Granby Drummer | February 2019

Drummer FO R I M ME DIAT E DE LI V E RY

*****************ECRWSS****

PAID

Local Postal Customer

The Granby

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE AVON, CT PERMIT NO. 466

Your hometown VOLUNTEER newspaper

Follow us on:

Published by Citizens for a Better Granby a non-profit 501(c)3 organization

Volume XLIX, No. 5 • February 2019

www.granbydrummer.com

Addley named state’s 2019 Superintendent of the Year The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents has named Dr. Alan Addley as Connecticut’s 2019 Superintendent of the Year. Addley was recognized on Nov. 16, 2018, at the CABE/CAPSS Convention in Groton.

Frances Rabinowicz, executive director of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS), presented the award to Addley stating, “As the previous elected president of CAPSS, Alan is a powerful force statewide and has influence on the direction of public education in Connecticut. Educational leaders and legislators look to him for direction on excellence in teaching and learning but they also seek his wisdom since they know that he has demonstrated his power to influence Granby staff to reach exemplary levels of performance.

He accomplishes this through building strong and lasting relationships.

“Alan has a great deal to be proud of in Granby and always speaks about the accomplishments of his team – students, teachers, parents and administrators. He works hard to develop the entire school community to be the best it can be. He has a vision for excellence and through his belief, influence and actions, he is

FREE

A wise bird warms his feet on a solar panel

able to develop that vision and mission in all stakeholders.

“As a statewide organization of educational leaders, we have many differing opinions and recommendations on every issue before us. Alan always listens and members and legislators always feel that their viewpoints are honored, even if the organization’s leadership takes a different path. As an elected member of the governing board of our national organization, he demonstrates those same traits.”

A barred owl perches atop a solar panel on Kelly Lane in January—a cozy spot from which to watch for dinner.

Photo by Marilyn Davis

CT Superintendent cont’d. on p. 2

Community Center and budget on recent BOS agendas

by Shirley Murtha Dr. Alan Addley, Granby Schools superintendent

Granby to host Feb. 13 forum on Connecticut Commission on Fiscal Stability, Economic Growth The state’s economic status is in the emergency room. On Feb. 13 at 6 p.m., Robert Patricelli will present the Commission on Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth 2.0’s proposed initiatives. Patricelli, who spent over 50 years in the health care industry and the federal government along with co-chairman Jim Smith, chairman of the board of Webster Financial Corporation and Webster Bank, developed the unbiased recommendations to meet the challenges that the new administration and Governor Ned Lamont will face Robert Patricelli in the coming months. As concerned Granby citizens, you will want to put this forum on your calendar. For additional information, see: ctrising.org Surrounding town residents will also be invited to attend and the event will start promptly at 6 p.m.

Please note: Check Granby’s website before attending for an updated announcement because increased attendance may require a site change to Granby Memorial High School.

Inside Bridges update................. 17

Humans of Granby............. 26

Waypoints....................... 25

Sew-Hopeful.................... 31

Legislative update At the Dec. 17 meeting, Representative Simanski and Senator Witkos gave an update on the state legislature, noting that a big push is being made for no more unfunded mandates. A bipartisan budget was finally achieved, ending the fiscal year in the black. Topics that will be raised in the upcoming session include legalization of marijuana, sports betting, minimum wage, and bear issues. The latter predominantly affects the northwest corner of the state, including Granby.

Residents who have questions or comments on anything that affects Granby should contact the legislators.

Staff Report - Police Department Police Chief Carl Rosensweig described the shortcomings of the department with regard to staffing. Although adequate on paper, in reality, some shifts that should be covered by two officers are covered by only one — illness, injuries and pregnancies being the usual reasons for staff absences. The loss of one or two officers affects the entire force, causing some to work extra shifts or come in early or stay late. Rosensweig praised the officers for their compassion in covering at these times, but there is no question it increases fatigue and stress. More state mandates on the department and the increased number of housing units in town also mean possible inadequate coverage, especially

in emergencies. Rosensweig gave examples of recent situations in which an officer had to handle a potentially dangerous situation without adequate backup.

BUSINESS School administrators’ contract The board made no motion in considering the agreement between the Granby Association of School Administrators and the Board of Education July 1, 2019 — June 30, 2022, effectively allowing the contract, which has been ratified and adopted by the union, to stand. The only motion that could have been made would have been to reject the contract, which would lead to arbitration and that would cost time and money and probably not lead to any changes.

The First Selectman recognized Superintendent Alan Addley having been chosen by the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents as the Superintendent of the Year and noted also that the Granby Board of Education received the Leadership Award for the 10th consecutive year.

Correction of land records The board corrected an error in the land records regarding a parcel of 20,000 square feet of land that was given to the Granby Grange by the developer of the adjoining property.

BOS report cont’d. on p. 3

Photo by Peter Dinella

Page 2 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Update on status of Kearns Community Center proposal

by Shirley Murtha The directors of the committee proposing the new use of the Kearns school building as a community center gave a presentation to the Board of Selectmen at its Dec. 17 meeting, which was followed by a public hearing at the Board’s Jan. 7 meeting.

Eliot Altomare and Alicia Newton reviewed the need for such a community center and the progress being made in organizing the physical set-up as well as the initial budget, which comes in at approximately $2.75 million.

At this time, plans for the center include a 5,000-foot indoor park with putting green, a teaching kitchen and cafe, teen space, veterans space, adult day care, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) lab, game room, art classroom, music room with recording studio and conference rooms. There will also be spaces for meditation and quiet gatherings. Outside, there will be community gardens.

Included in the construction costs are upgrades to the electrical system, the bathrooms, and the HVAC. Also included in costs are painting, new flooring, fur-

nishings, a generator and a van for the adult day care program. The parking lot also needs upgrading, and a clerk of the works must be hired for the renovations and construction. The budget for these items comes to $2,443,200, and the directors have added a $300,000 cushion for inevitable cost increases, bringing the total to the $2.75 million.

Altomare and Newton project the annual operating cost of the center to be around $1 million, with yearly increases in operating cost more than offset by the increase in income which is expected to come mostly from the cafe, workshops, events and adult day care. After the third year, they expect the center to require only minimal foundation support. Altomare noted that although they are trying to have the center exist without much foundation dependence, the fact is that many foundations (including the Hartford Foundation for Giving) have given outstanding approval to the project.

At this time, the staffing is expected to be under the direction of an executive director who will report to the board of directors.

A director of community engagement will report to the executive director, as will the adult day care administrator. The day care provider and driver will report to the day care administrator.

A separate director will handle the culinary aspects of the center, the Nourish My Soul program, to which the cafe staff will report.

Currently, the directors are working on obtaining the necessary 501(c)3 status and a leasing agreement with the town, after which fundraising will begin and continue through July 2019.

The committee is aiming for the center to open in late 2019; however work will not begin until $1.5 million has been raised. The center may open with fewer classrooms, second-hand furniture and fewer programs than will ultimately be available once the entire $2.75 million has been raised.

At the Public Hearing on Jan. 7, Altomare, Newton and Granby resident Gennie Busse restated the mission of the project (to empower residents to enjoy lasting relationships and share their gifts) and its ability to solve the isolation problem that affects many groups such as the elderly, veterans, caregivers, stay-at-home moms, etc. They continue to meet with organizations in Granby, East Granby, Hartland, Tariffville and northern Simsbury for feedback and, especially with regard to Granby, to avoid duplicating services that are already successful in town.

The steering committee has also met with Senator Witkos to discuss possible state bonding. The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has expressed interest, and many offers of equipment and services as well as funds have been received from individuals and organizations.

Later in the BOS meeting of January 7, the board approved a motion to create an advisory committee to negotiate a lease between the project and the town. The persons suggested for this committee are Diane Hernsdorf, Marty Schwager, Donna Snyder and Suzanne Yucha. Sally King will be the BOS representative. Selectman Lofink suggested that a member of the Board of Finance should also be appointed to this committee.

The board also approved writing a letter of intent to authorize the project, with amendments. This is a non-binding agreement signaling the intent of the BOS to study the use of Kearns School as a community center. Having this letter allows the steering committee to begin fund raising. Town Manager Ward recommended an expiration date of 180 days and an exit clause. It was decided to confer with the town attorney for specific wording.

Altomare and Newton reported that several people have inquired as to what will happen to the distinctive murals within the Kearns School. The committee plans to keep the majority of them, possibly re-locating some to other parts of the building.

To read the entire proposal, visit tinyurl.com/Kearns2018. The project is on FaceBook as Kearns Community Center. To contact the leaders, email or call them as follows: Elliot Altomare at elliot. altomare@gmail.com or 908-528-7915; Alicia Newton at Alicia@nourishmysoul.org or 860-982-6831.

CT Superintendent cont’d. from p. 1 In 2017, Addley received the UConn Neag Alumni Distinguished Superintendent of the Year.

Addley is in his eleventh year as Granby’s school superintendent. A native of Northern Ireland, he started his career as a professional soccer player and mathematics teacher. He has 34 years of administrative and teaching experience in private and public schools in the United States and Ireland. Addley received his Ed.D. from UConn’s Neag School of Education in 2014. Prior to this, Addley earned his Connecticut Intermediate Administrator Certification in 1997 and a Connecticut Superintendent certificate from the Executive Leadership Program in 2007, both from the Neag School. He received a bachelor of science degree in education and mathematics from the New University of Ulster in Northern Ireland in 1984 and a master of science degree in education from Western Connecticut State University in 1993.

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 3

BOS report cont’d. from p.1

Homeland Security Grant Program The board authorized Town Manager Ward to continue to keep the town in the Homeland Security Grant Program Region 3 for the next fiscal year. The program in under the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Participation is renewed annually.

Kearns Community Center The board approved the formation of an advisory committee to study the Kearns Community Center proposal. It also authorized writing a letter of intent, with amendments, so that fundraising could begin. See Update on status of Kearns School Community Center in this issue of the Drummer on page 2.

Justice Assistance Grant The board retroactively approved the application for a 2019 Justice Assistance Grant for Local Violent Crime Prevention.

The money will be used to buy software to computerize the program.

Three-Board Meeting The Board approved the call for the annual three-board meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 22 in the Senior Center.

Budget Forum In keeping with its emphasis on having more communication and transparency with residents, the board voted to have a public forum on the upcoming budget process. It was held on Monday, Dec. 17 prior to the usual BOS meeting in the Town Hall Meeting Room.

Goals Town Manager Ward presented the board with revised budget goals he developed with Administration Finance Officer Barbarajean Scibelli after the Special Meeting on Nov. 14. They were as follows: 1. provide quality services to the townspeople at the lowest possible costs; 2. budget in full consideration of the town’s capacity to pay; 3. explore alternative methods of providing services, including joint endeavors and shared services; 4. develop a plan to increase unassigned fund balance reserves to meet the Governmental Accounting Standards Board standard of 17 percent; 5. develop a plan to align the number of town employees with the current and future mandates and to offer full, fair and just compensation packages to attract and retain quality employees; 6. expand revenue sources available to the town, including, but not limited to, the Grand List; 7. move away from capital lease borrowing and fund for purchases in the Capital Equipment Improvement Fund.

First Selectman Kuhnly asked if the board should review the goals every year to determine if any adjustments need to be made to reflect the changing community.

Selectman Ohannessian noted that the town has a high credit rating. One of the budget goals should state that a commitment to fiscal responsibility and maintance of a positive balance sheet.

At the Dec. 17 meeting, board members’

input resulted in the following changes to the goals: 1. budget in a conservatively and fiscally responsible manner that will provide municipal services to our citizens; 2. explore alternative methods of providing services, including joint endeavors and shared services; 3. provide funding to meet the long-term capital needs of the town and to fund the maintenance of its assets; 4. move away from capital lease borrowing and fund for purchases in the Capital Equipment Improvement Fund; 5. develop a multi-year plan to increase unassigned fund balance reserves to 17 percent; 6. expand revenue sources available to the town, including but not limited to the Grand List.

Plus-One Budget Town Manager Ward explained that developing a budget in Granby calls for the BOS and BOE to meet with the BOF in December to review expenditure needs and fund balance expectations.

In the case of the BOS, this determines what will be needed to sustain town operations, and includes expectations for employee salary and wages (including step increases), employee benefits, and “items of a contractual nature and those deemed important to adequately maintain operations.”

Ward noted that wages will increase by 3.5 percent, fringe benefits 6 percent, and workers compensation 5 percent. He is asking for $100,000 in contingency to partially cover the expenses related to underground oil storage tanks. Additional increases are needed in fire and health services, demolition of condemned property, as well as in tree work, due to the number of aging and dead trees on town roads.

Waste and recycling increases are due to contractual obligations and a number of new residences. The town’s operational budget is coming in at around $732,800 as the minimal requirement to maintain town operations; a 6.8 percent increase over the current budget.

Some new expense categories include money for IT operations, especially the study of cyber risks and prevention. In addition, Ward desires to restore the cut backs in library services. These would bring the BOS budget to $799,900, a 7.4 percent increase over the current budget.

Ward noted that staff additions in public works and the finance department are necessary, along with another police officer and a school resource officer.

The selectmen approved sending The Plus-One Budget to the BOF for the annual Three-Board Meeting.

Income Tax collection is on target. The first installment of the Educational Cost Sharing allotment from the State Department of Education has been received and placed in the General Fund. The Board of Education has received $266,000 in tuition.

Building permits are up 344 percent, due to the May 15 hailstorm. A temporary assistant has been hired to help the building department with the increased workload.

So far, $292,409 has been collected.

Grand List The Ridgewood and Copper Brook developments have added substantially to the grand list without jeopardizing the character of the town.

GAA Agreement With Town The board approved increasing its support of the Granby Ambulance Association by $15,000 a year. The GAA requested this due to decreasing revenue, increasing costs and the lack of fair reimbursement for Medicare and Medicaid patients. The latter reimbursements are typically only 25 percent of actual cost. The town, as per state law, also covers workers’ compensation for GAA volunteers.

GAA Chief of Operations Kate Coupe gave a brief presentation to the board regarding the association’s importance to the town. What began in 1963 as simple transport to area hospitals has evolved to an ambulatory emergency department and intensive care unit that can carry out life-saving treatments including some surgical procedures. Advanced technology now allows transmission of medical data to the hospital, allowing for better preparation for the patient’s arrival.

Over 30 medications are stocked in the ambulance pharmacy. The GAA covers East Hartland and East Granby as well as Granby, participating in community events such as Celebrate Granby and providing instructional courses at its building on the corner of Wells Road and Rte. 189.

CPPAC The board approved Ward’s request to re-submit the non-bridge items (repairs to Holcomb Farm and the Transfer Station, an updated town radio system, and work on Barn Door Hills and Simsbury Roads) to the Capital Project Priority Advisory Committee at its December 20 meeting. These items were originally submitted to CPPAC in February 2018, but Ward noted that it is unclear from meeting minutes as to whether they were included in the vote of approval taken by the board. In addition to the resubmittal, Ward wished to make a couple of minor modifications, as well: the Holcomb Farm project would be expanded to include renovating the bathrooms, extending the porch, repairing the CSA barn roof and installing a fire pit. In lieu of the specific road projects previously submitted, he requests an overall road improvement project.

Insurance Appraisal An insurance appraiser visited the Municipal Complex and Holcomb Farm. Regarding the complex, all the buildings sustained roof damage as well as some instances of siding and window damage, all requiring repair..

Regarding the Farm, the North Barn was deemed fine, but the Main Barn sustained damage from the hail storm. At the time of the BOS meeting, the report on the other farm buildings had not been issued.

TOWN MANAGER REPORTS Small business loans Economic Injury Disaster Loans for repairs of damage from the May 15 hailstorm are available from the Small Business Administration up until July 9, 2019. Applications are available at DisasterLoan.sba.gov. No money is available from FEMA. Plan of Conservation and Development The inaugural meeting of the Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Committee was held. Future meetings will be announced and are open to the public. The committee will report back to the BOS. Reallocation of funds in Capital Facilities account Ward asked for a motion to reallocate $16,000 from the budget to upgrade the HVAC at town hall. Instead, two painting projects (Cossitt Library and town hall) will be deferred. The motion passed.

ECS Increase The town will be receiving an additional $604,000 over last year in the revenue from the Educational Cost Sharing program to make up for being short-changed the past few years.

Holcomb Farm award Holcomb Farm received an Award of Excellence from the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association for its management and physical appearance and upkeep.

CCM Seminar The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities will hold a seminar at 5:30 in the Park House on Tuesday January, 29. It is open to all CCM member towns, free of charge, but registration is requested. Call the Town Hall at 860-653-5300 for more information or to register.

First Selectman Report First Selectman Kuhnly expressed appreciation to Jim Hall and the American Legion Post for once again installing the Christmas lights in the center.

Resignations and Appointments Matt Garrett has resigned from the Development Commission, leaving an opening there as well as one on the Agricultural Commission and one on the Library Board.

David Blanco has resigned from the Tri-Town Cable Television Government Access Committee. Daniel Riesel has been appointed to the committee.

The following have been re-appointed: Erin Pirro to the Agricultural Commission; Patty Sansone, Jean Donihee-Perron, Kathy Miller and Sue Scheopflin to the Commission on Aging; Matt Hamer and Pam Jones to the Library Board and Suzanne Yucha and Kathy Ungerleider to the Parks and Recreation Board.

HAYES-HULING & CARMON Funeral Home Funerals • Cremation • Pre-Planning

Providing

compassionate care since 1946.

364 Salmon Brook Street, Granby 860-653-6637 carmonfuneralhome.com • Family owned & operated.

Public Works receives award

Members of the Public Works Department were honored at the Dec. 3 BOS meeting for having received a 2018 Facility of Merit Award from the Connecticut Association of Street and Highway Officials on Nov. 20. From l. are Joel Faria, Scott Chamberlain, First Selectman Scott Kuhnly, Public Works Director Kirk Severance, Town Manager John Ward and Rick Morton.

Severance recognized Chamberlain, Faria and Morton “for playing an instrumental role in the day-to-day activities and responsibilities they carry out that make the department a success.”—by Shirley Murtha

Page 4 The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Neighborly Granby

I am not the type of person whom accepts help; in fact I hate receiving help.

Over the past three years I have had three major surgeries and two minor ones between Boston, Hartford and New York.

I have had long recovery times at home with little ability to do things. Without asking, I have been smothered in help, largely from Valley Brook Community Church with Pastor Clark Pfaff, Linda Jansen and the entire care team, Healing Meals of Simsbury, Farmington Valley VNA, Jane Urban and Home Instead, my neighbors and friends in Granby. It is impossible to maintain a house, transportation and meals without this help and despite my resistance I am beyond grateful and appreciative. When I was younger there were no services or help like this unless you had family close by or a good neighbor. Granby and our local geographic area excels in these services, and has one of the best church communities I have ever known. We as a community of Granby are blessed, and I thank everyone.

Gary English

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.

Injured bear aided

Early in November, an injured bear appeared in our backyard. Impaled in its right eye was a plastic dart, apparently fired from a toy crossbow. I placed a call to the Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection and was passed through to Paul Rego. Rego, a wildlife biologist, listened my account and explained that the DEEP could do nothing at the time to intervene. However, at his request, I sent him an admittedly poor-resolution photograph documenting the injury. He also asked me to contact him again if the bear reappeared. In December, the animal came into our yard a second time, with the dart still firmly planted in its eye. I contacted Rego, and he informed me that another homeowner had also reported seeing the injured bear and sent along a photograph. This time, Rego said that the DEEP would dispatch a crew to trap the bear and, if possible, treat its wound.

Their efforts paid off. They captured the bear and dressed the wound. It was then released back into the wild. While it remains half-blinded, bears rely primarily on their keen noses to find food. The

Simanski takes oath of office for fifth term

State Representative Bill Simanski (R-62) took the oath of office for his fifth term representing the 62nd General Assembly District that includes Barkhamsted, Granby, Hartland and New Hartford on Jan. 9.

“I am humbled to begin another twoyear term representing the people of the 62nd District,” said Simanski. “Our state continues to face major challenges,

looming deficits for the next biennial budget, slow economic growth and an unaffordable cost of living. I am eager to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the new administration to bring structural changes to restore opportunity and affordability.”

Rep. Simanski will continue in leadership roles as Assistant Republican Leader and on the Bill Screening Committee. Additionally, he will serve as a member of the budget-writing Appropriations Committee, the Banking Committee and the Education Committee.

The 2019 Legislative Session will run for a five-month period from Jan. 9 to June 5. Simanski can be reached at Bill.Simanski@housegop.ct.gov or 860-240-8700.

GRANBY FOOD BANK

YOU ARE NEEDED

FIND US

Granby residents are needed to fill vacancies on the Agricultural Commission, Development Commission and Library Board. If you are interested in filling any of these positions, contact the Democratic Town Committee Chair Christine Chinni at Granby Democrats@ gmail.com, the Republican Town Committee Chair Mark Neumann at 860-653-9668, or the Town Manager at 860-844-5300.

We currently need:

Microwave popcorn Coffee, Apple juice Mayo/ketchup/ mustard Canned fruit cocktail Jams/jellies Paper towels Dish/laundry detergents Donations can be dropped off at the VNA office on Salmon Brook Street

animal should be able to fend for itself successfully.

I am writing, first of all, to praise Rego and his colleagues for their compassion and expertise in rescuing an injured animal. All Connecticut taxpayers can take pride in supporting such professionalism.

Secondly, I wish to express the hope that the individual responsible for maiming this animal meant only to scare the bear away, not to injure it. I fervently hope that he regrets his action and has learned an important lesson about respect for our fellow non-human companions on planet Earth.

John Weeks

TAP, TAP, TAP

TAP (Transpotation Action Program) is looking for a few good people to drive or serve as a coordinator—training will be provided.

The total staff of TAP volunteers is down to less than half of the needed contingent. Although this vital program has been running since 1967, it will soon not be able to sustain free rides for Granby citizens in need of transportation for medical/dental appointments, etc. Call 860-844-5351 to give a little of your time and get to know some of your neighbors who may need an occasional ride.

ADVERTISERS AGREEMENT

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

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

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2018 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved.

CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Hank Rau, Copy Editor Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Barbara Blanchette, Mindy Borrego, George Borrego, Carolyn Carter, Elaine Girard, Joan Griswold, Janet Hendricks, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley, Lou Urban, Kay Woodford Reporters & Contributors Alan Addley, Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Peter Dinella, Bernadette Gentry, Jay Harder, Rachel Hennessy, Carol Laun, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue,

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

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

Shirley Murtha, John R. Nieb, Camden Robertson, Lisa Salazar, Emma Smith, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Sandy Yost Advertising Team Carol Bressor, Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey, Karen Eustis, Advisor

Send your news articles and ideas, photos and letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org.

