra hook or two. Walk over to the boat launch and I’ll give them to you as I come ashore.” At the launch, he handed me a pack of Eagle Claw hooks and a small Styrofoam box. I opened the box and looked inside. It was full of large night crawlers. “Wow! Thank you, sir. Now I can fish for the rest of the day.” Uh-oh. Maybe I shouldn’t have said that last part. The man hesitated and looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and concern. His eyebrows furrowed just a little. He must be wondering why a boy my age would fish all day by himself. But then he smiled and said, with kindness and no judgment: “You’re welcome, son. I remember what it’s like. Good luck.” Fast forward more than 40 years. I’m in my boat, purposely drifting into a favorite cove on a nearby lake. “You catching anything?” The question is from a boy on the shore. He is sitting on the bank, with his elbows on his knees and his chin in one
hand. He isn’t fishing, but there is a rod on the ground behind him. As sad as it sounds, my first instinct was to pretend I hadn’t heard him. Partly because I had a line in the water and was over the targeted hot spot, and partly because of the times we live in. I would have to get closer to talk to him without yelling, and I could see he was alone. What would people think about a 55-year-old man, barefoot, in shorts and a tee shirt talking to a young boy without his parents around? Was it really worth the potential trouble? But the boy was persistent. “Can you hear me? I asked if you’re catching anything. You must have caught something.” “A couple of pickerel,” I said. “Pickerel? Were they big ones?” “No, but they get very big in this lake. I’ve caught a couple over 20 inches right in this cove, not far from where you’re standing.” “Maybe I’ll catch one! I mostly just catch bass and sunfish. I don’t think pickerel like worms.” “Nothing wrong with bass and sunfish,” I said. “They get very big here too.” “I’ve caught some big ones. Well, maybe not real big, but big for me.” ”Do you fish here often?” To this point, our conversation had been like a Ping-Pong match: question-answer, question-answer, question-answer. The boy could talk at an amazing pace. But now he hesitated. He looked down at his feet for a moment and then said: “All the time. I live just down the road. I can walk here easily.” “Do your parents ever fish with you?” I recognized that, especially in today’s day and age, this question might be
inappropriate. But I asked it anyway, because, in my heart, I already knew the answer. After another slight hesitation, he said: “It’s just me and my mom. She doesn’t like to fish. Oh, and I guess her new boyfriend. He’s nice enough to me, but he doesn’t fish either. He has to work a lot. Sometimes they argue about it. They were arguing this morning, but it’s okay because she let me come here.” He was back at his initial pace and might have gone on if I hadn’t interrupted him. “Why aren’t you fishing now?” “I ran out of hooks. I was about to head home when I saw you.” I was close to the shore now. Close enough to have him step aside so I could beach the front end of the boat. “I have plenty of hooks. Here, take this pack. And you can have these worms. I’m not fishing with worms today, so I don’t need them.” “Thank you,” he said, with a huge smile on his face. I was about to back away when a thought occurred to me. “Hand me your rod for a second.” “Why?” “I’m going to tie a lure called a Rapala on your line. They’re great for catching pickerel. Just cast it out and reel it back slowly.” His smile broadened considerably. I went back to the middle of the cove and watched him work the Rapala. On his fourth cast, he shouted: “I got one! It’s a pickerel! A big one! Well, not real big, but big for me. Thank you so much!” I motored close enough to be sure he could hear me. “You’re welcome. I remember what it’s like. Good luck..”
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Page 20 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
Browse & Borrow Granby Public Library
Main Branch Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Cossitt Branch Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 3 – 8 p.m. Saturday: 2 – 5 p.m.
To register for any program, call 860-844-5275, email gplibrary@granby-ct.gov, sign up online at granby-ct.gov/library, or visit either library branch. We strongly encourage patrons to register for any programs they plan to attend, as registrants will receive emails notifying them of any changes to schedules or locations. As the Drummer went to press, the library was closed in compliance with the CDC recommendation. For updates on April programs and activities, please visit the library website at granby-ct.gov/library, follow us on Facebook, and sign up for the eNewsletter.
Online Resources
As citizens are being encouraged to stay home and practice “social distancing,” now is a good time to remind library patrons about some of the many online resources available. All of the following are accessible from the website or via a free app (available in your App Store). If you would like assistance accessing them, please call the library at 860-844-5275. Overdrive/Libby and RBdigital: Two different eBook, eAudio book, and eMagazine collections for all ages that are available to Granby library patrons. Best-sellers, old favorites, and the most recent issues of dozens of popular magazines are available to borrow. Each can be accessed from the library website or by downloading a (free) app. There are well over 30,000 titles for you (or your children) to use—just enter your Granby library card, download, and enjoy. Consumer Reports Online: Research the best products to buy, explore safety ratings, and learn about recalls with this online resource. Everything in the paper magazine and more. The site will ask for a “Patron ID”—enter your Granby library card number. Universal Class: Unlimited access to over 500 courses in over 30 subject areas (everything from accounting to yoga). Classes are taught through videos, assignments, quizzes, tests and the opportunity to use social media to further engage with other learners. Each library cardholder can enroll in up to five courses at a time. Many courses offer continuing education units (CEUs). Transparent Language: Learn a new language without having to leave your living room. Register on the library website and then log in to learn everything from Spanish to Japanese to Zulu!
Adults and families Bet Your Bottom Dollar, a Money Smart Week program: Wednesday, April 1, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. Author and psychologist Charles Zanor, PhD, speaks about the psychology of separating you from your money in this crash course in behavioral economics. Gain a better understanding of who has their hand on your wallet. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library. Retirement By Design, a Money Smart Week program: Monday, April 6, 6:30–7:30 p.m., at Main Branch. Whether you are 10 or 40 years from retirement, learn strategies now to help design the retirement you want tomorrow. Financial Advisor Cris Jacobs returns to the library during national Money Smart Week for another enlightening presentation about money management. Registration requested. Family And Friends CPR: Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., at Main Branch. Parents, grandparents, students, and caregivers will benefit from the life-saving skills taught by certified instructor, Kate Coupe, B. S., Paramedic, EMS-Instructor and Chief of Services, Granby Ambulance Association. This training is intended for anyone, age 12 or older, who wants to learn CPR and does not need a course completion card to meet a job requirement. All materials will
be provided and instruction will cover CPR and AED use for adults and children, infant CPR, and choking relief for all ages. A $20 per person fee is required to hold your reservation. The fee includes a 40 percent discount off the standard course fee. Please make checks payable to Granby Ambulance Association and either handdeliver or mail them to: Granby Public Library, Attn: Holly Johnson, Program Coordinator, 15 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. Earth Day Anniversary, Let’s Talk Trash! Wednesday, April 22, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Main Branch. Representatives from Granby’s Department of Public Works will share tips and answer questions about recycling, curb-side pickup, the local Transfer Station, and more. Additional resources and handouts will be available, as well as giveaways. Registration requested. Addressing Addictive Behaviors: Thursday, April 30, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Main Branch. Addiction to alcohol and other drugs is more prevalent than ever in society today. These addictions often create chaos in the lives of family and friends. Many tend to instinctively enable the behaviors, believing this helps the individual with the addiction. However, medical professionals tell us enabling addictive behavior only intensifies the problem. Learn more when Jane Reardon, MSN, RN, and Clinical Nurse Specialist, speaks about addictive behaviors and shares practical advice. Registration requested.
Recurring Programs
EFT Tapping Group: Monday, April 13, 6:30– 7:30 p.m., Main Branch. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a powerful procedure used by tens of thousands of practitioners around the world. EFT, commonly known as “tapping,” helps people overcome anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, traumatic memories, grief, and emotional or physical pain. Certified instructor Cris Jacobs leads a monthly group session. Space limited; registration required. Movie Matinee: Tuesdays, April 14 and 28. 1–3 p.m., Main Branch. Enjoy free screenings of pre-selected movies on the library’s big screen. Join us the second and fourth Tuesday of the month when we feature award-winning films from a variety of genres. Check movie listings the beginning of the month on the library’s website or by calling the main number. Registration requested. Chess, Anyone? Thursday, April 9, 10:30 a.m.– 12 p.m., Main Branch. Join a group of dedicated chess fans for friendly, competitive games the second Thursday morning of the month. It truly is the most popular game in the world. Registration requested; drop-ins are always welcome. Mostly Makers, for teens and tweens: Wednesday, April 15, 3:30–4:30 p.m., Main Branch. Kids 10 and older are invited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and create a decorative clothespin flower pot from items that were previously headed to the trash bin. Registration requested. Drops ins are always welcome when space and supplies allow. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library. Did you know? Many of the maker projects are inspired by and led by students. If you are a teen with a special talent, skill or hobby, contact Holly Johnson, Program Coordinator, to talk about the possibilities. Let’s bring your great maker idea to others! Crafters Café, RePurpose, ReDesign, ReStyle: Wednesday, April 15, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Cossitt Branch. The project is all about re-using and re-purposing every-day stuff. Adults and teens are invited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and create something that can be used in a new way. Registration required. Sponsored by Library Friends. Writers Group: Tuesdays, April 14 and 28, 6–7:45 p.m., Cossitt Branch. Fiction writers are invited to meet with others who enjoy honing their writing skills. Each session features a variety of activities: writing prompts, sprints and critiques are all on the menu at the semi-monthly workshops. Find inspiration in the late-Victorian era library. Registration requested; drop-ins are always welcome. Nature As Mentor: Sunday, May 3, 2–3:30 p.m., Holcomb Farm, North Barn Pavilion. Learn the magnificent language of nature in this powerful
workshop. Marlow Shami leads a program illustrated with beautiful compelling images, a simple group outdoor activity and a guided meditation. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library and Granby Land Trust.