Please include your name, phone and email address. Deadlines for the next issue are printed on the back page in this issue or visit our website: www.granbydrummer.com.

Subscriptions & Delivery

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

LETTERS

Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, February 4, Tuesday, February 19 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Community Room, Monday, February 25 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Central Office, Wednesdays, February 6, February 20

Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, February 13

@GranbyDrummer

The Granby Drummer

Nancy Dudenhofer, Nancy Fischer,

Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall Wednesday, February 13, Tuesday, February 26

Social Media www.facebook.com/Granby-Drummer

February 2019

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, February 11

Sam & Becky Mikus

POLICY

The Drummer welcomes letters.

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

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 5

Thoughts on the Kearns School proposal

Opinion

by Susan Patricelli Regan The proposal by the Kearns School Committee, led by Elliot Altomare, is an altruistic objective; however, it must make dollars and cents for the Town of Granby, its citizens and its relative economic health.

While a non-binding letter of intent is being drafted, there are several points to be considered. These are not all relative factors and can be expanded upon as deliberation occurs. However, they are strategic and factual initial concerns that should serve as a template for such projects and be included in a marketing plan that I have strongly advocated. If it were done, the need to reinvent the wheel would be unnecessary each time a proposition such as this is considered.

Realistic timeline: To include completion of architectural drawings; P&Z, Building Dept. and state approvals with particular attention to asbestos, as

well as assurance for confirmation of the foundation’s 501(c)3 status. With the existing government shutdown, the timeframe is unknown.

Fundraising/Financial Sustainment: Large grant donations are often specific in purpose, limiting utilization diversity, are non-renewable and may include continual oversight/reporting parameters (eg. the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving). With the goal of generating $2.7 million in donations to complete reconstruction and cover initial operating costs, it would be appropriate to provide as soon as possible what, by whom and when the financial contributions would be available.

The feasibility of the State of Connecticut being a contributor via bonding is questionable given its perilous fiscal status acknowledged by newly elected Governor Lamont. This also has a ripple effect even if approved, because the impact would reverberate on the backs

Planning & Zoning Minutes Dec. 11, 2018

The minutes of Nov. 27, 2018 were reviewed.

On a motion by James Sansone seconded by Eric Myers, the commission voted (5-0-2) to approve the minutes of November 27, 2018. Christine Chinni and Brennan Sheahan abstained.

Public Hearings Application seeking a Special Permit for a 28-square-foot, illuminated freestanding sign for property at 116 Salmon Brook Street.

Thomas Sirman, owner of Granby Auto Wash, addressed the commission. Also present were Susan Okie, owner of Horses and Hounds, and Lisa Hamel, owner of Wine Etc. Sirman explained the three businesses would like to install a directory sign on the corner of Salmon Brook Street and Mill Pond Drive. The proposed sign would replace the existing sign that is shared by Granby Auto Wash and Horses and Hounds. The sign would be located on Granby Auto Wash property, 116 Salmon Brook Street, and would be 28-square-feet in total area, allowing nine square feet of sign of area for each business. Sirman explained the sign would be eight feet in height and illuminated with lights shining downward on the sign.

He said the unsightly concrete blocks that are the base of the existing sign would be removed and replaced with landscaping at the base of the new sign. He would be responsible for sign maintenance. The commission discussed the design and height of the proposed sign and concluded that its height would not negatively impact other businesses or be a visual hazard to motorists. Paula Johnson asked the audience for public comment of which there was none.

James Sansone recused himself from voting.

The public hearing closed at 7:10 p.m. The commission has 65 days to decide.

Receive applications and set public hearings: Application seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations sections 3.5.2, 8.21.4 and 8.21.9 which would allow by Special Permit a self-storage facility in the Business (C2) and Aquifer Protection Overlay Zones. File Z-23-18.

Application seeking a change of zone from Economic Development (ED) to Business (C2) for property located at 100 Salmon Brook Street. File Z-24-18.

The above applications have been scheduled for public hearing on January 8, 2019.

Consideration of applications where the commission has concluded the public hearing.

On a motion by Eric Myers seconded by Christine Chinni, the commission voted to approve an application seeking a Special Permit for a 28-squarefoot illuminated freestanding sign for property at 116 Salmon Brook Street.

Staff Reports and Correspondence Kenyon distributed a letter and photos submitted

by Gary Kevorkian regarding the placement of trash receptacles behind Starbucks at 10 Hartford Avenue.

She explained the site plan shows trash receptacles are to be located at the north end of the building. The zoning enforcement officer, William Volovski, met with the property owner and explained the need to comply with the approved site plan or submit a modification of the site plan for the commission’s consideration.

Kenyon reported the zoning enforcement officer will monitor the situation and will follow up with the property owner.

– Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

Celebrating our 26thYear in Granby Pain can be relentless and exhausting...

Imagine Life without pain.

Imagine moving easily, freely and with more energy! Imagine coping better and enjoying life again! Sounds great, doesn’t it? Life without pain is possible.

At Chiropractic Care of Granby, hundreds of people just like you have been successfully treated. We believe we can help you too! Life without pain is more than something to imagine. It can be a reality.

Our procedures are gentle and effective for personal, work, auto and sports related injuries.

SPECIALIZING IN THE TREATMENT OF: • • • • • • • • Dr. John Hitchiner

Low Back Pain Arm, Leg Pain Sciatic Pain Numbness, Hands, Feet Headaches, Migraines Mid Back Pain Whiplash Injuries Sprains, Strains

Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician

• • • • • • •

Arthritic Pain Bursitis Joint Pain Neck Pain Sports Injuries On the Job Injuries Auto Injuries

Massage and Nutritional Therapy Available

of Connecticut taxpayers and we need to heed the vulnerability of Granby’s own fragile bottom line in this mix and the consequences to our mill rate.

Regarding expected cash flow from fees and services to be charged, there is considerable emotional and enthusiastic vocal support for a broad spectrum of services proposed for this community center. This would necessitate sufficient staffing, requisite insurance coverage, general overhead costs etc., which requires a substantiation of anticipated revenue from membership fees and any income sources other than donations.

The Kearns School Steering Committee’s current plan proposes that the town would receive a lease payment of $1 annually with maintenance costs to be absorbed by the lessee ($30-$50K per year). This is assumed to be the facility’s responsibility as part of their overhead costs, and thus no new news.

Even with the suggested income forfeiture, ownership would remain with the town, which would expose it to potential litigation for lawsuits from a multitude of age ranges, workshops, physical activities and users in and out of town. The broader “risk management” exposure could result in higher insurance costs to the town.

If the contract is for 10 years as cur-

rently stipulated, and the lease/contract is not renewed, does the facility (with all improvements/upgrades/increased property value) revert back to the town or would the initial donators to the nonprofit question this outcome and pursue financial refunds?

Summary: Given the above, I have submitted a Plan B proposal to the town administration that would address many of these concerns, provide the parties mutual equitability, optimize fundraising resources and potentially alleviate long-term contract constraints by either party. Bringing this Plan B to the Kearns School Study Committee and the general public is respectfully advisable. Consideration of Plan B would potentially provide more dollars and make greater “sense” for Granby’s economic management and fiscal future.

Patricelli-Regan is founder and Executive Director of The Sylvia Davis Patricelli Fine Arts Scholarship Foundation, President of the Foxfield F.A.R.M. (For A Recovery Mission) Foundation, Host of CT Valley Views TV program and former Vice President of Trade and Community Relations for DIAGEO, N.A. Head Quarters. She and her husband, William J. Regan have been residents of Granby for 16 years.

GMHS chorus performs for Granby men’s breakfast

The Granby Memorial High School Chorus performed for the Granby Senior Men’s breakfast group in December. The chorus is under the direction of Mindy Shelansky.

Photo by Nat Kennedy

Drumrolls

Nicole Gosselin has been named to the dean’s list for the 2018 fall semester at the University of New England

Claire Newhall, a fine arts major in the class of 2022, was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Saint Anselm College.

N OW R ENTI N G

PERSONALIZED WORK SPACE ONE LOW MONTHLY PAYMENT INCLUDES WI-FI / INTERNET / PHONE / DESKS / ALL UTILITIES PARKING / CONFERENCE ROOM / KITCHENETTE ON-SITE IT SUPPORT / A DYNAMIC ENVIRONMENT

2

PA R K P CE

Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 am - 6 pm; Sat. 8 am - 11am

2 P A R K P LA C E . C O M 8 6 0.6 5 3 . PA R K

www.chirocareofgranby.com

2 PAR K P CE , G R AN BY, CT

$10 Price Reduction for 1 hr. Massage in February 2019, (Reg. $50) - With this Ad

CHIROPRACTIC CARE OF GRANBY 50 Hartford Ave., (Rt. 189) 653-5581 Most Insurances Accepted

Page 6 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Board of Education hears good news from the state and from teachers

By Jessica Tsaptsinos The Board of Education reported at its Nov. 28 meeting that the State ECS Funding will be approximately $600K more than the original budget. A final confirmation of this is will be made at an upcoming April meeting.

A recap of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education and Connecticut Association of Public Schools Superintendents (CABE/CAPSS) convention noted that the Board was presented with a Level II Leadership award. Dr. Alan Addley received the highest award given to a superintendent—Superintendent of the Year. Melissa Migliaccio, BOE chair, stated how proud she is of Addley and how his peers talk about how he has mentored them and how they routinely call on him for advice, which he welcomes and encourages. These accomplishments were also celebrated at the Dec. 5 meeting in a video highlighting Dr. Addley’s work throughout the years. In attendance were members of the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance and past Board of Education Chairs, Cal Heminway and Ronald Walther.

Also presented at the Nov. 28 meeting was a video by preschool teachers, Sarah Richard and Mary Scully, giving a peek into a typical day in the life of a preschool

student: circle time, reading, writing, peer models, etc. There are currently 42 students in the program. Special education ratio is 5 to 8. Kelly Lane Principal Kim Dessert stated some students are currently attending for a full day and the district is looking to be able to do two full-day sections as well as taking Open Choice Students.

At the Dec. 5 meeting, instructional coaches Ann Belding, Amy Lupoli, Dawn Olson and Kristin Rice, shared highlights of the district’s new Student Center Coaching Model. The process impacts teacher learning, which in turn impacts student learning—a partnership with teachers working together to reach the teachers’ goal for student learning.

The coaches are shared between elementary and secondary buildings. They meet as a committee every Monday morning to discuss problems of practice and theories of actions. The Common Core State Standards are studied and goals are set.

When the Coaching Cycle is done, the coaches do a post-assessment that will continue to guide their work as coaches.

The goal is to have 60 percent of time in coaching cycles and the other 40 percent of time leftover for informal coaching (unit planning, curriculum work, PLC’s, meeting with principals and training).

The coaches believe that, although they

Granby Cubs senior men’s baseball recap

By Chris Mele The 2018 Granby Cubs Men’s Senior Baseball League (MSLB) finished its inaugural season in the 25-plus division at the end of July and are looking forward to the 2019 season. The team was very competitive, but it is moving to the 35plus division. The Cubs are looking for additional players for the 2019 season, so if you’re 35ish or older and are interested in playing baseball again or want more information, please contact us at: granbycubs@yahoo.com The Cubs also sent five representatives to the MSBL 25-plus All-Star Game that was played at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in mid-September. Players Bill Hallam, Mike Joseph, Chris Mele, Nick Mele, and Coach Leo Mele represented the team at the game. The Cubs players represented

the National League team, which won the contest 7-2. The All-Star game and home run derby are the league’s biggest charity event. The league raised over $2,000 for Wounded Warriors and the American Cancer Society.

The team would again like to thank its 2018 sponsors: Beacon Mechanical; The Patchwork Schoolhouse; Tim’s Automotive; Route 10 Tire; Hayes-Huling & Carmon Funeral Home; All Dogs Zone, LLC; Signature Flight Support; and the donations from Windsor Federal Savings and Beman Hardware. Please like and follow the group on Facebook at: Granby Cubs. As the Cubs look forward to the 2019 season, it seeks sponsors to help with team costs. If you are interested in being a sponsor please email granbycubs@yahoo.com

are not affecting all students, eventually the work being done will impact all students.

Assistant Principal and Director of Guidance Julie Groene, also reported the Annual Guidance Services Report to the board. The College Application Summary as of Dec. 1 listed 928 total applications have been processed for 172 students. For post-secondary destinations, the Class of 2019 has 91 percent of students attending either a two- or four-year college, 3 percent are attending a military/technical training program and 6 percent plan on entering the workforce post-graduation.

The board reported that repairs on the high school roof have now been completed despite being delayed due to cold and rainy weather.

The Start Time Task Force has met continuously and surveys went out to

New BOS student liaison active and involved

by Shirley Murtha A second student liaison has joined the Board of Selectmen. Granby Memorial High School senior James Kuhnly has always been interested in world happenings, and closer to home, local government, having an uncle who served 40 years on Simsbury’s Planning and Zoning commission. His dad has been in public service in Granby for 25 years, currently as First Selectman.

James sees the position of student liaison to the BOS as a great way to learn about Granby government and also to inform the board of the positive things taking place at the high school.

Although James enjoys many of his classes, he particularly likes his AP environmental science and AP psychology courses. Possible future careers might be in business or animal science. He has applied to several colleges, his top three being the University of Colorado at Boulder, the University of New Hampshire and Marist.

A well-rounded student, James has been active in athletics since his freshman year. He is captain of the

Drumrolls

Zachary Robert Quinn graduated from Clemson University with a BS in financial management.

Amy Lenihan has been named to the Fall 2018 dean’s list at Roger Williams University.

Taylorann Parker Vibert majoring in government and politics was named

Nick Mele and Leo Mele at the All-Star game at Dunkin’ Donuts Park. Nick and Leo both work for Dyno Nobel who sponsored the Home Run Derby portion of the festivities.

Photo by Chris Mele

Granby Insurance Agency, Inc. Since 1948

• Homeowners • Automobile • Boat & Motorcycle • Life • Business Insurance • Bonds • Recreational Vehicles 860-653-7231 • john@granbyinsurance.com

29 Hartford Ave. • Granby, CT 06035

the community with return date of Jan. 11, 2019. The survey gathered feedback on how starting school 15-45 minutes later would affect families and students.

Maddy Wilson, student representative for the BOE, advised that high school students also took the survey and that it was favorably received to start school at least 30 minutes later.

More information and details of the fiscal year 2019 Budget will be forthcoming as it starts to take shape over the coming months.

The public is welcome at the BOE Meetings, held the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month in the Town Hall Meeting room, unless otherwise advised.

View the meetings in their entirety on Granby Community Television online at gctv16.org and live on channel 16 at the regularly scheduled meeting times.

GMHS senior James Kuhnly is a new BOS student liaison. photo by Shirley Murtha

lacrosse team and enjoyed a successful soccer season this past fall.

In addition, he started the Outdoors Club which now has 40 members. Club activities might include skiing, hiking, biking, swimming and photography.

Outside of school activities, James enjoys taking care of his two pet goats.

Originally a 4-H project, they have become members of the family. to the fall 2018 dean’s list at University of Maryland.

Katherine McCartney graduated with honors from West Chester University with a major in special education and a minor in English literature.

Jake B. Barrows was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Wentworth Institute.

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 7

Planning & Zoning Minutes Nov. 27, 2018

There was no public comment.

On a motion by Jonathan Boardman, seconded by Eric Lukingbeal, the commission voted to approve the minutes of November 13, 2018 as amended. Public Hearing, Section 8.16.10.11 (dealing with special permits for outdoor dining) should read: Light music may be permitted until 10 p.m. The decibel (dB) level for music may not exceed 50dB measured at the property line.

Public Hearings Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.6.13 and 8.6.14 for a 14 square-foot illuminated freestanding sign for property at 91 Salmon Brook Street a/k/a 3 Murtha’s Way (The Grand at Ridgewood).

Mr. Mancuso of Upstream Properties addressed the commission. He explained he would like to install a 14-square-foot illuminated freestanding sign at 3 Murtha’s Way. It will be located approximately 80 to 100 feet back from Salmon Brook Street and the bronze letters will be mounted on the face of the existing stonewall. The lighting will be located at the base of the wall and be flush to the ground.

Eric Lukingbeal recused himself from voting.

The public hearing closed at 7:07 p.m.

Consideration of applications where the commission has concluded the public hearing.

The commission held a brief discussion concerning a Special Permit for an illuminated sign, noting that the sign is compatible with the development in both design and scale. On a motion by Margaret Chapple, seconded by Jonathan Boardman, the commission approved the Special Permit.

Staff Reports and Correspondence Modification to an Approved Site Plan for 9 Bank Street, Geissler’s Plaza parking lot repaving and improvements. Director of Community Development Abby Kenyon, reported the site plan was approved by town staff, and the Town Engineer signed off on the erosion and sediment control plan. Work is expected to begin in the spring.

Modification to an Approved Site Plan, Zoning Regulations for 91 Salmon Brook Street a/k/a 3 Murtha’s Way, walkway/patio, stone wall, mail kiosk, and fence.

Kenyon reported that Mancuso submitted an application to modify the approved site plan. Changes include adding fence for a dog park, adjustments to the patio and location of walkways, and the installation of a mailbox kiosk. James Sansone asked if there will be flag poles installed. There will be two flag poles installed behind the stonewall for a United States flag and one for the State of Connecticut flag.

Kenyon noted a Special Permit application was received for 116 Salmon Brook Street to replace an existing sign. This application is scheduled for public hearing on December 11, 2018.

She also announced a public informational meeting regarding the Connecticut DOT Granby Center intersection improvements. The meeting was held on January 15, 2019 at the Granby Senior Center at 7 p.m. She noted the meeting was conducted by DOT. Kenyon reported there has been interest in the development of several properties located in the T1 Zone, across from Mill Pond Drive. She asked that the commission review the T1 Zoning Regulations as there may be an informal presentation to discuss potential uses, including drive-thru options. Paula Johnson stated the applicant may want to address the Development Commission first to discuss the site as it was instrumental in drafting the T1 Regulations and can provide guidance, whereas the Planning and Zoning commission is limited in the feedback they can provide during an informal discussion. She noted a joint meeting is also a possibility.

Commission discussion of items of interest or concern In response to a question regarding sidewalk lights in the center of town, Kenyon stated she spoke to Eversource on Monday and was told the work should be completed this week. She will continue to contact Eversource until the work is complete.

James Sansone asked how the Stony Hill Village improvements are funded. The project is funded through the Small Cities program, with the funds being disbursed through the Community Development Office.

Nov. 13, 2018

The minutes of Sep. 25, 2018 were reviewed.

On a motion by Eric Myers seconded by Jonathan Boardman, the commission voted to approve the minutes of September 25, 2018. Charles Kraiza and Brennan Sheahan abstained.

Informal Discussions Discuss possible application for 100 Salmon Brook Street, self-storage facility in the Economic Development and Aquifer Protection Overlay Zones.

Jeff Michaelson, building contractor, addressed the commission. Michaelson stated that he is expanding on information presented to the Planning and Zoning commission at the September 11, 2018 meeting. Michaelson noted the commission previously expressed some concerns regarding a self-storage facility in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone. He explained measures would be put into place to contain any potential spills, for example the porous concrete

floor of the facility would be sealed; a contract between the facility and customers would prohibit storing hazardous materials; and facility staff would visually inspect items being brought into the storage facility.

The commission commented on building techniques to contain spills, the importance of protecting the aquifer, and noted relying on a staff member to inspect items may not be sufficient. It was noted this is an informal discussion and therefore the commission is unable to give an affirmative response regarding a future application at this time.

Michaelson asked about next steps. Kenyon stated self-storage facilities are currently prohibited in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone and only allowed in the Industrial Zone by Special Permit. Therefore, the commission would have to consider two regulation changes in order to proceed. Specifically, amendments would be needed to allow the use in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone and to allow the use as either a Permitted Use or Special Permit Use in the Economic Development zone. The commission could possibly consider a zone change for the property to the Industrial Zone, as the proposed use is allowed

by Special Permit in the Industrial Zone.

Public Hearings Application seeking an amendment to the Zoning Regulations (Section 8.16 Restaurants), which would allow by Special Permit a seasonal outdoor dining area. File Z-19-18.

The public hearing for the above application was opened. It was explained the intent of the proposed amendment is to encourage outdoor dining while mitigating potential impacts on surrounding properties.

The commission reviewed Section 8.16.10. After discussing the amendment, the following modifications (in bold) were made to Zoning Regulations Section 8.16.10: 8.16.10: All tables, chairs, trash receptacles, outdoor heaters, etc. shall be removed at the end of each outdoor eating season. If they are to remain on site outdoors, a storage plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the commission, per Section 8.16.9.

8.16.10.11 Light music may be permitted by 10 p.m.

The decibel (dB) level for music may not exceed 50dB

Drumrolls

Jarrod Gaalswijk, son of Randa and Cornel Gaalswijk, a freshman, was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at the University of Tampa.

Sarah Cusano has been named to the fall dean’s list at the UCONN College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

measured from the property line.

8.16.10.12 A public address system or other system intended to convey verbal messages is prohibited.

New 8.16.10.13 Live outdoor entertainment may be permitted pending review of the suitability of the site and proximity to other sensitive uses.

The regulation, which was 8.16.10.13, changed to 8.16.10.14: 8.16.10.14: If alcoholic beverages are to be served at the outdoor dining area, the enclosure of the outdoor dining area must also meet the requirements of any agency having jurisdiction over the service of such beverages.

The public hearing was closed.

Receive Application and Set Public Hearing Application seeking a Special Permit for a 14 square-foot illuminated freestanding sign for property at 91 Salmon Brook Street a/k/a 3 Murtha’s Way. File Z-21-18. The public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 27, 2018.

Consideration of applications where the commission has concluded the public hearing.

On a motion by Eric Myers seconded by Jonathan Boardman, the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve the amendment to Zoning Regulations Section 8.16 Restaurants, with three changes with an effective date of Dec. 1, 2018.

Staff Reports and Correspondence Kenyon reported that the Plan of Conservation and Development Implementation Committee had their first meeting last week. Margaret Chapple and Eric Myers are subcommittee members. It was noted the next meeting is on November 28, 2018.

Discussion of items of interest or concern In response to a question from a commissioner about Farmer’s Kitchen, Kenyon stated she has spoken to the owner about moving the tables and chairs that block the sidewalk and was told they would be removed. It was noted that the owner has not yet complied.

Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

Tylor Viets will receive a $3,000 Pine Tree College Grant from Husson University. He is seeking a BS in criminal justice/BS in psychology with a mental health rehabilitation technician/community certification program.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HomeServices

Diamond Award Winner Top 1/2% Nationally Top Agent Award in Connecticut Top Customer Service Award in Connecticut Five-Star Award Winner #1 Top Selling Agent in Granby #1 Top Listing Agent in Granby

Customer Service: Efficiently helping customers with a trained staff, always being positive and responsive to assist customers when buying or selling your home.

Call me . . . Let Me Put My 32 Years of Real Estate Excellence to Work for You.

Nancy Reardon 860-836-7506 www.NancyReardon.com

nreardon@bhhsne.com

Experience the Expertise of your Hometown Realtor. © 2018 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. ®Equal Housing Opportunity

bhhsNEProperties.com Granby Drummer April 2018

Page 8 The Granby Drummer

Focus on Education

Alan Addley, Ed. D.

‘Tis the Budget Season!

Editor’s note: The following article has been updated since it appeared in the print edition.

February is not only budget season on the school calendar but it is also the start of the legislative session at the State Capitol. It promises to be another challenging season as a new governor and legislature work to address a $2 billion budget deficit in 2020, followed by a $2.4 billion deficit in 2021. Hopefully, the Legislature will not impose any new unfunded mandates and will at least maintain the state’s budgeted FY19 revenues to municipalities and schools.

This will not be easy given the current uncertainty about funding for education cost sharing, special education and teacher retirements.

One thing seems certain—the financial picture for towns and the funding for education is not getting any easier. As they have always done, in preparing the annual budget, Granby’s Board of Finance (BOF), Selectmen (BOS) and Education (BOE) continue to work collaboratively in the best interests of the taxpayers and students. The first major step in the town’s budget process took place at the end of January when the BOS and BOE presented their Plus One Budgets to the BOF. The Plus One Budget projects the district’s operating budget, small capital and large capital needs over the next five years. It articulates the district’s priorities and frames the issues and dilemmas as the administration and BOE work through the challenges and settle on a final budget in March. The

Plus One projections are used by the BOF to establish budget guidelines and long-range financial planning. The BOF will most likely adopt a budget guideline for the BOE & BOS later this month after the new Governor has presented his budget.

The school district’s Plus One Budget developed for next year (FY20) requests a 4.83% increase in the operating budget over FY19. Some significant items in the operating budget that contribute to the 4.83% include funding for special education services; math intervention services at the intermediate school; expansion of the elementary strings program; Chinese into Grade 7; a few extracurricular clubs; new Freshman, Art and Advanced Placement Courses; a Makerspace/STEM Lab at the primary school; and, a new substitute teacher service. Looking ahead a little, the town will soon have to address needed capital upgrades to the high school facility that are likely to be recommendations from the recent NEAS&C accreditation visit. The full details of the Plus One Budget can be accessed on Granby Public Schools’ website. The BOE and administration have been responsive to these difficult economic challenges by closing a school, reducing staff, realizing operating efficiencies, and presenting reasonable budgets. During the past decade, the district operating budgets have been modest (an average increase of less than 1.24%) and the town continues to realize a terrific return on its financial investment in education.

February 2019

Granby’s Got Talent

By Camden Robertson

letic Booster Club, we are a group of Granby parent and student volunteers dedicated to supporting and enhancing the high school athletic community.

Our mission is to aid and assist in the development and enhancement of school athletic programs and promote pride in our school. Parents and students are invited to join the Booster Club meetings that are held the first Thursday of each month in the GMHS media center at 7 p.m. We support high school homecoming week games, create fall, winter, and spring sports programs, sell concessions for several sports teams, support fan buses for our high school students, and help in purchasing important athletic facilities such as the concessions stand, golf cart, weight room equipment, scoreboard and pole vault mats.

For more information on the Granby’s Got Talent event or the Booster’s Club, visit GMHSBoosters.com or email info@GMHSBoosters.com

Do you have a special talent that you’ve been itching to share with others? Or are you perhaps a seasoned performer with a love for music or dance? You’re in luck.

The Granby Memorial High School Athletic Booster Club will host a talent show on Saturday, May 11, at 6 p.m. in the GMHS Auditorium. The entire Granby community is welcome to attend and participate in the talent show, including Granby students that live in Hartland or Hartford. Large cash prizes will be given to the top three acts, with $50 for third place, $100 for second place, and $250 for the first place act.

Space for participation in the contest is limited, so it is important to register today at GMHSBoosters.com. The registration deadline is March 15, and the contestant act fee will be $30 per act.

Students at Granby Memorial High School were invited to participate in a logo contest for this event, and we are excited to celebrate our winners: 1st Place Winner is Kenya Mouning 2nd Place Tied Wi n n e r s : E r i n Moody and Kevin Harnois In case you are unfamiliar with The three winners of the logo contest are, from left, Erin Moody, the GMHS Ath- Kenya Mouning, Kevin Harnois. Submitted photo The community continues to be proud of its school system. It is imperative during these turbulent times that we maintain the high-quality educational programming for Granby students; protect the educational investment already made by the community; and, ensure the district remains attractive to prospective families and to opportunities for regionalization.

Here is wishing wisdom and good luck to the new governor, legislature and town officials in addressing their financial challenges this season. I will be discussing some of the budgetary issues facing the district at the next Superintendent’s Forum on Thursday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m. in the Board of Education Conference Room. The Superintendent’s Budget will be presented to the Board at the March 6 BOE meeting. As always, I encourage everyone to stay involved in the budget process.

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 9

Grease set for March 15-17 at GMHS Granby Performing Arts at GMHS is back with this year’s spring musical Grease by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, directed by Nikki Currie-Huggard. It’s 1959, and Rydell High School’s senior class is in rare form. The too-coolfor-school “T-Birds” are stealing hubcaps and acting tough and their gum-snapping, chain-smoking “Pink Ladies” are looking hot in bobby sox and pedal pushers. The 1950s high school dream is about to explode in this rollicking musical that is both an homage to the idealism of the 50s and a satire of high schoolers’ age-old desire to be provocative and rebellious. While the hip Danny Zuko and the wholesome Sandy Dumbrowski resolve the problems of their mutual attraction, the gangs sing and dance their way through such nostalgic scenes as the pajama party, the prom, the burger palace, and the drive-in movie.

The musical features freshman Jacob Scotto as Danny Zuko, senior Mikayla

Thompson as Sandy Dumbrowski, senior Kate Hosack as Rizzo, senior Max Morris as Kenickie, senior Sophie Speliopoulos (club secretary) as Frenchy, senior Melena Koft as Marty, senior Ana Bourque as Jan, senior Hunter Chicoine as Roger, sophomore Nick Boyd as Doody, sophomore Tommy Dlugolenski as Sonny, senior Ben Davis as Vince Fontaine, and senior Luke Jennings as Johnny Casino.

Grease will be performed at Granby Memorial High School in the auditorium on Friday, March 15 and Saturday, March 16, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 17, at 3 p.m..

Tickets are $15 for general audience and $12 for seniors and students. Tickets will be available for presale at Granby Pharmacy as well as at the door the nights of the show. We hope to see you there and thank you for your support of the performing arts!

Simsbury-Granby Rotary hosts holiday party for group home The Simsbury-Granby Rotary recently hosted a holiday party for 63 group home residents and 32 of their staff. The party was held at the Simsbury United Methodist Church on Dec. 6. It was the 40th year the local Rotary Club hosted this event.

Guests were treated to holiday music by the Simsbury High School Cabaret, a sumptuous meal catered and donated by Fitzgerald’s, and a visit from Santa and his precocious elf, who distributed gifts to all residents and their caregivers. Everyone seemed to catch the holiday spirit. Mirelle Neumann, co-chair of the event, captured the mood saying, “This is so rewarding and so much fun for all of us.”

Granby Pharmacy

9 Hartford Avenue, Granby • 860-653-2517 • www.granbypharmacy.com

Browse through our Valentine’s Day cards, gifts and a wide assortment of locally made crafts.

Flu shots available

HERE

Scouts contribute to our community

Local Girl Scouts work diligently to make contributions to Granby. At top, the troop earned their First Aid Badges and collected food for Granby’s Food Bank. Scouts happily continue the sweet tradition of selling Girl Scout cookies. Above, two of the troop members make their pitches in front of Geissler’s on Election Day. Photos by Sharon Eastman

Story telling isn’t just for kids!

On Saturday, February 9, at South Church (242 Salmon Brook St.), creative and experienced storytellers will enthrall you with real life episodes from their actual pasts. Hot muscle cars from the 60s, snowmobile racing and military rank, good old fashioned Midwestern pearls of wisdom to the bride and human versus wild (?) animals from goldfish to bears with a dog in between. These are some of the high points that might spark memories of your own misadventures.

Some are funny, some are touching, all are entertaining. Come hear how some of your friends and neighbors steered their courses through the long-ago and the notso-long-ago. The telling begins at 7 p.m. in the cozy coffee house atmosphere of fellowship hall. There is no set admission price, but a free-will donation will be gladly accepted. And, you’ll get goodies, too. Homemade snacks at halftime.

Remember, all stories are true and some actually happened.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HomeServices

I’ll negotiate the sweetest deal for YOU! The Spring Market is Around the Corner!

Buyers are looking, inventory is low and rates are terrific. I work with a team of professionals that go the extra mile to make the buying or selling process seamless.

Life can be a box of chocolates when you find the right Realtor!

Call me . . .

2017 President’s Circle Award Winner!

. . . Let’s make time to talk!

This Granby Girl Knows GRANBY!

Michael J. Keating, BS Pharm • Colleen Keating, BS Pharm • Jean Keating, Pharm D

Monday through Friday: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm Saturday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm • Sunday: Closed

Keeping Granby healthy for 50-plus years and counting!

Judy Guarco 860-651-2127

• Resident for 50+ years • Customer Service Awards for 10+ Years • Five-Star Professional Realtor Award for the last 5 years • Awarded the 2016 “President’s Circle” -Top 4% Nationally for Berkshire Hathaway

e-mail: judyguarco@bhhsne.com website: www.judyguarco.bhhsneproperties.com © 2019 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. ®Equal Housing Opportunity

bhhsNEProperties.com Granby Drummer Guarco, Judy

Page 10 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Simsbury Bank 2019 calendar highlights local photographers’ work

Board of Distinction Award presentation. From l. are: Mark Fiorentino, Granby BOE, Melissa Migliaccio, Granby BOE, Alan Addley, Granby Superintendent of Schools, Dianne Wentzel, Connecticut Commissioner of Education, and Lynn Guelzow, Granby BOE

Simsbury Bank is pleased to have made a $600 donation to the Granby Camera Club in exchange for photos taken by Club members that are featured in the bank’s 2019 full-color calendar.

Simsbury Camera Club members also contributed photos in exchange for a donation from the Bank.

The bank has been publishing a free calendar of local photos each year since 2003. The calendar continues to feature beautiful images of local scenes and landmarks. Granby Camera Club members Pat Greenhalgh, Ed Hodgson and Del Shilkret contributed photos that appear in the 2019 calendar.

Calendars are free and available in all of the bank’s branches while supplies last. Those who would like to pick up a

free calendar can do so at the following Simsbury Bank branch locations during branch business hours: Avon–27 Dale Rd. Bloomfield–864 Cottage Grove Rd. Granby–11 Hartford Ave. Simsbury–981 Hopmeadow St. West Hartford–232 Farmington Ave. In addition to providing the printed calendar, Simsbury Bank also hosts a Community Events Calendar on its website. Simsbury Bank supports local organizations by publicizing this information online.

Local not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to submit upcoming events to the bank’s online calendar listing at simsburybank.com

Accolades given for Granby schools U.S. News and World Report ranked Granby Memorial High School as 19th for public high schools in the State of Connecticut. The rankings are based on a high rate of participation and passage for AP exams, our state reading and math assessments exceed expectations, and we outperformed state averages in serving our black, Hispanic and low-income students (usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/ connecticut/rankings). Excluding charter and magnet schools, the other Hartford county schools in the Top 20 were Hall, 11th; Conard, 12th; Simsbury 14th, and Farmington 20th.

In addition, for the tenth year in a row, the Granby Board of Education received the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE) Level II - Board of Distinction Award. The presentation, above, was made at its annual dinner in November. .

Drumrolls

Tyler Rome, Class of 2020 was named to the dean’s list at Bucknell University during the fall semester of the 2018-19 academic year.

The following students have been named to the dean’s list at Becker

College for the fall semester. Griffin Barrows is pursuing a BA in interactive media design, computer game design concentration. Nakiska Vaughan is pursuing a BS in veterinary science, pre-veterinary concentration.

From l.: Del Shilkret, Ed Hodgson and Pat Greenhalgh, Granby Camera Club members and 2019 calendar photo contributors, displaying some of their photos used in the Simsbury Bank calendar. They were joined by Susan Presutti, Simsbury Bank Human Resources Officer.

10 Hartford Ave., Granby in the Starbucks plaza

860-844-8608 Open 7 days: Mon-Wed. 9-6, Thu.-Fri. 9-8, Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-5

ROBERT CARTER granbyvillagehealth.com

PAINTING

2018

QUALITY COMES FIRST • Interior • Exterior • Insured • Written Estimates

860-653-5859 What can I do for you?

R WINNeEValley! n th

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

Best i

Aromatherapy Supplies!

BARGAINS OF THE MONTH® While supplies last.

YOUR CHOICE

12.99 GE® 4 pk.

6W or 10.5W High Definition LED Bulbs

E 240 106, 107, 108, 109 B6

Beman True Value Hardware

©2018 True Value Company LLC

HIGHEST

QUALITY SUPPLEMENTS with the BEST PRICING available!

l Exceptional skin care, natural candles,

ORGANIC PRODUCE Delivered Weekly Wholesale

BUYING CLUB buy in bulk and SAVE BIG!

The area’s MOST COMPLETE selection of

Over 100 items stocked in our

BULK

section including over 50 different organic herbs and spices

l

VEGETARIAN CAFE

ALLERGEN-FREE EARTH FRIENDLY foods household products l

20 Hartford Ave. Granby, CT. 06035

860-653-2598

Fresh

THE

Sale ends 2/28/2019

open daily 10-3

l

Award winning

JUICE BAR

open daily till 4

EVERYDAY senior discount!

23 years of proudly serving our community! Owned by the Love Family since 1995

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 11

Lions Club scholarship recipients

PTO Corner

By the PTO Executive Board

2018 GMHS graduates (above, from l.) Taylorann Vibert, Sarah Cusano and Taylor Nowak were recipients of Lions Club Scholarships to begin their college careers. Scholarship chair John Monkiewicz presented checks in the amount of $2,500 each to the students at a dinner held at New England Pizza.

Vibert attends the University of Maryland, Cusano attends UConn, and Nowak attends Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Please volunteer for the 2019 GMHS Grad Night

Thérèse Mulvey

The 2019 GMHS Grad Night event will be held at the Granby YMCA on graduation night and offers a free, fun-filled, substance-free event in June of next year.

This event cannot happen without volunteers to help with food, room set-up, decorations and chaperoning.

If you are interested in volunteering, please join us for a meeting—held at 7p.m. the second Tuesday of every month in the media center at GMHS. The event is chaperoned by underclass parents not by the senior parents, so volunteers are needed. Senior parents can help with the planning prior to the event.

If you can’t attend but want to help, please contact the following individuals: Room set up: Contact Coreen Thompson at coreenlt@gmail.com Food (set up or pick up from businesses): Contact Michelle DeGagne at mdegagne@cox.net Chaperones: Contact Sara Scotto at scottofamily@cox.net The next meeting is at 7 on Tuesday, February 12 in the GMHS Media Center. Please come and be a part of this special event. Help us support this proud tradition and give the seniors a night to remember.

Youth Action Council sweetheart dance The YSB’s Youth Action Council is proud to present the second Sweet Heart Dance for kids in grades K–2 and a beloved adult. Join us on Sunday, Feb. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Senior Center for an afternoon of dressing up, dancing, games, crafts, snacks and prizes.

Awards will be given to the prettiest pair

in pink, the most outrageous in red, the most over the top Valentine attire, and more. Tickets are sold at the door and are $10 a pair with a $20 family maximum.

Please call 860-844-5355 to register so we have a rough head count for craft and food items.

The PTO hopes everyone had a safe and joyful holiday season! It’s hard to believe that we have turned the calendar to 2019 and are halfway through our school year. Here’s a quick look at what we’ve been up to since our last report as well as a glimpse of what’s still to come this Winter/Spring.

Just prior to the holidays, the Scholastic Book Fair Committees at Kelly Lane and Wells Road hosted successful “Enchanted Forest”-themed book fairs.

Through our volunteers’ hard work, the gym at Kelly Lane and the media center at Wells Road were transformed into reading wonderlands for students, families and teachers to enjoy. Each school also participated in a Unicorns vs. Dragons coin war in furtherance of our theme (a big thank you to Dr. Bailey for dressing up as a Dragon, the winning animal at Wells Road, during our book fair days!). Sales for both fairs exceeded $18,000, with a portion returned in cash and scholastic dollars to support the schools and classrooms. Thank you to everyone who purchased items at the fairs to give the gift of reading this holiday season.

When they returned from winter break, Wells Road students were introduced to Austin Dailey (aka “Red Supreme”), a hip-hop dance artist and DJ who spent a week-long residency at Wells teaching the students about the benefits of incorporating movement into a healthy lifestyle, about spreading kindness and, of course, about hip-hop. Over the course of his residency he met with each class at least two times for an intensive workshop where the students learned a grade-specific dance routine. Wells Road families were then invited to a Family Dance Night, DJ’d by Dailey, where the students showed off their moves and learned new ones as well.

Dailey brought along some members of his dance troupe and entertained a large enthusiastic crowd with their stunning hip-hop and breakdancing abilities before rounding out the night with a parents vs. kids dance battle! The feedback regarding Dailey’s residency and Family Dance Night is extraordinarily positive; we can’t wait to hear from the families at Kelly Lane, where he is scheduled to begin his residency later in January and where he is sure to get the little ones moving and grooving as well. Thank you to the PTO Cultural Arts Committee for sponsoring and coordinating Dailey’s visit to Granby and introducing our students and families to the exciting world of hip-hop. Thank you to Dr. Bailey, Mr. Migneault, Mrs. Dessert, Mr. Sobowicz and all of the Wells and Kelly teachers for being gracious hosts and working with Mr. Dailey to accommodate his scheduling needs.

In terms of upcoming events, we have the following fun activities in the works: Paint Night (adults only); Volunteer Recognition and Recruitment Event; annual PTO Art Project; spring session of after school chess; Coding Night; Teacher Appreciation Week; 5th Grade Picnic; Summer Kickoff and more.

Please like and follow our Facebook page for updates regarding these activities and all PTO news: facebook.com/ granbyctpto/ We anticipate having a number of open Executive Board and Committee Chair positions for the 2019-2020 school year.

If interested in volunteering, please contact at vp@granbypto.org. Please also join us at the next PTO Meeting on March 11, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. in the Wells Road Media Center, where we will hear from Dr. Addley regarding next year’s school budget.

Floors

Installation, Staining, and Refinishing Serving the Farmington Valley and beyond for 35 years Glenn Sullivan 860-712-9803

Owner Operated Fully Insured

Hip-hop dancers.

“I think we all have empathy. We may not have enough courage to display it.”

— Maya Angelou

South Church: Evolving Empathy.

Join us some Sunday to discover how cultivating empathy leads to greater understanding. An Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome!

Worship Services: 8:30 and 10:00 a.m.

Sunday school and childcare at 10:00 a.m.

242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org

Page 12 The Granby Drummer

Out of Town

Open Cockpit Day at NEAM

Recreation of 19th Century Ice Harvest On Saturday, Feb. 2, the Noble and Cooley Center for Historic Preservation (NCCHP) will re-create a small scale ice cutting on the pond at 42 Water Street, off of Route 189, in Granville, Mass. The event is co-sponsored by the Suffield Historical Society, the Suffield Land Conservancy and the Granville Cultural Council.

Dennis Picard, former director of Storrowtown Village Museum, will organize the harvest. Picard owns a complete collection of antique ice cutting tools. During his presentation Picard demonstrates the finer points of ice cutting and explains how to use the specialized tools. Visitors will also have an opportunity to join Picard on the ice to use an ice-saw or pike pole and learn first-hand about a harvest that provided an extra cash crop for local farmers.

The program will run between 12 and 3 p.m. Visitors may participate anytime between those hours. A video on ice harvesting in New England will be shown continuously in the NCCHP Museum. The museum will be open for tours that focus on the skills and art of drum making. The group hopes to bring people together to rekindle the community spirit of the farm communities and industrial villages that were common in most of New England.

The Noble and Cooley Center for Historic Preservation invites everyone with an interest in “living history” to visit the museum.

February 2019

There is no charge for the event but donations will be gratefully accepted.

For last minute information on ice conditions and status of the harvest visit the museum ncchp.org or call 413-3576321 on Feb. 1.

Additional historical information This area of New England has a long history of ice harvesting and produced a great deal of natural ice during the early 20th Century. Commercial ice harvesting in Southwick and Suffield began right after the Civil War ended.

Prior to that time the Hudson River was the major source of ice. For several years, the polluted Hudson produced poor harvests and the ice companies looked around for a new source. The Congamond Lakes, favored with good rail transportation on the nearby New Haven-Northampton railroad line, offered a unique business opportunity.

The spring-fed Congamond Lakes produced a pure, high quality ice that found a ready market. It wasn’t long before the ice harvesters were cutting big blocks and loading them into boxcars for shipment to New York.

The Congamond operation became the largest ice harvesting operation in New England from 1900 to 1925.

In addition to the large commercial ice operations, many local farmers harvested ice from their ponds for personal use or as a source of extra income.

The Real Deal Someone once said to me, “You are not a plastic person.” I’ve remembered those words forever because they are how I want to be—genuine. Over the 75 years I’ve been on this earth, I’ve met many people I’ve bonded with instantly—because they are real people who act on what they know to be right and good.

They may have a hole in their shoe or a gold chain around their neck, but they all treat others with dignity and respect. They do caring things because it’s the right way to act, not because it brings them attention. They may be quiet or gregarious, but their spirit shines through. Knowing them is worth more than monetary things like silver or gold or even bitcoins. They are like a beautiful piece of music or a cloudless blue sky.

They accept others with loving hearts. They believe in causes and whether they are in the background or foreground, they speak out for what is right and act accordingly.

In the New Year I wish you this Blessing in your life. For knowing such people has been my most treasured gift.

—Bernadette R. Gentry

The New England Air Museum will hold its second Open Cockpit Day for 2019 on Saturday, Feb. 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Special activities include climb-aboard experiences in historic aircraft; flight simulators; hands-on Build and Fly Challenges, and much more.