Book Groups
GPL Book Groups are free and open to the public; new members are welcome. Copies of the selected titles or author’s works are available for borrowing at the Main Branch. Register online, call (860-844-5275), or just come. Something About The Author: Monday, April 16, 1:30–2:30 p.m., Main Branch. The group will discuss author Colm Toibin. Around The World Book Group: Monday, April 20, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Main Branch. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (Russia). Sci-Fi / Fantasy Group: Wednesday, April 29, 7–7:45 p.m., Main Branch. Semiosis by Sue Burke.
Children and Families Register online at granby-ct.gov or call 860844-5275. Programs will be cancelled if Granby schools are closed. If in doubt, call in advance. Yoga For Kids: Saturday, April 25, 10:15 a.m., Main Branch. Learn some basic poses, stretch and relax with instructor Aubrey Schulz. For boys and girls ages 5–11. Please bring a towel or a yoga mat. Register in advance. Crafternoon: Thursday, April 23, 4–5 p.m., Main Branch. Time to get creative. Stop by after school and make a fun craft project. We’ll supply the instruction and all the materials. For ages 8 and up. Please register in advance. Crafts For Kids: Stop by Cossitt Branch anytime during open hours, all month long, and create a cool winter craft. All materials provided. All ages welcome. No registration needed. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library. Family Movie Night: Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 22 and 29 (no April 15), beginning at 6 p.m., Main Branch. Drop in and enjoy a family-friendly film, popcorn provided. All ages. Call for titles. Craft Week: Monday to Saturday, April 13–18, Main Branch. Drop in anytime during the week and create a simple craft to take home. All materials supplied. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library. Preschool Story Time, ages 3–5: Tuesdays, April 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 10:30 a.m., Main Branch. Preschoolers with a caregiver share stories, songs, finger plays and a craft. Drop in.
Wee Ones Story Time, ages 0–2: Thursdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 10:30 a.m., Main Branch. Board books, finger plays, songs and gentle movement for birth to 2 years with caregiver. Drop in. Bedtime Stories For The “I’m-Not-Tired”: Thursdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 6:30 p.m., Cossitt Branch. For ages 4–7 (siblings welcome). Drop in for picture books, songs, stories and a craft. Ages 4-7 with caregiver. Pajamas encouraged.
School Vacation Week
Healthy Eating For Kids, ages 5–8: Monday, April 13, 1:30–2:30 p.m., Main Branch. Angel Cruz, manager of Stop & Shop in Granby, will present an interactive program for kids about healthy food choices. Kids with a caregiver are invited to listen to a story and learn about some unusual and exotic foods. Take home a goody bag and a treat. Please register online in advance. Fort Night: Tuesday, April 14, 6–7:30 p.m., Main Branch. Kids take over the library. Join us after hours to create one giant fort. Stories and snacks will follow. Bring blankets, flashlights, clips and other “construction” materials. Best for ages 6 and up. Please pre-register online. Family Movie Matinee: Wednesday, April 15, beginning at 2 p.m., Main Branch. Enjoy some popcorn while watching the newest Disney movie about two brave sisters and their lovable snowman friend on our new big screen. No registration needed. Crafternoon: Wednesday, April 15, 3:30–4:30 p.m., Cossitt Branch. Let’s get crafty, all materials and instruction provided. Best for ages 6 and up. Please preregister. Visit From A Garbage Truck: Thursday, April 16, 10:30 a.m., Main Branch. Our friends from Paine’s return with another program for preschoolers. Meet Gordon, everyone’s favorite driver, and climb up into his seat in the truck. Listen to a story or two, and color a picture of a garbage truck. It’s a special story time. For preschoolers with a caregiver. No need to register. Drop in. We Love LEGOs: Thursday, April 16, 3:30–5 p.m., Cossitt Branch, and Friday, April 17, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Main Branch. All you need is your imagination, we have plenty of LEGOs and Duplos for you to play with. Drop in.