A variety of aircraft will be open for visitors including the WWII era Republic P-47D, the Vietnam War era Bell UH-1B “Huey” helicopter, as well as supersonic jet fighters including the North American F-100 Super Sabre jet fighter and the Lockheed F-104C Starfighter.

On that day, we will have drone displays and demonstrations. Museum member Jason Otrin will discuss drones in today’s world at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. These demonstrations and program are included in general admission.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter season.

Admission is $15 for ages 15 to 64, $14 for seniors 65 and up, and $10 for ages 4 to 14. Museum members and children under 3 are admitted free. Discounted

admission is available for veterans and active duty military personnel. For more information and directions to the museum, please visit www.neam.org or call 860-623-3305.

Bradley Regional Chamber News 2019 Board of Directors The Bradley Regional Chamber of Commerce (East Granby and Windsor Locks) has announced its 2019 board of directors: President Leslie Marques, My Advertising Works, LLC; Treasurer David Renouf, Bardaglio, Hart and Shuman, CPAs; and Secretary Laine Pelletier, Candlewood Suites Hotel.

Directors-at-large are: Nancy Berube, United Bank; Margaret Byrne, Margaret Byrne Attorney at Law; Sharon Courneyer, Windsor Locks Public Schools; David Iannucci, Windsor Federal Savings; Kashema Jennings, East Granby Public Schools; Tom Landry, Landry Communications; Debbie Marconi, Windsor Locks Federal Credit Union; Barbara O’Brien, Bradley Teletheatre and Bobby V’s Restaurant; and Past President, Gina Maria Alimberti, CT Trolley Museum. The board of directors meets monthly (except July and August) on the second Friday of the month at 8:30 a.m. at Candlewood Suites in

Windsor Locks. All members are invited to attend the board meetings.

Upcoming Events Behind the scenes tour of Bombardier Aerospace in Windsor Locks on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

This event is free to members, $10 for non-members.

Thursday, Feb. 7, the Suffield Chamber hosts Business After Hours at the Suffield office of Windsor Federal Savings, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The Bradley Chamber holds various business and community events throughout the year and awards scholarships to East Granby and Windsor Locks high school students. Proceeds from its signature golf tournament in conjunction with the Granby Chamber of Commerce support community outreach programs of both chambers.

Visit bradleyregionalchamber.org for more information. For questions, email admin@bradleyregionalchamber.org or call 860-653-3833.

The Strain Family EQUESTRIAN CENTER LLC 18 Vining Hill Road • Southwick, MA www.strainfamilyequestrian.com

Boarding Lessons Training Sales Leasing English & Western Riding Lessons Available Therapeutic Riding for Individuals with Disabilities

(413) 569-5797

Find us on Facebook

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 13

In Town Focus 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. If you love cats and have time to spare on a weekday morning or evening or on a weekend morning or afternoon, the shelter would love to hear from you. Call 860-3794141 or visit maryskittykorner.org for more information. Currently, the greatest need for help is on Monday, Tuesday and Friday mornings.

Men’s Breakfast

Join us Friday, Feb. 8, at the Granby Senior Center. February’s entertainment will be Mario Deidolori presenting a photo travelog, Travels in Italy. Breakfast is from 8:30 to 10 a.m., the second Friday of each month. If you are a new participant, please arrive by 8:15 and ask for Nat. After the morning welcome and news update, we enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast, followed by a 45-minute presentation. The breakfast typically includes eggs, pancakes, or French toast, sausage, homefries, coffee and orange juice.

Women’s Breakfast

Granby Women’s Breakfast will meet at the Granby Senior Center on Wednesday, Feb. 6, 8:30 a.m. for breakfast followed by a program entitled Eagles Soar: The Return of an Icon. Ginny Apple, Master Wildlife Conservationist with the DEEP, will be the guest speaker. All are welcome to attend and invite a friend to join you. Cost is $4.

Reserve your spot by calling Corrine Dickerson 860-653-9891. Food Bank donations are always appreciated.

MS Support

The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets at the Senior Center at 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-428-2463.

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, Feb. 4, at the Granby Senior Center at 7 p.m. The program for the evening is Painting with Light. This will be an indoor hands-on program.

You will need to bring your tripod and camera. To learn more about the club visit GranbyCameraClub.com The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations.

Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

SBHS Partners with GPL

During February, take in the small antiques on display at Granby Public Library. Items from the Salmon Brook Historical Society will include tools, sewing items, china, glass, toys and more.

There will be a small antique presentation on Saturday, Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Snow date Feb. 23) at GPL. Following the program there will be Q&A and appraisals. For details, call 860-844-5275.

@

by post: The Granby Drummer P. O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165

by e-mail:

editor@granbydrummer.org

Salmon Brook Music Series presents Cheryl Wheeler You may not be familiar with Cheryl, but you have probably heard her music.

She is respected as a songwriter by her peers, which can be seen by how many of them record her songs. Cheryl’s songs have been covered by artists as diverse as Dan Seals, Peter Paul and Mary, Kenny Loggins, Garth Brooks, Suzy Boggus, Melanie, Bette Midler, Maura O’Connell, Sylvia, Kathy Mattea, and Holly Near. If they think she is great, then you owe it to yourself to learn more if you aren’t familiar with her.

From her albums you can tell that she is a gifted songwriter with a beautiful voice.

From other people’s comments about her you can learn that she is a natural story teller with a fantastic sense of humor. But

until you see her in person, you never really believe what you’ve been told about her. Besides, almost half of the songs she does during her shows haven’t been recorded.

Come to South Church, 242 Salmon Brook St. (Rte 10) on Friday, March 15 to see and hear the artist about whom the Hartford Courant wrote, “Aside from her witty, warm, beautiful songs—including tunes covered by everybody from Peter, Paul and Mary to Garth Brooks—Wheeler ’s shows are graced with her wry observational humor and storytelling skills. Seasoned with saucy social commentary, her patter is a delicious, folk-flavored blend of Phyllis Diller and Mort Sahl, sometimes puckish, sometimes barbed.”

Tickets can be purchased online at salmonbrookmusicseries.com for $25 or by calling Arlene at 860-916-5066.

If not sold out, tickets will be available at the door for $28. The venue is cozy but small, so buying tickets in advance is the best way of ensuring that you can attend this remarkable show. Proceeds go to support the mission of South Church.

TOOTH TALK by MichaelUngerleider D.M.D

Affordable way to straighten teeth Q: My child seems to have an overbite; does that mean she needs braces?

A: Maybe not. If diagnosed early enough, a child between the ages of 8-12 can have their teeth straightened and jaws aligned without the need for expensive braces. With new advances in Removable appliances, such as the Occluso-Guide®, a clear rubberized mouthguard can be worn for a just a few hours during the day and then to sleep, and in as little as four to twelve months, the problems are corrected.

The Occlus-o-Guide® is designed to correct jaw discrepancies, molar relations, rotations, overbite, overjet and crowding. The cost is usually ¼ to ½ the price of traditional braces.

Q: How early can you begin to correct “bad bites”(malocclusions)?

A: The Nite-Guide® is worn by the 5-8 year old child only passively at night to correct overbite, overjet, crowding, and ‘gummy’ smiles.

It serves to also prevent the wearing away of the child’s teeth for those that grind their teeth at night. Nite-Guide® is a preformed mouthguard designed for the baby dentition to allow erupting upper and lower adult front teeth to be guided in straight. The appliance then holds these teeth straight while fibers develop around them to hold the correction. The Nite-Guide® also increases the size of the jaws in the area of the front teeth to help correct crowding.

The Granby Dental Center is one of the few offices in the area that offer the Occlus-oGuide® and Nite-Guide®. Before your child starts braces, call our office for a complimentary consultation to see if your child is a candidate for one of these appliances.

REMEMBER: February is Children’s Dental Health Month…make sure your child is being seen for regular check ups, and evaluated for healthy breathing and swallowing patterns.

The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Lasers can eliminate the need for injections and the sound of the drill! CEREC CAD-CAM technology allows us to make crowns and onlays in just one visit without the impressions or temporaries! Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%!

INVISALIGN lets adults and teens straighten their teeth without braces—we are your Invisalign connection!

If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website:

www.granbydentalcenter.com

Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/GranbyDentalCenter

Scan the QR code below for more about our practice:

SCAN THIS SYMBOL WITH YOUR DROID OR iPHONE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN!

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

Page 14 The Granby Drummer

HEALTH NOTES

By the

Farmington Valley VNA

A Good Night’s Sleep Sleep is a basic human need, like food, water and oxygen. We cannot decide to do without sleep any more than we can to choose to not eat, hydrate, or breathe.

We spend one-third of our lives asleep; for the average adult that’s 26 years. Our bodies are designed to need sleep and sleep deprivation causes serious health consequences.

Why is sleep necessary?

When we sleep, our brains consolidate learning and memories. There is also a restorative process where our brains and bodies literally take out the trash.

Cerebral spinal fluid removes waste chemicals and delivers restorative agents during sleep. Our energy is conserved during sleep when food is not taken in.

Our heart rate and blood pressure all slow down, and our muscles relax. Our bodies rejuvenate in a state of rest.

What If we don’t sleep?

Chronic sleep deprivation is serious and can lead to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and increased mortality.

Other consequences of lack of sleep are decreased focus and attention, reduced learning and information retention, impaired perception and judgment, poor decision making, poor mood regulation such as anger management, increased risk of depression, decreased productivity and an increase in errors. These result in increased accidents and injury. Many often say they do not need sleep or are fine with a few hours. They may have become accustomed to reduced hours, but their bodies will prove otherwise.

How does aging effect sleep?

A common misconception is that sleep needs decrease with age. In fact, our sleep needs remain constant throughout adulthood, needing 7-9 hours per night.

Older adults find themselves wanting to sleep earlier in the evening and wake earlier in the morning. During sleep we transition between various stages of sleep: light, deep and occasional periods of REM marked by rapid eye movement and dreams. Growth hormones in aging do cause a decrease in deep sleep. Older adults spend more time in light sleep, are awakened more easily and take more time to get back to sleep.

What causes sleep issues?

Many things can cause insomnia or poor sleep. Poor sleep habits such as

dozing in front of the TV before bedtime, using a computer before bedtime, and bright bedroom lighting. Other causes that are controllable are lack of exercise, daytime napping, lack of sunshine/time outdoors and lack of social engagement.

Less easy to change: pain or medical conditions, actual sleep disorders, needed medications, menopause issues, and general stress.

Ways to catch better ZZZs: Before giving up on a good night’s sleep, try some of these tips. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule going to bed and waking. Create a soothing environment that is quiet, dark and cool. Avoid bright lights/ screens one-hour before bed as blue lights activate the stimulant brain chemical serotonin. Developing a soothing bedtime ritual such as a warm bath, reading, listening to calm music or prayer/meditation. Try going to bed a bit later or earlier to find your best body rhythm. Only nap before 2 p.m.

Limit caffeine and alcohol near bed time, minimize liquid intake within 1.5 hours before bed, avoid large and spicy meals three-four hours before bed, have a light protein bedtime snack, and avoid sugary/ high carb foods. Exercising regularly, but not right before bed, improves the quality of sleep.

Safe sleep for seniors: Some safety tips for seniors: keep a telephone with emergency numbers by your bed; if you wear an alert necklace or bracelet, be sure it is where you can reach it but not roll on it; have your glasses, lamp or flashlight in easy reach; place a glass of water by your bed for easy access; never smoke in bed; remove area rugs to avoid tripping if you get up; and use motion sensitive nightlights to illuminate the path to bathroom.

Treatment for sleep issues: Talk to your doctor about any medication, both OTC and RX, as well as pain issues, that may be causing sleeplessness.

Consider if you have sleep apnea or other breathing concerns and the appropriate treatment for it. Some nutrients that help sleep are magnesium, calcium and potassium, melatonin, Vitamin A, D and B6, selenium, tryptophan and omega-3s.

Always check with your health care provider before starting supplements as they could interact with other medications.

February 2019

REGISTRAR OF VOTERS Hundreds of color-coded letters sent in annual canvass Every year the registrar’s office tries to identify those names on the official voter registry that have moved out of town through a process of a selective canvass of voters. You can help the registrars by letting them know if you or your grown children have moved. The DMV and the other registrars of voters also regularly let our town know about people who have moved from Granby. But this is not enough, and most out-of-state moves are not reported to the registrars. The National Change of Address service compares a list from the US Postal Service of the last two years of reported moves vs.

Granby’s list of registered voters. From this comparison, Granby expects to send out about two hundred purple letters to people that may have moved. Blue letters will be sent to those who have not voted in over four years, green letters to anyone who has been reported as moving within town and yellow for a post office box change. If we receive word from another state that you are registered either to vote or to drive, we will also send an orange letter.

Why is all this canvass stuff important?

Because the number of ballots printed are based on the total numbers of active voters. Keeping this list as accurate as possible will minimize the cost to Granby. If you receive a letter, please read it carefully, fill out and sign and date before returning it in the postage paid envelope provided. Family members and current residents can NOT fill out and sign for another voter, so either forward the letter or return it, unopened, to the registrars. If a family member wishes to be removed from the Granby list of

voters, they need to submit a written request for removal, signed and dated to the registrar’s office.

Poll Workers are Needed The registrar’s office is compiling an email list of poll workers. Poll workers can be volunteers or paid. Volunteer poll workers must be at least 16 years old and can choose to volunteer for a few hours, as desired to fit their schedules. Poll worker training is required to serve and will be conducted in March and April for the town budget referendum. For more information or to apply, please contact the registrars at vr.granby.ct@gmail.com Calendar Monday, April 8 is the public hearing for the town budget at the GMHS Auditorium Monday, April 22 is the town meeting to vote on the town budget at the GMHS Auditorium Voter registration is a public record, and it’s easy to confirm your voter registration. You can go on the State’s website or stop by the Town Hall to check the voter registry. You can stop by to register to vote, figure out which is your voting district or make corrections in person at the registrars’ office in the Town Hall every Wednesday. Regular office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots.ct.gov Questions? Please feel free to contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Joanne Mayornick, their office phone number/ voice mail is 860-844-532; their email, vr.granby.ct@gmail.com

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 15

GMHS 2011 grad to run Boston Marathon Hanna Adams will be running the Boston Marathon this spring raising money for the Boston Public Library.

A 2011 GMHS graduate, Adams was born in Medellin, Colombia, in 1993. Her parents John and Cindy flew down when Adams was five weeks old and finalized her adoption in Bogata. At 11 months old, Adams was diagnosed with multiple physical and learning disabilities. Hanna began treatment at Shriner’s Hospital in Springfield Mass. which involved years of leg braces and physical therapy.

At age five, Adams ran the Kid’s Race for the Cure with her brother Ben after their mom battled invasive breast cancer.

Adams went on to run cross-country and track through middle and high school in Granby. Finishing at the back of the pack many times, she set personal goals each week with GMHS coaches Walter Hansen and Dennis Lobo and slowly improved her time.

During the Threshold Program at Lesley University, Adams learned to never let her disabilities stop her from setting even higher goals each year. She became a certified early childhood teacher and began running half marathons and then marathons with her dad. In the past five years, she joined the Boston Fit Group and trained for marathons with a group of dedicated, hard working teammates.

Hanna has completed six marathons in the last five years including the Marine Corps, Philadelphia and Chicago this past fall with her brother Ben. Now, it is TIME for Boston.

She is overjoyed to join this effort because she cannot remember a time when she didn’t go to the library to find

Bruce Porter Music Series continues

By Laura Mazza-Dixon

Hanna and Ben Adams at the finish line of the Chicago Marathon (October 2018).

joy, comfort and inspirational stories to guide her. Hanna has combined years of hard work and unbelievable courage to reach her goals and now she is asking for your help.

To join Adams in raising money for the Boston Public Library go to crowdrise. com/hannaadams1?lang=en-us.

Says Adams, “I have always been blessed to have a team of family and friends around me that has cheered me on even in the days when I finished last.

Please know I never give up and am honored to have you join Team Adams this year to help me finish the Boston Marathon so all children can have great books to read and a sanctuary like the Boston Public Library that welcomes them.”

Hartt School of Music Chorale and Hartt Chamber Choir to perform on the Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series, 4 p.m., Sunday, March 10.

Sing on! The Hartt Chamber Choir, under the direction of Edward Bolkovac, will be joined by the Hartt Chorale, under the direction of Benjamin Rauch, in an eclectic program that includes exquisite works from the Renaissance period, Schubert’s charming Mass in G, as well as modern works by Christopher Theofanidis, Pierre Villette, and Eric Barnum, and some settings of spirituals by Moses Hogan and Carol Barnett. A splendid choral offering not to be missed.

The Hartt Chorale is a mixed SATB chorus of 35 to 45 singers that performs a wide variety of a cappella and accompanied repertoire from the Baroque period to the present day.

The Hartt Chamber Choir is a highly skilled auditioned chorus of 24 singers that sings choral works by composers such as J.S. Bach, Handel and Mozart as well as works by contemporary composers. Members of the Hartt Chamber Choir formed the core of the Hartt Tour Choir when they performed in the Czech Republic, Spain, Hungary and Italy.

Dr. Edward Bolkovac is professor of choral music at The Hartt School. Prior appointments include senior lecturer in Music at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia; artistic director of the Brisbane Early Music Festival; artistic director of the California Bach Society and director of the Kodaly Music Education Program at Holy Names University in Oakland, California.

Aside from his work at Hartt, Bolkovac is also the artistic director of the New Haven

Chorale. He studied conducting in Hungary and completed his doctorate at Stanford University.

Benjamin Rauch leads a multi-faceted career as a countertenor, composer, conductor and educator. He spent a year singing soprano with Chanticleer, America’s premier a cappella vocal ensemble. He has performed as a soloist with numerous ensembles including Chanticleer, Crescendo, The Greater New Haven Community Chorus, The New Haven Chorale, CitySingers of Hartford, Chorus Angelicus, and Gaudeamus. Regularly commissioned as a choral composer, Rauch has written numerous works for ensembles including The First Church of Christ in Hartford, Center Church Choir and The St. Patrick – St. Anthony Gallery Choir.

He holds a bachelor of music in vocal performance, choral conducting and composition from The Hartt School, University of Hartford.

The BPMMS is in its seventh season of sponsoring excellent concerts of classical music in Granby. The final concert on the 2018-2019 Season will be Les Amies de Théodore, a Baroque Chamber Ensemble, with guest violinist Emlyn Ngai, on Sunday, April 28, at 4 p.m.

The 2018-2019 Season is supported in part by a grant from the Granby Education Foundation.

Sponsored by the music ministry of South Congregational Church, the concerts in the Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series are free to the public, with a suggested donation of $10 to support the series. For more information please contact the South Church office at 860-653-7289 or visit the website at southchurchgranby.org/connect/ music/bruce-porter-memorial-music-series.

Primed to perform.

WB Performance Checking n

Unlimited rebates of other banks’ ATM surcharges

n

Eligible for higher rate Signature CDs

n

Free checks for life

n

Free identity restoration services (monitoring available)

To open an account, stop by our Enfield or Granby offices today.

Enfield | 47 Palomba Drive Granby | 10 Hartford Avenue *One offer per person available to new WB Performance Checking account customers only. Order a debit card and enroll in online banking to receive $50. Enroll in e-statements and receive $50. Sign up for direct deposit and receive $100. The bonuses will be deposited into your account within 45 days after the criteria is met, which must happen within 60 days of account opening. Minimum balance to open a WB Performance Checking account is $10. Offer can be rescinded at any time. Promotional code: CT200

Open an account and earn up to

$200!

*

What better banking’s all about . sm

westfieldbank.com

Member

FDIC

Page 16 The Granby Drummer What’s for supper?

Cauliflower Tomato Skillet, that’s what’s for supper!

By Pamela Scherrer Happy New Year! If you are like most people, you made a resolution for the new year, and a lot of those resolutions revolve around diet and exercise. I personally have switched to a ketogenic diet that restricts carbs and is rich in healthy fats, moderate protein and lots of low carb vegetables. It has taken some getting used to and I’ve done quite a bit of experimenting with new foods and recipes. This recipe was an instant hit and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Cauliflower Tomato Skillet Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef or turkey ¼ medium sweet onion, diced ½ red pepper, diced 3 Tbsp. taco seasoning (if you don’t have just use chili powder, paprika and cumin, ¼ tsp. each; salt/pepper to taste) 1 can diced tomatoes 12 oz. cauliflower rice, fresh or frozen Approximately. ½ cup chicken broth

(or veggie broth) 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend Instructions: 1) In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meat until almost cooked through (just a little pink still). Add the onion and pepper and continue to cook until meat is no longer pink. Stir in the seasonings 2) Add the tomatoes and cauliflower rice and stir to combine. Stir in the broth and bring to a simmer.

3) Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the cauliflower begins to soften, 4-8 minutes depending if fresh or frozen.

4) Sprinkle the cheese on top and wait for it to melt. Serve with avocados and sour cream and a scoop of salsa if you like. *Note: this can be made with zucchini instead of cauliflower if you prefer. You can also use whatever color peppers you prefer and increase the amount of them.

This recipe is very open to adaptations.

Buon Appetito.

THE

CHRISTOPHER BRYANT co.

SEPTIC • SEWERS • DRAINAGE • EXCAVATION • GREASE TRAPS

Emergency Service 24/7

Chris & Bryan 1983

Regular cleaning of your septic tank will help to prolong the life of your septic system    

Septic Tank Cleanings Tank Installations & Repairs Pump & Pump Chambers Video Septic Inspections

   

Sewer Connections Excavation & Drainage Leaching Fields Grease Trap Cleanings

(860) 243-3500 www.ChristopherBryantCompany.com

February 2019

Pet drive nets 5,600 pounds of cat and dog food Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital’s annual pet food drive was a huge success. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, 2,802 lbs. of dry cat and dog food along with 1,364 cans was collected.

SBVH is matching your donations pound-forpound bringing the grand total up to 5,604 lbs. of dog and cat food! It also collected $1,721 that will be shared between North Valley Animal Disaster Group in California and Lenoir County SPCA in North Carolina. Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital has already sent a monetary donation to the Humane Society of Bay County in Florida. The food collected has been distributed to Mary’s Kitty Corner, Southwick Food Bank, Granby Food Bank, Kane’s Krusade and CT Humane Society. The match

In Memory of . . .

Platner, Michael Arden, 72, husband of Fran Platner, Nov. 18 Ayers, Elizabeth M. Russell, 96, wife of the late Adna “Doc” Vaness Ayers, Nov. 26 Clark, Sidney E., 91, husband of the late Muriel Cooper Clark, Nov. 26 H u m p h r e y, E l m i n a “ J e a n ” (Lawley), 85, wife of the late Andrew C. Humphrey, Nov. 27 Games, Jacqueline “Jackie” (O’Neil), 79, wife of John Games, Dec. 7

from Salmon Brook will be delivered in the spring to the same locations.