East Granby Public Library Events 24 Center Street
860-653-3002
As the Drummer went to press, the library was closed in compliance with CDC recommendations. Please check the library website (egpl.org) for updates. Antique and Collectible Fundraiser: Saturday, April 4, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visit the East Granby Community Center (20 Center Street, East Granby) to shop a variety of vendors selling antiques and collectibles. A portion of the proceeds will help support the library. Passport to Connecticut Libraries: Over 100 Connecticut libraries will participate in the Connecticut Library Association’s Passport to Connecticut Libraries Program. To celebrate National Library Week during April, this program invites you to visit all of the participating Connecticut public libraries. Visit at least five participating libraries and return your passport by May 7, to be entered into one state-wide drawing for a chance to win a $150 Visa gift card for adults (18 and up) and a $100 Visa gift card for children (under 18). Visits must occur between April 2 and April 30. Tiny Signers: Mondays, starting April 20 for 5 weeks, at the library. This class that will teach children age 12 months or older and their caregivers basic American Sign Language through snacks, songs and games. Caregivers are expected to actively participate in the classes and learn with the children. Cost is $30 for all sessions (one caregiver and one child; each additional child is $10). Call 860-653-3002 or register online at egpl.org. Fetch! Me a Story: Monday, April 27, 3:15 to 4:45 p.m. A registered therapy dog and handler, trained in the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) program, will visit the library to meet individually (15-minute slots) with young readers. To register, visit the library or call 860-653-3002. Zumba Kids: Tuesday, April 14, 12 to 12:45 p.m. For ages 6–11 years old. LEGO Madness: Monday, April 13, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. We supply the Legos, you supply the creative vision. For ages 3 and over, drop in with a caregiver. Perler Beading: Friday, April 17, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pick from a variety of grid shapes and start creating. Ages 8 and over. Family Movie Night: Thursday, April 30, 6 p.m., Frozen II Wednesday Afternoon at the Movies: 1 p.m., we supply the popcorn April 1: Knives Out April 8: Brian Banks April 15: Little Women April 22: Ford v Ferrari
April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 21
NOT WANTED A campaign to raise awareness of and control invasive plants sponsored by Granby’s Conservation Commission
In light of the current guidance to cancel or postpone public events, the Granby Senior Center does not have any April activities to publish in the Drummer. As the next few weeks unfold, we will post updates on the website (granbyct.gov/senior-services) and the center’s Facebook page (facebook.com/ GranbyCTSeniorCenter/) and encourage you to check there for the latest on programs and trips at the Granby Senior Center. We are working to return to normal as soon as possible.
Able Machine Tool Sales appoints sales vice president Able Machine Tool Sales, an award-winning Northeast region distributor for top brand machine tool has appointed Granby resident Mark Perreault to vice president of sales.
Japanese Knotweed
Polygonum cuspidatum or Fallopia japonica Find it Japanese Knotweed is an incredibly vigorous plant that forms dense mounds six feet high or more. Once established, it is extraordinarily difficult to remove. Resembling a fleshy bamboo, knotweed’s hollow, jointed stems shoot up in the spring, sometimes several inches a day. Stems are light green at first and darken through the summer, when they become capped with large, floppy seed tassels. Knotweed is often found in wet areas, such as along brooks, and in open areas that have been disturbed by humans. Why it’s a problem Native to Japan, knotweed now plagues most European countries and much of North America. It was introduced as an ornamental and for erosion
control about 150 years ago, but it is a prime threat to native species and plant diversity. It spreads primarily by rhizomes (underground horizontal stems) that can travel many feet. Rhizomes broken off by ice or water can kick off new colonies far downstream from the parent. The immense strength of its root structure allows it to penetrate asphalt and cracks in concrete and alter landscapes, ultimately excluding other plant life and reducing the value of afflicted properties. What to do Eat it! The young shoots can be prepared like rhubarb or asparagus. Older stems can be made into jam or added to stir-fries or baked goods. Its roots are reportedly high in the claimed antiaging chemical resveratrol, and there
are reports of success treating Lyme disease with root tinctures. Don’t plant knotweed in order to eat it—there’s plenty in the wild to harvest. Remove it. It’s possible to dig up and dispose of (not compost) the complete root structure of small, isolated knotweed plants. But mature dense clumps, common in Granby, are extremely difficult to get under control. As with many invasive plants, multiple approaches over time are usually needed and may require the careful use of herbicides. Non-chemical methods can greatly weaken dense knotweed concentrations.