SBVH would especially like to thank Horses & Hounds for being a drop-off point throughout the food drive and donating the use of its truck the day of the food drive. Thank you to Purina and Hills for their donations to the food drive.

It is great that the community can come together and support one another.

Wheeler, William “Bill” Wallace, 79, husband of Beverly Ruth (Stolynas) Wheeler, Dec. 11 Boyington, Gweneth Ellen, 69, wife of Carlton Boyington, Dec. 12 Szahaj, Anita I. (Kusio), 63, wife of Zenon”Z” Szahaj, Dec. 22 Horne, Virginia M., 101, wife of the late Morgan J. Horne, Jan. 1 Klemonsky Peling (O’Donnell) Patricia, 81, wife of the late John Joseph Klemonsky, II and Ralph Peling, Jan. 15 York, Stephen A., husband of Carol (Granger) York, Jan. 15

LOOKING TO BUY YOUR NEW HOME? This Will Be Your First & Last Stop!

See what your lifestyle can become in Granby’s newest community.

OPEN HOUSE: Every Sunday 1-4 pm CT License # HIC0559131

2 Copperbrook Circle, Granby, CT

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1983 PROFESSIONAL & KNOWLEDGEABLE * FULLY LICENSED & INSURED

Dr. Barry F. Walsh is happy to

WELCOME Dr. Peter Markowicz

to his Chiropractic Practice!

Do phrases like

“Oh, my achin’ back” or “My neck feels really stiff today” sound familiar?

Let us help you make those phrases a distant memory.

860-844-0444

15R Hartford Avenue, Granby, CT • Open M-F, 1/2 Sat.

Chiropractic Today for a Healthy Tomorrow

860-803-4254

copperbrookhomesct.com

© 2018 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

PennyGitberg@bhhsne.com PennyGitberg.bhhsneproperties.com

LOWIN P W O NEW G N S ACCOUNTS WELCOME Call Jim

860-305-2155 NORTH GRANBY

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 17

Update on Granby’s bridge problems

By Shirley Murtha Moosehorn, Griffin, Donohue, Simsbury, Hungary and Enders — Granby roads with bridge issues. The wheels of government turn slowly when it comes to diagnosing and financing repairs of these structures, but inspections have been made, problems identified and financing is in the works. Here is the latest on what is needed in each case and how the projects will be funded.

Moosehorn

This one-and-a-half lane bridge has a wooden deck on steel girders with stone head walls. It has been rated structurally deficient. There is a loss of integrity in all of this bridge’s beams, the worst being 86 percent deficient. The entire structure of this bridge needs to be removed, including footings, head walls and wing walls. Water diversions will be required to complete the concrete work. A bridge design engineer will be required for this project, which will require erosion control and permits. A large excavator and a crane with operator will be needed.

Griffin

This two-lane bridge has a wooden deck on steel girders with stone head walls. It has been rated structurally deficient. The deck shows signs of diagonal hairline cracks and the outside girders are rusted to the extent that they are structurally unsafe. The entire structure needs to be removed, including footings, head walls and wing walls. Water

diversions will be required. A large excavator and crane with operator will most likely be needed for this project.

This work requires the town to hire a bridge engineering company to design a structure that will accommodate the bridge’s needs, as Griffin Road is heavily traveled.

Donohue

This two-lane bridge has a concrete deck on steel girders with stone head walls. It has been rated structurally deficient. The condition of this bridge is similar to that of the Silver Street Bridge recently replaced. The entire structure of the bridge needs to be removed, requiring the use of a large excavator and deck placement may require a crane and operator. A bridge engineering company will be required to design the replacement. Erosion control methods and permitting will be required.

Simsbury Road (by Holcomb Ridge)

This two-lane bridge has a concrete deck on steel girders with concrete head walls. It has been rated functionally obsolete. The entire structure of the bridge needs to be removed, as described in the above paragraphs, including the hiring of an engineering company and the establishment of erosion controls and permitting. In addition, in order to meet the current road traffic standards, this bridge must be widened by no less than two feet.

Hungary Road (nearest to Suffield town line)

This two-lane bridge has a concrete deck covering two large galvanized culvert pipes with stone walls. It has been rated poor. The entire structure needs to be removed, as described above, including water diversions. An engineering company, erosion control and permitting will be required. The brook in this location runs on the west side of the bridge; there is a swamp on the east side. This will necessitate a great deal of shoring to hold back the water while the project is underway.

Enders

This one-and-a-half lane bridge has a wooden deck on steel girders with stone head walls. It has been rated structurally deficient. Again, a large excavator will be needed to remove the footings, head walls and wing walls. Water diversion will be required. The likely replacement would be a pre-cast concrete box culvert with pre-cast abutments and wing walls. Enders Road is a cut-through for residents who travel from Route 219 to Route 179 or Route 20. Based on the condition of the entire structure, no travel will be allowed until the project is completed. In case of a fire or other emergency in this area, access will need to be gained several miles away in Barkhamsted.

Financing The financing for these projects involves three different grant programs.

Moosehorn, Silkey and Donohue have been accepted under the Federal Local Bridge Program, which will pay 80 per-

cent, the town supplying the remaining 20 percent. Hungary, Griffin and Enders have been accepted under the State Local Bridge Program, which pays 50 percent, leaving 50 percent to the town.

In addition, the town has applied to the Local Transportation Capital Improvement Program (LOTCIP) administered by the Capital Regional Council of Governments (CRCOG) for the Moosehorn project. This program would pay 90 percent of the construction costs.

Confirmation has not been confirmed as yet because of delays due to the state budget problems.

The total amount for all six bridges is expected to be $14,658,500. With the various grants, the town’s cost should be $4,607,750.

At a Capital Program Priority Advisory Committee (CPPAC) meeting on Jan. 17, the town submitted these projects for consideration of inclusion in a future bond package. If the Boards of Selectmen and Finance and the residents of Granby approve this method of financing, design work will begin in 2019, with construction to begin in 2020. The plan is to do Griffin and Moosehorn first, averaging around two bridges per year.

The town will select an engineering firm (using the Quality Based Selection method) to design the reconstruction work. The next step will be to get bids from construction companies. The same company will not necessarily be retained for each bridge. It will depend on the timing and needs of each project.

At one CPPAC meeting in the fall, the town was asked if it could not do the bridge repairs itself. As you have read in the above descriptions, almost every one of these projects will require the use of a large excavator and crane, including an operator. Granby’s Department of Public Works does not have this equipment, nor does it have enough staff to devote to the bridges when it has a full schedule of ordinary maintenance to accomplish and is short one worker. In 1990, 2002 and 2005, DPW did some small surface repairs on various bridges, but nothing of the scope needed to replace these structures now.

Thanks to Town Manager John Ward and Director of Public Works Kirk Severance for help in preparing this report.

See additional photos of the bridge structures on our website, www.granbydrummer.com

On your road to recovery, at

PROVIDING

WHERE YOUR DREAM HOME BEGINS A conveniently located, private cul-de-sac community featuring 8 spectacular homesites with 1st floor master suite options. The natural topography of each building lot offers many diverse construction opportunities.

Choose from 4 prime lots and a select portfolio of Jack Kemper home designs or John Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Builders Inc. Starting at $599,900.

DIRECTIONS: Route 20 or Route 189 to Day Street. Entrance is adjacent to the historic Dewey-Granby Oak Tree.

bhhsNEproperties.com

Maria Babicki Cell: 860-982-3073 mariababicki@bhhsne.com Ed Cox Cell: 860-280-7239 edcox@bhhsne.com © 2018 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

BERKSHIRE New England Properties HATHAWAY HomeServices

New England Properties

Drummer- October 2018

• Short-Term Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care • Phyiscal, Occupational & Speech Therapies • IV Therapies • Orthopedic Rehabilitation • Stroke & Neurological Rehabilitation • Pulmonary & Cardiac Recovery • Complex Medical Care • Pain Management • Wound Care 350 Salmon Brook Street, Granby CT 860.653.9888 athenanh.com/meadowbrook Managed by Athena Health Care Systems

Page 18 The Granby Drummer

Public Works

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS

Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Jason Raney

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST

Dr. Jason Raney

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST

Dr. Staci Allen

PEDIATRIC SPECIALIST

Dr. Ezra Friedman ENDODONTICS

Dr. Victor Wang

GENERAL DENTISTRY

General Dentists and Certified Specialists

All Under One Roof!

860-653-7596

WWW.GRANBYDENTAL.COM

Presidents Day Monday, Feb. 18, is not a trash holiday.

Please put your trash out on your regularly scheduled day that week.

Salt and Sand A mix of sand and salt is available at the Granby Animal Shelter across from the McLean Game Refuge on Route 10.

Residents are welcome to the equivalent of one 5-gallon bucket at a time.

Like us Check out the DPW Facebook page: Granby CT Department of Public Works.

Plastic film Plastic bags and plastic wrap should not go in your single stream barrel. Plastic film is recyclable but only in designated collection boxes. Plastic shopping bags, clean plastic wrap, wrap from products such as toilet paper, napkins, etc. can be placed in collection containers located at the entrance of local grocery stores.

Winter Operations Please read the DPW Winter Hints below or visit the Public Works page at granby-ct.gov.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WINTER HINTS

Winter storms and snow removal can be a challenge for Granby residents. Public Works employees do their best to keep the roads passable and safe. Please note the following suggestions, ordinances and rules to ensure a safe winter season for all: Trash and recycling Unless the roads are closed, Paine’s will collect trash/recycling on its regular schedule. You must have your barrels out by 6 a.m. If you choose not to put your trash/recycling out due to a storm, your barrels will not be emptied until your next scheduled pickup day.

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

Sign up at painesinc.com to be included in Paine’s email alert system for notifications of any changes to your service schedule due to a holiday or inclement weather.

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

If it hasn’t, be assured the plow will be back to make another pass and fill up the end of your driveway. You can reduce the amount of snow deposited in your driveway by shoveling or plowing snow to the right side of your driveway as you face the street.

Do not shovel or plow snow into the street. It creates a hazard and you may be held liable in the case of an accident.

Mailboxes It is inevitable that some mailboxes will fall victim to winter’s forces. In accordance with Granby Town Ordinance, the town will repair or replace a mailbox that is damaged as the result of direct contact with a town snow plow.

Mailboxes damaged from the force of snow thrown against them or mailboxes located closer than nine inches to the road are not eligible for repair. If your mailbox is damaged, you may report it to Public Works and a department employee will investigate the damage, determine the cause and schedule repairs if applicable.

Parking Granby Town Ordinance prohibits the parking of any vehicle on a town road from the start of a storm until 12 hours after the storm has ended. Vehicles that violate the parking ban may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Sidewalks Granby Town Ordinance requires a homeowner whose property abuts a sidewalk to keep the walk clean of snow and ice. Residents have up to eight hours after the end of the storm to clear the sidewalk.

If the storm occurs overnight, residents have up to eight hours after sunrise to clear the sidewalk.

Child Safety Do not allow children to play on snowbanks along the side of the road.

The plow may return to push back snowbanks. Even in good conditions, it is difficult for a driver to see the children.

February 2019

Copper Hill Church lists accomplishments The new year is a time to reflect on the year gone by, and 2018 was an amazing year for Copper Hill United Methodist Church in East Granby. This has been a year of generosity, and growth in attendance and membership.

Thanks to the support of the people in this area, Copper Hill was able to support numerous serving agencies, including fuel banks and food pantries in the towns of Granby, East Granby and Suffield, two homes for single mothers—My Sister’s Place and Christina’s House, a UM children’s home in Binghamton, N.Y., and charities such as Heifer International and Smile Train. It was also able to make substantial contributions to United Methodist Committee on Relief in response to natural disasters nationwide.

You might wonder how a small church can support so many ministries. It starts with an atmosphere of giving. Pastor Kelvin Jones teaches, “God has been generous with us; it is up to us to learn to be generous with others.” Next, giving must become part of the planning, budgeting and weekly practices of the church and its sub-groups.

The church’s dedicated United Methodist Women’s organization raises funds through dinners and tag sales and regularly contributes from those funds as well.

Regular collections for the food pantries have resulted in almost one-half ton of donated food to help support families in the tri-town area.

In the church parking lot a brightly colored St. Pauly’s box with an open window holds bags of clothing and household linens donated by the community. These are collected by St. Pauly’s, that, in turn pays the church four cents per pound. The church sends all these funds to area food banks. In the last seven years, 40 tons of recycled goods have raised thousands of dollars for the tri-town area.

The church communities give thanks for the generosity that abounds in our corner of Connecticut and allows us to reach out worldwide. For additional information, please contact Pastor Kelvin Jones at 860-653-2891.

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 19

D.A.R.’s Abigail Phelps Chapter celebrates 125th anniversary

By Anitra Powers, D.A.R. On Nov. 11, 1893, the Abigail Phelps Chapter of the DAR was organized in the town of Simsbury. “On our 125th anniversary we wanted to have a special celebration,” Jackie Fenelon Chapter Regent explained. “From the beginning, our DAR objectives have been to promote historic preservation, patriotism and education. For our anniversary, we wanted to recognize others who support the goals and objectives that we share.”

The celebration started with three local students recognized for the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. “I am a retired teacher, so it is really delightful to present McKenzie Huot, Valerie Lee and Devin Stout their Good Citizenship awards,” says Karen DiMenna, Scholarship Chair. McKenzie, who attends Granby Memorial High School, shared her plans for a career in Nursing and Global Health. Valerie, from Simsbury High School, and Devin, from East Granby High School, are both planning to study engineering. Service for Veterans Chair, Debbie Payne stated, “As we look back through the years at our country’s history, we can be very proud of the generations of men and women who have stepped up to serve their country and we remember them on this Veterans Day. Today it is my honor to present to Robert Kalechman the chapter award for Distinguished Military Service and Patriotism.” Kalechman, a Simsbury veteran, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at 17, just as the Korean War was beginning. He worked his way up to the rank of Platoon Sergeant. During his nine years of service, he was awarded many medals and honors. Kalechman has served on the Board of Trustees Department of Veterans Affairs and he has worked for other veterans’ organizations. Today he continues to be a strong advocate for veterans’ causes.

Next Jackie Fenelon announced, “ Our members wanted to celebrate our 125th

Exterior

Painting and Staining Spraying and Brushing Power Washing Aluminum Siding Painting Handyman Service on Wood and Glass Repair Window Re-glazing Fully Insured

anniversary in a special way and thought of the many local organizations which work to preserve history, educate youth, prepare immigrants for naturalization, support women Pictured are the Good Citizens award winners Valerie Lee of Simsbury, and families, Regent Jackie Fenelon, Good Citizens Chair Karen DiMenna, McKenzie support veter- Huot of Granby and Devin Stout of East Granby. ans and promote Trumbull, who led the colony during the patriotism. We Revolution, was the only governor to side decided to contribute to their causes.” with the Patriot cause. His homestead Since 1893, the roster of members has also houses the Wadsworth Stables. grown to include towns surrounding Several organizations were recognized Simsbury. It is fitting to recognize the for their work in education and famiwonderful network of historical societies lies. For over 45 years, Simsbury ABC from Avon, Canton, East Granby, Granby House has helped gifted students from and Simsbury for their efforts to preserve disadvantaged neighborhoods achieve local history and treasures. The societies their potential. Simsbury Community received donations for programing.

TV keeps the public informed on loWhile one might not think of a cemcal government and community events etery as an organization that preserves via live broadcast on cable channels, history, Simsbury Center Cemetery as well as on-demand from its website. provides a resting place for 60 RevoluSimsbury Continuing Education works tionary Patriots and many of the founding with immigrants preparing for the families of Simsbury. The cemetery Naturalization process. Simsbury Social received much-needed funds to restore Services provides school supplies for headstones. The chapter also recognized needy children. The Gifts of Love orgathe work of the Simsbury Free Library nization helps families facing short-term for the great space they make available financial crisis. for genealogy research, and the Simsbury To honor veterans for their patriotism, Main Street Partnership for all that they the chapter contributed to the local VFW do to help Simsbury keep its historic Post 1926 for their Adopt-a-Vet program. appearance.

This group helps veterans in a variety of Continuing on the theme of hisways including explaining how to receive toric preservation, Alice Ridgway, the VA benefits, sheltering the homeless Connecticut State Regent, accepted a and supporting those coping with the donation to maintain the historic sites invisible wounds of war. Finally, First the CTDAR owns and operates in ConSelectman, Eric Wellman accepted two necticut. Elmwood, located in Windsor, flags for Eno Memorial Hall and the new is the home of one of the framers of Simsbury Library program room. the constitution and Connecticut’s first Senator, Oliver Ellsworth. The Governor Johnathan Trumbull house is in Lebanon.

Quality Is Priceless!

For a FREE estimate or advice on a painting project, please call

860-653-6828

Residential • Commercial

Interior

Painting and Staining Textured Ceilings Water Stains Sheetrock Repair Wallpaper Removal Smoke Damage CT License #564538

Faith Matters

Each week, a diverse group of people gathers at First Church for an hour to explore personal issues of faith and identity in a supportive environment. At the beginning of each weekly service these words are shared, “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

And, each week this gathering does just that. First Church strives to be a community where all are encouraged and empowered to follow their passions and work together to unleash our collective compassion for the good of the world.

First Church is a vital and inviting community that works to build rich relationships, and works for compassion and justice locally and globally.

The Sunday Night high school youth group gathers weekly 7 - 8:30. This year our theme is :

This winter we are choosing to be conscious of others - people different from ourselves in a variety of ways. Our overriding theme is "WE GET TO CARRY EACH OTHER".

Please consider visiting us for Sunday morning worship. You can also stream our services – find us on Facebook: First Congregational Church of Granby.

SAVE THE DATE:

ANNUAL FREE PASTA DINNER & DESSERT AUCTION

This fun night raises funds to defray the cost of a summer youth mission trip Sunday, March 31 5pm

__________________________________________________

Worship - Sundays 10am SchoolHouse - Sundays 10am MS Chat Room - Sundays 10am Youth Group - Sundays 7pm

First Congregational Church of Granby 219 North Granby Road, Granby, CT

860-653-4537 www.firstchurchgranby.org ADVERTISEMENT

Page 20 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Happenings at the Center THE SENIOR SKINNY

Lifetime Learning Academy Winter Semester

Made possible, in part, by a grant from the Granby Education Foundation. The Lifetime Learning Academy offers courses to expand your mind, better your health and trigger your creative imagination.

MUSIC Learn to Play the Violin, the Suzuki Method: Fridays, Feb. 22 to June 28, 9 a.m. No class March 15, April 19, April 26. Instructor, Kasey Calebaugh. Come learn a new talent, it’s never too late. No experience required. The Suzuki Method is considered one of the easiest learning methods. Cost for the 16-week session is $160 (payable in two installments). Violin rental is $21.27 for the entire 16 weeks. Register by Feb. 1.

Music Jam Sessions: Every other Wednesday at 11:45 a.m., facilitated by Michael Walter. Do you play an instrument and long to play with others? Come to our fun, informal music jam session and play along! All instruments are welcome. Bring your own instrument (we have a piano). Free. Call 860-844-5352 to let us know you will be coming.

CREATIVE ARTS Writing Children’s Books: Fridays, Feb. 1, 8 and 15, 10–11:30 a.m. Presented by author Robert Thompson. This three-part course will teach you how to write and publish a children’s book. Be inspired by this award-winning author.

Cost $10 for the series.

Pottery Flowers: Fridays, Feb. 22 and March 8, 1 p.m. Instructor, Cooley Buy, potter. You will be making several pottery flowers to insert into your flower pots or on a copper pipe for your garden. Bring newspaper. The second class you will be glazing your artwork for firing. Cost $25.

Register by Feb. 15.

Greeting Card Stamping Class: Thursday, Feb. 21, 9:30 a.m. Instructor, Sharyn Holness.

Create four beautiful cards. Cost $5 includes all materials.

WELLNESS Stress Management, Relaxation and Meditation: Wednesday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m.

Presented by Dr. Thomas Pirnie. Stress affects everyone so learn to relax and calm yourself using stress management techniques, meditation and visualization. Learn to apply these methods to create and achieve life changes. Cost $20.

Register by Feb. 8.

LEND A HELPING HAND Helping Hands Needed: Wednesday, Feb. 27, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Please join Days for Girls International (www.daysforgirls.org) who will sew for women in need of sanitary products. Need both sewers and non-sewers to volunteer. To learn more please contact Josi Klein at 860-6535752 or josiklein640@gmail.com.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Hearing Clinic with Audiology Concierge: By appointment, Wednesday, March 13. Services include complete audiological evaluations, ear wax inspection and removal, hearing aid cleaning and repair, wireless solutions for TV, telephones, audio and more. Call 860-844-5352 to schedule.

February Highlights

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

AARP Tax Preparers Q & A Session

Wednesday, Feb. 6, 1 p.m. New Connecticut tax withholding rules for pensions and annuities went into effect Jan. 1, 2018. If you have not had to file tax returns in the past several years this could mean you may now have to file a state income tax return in 2019. Come learn more about the new rules and get your questions answered. Free, please register by Jan. 30.

AARP Tax Preparation

By appointment on Tuesdays and Wednesdays beginning mid-February. AARP Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest tax assistance and preparation service. These trained volunteer professionals will assist those 60 years and over with Form 1040 and the standard schedules, including A and B. Electronic filing is available.

Call 860-844-5352 for an appointment. Free.

Adventures in Living

Mondays, Feb. 25 through April 8, 3 to 5 p.m. Do you love children? Would you like to help bridge the Generation Gap? This six-week intergenerational program will bring seniors together with 4th and 5th grade children to explore aging as a lifelong process and bring understanding between the two groups. Lives are compared and contrasted through fun, engaging, interactive and purposeful activities. Commitment is two hours, one day a week for six weeks. Call 860844-5352 for more information. Register by Feb. 11.

Alzheimer’s Support Group: Tuesday, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. Facilitated by Peggy Coburn, McLean Home Care and Hospice. Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Learning to cope with the changes in their behavior and understanding how to handle it is sometimes best explained by those who are dealing with a similar situation. Free.

Caregiver Private Consultations: Friday, Feb. 1, by appointment starting at 10 a.m. with Esther Corcoran, of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Come with your questions and concerns. These are half-hour personal consultations if you are a family member or caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s. Call for an appointment.

TRAVEL Through partnership with Silver Mill Tours, the Granby Senior Center is able to offer the following travel opportunities. Call the Senior Center for triple rates on extended tours, and to confirm availability. For a complete list of available travel opportunities stop by the Senior Center. Trips fees are non-refundable.

Day Trips

Boston Flower and Garden Show: Saturday, March 16. The Boston Flower and Garden Show is the biggest horticultural happening in the area.

Your day includes transportation, admission to the show with leisure time at Quincy Market, Newbury Street, Copley Place, Downtown Crossing and Haymarket Square. Cost $89 with Flower Show admission, $79 for Boston on your own.

New York City Food and Markets Tour: Saturday, May 4. For all you foodie fans—weave your way through Asian, Italian, Jewish, Middle Eastern, Eastern European and American bakeries, deli’s, pizzeria’s, gourmet shops, candy shops, pasta makers, meat markets, street vendors and more. You will be visiting Katz’s Deli,

Eataly and Arthur Avenue. Cost $79.

Broadway Your Way: Saturday, July 20.

Design your own day on Broadway. Round trip motor coach travel and Orchestra/Mezzanine Seating to the matinee performance of your choice. Available shows options will be finalized in January. Cost from $199.

Whale Watch: Saturday, Aug. 10. Imagine being within feet of some of the most graceful, rare animals in the world. Your trip includes transportation to Plymouth, Mass., the Whale Watch and a trip to Plymouth Rock. Cost $99.

Special Extended Tours

Montreal: April 6–8. Tour Montreal including Old Town and the Notre-Dame Basilica. See the city from the top of Parc du Mont-Royal.

Enjoy nightlife and entertainment on your own.

Find fashionable boutiques and vintage clothing stores on Saint-Denis Street, Saint Paul Street and the side streets of Vieux-Montreal. Cost: Single $699, Double $499. Passports required.

Atlantic Canada: June 30–July 6. Your trip includes guided tours of Nova Scotia (Lunenberg and Peggy’s Cove), Halifax and beautiful Prince Edward Island, motor coach transportation, cruise to Nova Scotia, six nights hotel, six breakfasts and five dinners, all sightseeing and admission fees, tickets to the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo (military bands and display teams). Cost: single $2,639, double $1,849.

Mackinaw Island, Back in Time: Aug. 18–25.

Enjoy a horse drawn carriage tour and lunch at the Grand Hotel. Explore Greenfield Village and the innovative Henry Ford Museum. Visit the Bavarian influenced town of Frankenmuth.

Overnight in Niagara Falls, Canada and stop in the Finger Lakes for a tasting and Wine Tour.

Have dinner at the Skylon Tower high above the falls. Cost: single $2,199, double: $1,739.

Passports required.

Lake George in the Fall: Sept. 13–15. Called the “Queen of the American Lakes” with over 300 islands as a magnificent landscape. Your trip includes round trip transportation, two nights at the Clarion Lake George, two breakfasts, lunch cruise on Lac du Saint Sacrament and a tour with a local guide including Millionaire’s Row, Prospect Mt. Scenic Highway, Fort William Henry and more. Cost: single $599, double $489.

SENIOR VAN The Granby Senior Van provides rides for adults 60 and over to shopping and activities at the Senior Center. Please call 860-844-5353 one week in advance for scheduling, and call 860-844-5352 to register for all trips.

Shopping

Home Goods, Canton Shops on Friday, Feb. 15, departs 9:30 a.m., cost $5.

Trips

Dine and Drive, Red Onion on Friday, Feb. 22, departs 10:45 a.m., cost $5.

Hill-Stead Museum, Farmington: Wednesday, Feb. 6, departs 9 a.m. This Colonial Revival house and art museum is best known for its French Impressionist masterpieces and stately grounds. Lunch on your own at River’s Edge Bistro and Mediterranean Cuisine. Cost $17 includes van and admission.

Dom’s for Breakfast, Windsor: Friday, Feb. 8, departs at 9 a.m. Start your day with a healthy breakfast, you can create your own Dom’s Omelet served with a side order of home fries and toast. Van cost $5, breakfast is on your own.

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory, South Deerfield: Wednesday, Feb. 13, departs 8:30 a.m. The conservancy includes an 8,000 square foot glass conservatory filled with butterflies, moths and tropical vegetation. Enjoy the gift shop then lunch on your own at Wolfie’s Family Restaurant. Cost $17.50. Register by Feb. 6.

Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London: Wednesday, Feb. 20, departs 8:45 a.m. View an exhibition of 77 iconic and rarely seen images of John F. Kennedy. Lunch on your own at On the Waterfront Restaurant followed by a brisk stroll at Ocean Beach. Cost $16. Register by Feb. 13.

Springfield Museums: Wednesday, Feb. 27, departs 8:45 a.m. Visit five separate museums including the Dr. Seuss museum, collections of art, historical objects, artifacts and more. Lunch on your own at Red Rose Pizzeria. Cost $18.

Register by Feb. 20.

Reminder: Van drivers cannot make stops in driveways that have not been cleared of snow and ice. Safety is our top priority.

FITNESS AND EXERCISE The Granby Senior Center offers a variety of affordable exercise classes throughout the week, only $6 per class for Granby residents.

Intensity levels range from house cat to cheetah, and classes run by session or you can pay a drop-in fee.

February’s Featured Class

Line Dancing: Fridays at 1 p.m. with Jim Gregory. This class is a great workout while having a lot of fun. Appropriate for beginner to advanced dancers.

Yoga Flow: Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Emphasis is given to finding a balance between flexibility and strength and exploring how, with practice, we can find increased fluidity of movement. Yoga experience is somewhat helpful but not required.

Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Gentle Movement and Balance: Mondays at 11:15 a.m. Designed to increase your strength, balance, flexibility and coordination. Instructor Paula Pirog will focus on improving voice power and speech clarity.

Cardio and Strength: Mondays at 4:30 p.m. Vigorous cardio workout in a fun and encouraging environment. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Chair Yoga: Tuesday at 2:30 p.m. Enhanced breathing, increased blood flow, reduced tension and better posture are achieved through the various yoga poses. Great for those with limited mobility. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Yoga: Tuesday at 4 p.m. Thoughtful breathing and controlled postures. Instructor, Paula Pirog.

Tone-up Tune-up: Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. A low impact cardiovascular workout with intervals of weight work for upper and lower body strengthening. Does not go to the floor; core training performed seated or standing. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Body Blast: Wednesdays at 4:15 p.m. This fast paced class gives you an all around great workout. Instructor, Mary Fuller Chi Gong: Fridays at 8:30 a.m. A gentle, low-impact, standing or seated class focusing on flexibility, balance, healing and pain management. Chi Gong is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins Cardio Combo: Fridays at 10:15 a.m. Quicker pace and more aerobics. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

Peak: Sundays at 7:30 a.m. Vigorous aerobics and weights. Instructor, Jennifer Dzielak.

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 21

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 and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., and 3 – 8 p.m.

Saturday: 12 – 5 p.m.

Find us online Town of Granby (www.granby-ct. gov); use the links to join us on Facebook and Pinterest.

Closing Both libraries will be closed on Monday, Feb. 18 for the Presidents’ Day holiday.

Programs for Adults and Teens

To register for any program call 860-844-5275 or email gplibrary@ granby-ct.gov For more program information visit the library homepage at granby-ct.gov and click on Program Calendar of Events. Programs will be cancelled if there is no school in Granby due to bad weather.

Adults, Teens, Tweens and Families Saturday, Feb. 2, 3–4 p.m. Take your child to the library day with story teller and folk musician Tim Van Egmond, GPL Main Branch. Enjoy the groundhog’s shadow and other tall tales with a special guest performer known for his spell-binding talent and dynamic style. Van Egmond offers an entertaining afternoon when he accompanies himself on a wide variety of traditional instruments, including mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, guitar, and limberjack. Families will love this versatile performer. Registration highly recommended; space limited. Snow date Feb. 9.

Wednesday, Feb. 6, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Tune in to amateur radio, GPL Main Branch. Learn more about the amateur radio relay league. Local “hams” give a brief history of the ARRL, Morse code, and the important role amateur radio plays during times of emergency. It’s not all dots and dashes! Appropriate for adults and school age children. Registration recommended.

Mondays, Feb. 11, 18, 25, March 11, 25, April 15 and 29, 6:30–7:30 p.m. The You Can Uke group meets at GPL Main Branch. Ukulele players in Granby’s advanced beginner class are reminded to register soon for the next six sessions of ukulele jamming with instructor Jim Lenn. Registration required.

Tuesdays, Feb. 12 and 26, 6–7:45 p.m. Cossitt Writers Group meets at Cossitt Branch, upper level. Adult fiction writers are welcome to join this friendly group. Writing exercises, sprints and critiques are all a part of the semi-monthly sessions. Registration recommended.

Thursday, Feb. 14, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Chess Group meets at Cossitt Branch, upper level. Play the most popular game in the world. This newly formed group is still growing and you’re invited to join.

Additional matches are being scheduled among the members; leave your name and contact info with library staff if interested. Registration recommended.

Saturday, Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. What’s it worth? Small antique appraisal at GPL Main Branch. Find out how antiques are valued in today’s mar-

ket. Long-standing and well-respected antique dealers Jay Kohler and Robert Chappell discuss the valuation process and answer questions about auctions, problems with counterfeits, establishing provenance, and more. Verbal appraisals of small antiques (such as decorative arts, furniture, maritime, gold, silver, jewelry, primitives, maps, globes, toys, clocks and watches; no guns, knives or military items) will be offered on a first come, first served basis. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library and Salmon Brook Historical Society. Snow date Feb. 23.

Saturday, Feb. 16, 3–4:30 p.m.

Playing for pizza and board games at Cossitt Branch. Are you ready for a bit of friendly competition? All ages are invited to share a slice of Sotelo’s pizza and a round or two of a favorite board game. Choose from dozens of games at the library or bring your own. Registration recommended. Snow date Feb. 23.

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

3 Seconds Behind the Wheel at GPL Main Branch. View footage from the compelling and startling documentary that followed Connecticut and Florida drivers, ages 18 to 65, as they operated their vehicles on local roads and highways. A panel of experts will be on hand to answer questions about distracted driving and add commentary to the film.

This very honest and intimate look at human nature is appropriate for adults, teens and tweens. Registration recommended. Snow date Feb. 27.

Saturday, March 2, 2–3 p.m. The historic New Haven and Northampton canal at Cossitt Branch. How did the beautiful greenway of bike and rail trails running through 16 Connecticut and Massachusetts communities come to be? Author Robert R. Madison takes us on a trip through time, starting with the New Haven and Northampton canal.

“To Granby belongs the place where on Monday, July 4th, 1825, ground was first broken for the Farmington Canal.”

Copies of the book, New Haven and Northampton Canal Greenway, will be available for purchase after the program.

Registration required; space limited.

Snow date March 9.

Better Living Series at GPL Main Branch Come to one or all four programs in the series to learn more, have fun, and meet interesting people. Join us Tuesdays, 1:30–2:30 p.m. in February.

Winter weather may move the program to Thursday afternoon, same week.

Check the library website for postponements or cancellations.

Celebrate Chinese New Year Feb. 5, celebrate Chinese New Year with delicious and traditional treats from the Zen Restaurant group. Join master chef James Chen for a festive presentation as we kick off the year of the pig!

Registration highly recommended; space limited.

Gotta love therapy pets Feb. 12, you’re in for a special treat when therapy dogs come to visit. Learn more from certified handlers about the benefits therapy animals provide and the various programs offered locally. Get a healthy dose of real “warm fuzzies” from James, Deja and Raven. Registration recommended.

Winter wellness with massage Feb. 19, give your tired and tense muscles an opportunity to relax. Jadwiga (JC) Markowicz, LMT, offers a

stress-reducing chair massage for those lucky enough to be at the library. Massages available on a first come, first served basis. Please register in advance.

Take control of your retirement Feb. 26, financial advisors Dawn Lazarus and Brandon Phelps address retirement concerns and offer practical steps to create a personalized plan.

Topics include social security income, inflation, healthcare expenses, and financial investing. Ample opportunity for Q and A. Registration recommended.

Book Discussions at GPL Main Branch Copies of featured books are available to borrow from the library.

Something about the author: Monday, Feb. 4, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward Around the world: Monday, Feb. 25, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Burial Rites by Hannah Kent (Iceland) SciFi / Fantasy: Wednesday, Feb. 27, 7–7:45 p.m. Old Man’s War by John Scalzi

Children’s Programs

Call 860-844-5284 for more information or to register. Programs will be cancelled if there is no school in Granby due to bad weather.

Take Your Child to the Library: Saturday, Feb. 2. Drop by GPL Main Branch in the morning for crafts, games, toys and activities. Storyteller/singer/ musician Tim Van Egmond will perform at 3 p.m., weaving together tales, tunes and songs from many cultures. He plays a variety of traditional instruments,

including hammered dulcimer, guitar, conga drum and limberjack. Join us for this high-energy, interactive performance. Registration required.

Yoga for Kids: Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. at GPL Main Branch. Learn some simple poses, stretch out those winter blahs and have some fun with instructor Aubrey Schulz. Please bring a towel to use as a mat. Boys and girls, age 5–11, are welcome. Please register in advance, as space is limited to 15 participants.

Craft Week: Monday – Saturday, Feb. 11–16 at GPL Main Branch. Drop in anytime during the week and create a valentine bear magnet to take home.

All materials supplied.

Wee Ones Story Time: Thursdays, Feb. 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 10:30 a.m. at GPL Main Branch. Board books, finger plays, songs and gentle movement for ages birth to 2 years with caregiver. No registration required.

Preschool Story Time: Tuesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26 at 10:30 a.m. at GPL Main Branch. Preschoolers and a caregiver share stories, songs, finger plays and a craft with Miss Joan. No registration required. Drop-ins welcome.

Family Movie Night: Wednesday, Feb. 13, beginning at 6 p.m. at GPL Main Branch. Drop in and enjoy a family-friendly film. We provide the popcorn. Call for movie title. No registration needed. All ages welcome.

Cossitt Craft Days: Feb. 2, 5, 7 and 9 at Cossitt Branch. Stop by the children’s room and make a valentine. All materials provided.

February Events at the East Granby Public Library 24 Center Street

Afternoon at the Movies Every Wednesday at 1 p.m., enjoy free popcorn.

Feb. 6: First Man Feb. 13: Tea with the Dames Feb. 20: The Wife Feb. 27: A Star is Born Juried Art Show Through March 1.

Take Your Child to the Library Day Saturday, Feb. 2, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Come dressed as your favorite storybook character, for a scavenger hunt, face painting and more!

SI #0302317 PI #0202118

R CALL FO ! !

SAVINGS

T

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1934

H.O.D. #115

Se Dis nior cou nts

TROIANO OIL COMPANY • Automatic

Oil Delivery • Oil Contracts /Service Contracts

• Boiler / AC Service • 24 Hour Emergency Service

777 ENFIELD ST. • ENFIELD, CT • 860.745.0321

Page 22 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Historic Footnotes Carol Laun

Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society

Saga of a Reluctant Whaler, Part 1 West Granby, Conn. in 1850 was a quiet, well-ordered town. Most of the inhabitants were subsistence farmers.

Small businesses were located on the west branch of Salmon Brook. Samuel Weed had a grist mill with three grindstones and also ran the general store.

Sherman Fancher had a large wheel and carriage shop, employing nine men. The local shoemaker was Carlton Holcomb.

Lucian Reed repaired and painted wagons. There were two district schools and a private academy for the education of the children. The town also had a doctor, a hotel and the West Granby Methodist Church.

Most of the sons and daughters of West Granby were content to live as their parents and grandparents had lived. But in some, the fire of adventure burned fiercely, and they looked beyond the tilled fields and wooded hills of West Granby and sought excitement and the unknown. Two young Holcomb men, both age 20, responded to the lure of an ocean they had never seen and decided to run away and sign on a whaling ship.

However, Harris and Crayton Holcomb, had different motives for this adventure.

Crayton was the son of Virgil and Betsey (Messenger) Holcomb, and a distant cousin to Harris. His father died in 1846 and his mother soon married again, to Timothy Dean. Crayton may

have wanted to escape an unhappy home life with a stepfather, but he also wanted a life at sea.

Harris was the son of Anson Noadiah and Harriet (Street) Holcomb. There were five children in the family: Mary 23, Harris 20, Edward 12, Estelle 7 and Helen 4. The real goal of Harris was to jump ship and get to the gold fields of California. His letters to his family reveal how his plans were thwarted by a wily Captain, who never let his crew near a California port. The reluctant young sailor spent over three years on the whaler Braganza, out of New Bedford, Mass., from Sept. 1850 to April 1854.

The young men must have feared being dragged back to West Granby by their irate parents, so they both signedup as crewmen using false names. Harris joined the crew as Robert Harris 20 of Granby, Conn. It is most likely that Crayton signed right below him as John J. Cushman, without listing his age or hometown.

Harris wrote several letters to his family about life “a-whaling.” His colorful descriptions offer a rare glimpse of a sailor’s life and his eloquent prose is a credit to the West Granby schools.

Ship Braganza at sea Sept. 30, 1850 “I take this opportunity to write a few lines to you and the rest of our folks.

SMALL TOWN SEPTIC inspects, cleans, installs and repairs your SEPTIC system!

860-653-TAKE (8253) Granby, CT 06035 • Fully Licensed & Insured

West Granby United Methodist Church

We have now been out three weeks and out of sight of land twenty days. I have been sick so I have not done any work at all for two weeks. It is not sea-sickness but I have had a fever. I am almost well now but quite weak. I was sea-sick for about one or two days only, but some of the hands were sick for a week or more and one is sick now.

There was nothing interesting happened until Sunday after we left New Bedford, and not much then, it being Sunday, and we not having much to do.

After breakfast, the Captain called us all aft and read the ship’s articles to us.

Then he brought out a lot of Testaments and gave each of us one and let us have two Bibles to be kept in the forecastle for all of us to use, besides a lot of tracts, pamphlets and newspapers for us to read. After that we went forward and I have read in mine every day. I have read over to the 12th chapter of Mark.

It being quite calm, we were sitting around when someone on the bows said there was a lot of fish there. So. Mr. Kelly (the third mate) and myself took some lines and hooks and caught about 25 in as many minutes. We got the cook to cook them for us and I guess you would have laughed or cried to have seen us catch them out of the frying pan and run eating them with our fingers.

After dinner we lowered all the boats and practiced rowing a little. I pull an oar in the Captain’s boat. We came aboard quite wet for it rained quite hard all the time. After we got the boats all hauled up, Mr. Kelly went forward, and then he called me to fetch my hooks and line to catch some dolphins with. So I did, and he caught seven or eight of them. They are the prettiest fish I ever saw. In the water they are quite blue, but after they are caught they turn twelve

different colors and die almost white.

They are about as large as codfish, so we had plenty of fresh fish for supper.

We don’t have any preaching or praying here but I wish we did, although I don’t pray myself as we have to keep quite steady. There is no ardent spirits or fighting or gambling aboard.

I will tell you how our time is divided.

First into two watches, the first and second mate’s watches. The first comes on at seven o’clock in the morning and stays four hours, and then they are relieved by the second and have four hours to themselves. At three they are all on duty until seven in the evening.

Then one watch goes below four hours and then the other. So we get eight hours sleep every other night, and four hours to ourselves every day.

We have had quite fair weather most of the time since we sailed, although we have had head winds and one or two hard blows, one in particular. I was up taking in sail when the wind blew and the old ship lay down on one side so that a man could hardly stand on deck.

I would just as soon be up aloft as not, without coat, hat or boots.

You can see some wonders here as well as anywhere. The water is just the color of Ma’s pail of bluing water and very clear, but at night it is full of sparks that look like lightning bugs. After we had been out three or four days, we saw a great many Mother Cary’s chickens, a little bird about as big as an eave swallow and just about the color of a chimney swallow with a white ring just above its tail. They skim around the ship close to the water but you never see one light (land) anywhere.”

To be continued in following issues.

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 23

Saying farewell to the Quilter and the Wizard

By Carol Laun In 2004, I was working at the Salmon Brook Historical Society when a stranger with a camera walked into the Enders house. He asked if he could take some pictures and I said okay.

A little while later, we were talking about pictures and I mentioned that we had many glass plate negatives, which were difficult to print. This intrigued him and he offered to try to scan them into his computer. I reluctantly let him borrow one box after recording his name, address, phone number and almost demanding his first-born child as security.

That was my introduction to Peter Dinella and the beginning of a long and rewarding partnership with incredible benefits to the historical society.

Peter and Bert (Alberta) Dinella came from New Jersey to retire in Granby.

They built a home in North Granby and

Peter Dinella

soon generously gave their time and shared their talents with their new town.

You could count on them to do what they said they would do.

Peter Peter attended Town Meetings and listened, learned and later offered his opinions. And he started to photograph Granby. He joined the Land Trust and roamed through its properties recording the beauty of nature in all seasons. Every event held in Granby (Memorial Day Parade, Celebrate Granby, Open Farm Day, musters, Flea Market, Engine Show, Car Show, etc.) was documented by his pictures. He drove around town and photographed buildings, scenic views and animals. He captured the antics of the Hayes goats and told me they preferred classical music to rock.

The Granby Drummer has Peter Dinella pictures enhancing every issue.

He encouraged using a double page spread of pictures for events like the Memorial Day Parade and graduation.

He created the eye-catching panorama featured at the bottom of the front page.

The Dinellas also joined the Salmon Brook Historical Society and their contributions are legendary. Their volunteer work made permanent changes and improvements. We have probably doubled our collection of Granby photographs.

All of our many glass plate negatives were scanned, photo shopped if necessary and printed by Peter. He photographed the interior of our museum houses for an inventory. He kept a photographic record of the Preservation Barn construction. He gave the society many CDs with Granby pictures to add to our multi-media file.

Peter provided the illustrations for the monthly history articles I write for the Drummer, either copying an old photo or taking a new picture. He took pictures at all of our events, from school tours to the Wassail Party. He documented all of our museum buildings, especially after they were newly painted. Peter also added humorous titles to old photos or pictures of our volunteers, to decorate our bulletin board.

If someone lent the society a family album, Peter copied the old studio photographs for our files. He also copied pictures from some of the society photo albums. He was always thinking of new ways to take pictures and his multi-layer photo of the Granby Oak is a work of art.

He earned the title of “Wizard” when I would give him a faded or damaged or very dark old photo to work on. He enjoyed a challenge and the results were awesome. We had a c.1890 picture of the Green with one lawn tennis court and players. Peter used a variety of filters and magic with the final amazing result showing three lawn tennis courts and more players.

A visit to pick-up or return pictures always included a wide-ranging conversation about the town or the society or the state of the world. Peter particularly enjoyed getting to know our older volunteers, especially the late Seth Holcombe. One day he came in to find a group of men busily sorting Loomis Store invoices. He asked Seth what he was doing and Seth said, “I don’t know.” So Peter asked why he was doing it and Seth pointed at my office

and announced, “Because SHE said so.”