Use a heavy dark tarp or black plastic to completely cover the knotweed patch, weight it down with rocks, and leave it in place for a year or more, allowing the intense summer sun to heat up and cook the roots. A propane torch can also be used to cook the roots. Repeated cutting throughout the season works, but only if all cut pieces are gathered and disposed of. For more information on invasive plants, events and the NOT WANTED campaign, drop us a note on the Granby Conservation Commission webpage.
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Page 22 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
Welcome to spring With the caveat that we write this update in mid-March, at the start of Covid-19-related social distancing efforts that may result in postponements and cancellations of noted events, here’s what’s happening at Holcomb Farm.
Beets and more beets
Activity is ramping up big-time at the Holcomb Farm, with an early spring putting farmer Joe O’Grady in a planting-sort-of mood. To quote, “Beets! There is nothing better than a great stand of beets. They are my Spirit Vegetable, my Soul Food, my Totem Edible, however you want to say it—I like beets. Seed organizing is finished and, like most years, I am guilty of hoarding beet seeds (this table has a few more future beets than a 25-acre farm needs—especially if I ever get our Jang seeder dialed in), but I can’t help myself #beetlove. Haven’t had two good beet years in a row, hoping 2020 breaks that cycle!” Joe is amazing, but he can’t do it alone. Here’s a profile, by Shirley Murtha, of two Granby graduates who have discovered the power of the farming profession, right here at Holcomb Farm.
it has on the environment and how it makes it possible for people to have healthy food. In his mind, “There is just nothing like organic vegetables.” He realized there was a perfect place for him to work right in his hometown and applied to the farm. He was hired in 2019. His hopes for the future are like Spatcher’s. During the growing season, the hours are long and the work strenuous for these men, but they do have some outside interests. Spatcher likes to read and check out sports on television. Parker practices yoga, hikes and fishes when he has the time.
Justin Avery weighs his bounty from the St. Paddy’s day Flash Market. The market was ripe with winter vegetables and fresh greens. Photo by Jesse Parker
5x3
Meet the Young Farmers
It was a lovely March day; Tom and Jesse were finishing up their work and happy to take a few moments to introduce themselves to Drummer readers. Tom Spatcher and Jesse Parker are starting their fourth and second years, respectively, as Farmer Joe O’Grady’s right-hand men. They work all winter, maintaining the greenhouses and packing orders of winter vegetables for area restaurants, but as the days grow longer, so does their workload. On this particular day, they were studying O’Grady’s seeding chart, mapping out where they would plant the onions and shallots, the first of the planting, as the seedlings of these veggies are the slowest to settle into the soil and grow. Next will come the celery, followed by seeding all the other produce grown by the farm. This is the beginning of the busy months, for after the seeding comes the transplanting, cultivating, harvesting and cleaning the produce for market. Both Granby residents, the men came to Holcomb Farm from similar paths. Spatcher graduated from Bentley in 2013 with degrees in marketing and sports business management. Having an older brother who had enjoyed working at the farm for several years, he was quite willing to help when O’Grady found himself short-handed during the busy growing season. He hadn’t found a job in marketing yet, so joined the crew at the farm. A couple of weeks turned into a couple more weeks and then he realized that he had found what he loved to do. “Working here is the happiest I’ve ever been,” he noted. He is thinking that around five years or so from now, he may be starting his own small farm and market garden, but for now, he is learning all he can. Parker studied environmental science at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire, during which he became very interested in organic farming. He was impressed by the positive impact
Todd Crevier discovers that Holcomb Farm’s supply of carrots remains bountiful. Photo by Jesse Parker
Tom Spatcher (l.) and Jesse Parker do some weeding in the greenhouse where various lettuces and other leafy vegetables have gotten a head start on the growing season. Photo by Shirley Murtha
Mark your calendars