Jean Potetz of textiles noted the time Peter took studiostyle photographs of Polly Hall in her home for the 2007 reception the society gave in Polly Hall’s honor. He took many wonderful pictures of Polly with and without her quilts, and afterwards Jean and Peter shared some of Polly’s favorite sherry with her. It was a memorable time spent chatting with Granby’s Quilt Lady. Peter photographed the Hall Reception and all our quilt airings as well as the society’s quilt collection, a massive time-consuming undertaking requiring many steps up and down a ladder to get the perfect shot. When quilt book authors requested a photograph of one of our quilts for their books, it was Peter who took on the challenge, hanging over the third floor railing of the Preservation Barn in order to get the perfect overhead shot of the quilt laid out on tables below.

He also photographed illegible verses and signatures on quilts to help us decipher at least some of them, and improved some early photographs of long-passed Granby residents dressed in items now housed in our textile collection. He created poster-sized framed prints of our textile exhibits for the walls of our workroom. Working with Peter has always been enjoyable— all one has to do is ask and it’s done. His talent, skill and love of the art create exceptional photographs. He is truly The Wizard!

Bert Bert Dinella was involved in many society activities, projects and programs.

She helped to set up and price items for our two flea markets every year. She also added her expertise to the society gardens. In December, she was part of the crew who decorated the Rowe and Enders houses for the annual Christmas Wassail Party.

Bert was a member of the Tuesday Morning Volunteers who helped move our library collections from the crowded Enders house to the new Preservation Barn facility in 2007. The volunteers cleaned, sorted and organized old magazines, calendars, newspapers, autograph albums, diaries etc., and then stored them in acid free boxes.

In addition, the group created an obituary card file and added labels to our many files. Bert made most of the labels for the original documents in the archival files. The Tuesday Volunteers also talked and laughed a lot—but still accomplished much. When the library work was finished, Bert moved on to textiles.

Bert Dinella’s move to textiles couldn’t have pleased Jean Potetz more. Bert was an incredible addition to the textile volunteers. A long-time quilter and lover of old quilts, Bert vacuumed, folded and boxed numerous quilts and clothing items for preservation along with other textile volunteers. She worked at Polly Hall’s reception and handled numerous tasks at our quilt airings including researching and presenting quilts and their histories. Her decorating skills have enhanced our textile exhibits and she has helped write policy as part of the textile committee. But Jean said Bert’s biggest undertaking started the day the two were talking about one of the oldest quilts in the collection.

Jean noted it would be nice if this

Alberta Dinella

beautiful but very fragile quilt could be reproduced so at least the reproduction could be exhibited. Bert agreed. When Jean asked, without thinking of all it required, if she’d like to organize that as a project, Bert agreed to take it on and reproduce the quilt as closely as possible to the original. Neither realized the enormity of what Jean had asked to be accomplished or of the task ahead.

After studying the quilt’s design closely, Bert asked Peter to photograph every block in the quilt and set about matching colors and fabrics over 175 years old as closely as possible to the original. After planning each block’s fabrics she cut out every block’s pieces, bagged them up into little kits and gave them to quilt makers eager to work on such an historical project, to stitch together. She sewed many blocks together herself. After all the completed blocks were assembled into rows, and the challenging borders added, the quilt top was then hand-quilted by quilters from the textile committee, including Bert. The Textile Workroom was filled with lively chatter while these women sat at the frame and quilted the reproduction quilt in the same pattern as the original. Years in the making, the quilt is now in its final stage of completion and will be exhibited along with the original soon. Jean cannot imagine how many hours Bert put into this project. It was an astronomical undertaking but Bert and her group of quilters accomplished it perfectly. The reproduction quilt is beautiful and gives one a true sense of the original. It is a remarkable achievement.

Jean says Bert’s knowledge of quilts, fabrics and clothing made her a valuable addition to the textile group and that Bert’s smile and sense of humor made working with her even more enjoyable. She misses her very much and commented that North Carolina gained themselves two shining jewels with Peter and Bert moving south to care for family.

It is rare to have relatively new residents have such an impact on their community. Granby was fortunate to have them, and the town, especially the Salmon Brook Historical Society, will miss their joyful and creative contributions. We wish them the best in their new home.

Page 24 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

February 2019

Start With a Strong Foundation.

Start With a Strong Foundation.

As a full service real estate company, our core values, service philosophy, innovative technology and, most importantly, our people, are what make us the leader in the areas we serve.

East Granby • $224,900

Judy Guarco

Eden Wimpfheimer

Nancy Reardon

Judy Guarco 860-559-2133

Windsor • $155,000

Charming 4 bedroom Colonial with a 3-season porch in quiet neighborhood.

Eden Wimpfheimer

Windsor • $239,900

Ken Kuhl 860-836-0881

Pride of ownership shows in this rambling Ranch and is move in ready.

Gerri Asres

Simsbury • $214,900

Stand-alone Condo in a quiet setting in Governors Bridge Condo Complex.

Tim Kronk 860-214-6400

Charming home with hardwood floors and a large backyard.

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

Granby • $324,900

Open floor plan home at “The Gables” offering two 3 season porches.

Nancy Reardon

Granby • $309,900

Spacious Contemporary home in a private setting in cul-de-sac location.

Nancy Reardon

NEW LISTING

Granby • $459,900

A Southern Colonial on 2.97 acres with a bonus room with full kitchen.

East Granby • $429,900

Newly constructed Colonial with an open floor plan nestled on a level lot.

Nancy Reardon

Granby • $525,000

Classic New England Colonial in one of North Granby’s premier neighborhoods.

Nancy Reardon

Granby • $850,000

An exceptional equestrian facility. www.31WellsRd.com.

Anna Sogliuzzo

Suffield • $574,000

Waterfront home with a beautiful porch overlooking Lake Cogamond.

Rob Nye

Harwinton • $525,000

11 acre Equestrian facility with a charming, updated Colonial.

Anna Sogliuzzo

Granby • $459,900

Spacious Colonial with a beautiful back yard close to Granby Center.

Nancy Reardon

NEW LISTING

Nancy Reardon

NEW LISTING

East Granby • $139,900

Lovely, bright townhome in Chelsea Commons with an updated kitchen.

Gerri Asres 860-922-1571

NEW LISTING

Nancy Reardon

NEW LISTING

Tim Kronk

NEW LISTING

Sandy Fine Office Leader

Granby • $680,000

Spectacular Colonial with amazing view and amenities galore.

Windsor Locks • $199,900

Fantastic stand alone Condo in Chatsworth Village with an open floor plan.

Rodney Motta

Granby • $289,999

beautiful Raised Ranch home on 2 wooded acres close to town center.

Owen & Alicija

Suffield • $549,000

Beautiful antique Colonial built in 1795 on almost 6 park-like acres.

Rob Nye

Granby • $239,900

Updated home with a 3-car garage and workshop on a level lot.

Tim Kronk

East Granby • $111,900

Great value in Quincewood! End unit with an expansive back yard.

Judy Guarco

Granby • $399,900

West Granby custom Contemporary home with views on 7+ acres .

Nancy Reardon

Nancy Reardon

Nancy Reardon 860-836-7506 East Granby • $217,900

Freshly painted spacious home with access to the Farmington River.

Eden Wimpfheimer

Granby • $319,900

Luxurious custom home overlooking golf course.

Anna Sogliuzzo

Suffield • $449,900

Stunning antique on North Main! Updates galore on 4.9 acres with a 4 stall barn.

Nancy Reardon

bhhsNEproperties.com Granby | 22 Hartford Avenue | T 860-653-4507 ©2019 AnAn independently memberofof BHH Affiliates.

Equal Housing Opportunity. © 2016 independently operated operated member BHH Affiliates.

Equal Housing Opportunity.

bhhsNEproperties.com Granby | 22 Hartford Avenue | T 860-653-4507 © 2016 An independently operated member of BHH Affiliates. Equal Housing Opportunity.

LAND • Granby • $74,900

Grandfathered 2 acre lots in West Granby. Private, beautiful homesites.

Ken Kuhl

Robert Nye 860-258-9016

Historic charm home with updates and a post & beam barn.

Nancy Reardon

East Granby • $259,900

Lovely Colonial located in popular East Granby neighborhood.

Eden Wimpfheimer

Anna Sogliuzzo 860-995-0279

East Granby • $449,900

Beautiful, maintained 1760 Farmhouse with 2 barns on 6 private acres.

Nancy Reardon

Eden Wimpfheimer 860-878-0209

Granby • $399,900

Beautiful Cape set on 6.9 horse property acres with a spacious barn.

Nancy Reardon

Rodney Motta 860-849-6467 Bloomfield • $549,000

Joanie Muller 860-977-1938

Granby • $254,900

Sunny open floor plan home at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac neighborhood.

NEW PRICE

Suffield • $649,000

18 acre estate with stunning details and an open floor plan perfect for entertaining.

NEW PRICE

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

As a full service real estate company, our core values, service philosophy, innovative technology and, most importantly, our people, are what make us the leader in the areas we serve.

Hartland • $219,900

Move in condition Cape Cod style home on level lot close to town.

Judy Guarco

Owen Wilson Alicja Zyzniewska 860-305-1205 860-306-2124

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 25

Waypoints

By Mark Fiorentino

Have Zebco, Will Travel: Long Island Sound Sea Robins Let me be right up front about this: this story was supposed to have a different title. I did not set out to write about sea robins. When my friend Dave told me he had bought a boat for saltwater fishing, I envisioned different “Have Zebco, Will Travel” storylines: 40 pound stripers and blitzing albies, for example. But fishing plans and storylines often take on a life of their own.

Dave’s boat is a 23-foot Steiger Craft, perfect for safely and comfortably fishing the waters in and around Long Island Sound. When he called to brag about it, I knew I’d get regular invitations to fish with him. I have overheard Dave describe me as follows: “Mark is by far the most reliable fishing buddy I have, mostly because he never says no. He has an uncanny willingness to skip or reschedule just about any commitment to get out on the water.” Plus, Dave enjoys my “Have Zebco, Will Travel” adventures. He relishes his role of predicting failure and detailing all that can go wrong.

To prepare, I bought a Zebco 808sw.

The “sw” stands for saltwater and distinguishes the reel from the company’s standard 808. It has a corrosion resistant finish that helps protect it from the harsh saltwater conditions. Otherwise, it is, essentially, a giant version of the spincasting reels I used when I was a kid.

Dave snickered when he saw it. “That

is not going to hold up out here. You are not going to be able to land a big striper, and heaven forbid you hook an albie.

Albies are like freight trains. They’re famous for tearing up reels specifically designed to deal with their speed, strength and tenacity.”

I wanted to say: “I know. That’s the whole point.” Instead, I said: “Just find the fish.”

We never found the fish. We spent hours last summer searching for stripers and albies.

We fished known honey holes. We fished areas recommended by the staff at the bait shop. We motored around, looking for the telltale sign of birds feeding on bait near the surface. All to no avail. The stripers and albies were nonexistent.

To Dave’s credit, he devised a workable back-up plan. “I’ve gotten pretty good at bouncing baits along the bottom for fluke and sea bass. Both are fun to catch and are good eating. When we’re tired of chasing the big boys, we can give it a try.”

“And who knows,” he added with more than the usual sarcasm, “maybe you’ll catch a sea robin.”

Retirement isn’t an end.

It’s just the beginning.

A long and successful career should be followed by a long and happy retirement. But it won’t happen on its own.

You have to be sure you’re investing properly to help you reach it, and then follow a solid strategy both now and through your retirement years.

As a Financial Advisor, I have the experience and tools to help you develop a strategy that is right for you, to adjust your investments as needed and to manage your wealth through all the potential changes to come. Call to arrange an appointment today and let us help you keep your Thomas D. Sullivan First Vice President Financial Advisor

wealth working for you.

433 South Main Street, Suite 100 West Hartford, CT 06110 860-313-7132

The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. © 2012 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

GP11-01364P-N09/11 7177596 MAR010 10/12

“Sea robin?” I liked the sound of it.

“They’re considered a trash fish. Ugly.

Slimy. And, they croak when you handle them.”

“Croak you say?”

“Yep. Some say it sounds like they’re trying to talk. Nobody targets them, but there is a guy who started a summer-long tournament called the Sea Robin Showdown. You should look into it.” He was really high on the sarcasm meter now.

As we headed to one of his favorite bottom fishing spots, I did some internet research on the Showdown. It cost 20 dollars to register, but that included a t-shirt bearing a handsome sea robin silhouette.

Once registered, you could qualify for prize drawings by submitting a picture showing the length of your catch. There

Mark with his first sea robin.

was no limit to the number of entries, and the website maintained a weekly leaderboard.

I said to myself: “Let me get this straight. An under-appreciated, talking fish with the chance to win prizes and achieve leaderboard glory?”

Out loud I said, nonchalantly, “These sea robins sound interesting.”

The 808 is well suited for sea robin fishing. It releases line smoothly, which is essential to getting the bait straight to the bottom. If your bait sinks too slowly, it lags behind the boat and you either never find the bottom, or lose contact with it as the boat drifts through the water. That’s bad. Sea robins are bottom feeders. When the bait is off the bottom, they often don’t see it, and even when they do, they won’t chase it far.

What the 808 lacks in finesse, it makes up for in raw cranking power. The reel was primarily designed to haul big catfish out of heavy river currents, so I was confident it could bring fish up from the depths.

As we began our first drift, Dave instructed me. “When your sinker hits bottom, reel up half a turn. Then slowly jig your rod tip. Proper line tension is key. You want enough to feel the bites, but too much and your bait won’t bounce

properly.”

Maintaining proper line tension, especially in deeper water, is harder than it sounds. It took me several hours and dozens of false hook sets to get the hang of it.

Then, suddenly, I hooked my first fish.

I wish I had the literary skills to describe the experience as some epic struggle, but frankly, it was just a lot of hard, fast reeling. The fish didn’t so much fight as resist.

It was over in less than a minute.

Dave, who had caught a number of

fluke, but none big enough to legally harvest, said hopefully: “Maybe that’s our first keeper.” You could cut the air with the disappointment in his voice as I swung the fish aboard. “Ugh. A sea robin.”

“Wow,” I stammered. “That is … AWESOME.” Lying on the deck was a fish so stunningly weird that it defied imagination.

Close your eyes and try to picture it: a shovel-shaped head, topped with frog-like eyes and sheathed in armor plates; a thin body that tapers dramatically from head to tail; giant, fan-shaped pectoral fins extending from its sides like the wings of a bird; and—get this—six fleshy fingers hanging from its chin.

I was instantly smitten.

As I worked to remove the hook from its mouth, the fish emitted a low-pitched sound that was part burp, part squeak.

“Dave, the fish is talking to me.”

“What’s he saying?”

“I’m not sure, but it sounded like ‘messor-meet’.”

The fish repeated itself: “Bureak, bureak.”

“No, wait,” I nearly shouted. “’Measure me’. He said ‘measure me!’ He wants me to submit his picture to the Showdown!”

And so, naturally, I took his picture on the measuring board.

Later that evening, I made my online submission. I was rewarded the next day with a confirmation email that said, and this is an exact quote: “Mark Fiorentino, You submitted a spectacular Searobin!

Thank you for being a part of the World’s Greatest Searobin Fishing Tournament.”

The email also invited me to check the website for the latest standings.

And, naturally, I did. My spectacular sea robin finished Week 17 of the Showdown in 18th place (out of 19 entries).

Glory, indeed.

Page 26 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Ashley Longest

On Jan. 1, GLT Board Member Fran Armentano led a group of 20 hikers through the Mary Edwards Mountain Property for the GLT’s Annual New Year’s Day Hike.

Kicking-off the New Year with the Land Trust Twenty enthusiastic hikers and a few very happy dogs kicked-off the New Year by celebrating Granby’s natural beauty with a Granby Land Trust (GLT) hike.

GLT Board member Fran Armentano led the three-mile woodlands walk that wound through the spectacular Mary Edwards Mountain Property in North Granby.

Mary Edwards left this 200-acre preserve to the Granby Land Trust when she passed away 15 years ago. She wanted the property, with its view of 40 miles of the Connecticut River Valley, its brook, its pond, its stone walls, open fields and woodland trails, to be enjoyed by all.

She entrusted the GLT with not only this property, but a number of smaller properties in town, as well. She also had

the foresight to create a stewardship fund for the maintenance of the Mountain Property.

Mary’s support was critical to the early success of the Granby Land Trust and for that we are forever grateful to her.

For the last 11 years, Fran has led this New Year’s Day hike, on warm days and cold. (Even last year’s record-setting, below-zero temps didn’t keep people away!) The Land Trust is grateful to Fran for his dedication—and for helping us start every New Year with a quiet and heartfelt thank you to Mary for her generosity and foresight, and for this incredible gift that continues to bring joy to so many, not just on January 1, but throughout the year.

Drumrolls 2Lt Joshua Pollock, GMHS Class of 2011, will graduate this spring from the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. He will be stationed at the Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma Wash., for his internship in internal medicine. Pictured at right is Pollock with a youngster during a trip to Burundi, Africa.

Granby Memorial High School Senior, Chorus president, 4H Age: 17 Tell some things about your background…

My mom came from Canada and my dad from Manchester, Conn. I have lived in Granby my whole life. I have a younger brother and my family has a small farm with 16 goats, as well as a cow, that I show at fairs, including the Big E, and for 4H exhibits. 4H work with the animals has always been a major part of my life. At school though, I am mostly interested in the arts, especially drama club and chorus. I played saxophone in the past but now am more involved with singing in chorus.

How does music affect you?

I have fond memories of times growing up when my grandfather played the accordion for all of us at family gatherings.

My grandmother played the piano; when she died she left a keyboard for me that is now one of my treasures. These are my first happy memories of enjoying musical experiences. In third grade I loved chorus and playing the recorder. I actually tried out all of the instruments available before settling on the saxophone back then.

Music is an output for my feelings, a way that I am able to express myself and show my personality. When I am singing or listening to music I lose the stress over grades and how I am viewed as a person. This way I have found confidence to carry on.

These days I enjoy going to the coffee houses that our school has once a month or so on Friday and Saturday

evenings. It is like the open mike concept at pubs where students get to show their talents. I went to my first coffee house last year and realized it was a great way to meet with people that I may have not interacted with otherwise. I was amazed at the talent coming from these students.

Last year one guy did a very complicated guitar piece, not just a simple acoustic accompaniment for a song, with relative ease. I also look forward to listening to fine live music in the summer at Xfinity concerts.

What direction do you want to go in?

I want to go to college for animal science, maybe veterinary school. Music will always be a large part of my life also; an a cappella group would be fun to join.

My dream is to be in some kind of band someday. I have even thought of moving to Nashville to be a singer. My love for animals is still strong also, of course, and whenever I am tending the goats there is always music playing for them or I am rehearsing my songs in front of them.

Drumrolls

Our Plumbing Services Can Save You $$.

Save 10%

Noah Pockoski was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Southern New Hampshire University.

2018 TAX LAW CHANGES

Call NOW for your Tax Appointment

ON EVERY CALL WITH A SERVICE PLAN

Frank A. Schoenrock, CPA

Ryan Mavros

3 HEATING 3PLUMBING 3COOLING 3OIL 3 Yes! We do that!

SERVICE & REPAIR | ANNUAL MAINTENANCE | NEW INSTALLATIONS FULL PLUMBING SERVICE | WELL PUMP INSTALLATIONS+REPAIRS

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE:

860.844.0111 beaconmechanical.com

CT Lic# S1-0397099, P1-203890, HOD-0000787, MA Lic # 062090

your comfort Experts in Heating, cooling, Plumbing, and oil

860-653-0734

34 East Granby Road • Granby, CT 06035 www.schoenrockfinancial.com

admin@schoenrockfinancial.com

angela@schoenrockfinancial.com

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 27

Animal Talk Dr. John Violette, DVM

Taking care of your cats’ teeth

Cats are afflicted with a very common painful condition known as feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL).

This occurs when the teeth slowly breakdown and resorb. It is typical that several teeth are affected at once and the pulp is exposed, which is very painful. It is estimated that as much as 50 percent of cats are affected by this disease process.

No one knows for sure why this is happening. What is known is that the odontoclast cells are breaking down the dense outer layer (enamel) and bony second layer (dentin) and exposing the soft inner layer (the pulp). The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels and causes significant pain when damaged.

Eventually the whole tooth will fall apart and become resorbed. Some cats lose all of their teeth, others just a few.

These odonoclasts are actually normal cells that are supposed to break down the roots of baby teeth and are now going rogue.

The signs of FORL usually relate to chewing problems. Owners should be concerned when they see their cats swallow kibbles whole, tilt their heads to the side when chewing, salivate, drop kibbles, and eventually stop eating.

An oral exam shows small holes at the gum line, jagged teeth, teeth that are covered with bleeding gum tissue, and eventually missing teeth. A thorough

exam by your veterinarian is necessary to understand the severity of the disease process. The best way to diagnose the resorptive tooth lesions is to take dental radiographs. The cat will have to be anesthetized or sedated to take these x-rays.

Treatment is relatively straight forward. The veterinarian and technician will recommend a full dental cleaning under gas anesthesia. After the tartar is removed from the teeth with an ultrasonic scaler, radiographs are taken and a plan is made. The owner is called to discuss any teeth that require extraction. These extractions can be simple “pulling” of teeth or actual surgical procedures using a drill to remove each root. These surgical extractions involve suturing the gum tissue over the open areas to seal up the defects and prevent pain and infection. There are even some severe cases where all of the teeth are removed. These cats are much happier and will thrive without the resorptive lesions. The good news is that the oral cavity is the fastest healing area of the body and these patients will eat soft food the next day.

No one knows the cause of this dental condition in cats. It is a mystery that continues. An annual physical exam is very important to identify the problem early and save cats from excessive pain and discomfort.

Granby Camera Club to host still life artist photographer at March 4 meeting The Granby Camera club is hosting photographer/artist Mark Battista at its March 4 meeting. Battista’s presentation will be Still Life Photography and Compositional Concepts. The meeting will be held at the Granby Senior center at 7 p.m. Guests are encouraged.

Mark Battista is a freelance artist and fine art photographer who has worked as an illustrator, fine artist and art educator for over 30 years. He has won major awards and is currently represented by The Branford Art Center and Gallery in Branford. Battista has exhibited and been represented by numerous nationally known art galleries and art organizations Battista works in oils, watercolor and charcoal. His portraits, skillfully developed and rendered through years

Drumrolls

of study, capture the inner quality of the subject. His realistic sharp focus still lifes capture the intricate detail, creative interplay of light and shadow and as James Weiss, art editor for the New Haven Register commented, “Battista’s most technically accomplished paintings create a tranquility not always achieved in other works in the show.”