April 9, 4–7 p.m., at the Lost Acres Vineyard. Holcomb Farm and other local farmers will be at the LAV Holiday Market. While you stock up on your Easter wine, you can see what earlyseason goods we have. April 25, 1–4 p.m., at the Lost Acres Vineyard, is Holcomb Farm Day, in which 10 percent of profits from sales of wine that day will be donated to the Friends’ Fresh Access program. Once again this year, we will have Chef Chris Prosperi of Metro Bis demonstrating his magic at 3 p.m. We are also planning some other fun stuff, so check out our Facebook page, Instagram, or website, for more details as the date approaches. April 26, 2–4 p.m., at First Congregational Church in Granby. Rise Against Hunger food packaging event. April 29, 7 p.m., at the Holcomb Farm Workshop, working with Granby Recreation and Leisure Services, a talk by Master Gardener Robert Herman. May 9 at the Farm. Our annual preMother’s Day Plant Sale. Save the date, more information to come. June 6 at the Holcomb Farm trails, and throughout Connecticut, for Connecticut Trails Day. June 7 at Holcomb Farm, for Friends of Holcomb Farm Annual Membership Meeting, to include a guided walk on the Tree Trail (see article elsewhere in this Drummer issue), and the Third Annual Pie Baking (and eating!) contest. June 16 starts the 20-week Summer CSA. Shares go quickly so get yours now at holcombfarm.org/join-our-csa/
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“Love and trust, in the space between what’s said and what’s heard in our life, can make all the difference in this world.” — Mr. Rogers
South Church: Faith = Hope Enacted Join us some Sunday to discover how living faithfully can make a world of difference. We are an Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome! April 12th Easter Worship at 8:30 & 10:00 a.m. Salmon Brook Music Series presents: “Last Fair Deal” on Saturday, April 25th at 7:30 p.m.
Worship Services at 8:30 and 10:00 a.m. Sunday school and childcare at 10:00 a.m. 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org
April 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 23
What’s for Supper? Peanut Butter Chicken By Pamela Scherrer Happy Spring everyone. Amid this pandemic, it is more important than ever to stay home and cook for yourself. I have been making some new recipes and discovered a website/food blog that has some great meals—Halfbakedharvest.com. This month’s recipe is not from that site, but I thought while we are stuck at home you might like to check it out. This month’s recipe is easy and delicious, my two favorite things. If you or anyone in your family has a peanut allergy then skip this recipe and visit the Half Baked Harvest site instead.
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs. chicken breast, cut into tenders Sea salt and pepper, to taste 2 Tablespoons butter 2 Tablespoons olive oil 1 red bell pepper, julienned 3 cloves garlic, minced ¾ cup chicken broth 1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter 3 Tablespoons soy sauce ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes 3 green onions, chopped
Directions: Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Heat large skillet over medium-high heat, add butter and olive oil. Once butter melts, add the chicken and sear 5–10 minutes, browning each side. Reduce heat to medium-low and add bell pepper and garlic, sauté 5 minutes (do not scorch garlic). In a bowl, combine chicken stock, soy sauce, peanut butter and red pepper flakes, mix well (peanut butter will still
be clumpy, not to worry as it will melt once in the pan). Pour the contents of the bowl into the pan, stir and bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with a side of veggies or on top of orzo or rice. Top with the fresh chopped green onions. Buon Appetito!
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Page 24 The Granby Drummer
April 2020
Closer to Home
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Beacon Mechanical 6 Beman Hardware 5 Berklshire Hathaway – Shepherd’s Way 9 Berkshire Hathaway – Copper Brook 21 Berkshire Hathaway New England 16 Berkshire Hathaway – Nancy Reardon 7 BNG Law 14 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s Motors 8 Carmon Funeral Home 17 Carter Robert Painting 18 Cetera Investors 22 Chiropractic Care 18 Christopher Bryant 6 Creative Learning Preschool Center 19 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 14 Dowd Realty 15 Dr Lucia Coletta 17 Evans Automotive 10 First Congregational Church 13 Gary’s Lawn Mowing 12 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 11 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 3, 23 Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Insurance 19 Granby Package Store 19 Higleyville Coin 5 Ideal Healthy Weight Loss 14 Larry’s Construction 5
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Spring into action.
Celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday Children made Cat in the Hat masks and sang Happy Birthday Feb. 27, at Cossitt Library to celebrate the children’s author’s birthday. The activity was part of the weekly Bedtime Stories program that is held there Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. Photo by Heather Czuchta
May 2020 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, April 15 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org ARTICLES: Monday, April 20 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: April 14-27 Call or email for times. The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at granbydrummer.org
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