While Battista’s portraits and still lifes in oil are highly detailed, exploring the archeology of layers, his watercolors express a much looser, fluid approach that explores gesture, light and color.

Battista’s photography has been influenced by his paintings and he enjoys creating a visual dialogue between the two disciplines. His painting both influences and is influenced by his study of photography.

Kyle Desjardins, a freshman at Nichols College in Dudley, Mass., was named to the high honors dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester. He also landed the starting catcher position on the Nichols baseball team.

Foxfield F.A.R.M. news Foxfield appeals to state legislators for veterans’ health care coverage Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation, has made a special appeal to state legislators on both sides of the aisle as they have historically been bipartisan in supporting the state’s valuable and important segment of the communities—U.S. veterans.

Equine therapy has proven to be a successful approach to treating the issues of PTSD and related mental issues (depression, anxiety, domestic violence, suicide, opioid dependence risk and self-medication of alcohol abuse). Equine therapy is functionally less expensive, expedient and welcomed by the participants.

Foxfield F.A.R.M. is reaching out to Connecticut medical professionals to help them recognize the importance of this organic approach. Not using this approach curtails a significant prescription to restore a better quality of life for our veterans and first responders.

Supporting the GPD Christmas toy drive

Foxfield F.A.R.M. support Granby’s “First Responders” with a donation to the Granby Police Department’s annual Christmas L-R: Bill Regan, VP Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation; Officer Jeremiah B. Dowd and Susan Patricelli 2018 toy drive.

Regan, President.

CTVV news

Exclusive interview with John G. Rowland John G. Rowland, former Governor of Connecticut, provided an open and inspiring interview with host Susan Patricelli Regan. Rowland, elected at 37 as the 86th Governor of Connecticut in 1995, was youngest to serve in the state’s history.

After release from serving a second term in prison related to corruption charges in May 2018 Rowland has dedicated his full focus on supporting the rehabilitation of former and current prison inmates via the Prison Fellowship Organization (prisonfellowship.org). In June, 2018 Craig DeRoche, the group’s Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy and former speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, recruited Rowland for the position of New England Development Director for the organization.

Be sure to see this illuminating CTVV segment and a frank perspective on one of our country’s most challenging issues in today’s culture—the restoration of prison inmates to a productive and rewarding future through a multi-faceted and faith- John G. Rowland and Susan Patricelli based program.

Regan.

Update on rising domestic violence challenge

CTVV will interview Karen Jarmoc, CEO, Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence to inform the public on the growing community issue that her department handles not only for women and children, but men as well and how it is having a severe damaging effect on the family unit.

Healthcare for Connecticut’s citizens

CTVV will speak with Ted Doolittle, Healthcare Advocate who provides assistance to Connecticut Healthcare consumers with plan selection, education, enforcement of healthcare rights and improving healthcare access. This service is free to all state residents. If you need healthcare or healthcare coverage or have problems with your coverage and don’t know where to turn, this department will handle your inquiry.

The Office of the Healthcare Advocate (OHA) is an independent agency that helps individuals understand their options, how to get and fight for healthcare coverage, including coverage for mental health or substance-use treatment, and to make sure you get covered for your healthcare needs.

Page 28 The Granby Drummer

2018 IN REVIEW The Board of the Friends of Holcomb Farm spent the year-end season assessing results from the year and planning for 2019. As a non-profit organization, we rely on members, volunteers, and farm store, restaurant and CSA customers to do what we do: Make a difference in the lives of people who are food-insecure, with limited access to farm-fresh produce, or fighting a health crisis. In 2018, we were able to donate more than 8 tons (worth more than $25,000) of produce to people in need, in Granby and throughout the region, through our Fresh Access program; and Offer educational and recreational programs that promote healthy living and conservation, advocate for all local farms and for the responsible maintenance of all 312 acres of this farm, including its trails, fields, woodlands, and the CSA Barn and Farm Store.

The Friends of Holcomb Farm operate Holcomb Farm’s farming programs, maintain the trails, and steward and advocate for the land. We do this with the support of our members; and a strong membership is critical to our success.

Why join Holcomb Farm? To honor Granby’s agricultural heritage; to protect our environment; to support local farmers; and to make a healthy difference in the lives of people in need.

To become a member (for just $25 annually) or donate to the annual fund drive, or otherwise get involved, visit holcombfarm.org/friends-of-holcombfarm. Many thanks to those who already support us.

February 2019

OUR FRIENDS AT METRO BIS

Grant funds have allowed the purchase of some new trees and tree species labels to augment the miles of hiking trails at the Holcomb Farm. Photo by Jack Lareau

TASTE THE DIFFERENCE; MAKE A DIFFERENCE! CSA Summer Shares are the most economical way to put fresh, local, chemical-free produce on your table from June through October—unless you grow it yourself. Our summer shares are already on sale, and Farmer Joe O’Grady promises another year of delicious, nutritious produce. Learn more and reserve your share of the summer bounty at holcombfarm.org/ join-our-csa.

If you’ve never been to Metro Bis in Simsbury, you really need to go. Executive Chef Chris Prosperi is a good friend to Holcomb Farm and features Holcomb Farm produce on his menu all year long, even in the cold, dark days of February. Chef Prosperi also hosts our annual Harvest Dinner at his restaurant each fall, a large undertaking for which we are immensely grateful.

This month, Metro Bis will be moving to a new location, the former Ensign Mansion at 690 Hopmeadow Street at the corner of Hopmeadow Street and Drake Hill Road. The spectacular brownstone Renaissance Revival building, built in 1905, will provide a beautiful home for our friends at Metro Bis and we wish them the very best of luck with their move.

WINTER PROJECTS

Sally King and Willie, an Australian Shepherd, enjoy a brisk walk on one of the many trails at Holcomb Farm.

Photo by Eric Lukingbeal

To enjoy New England winters, remember that there is no such thing as bad weather; just bad clothing choices.

So, bundle up and slap on hiking boots, snowshoes or skis, and check out the Farm’s miles of trails. Grants have allowed for the planning of a variety of new trees, and a labeling project is underway, with an interactive map to follow. In the meantime, go to our website to obtain a PDF of the trail map and to learn about hikes organized by the Friends of Holcomb Farm. While you’re there, sign up for our email list so that we can notify you about upcoming

hikes and other special events. Plans are underway now for a snowshoe walk on Sunday, Feb. 17; details to follow.

Enhanced farming operations continue, thanks to several grants. Our main greenhouse now has cement floors to enhance its use for both plant propagation and produce distribution to shareholders and Fresh Access partners.

Our farming equipment has a new runin shed to protect it from the elements and extend its useful life. But, the work is never done, and the board is already exploring additional grants, fundraising, and donation possibilities.

Flush was eager to educate Nalewak on the program.

“We are proud to give back to the youth of the community,” Nalewak said.

“Our team is comprised of a variety of individuals with different talents and interests so it is always an honor to help the development of our next generation.”

“I organized this donation because in my time spent interacting with Don, I was able to see just how beneficial the robot program is to Granby youth who are involved and the mentors and advisors who oversee it. As you can imagine, robot parts and supplies can

run up quite a tab, not to mention the resources needed to feed and transport the team to events,” Nalewak said.

“I don’t believe the program is funded in any way by the school, so donations are very important to them.”

On Jan. 5, Nalewak met Dr. Flush and the Granby Grunts Robotics team #3146 at Granby Memorial High School. On this day, the “game” was revealed to high schools across the nation. High school robotic teams will construct a robot to play this game. Each team has six weeks to complete the robot and then

The Exterior Company donates to Granby Robotics Team

By John R. Nieb The Exterior Company recently presented the Granby Memorial High School robotics team with a monetary donation. The Exterior Company (TEC) is headquartered in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and has been restoring a number of homes in Granby and Hartland damaged by the May 15, hailstorm.

After a storm, there are many questions homeowners face. Most people are unaware of the damage caused by a hailstorm and once it is brought to their attention, they are unaware of how to proceed. The TEC staff pride themselves in educating Granby customers and protecting them from a multitude of problems.

The team is certified to identify hail damage, and ensures homes are properly identified. Its partnerships with

both manufacturers and distributors ensure the new roof will be warrantied regardless if it is a manufacturer or craftsmanship defect. TEC partners with insurance companies to evaluate the scope of work and ensure properties are restored to their pre-storm condition.

“Our services will hopefully provide community members peace of mind knowing their home is being restored with the utmost respect,” said Jon Nalewak, project manager for TEC. TEC, although based out of Pennsylvania, maintains a satellite office in New England. The location of that office occasionally shifts based on storm activity.

After the storm, Nalewak worked with Granby residents Don and Sarah Rethke.

Don, also known as “Dr. Flush”, helps out with the Granby Memorial High School Robotics Team. Rethke and Nalewak struck up a friendship and Dr.

Robotics cont’d. on p. 29

Larry’s Construction Co. LARRY KRAIZA OWNER

LIC. # 0552657

Free Estimates Fully Insured

• • • •

Site Work Septic Systems Garages & Additions Small Foundations

Office 860-653-6150 • Cell 860-490-3472

29 Hartford Ave, Granby, CT 06035 • 1LPK1@sbcglobal.net

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 29

Parks & Recreation Kristine Vincent, CPRP: Director of Recreation and Leisure Services Office Hours: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Salmon Brook Park; open 24/7 at www.

GranbyRec.com Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: www.GranbyRec.com Program/Trip Registration: All programs/trips are based on a first come basis and space availability and require advance registration; payment must accompany registration. Please register early to avoid disappointment. Registration for all programs available online.

After School Programs Send your child to enrichment programs after school. Now registering for F.A.S.T. Super Sports, Art-ventures for Kids, Strings at Wells Road—Violin and Viola Lessons, and Kids Yoga and Mindfulness.

Kids Play, You Stay Playgroup Wednesdays through June 12, 9:30–11 a.m. Lots of fun early learning opportunities for infants, toddlers and preschoolers (ages 0-5 years-old) at the big red barn at Holcomb Farm. Parents and caregivers can relax and enjoy adult

conversation, while participating with their children to play, learn, and explore a variety of fun activities. Instructor: Sherry Litchfield. $5 per day for drop-in.

Punch Card: $20 for 5 visits (5th visit free) or $55 for all 24 weeks.

DIY Valentine Garland Workshop: Sunday, Feb. 3, 2–4 p.m. Sponsored by Bouquets of the Valley. We will provide the materials for you to make a unique Valentine Garland, Bunting or Pennant Banner that will be the perfect one for you or to gift to a special Valentine.

Materials include paper cutouts, hearts, lace, buttons, ribbons and other whimsy.

Held at the Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. $25 includes all supplies.

DIY Wooden Flower Barn Board Heart: Thursday, Feb. 7, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Offered by Joy and Wit. The DIY Barn Heart sign is always a crowd pleaser.

This is a great “gateway” craft to give your not-so-crafty friends a taste for all things DIY. In this class, you’ll customize a barnboard-style slat sign by first choosing stain, paint or dry-brush technique—or truly be a rebel and go for the natural wood look. Then go shopping for

Granby Artists Association gallery opens its doors

After 17 years, Granby Artists Association recently embarked on an exciting new adventure and opened its doors to the Granby Art Gallery at 2 Park Place near the town green in the center of Granby. Several members signed up together to display and exhibit their fine artwork.

You can view and purchase works by original lamp artist Jean-Luc Godard; painters, Bob Burns, Carole Hartwell, Laura Eden, Sally Sargent Markey, Bill Scheel and Alex Anisimov; photography by Wendy van Welie, and Avis Cherichetti has several of her beautiful pottery pieces on display and for sale.

The gallery is open on Wednesdays, 3–7 p.m., Fridays, 1–5 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Viewing appointments can be set up at info@granbyartgallery. com or call 860-653-7275 Ext: 108. Keep checking for special events on the Granby Artists Association Facebook page and on its website, granbyartists.org

Robotics cont’d. from p. 28 compete against other robots in hopes to be the best.

“It’s really amazing how the robotic program is laid out,” Nalewak said.

“The students run everything, gain a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience with robotics and teamwork.”

The kicker is that the students are also in charge of all administrative duties of running and maintaining the program.

The kids are learning more than just how to put robots together. Since Rethke is so very passionate about what this program does for the students and how unselfishly he donates so much of his time to the kids, Nalewak wanted to do something for him.

TEC presented the Granby Robotics Team with a $3,000 donation. The kids were excited and Dr. Flush was surprised and thankful. The staff at TEC are hopeful this will not only assist the robotic team with its financial needs this season, but also possibly spark-up donations from the community once the word got out.

To contact Dr. Flush, call 860-5496687 to get more information about this program. To donate to the GMHS Robotics Team, write checks payable to “GMHS Robotics” and mail to Granby Memorial High School at 315 Salmon Brook Street, Granby, CT 06035.

hearts and choose the sizes, colors, and textures that match your home decor.

Choose the heart-style or pick another design that’s more to your liking. Held at the Joy and Wit Design Studio, 2 Salmon Brook Street. $52 includes all materials and instruction.

Kids Yoga and Mindfulness: Mondays, Feb. 25–April 29, after school at Wells Road. Grades 3 through 5 at Wells Road School will learn basic yoga poses while having fun with focus on building self-confidence, strength and concentration. Children learn about poses, breath and relaxation through play and movement. Also a great program for children involved in sports as it helps athletes excel in other physical activities. Send your child with yoga mat or towel and don’t forget their water bottle. $100 Yoga For All Levels: Tuesdays, Feb. 26–April 2, 8:15—9:15 a.m. Join us at the beautiful Holcomb Farm Workshop for a mixed level Yoga class. Stretch, strengthen and restore. Class begins with a gentle warm-up, builds to an invigorating flow and ends with deep stretch and peaceful relaxation. Perfect to help gain flexibility, balance, and strength. It will be a great way to start the day. $65 per session.

Baby Yoga and Me: Fridays, March 1–April 5, 10:45–11:45 a.m. Designed for any caregiver and their baby ages 6 weeks to early crawlers. The focus is on infant developmental techniques and poses as well as ways for caregivers to squeeze some precious yoga into baby-filled days. Caregiver and baby will explore play and breathing while taking an opportunity to practice some healing stretches. This class encourages improvisation with baby, regaining flexibility after birth, and stimulates gross motor skill development. Held at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

$75 for baby and caregiver.

Family Yoga: Fridays, March 1–April 5, 12:30–1:30 p.m. This playful class is geared toward children and their family members and incorporates movement, yoga postures, games, partner poses and time to connect with each other through mindfulness activities. Family yoga creates great opportunities for bonding time, learning together and teamwork. Classes have a variety of poses, songs and activities, that will fit some ages better than others, but we promise there will be something for everyone, and families have fun doing it all together. Class is for child up to 3 and caregiver. Don’t forget yoga mats.

Held in the Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. $90 for child and up to 3 adults.

Green Eggs and Ham Family Breakfast: Saturday, March 2, 8 and 9 a.m.

Celebrate Dr. Seuss with a breakfast of scrambled eggs, ham, toast, juice and coffee, stories and more! You should not, will not want to miss a funfilled breakfast quite like this! Do you like Green Eggs and Ham? We think you will, oh Sam-I-Am! Held at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Cost: Age 8 and up, $8; age 2–7, $5; under 2 free.

Plan your Party or Special Event Have your next family or other private event at Salmon Brook Park or the Holcomb Farm. The Salmon Brook Park House is a beautiful facility that can accommodate up to 99 people, featuring a gas fireplace and central air. The North Barn Pavilion at Holcomb Farm is built to look like a barn but this gorgeous new building has all of the modern amenities to make your event for up to 125 people a day to remember. Dates fill fast. Call us to get more information or visit GranbyRec.com to see pictures and rental info.

Page 30 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Thank you, CES Design Studio!

GMHS class of 2008 marks 10 years

Granby Memorial High School Class of 2008 celebrated its 10-year reunion in November at the Westfield River Brewery in Southwick. At least 65 grads attended, including many more that arrived after this photo was taken. Photo by Samantha Browning

Simpsons writer delights crowd at library

By Brian Tomasino In early January, the Granby Library held a book talk and signing of Springfield Confidential by Mike Reiss. Reiss has been a writer and producer of the show, The Simpsons, since it’s been on the air for 30 years, from the beginning to the present.

In the book, he discussed with the packed audience at the library, he provided a first-hand look at how it all began, how the show is made, and why it keeps going. In his freewheeling, irreverent comic style, Reiss reflects on his lifetime inside The Simpsons show. He provided many personal observations, along with some of his favorite stories. There were many secrets shared, and funny moments of the 100’s of famous guests that have appeared on the show. Throughout the 45-minute talk, Reiss kept the laughs going for the audience.

Mike has also written other books, including 20 children’s books, 12 of which are available at the library. The author talk ended with a signing of his new book that was available for purchase, along with many one-on-one enjoyable chats with Reiss.

Holly Johnson, the Program and Outreach Coordinator for the library, helped in finding Reiss to come all the way to Granby. To find out about more planned events, stop by the library, or take a look

Holly Johnson, Granby Library Program and Outreach Coordinator with Mike Reiss, author of the Simpsons book, Springfield Confidential. Photo by Brian Tomasino

at its Facebook page for the current list of events to attend.

Friends of the Granby Public Library helped sponsor this author book talk and signing, along with many other programs at the library, including museum passes, DVD’s, magazines, and more. If you are interested in joining the Friends of Granby, our annual membership drive will be in March.

For February, Friends of Granby book table sales at the library will be centered around romance and special price art books.

The Granby DPW was asked to look into updating the sign at the Granby Animal Shelter located on Salmon Brook Street. Quotes were received but before a decision could be made, Matt Newton owner of CES Design, had made a sign that he would donate. There is now a beautiful new sign in front of the town shelter. Check it out the next time you go by.

Pictured: Rick Morton, Granby DPW, Matt Newton, CES Design, Jennifer Abalan, Granby Animal Control Officer

Granby artist awarded cultural arts grant In an effort to support and encourage the preservation of skilled traditional arts and crafts, the Connecticut Cultural Heritage Arts Program (CCHAP) at the Connecticut Historical Society (CHS) announces its 2018-2019 grant recipients. These awards are given to mentor artists in the Southern New England Apprenticeship Program who intensively teach their expertise to student apprentices and help sustain cultural expressions that are important to their ethnic and occupational communities. Additionally, the grants allow artists’ work to be shown publicly at local and regional festivals, arts activities, and events.

Among this year’s grant winners are: Lithuanian straw art master artist Aldona Saimininkas of West Hartford, and apprentice Philitha Stemplys-Cowdrey of Granby. This team hand picks rye straw from farm fields and prepares it to form ribbons that become intricate scenes. Saimininkas has taught Lithuanian straw art workshops to scout groups, Lithuanian gatherings and cultural schools, and adult classes throughout the U.S. and Canada. She created an official gift for the 600th anniversary of Lithuanian Christianity and has a straw picture in the Vatican’s art collection (a gift to Pope John Paul II).

Bank sponsors Salvation Army Holiday Store

Simsbury Bank made a $2,500 sponsorship contribution to the Salvation Army as part of WTIC NewsTalk 1080’s annual Holiday Store program. Additionally, the bank facilitated the collection of toys for children of all ages.

One hundred percent of the funds collected through WTIC’s Holiday Store program support the work of the Salvation Army in the communities they serve, including toys for children and food for individuals and families in need this season.

Martin Geitz, President and CEO of Simsbury Bank, delivered the bank’s donation during the Mornings with Ray Dunaway program broadcast from the Avon Old Farms Hotel this holiday season.

Supporting a Caring Community since 1960

Meals-on-Wheels provides home delivery of nutritious meals to homebound residents.

Contributing to the Granby Community Fund helps support organizations that provide services to residents in the Granby community. www.granbycommunityfund.com

February 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 31

Sew-Hopeful: helping girls from third world countries with hygiene needs

By Josi Klein Come to the Granby Senior Center one Wednesday of every month and you will hear multiple sewing machines going at break-neck speed and dozens of cheery voices bantering back and forth. As you draw near, you see colorful fabrics being cut, sliced, sewn, turned and tweaked. On ironing boards in the back, the fabrics are being smoothed and pressed, the steam of irons puffing as they glide.

In many parts of the world girls must stay home from school and women home from paid work during their menstrual cycles because cultural norms dictate they cannot participate in community activities because they have no acceptable way to meet their hygiene needs.

This group is part of a global effort: Days for Girls International (DfGI) (daysforgirls.org) gives girls and women back their days in society that they lose when they have to stay home each month.

Since its beginning 10 years ago, DfG International has reached 1,000,000 girls and women in over 124 countries with hygiene kits and menstrual health education classes.

This Days for Girls group includes women from Granby and surrounding towns, sewers and non-sewers alike. Sandra Yost, Granby Senior Center Director, understands the need for a comfortable space large enough to accommodate the 25–30 people who usually participate.

The group makes washable, longlasting shields and liners designed by

DfG International that can be scrubbed clean with a bit of soap in gray water in a Ziplok bag (think washing machine).

It also makes cloth bags to carry the supplies. Many girls carry their bags every day, so no one knows when they really have their periods.

Products produced in Granby go to the Maasai people of the central highlands of Kenya through the Connecticut-based Kenyan Health Care Initiatives (khci. org). Kits of shields and liners are only distributed after attendance at health education classes that explain the how and why of pregnancy and menstruation.

Even better, DfG International and Kenyan Health Care Initiatives are assisting in organizing local women and men to form businesses to make and sell these products, thus ensuring accessibility for now and into the future for the local populations and providing much needed job opportunities for women who often have few opportunities to earn a living.

The success of these products is a testimonial to their usefulness. Girls are remaining in school and can later take advantage of all the benefits a full education brings, rather than dropping out and being forced into early marriage.

The Farmington Valley Days for Girls group welcomes new members.

It appreciates donations of all-cotton quilting-quality, bright medium to dark fabrics (geometric and flower patterns are best), including all-cotton flannel in similar colors, and grosgrain ribbon. Contact the Senior Center for more information.

A warm gathering under a cold moon More than 40 people showed up for the GLT’s nighttime Cold Moon Hike on the Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve in December.

By Trish Percival While the idea of hiking to the top of a mountain on a cold dark night in the middle of winter might not appeal to everyone, it certainly appeals to many, as evidenced by the fact that more than 40 people showed up to do just that with the Granby Land Trust (GLT) on December 23.

The hike started at dusk on the GLT’s Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve on Silver Street and ended in complete darkness, with a cozy gathering at Emery Farm on Loomis Street. It was a Cold Moon Hike. The Cold Moon is the name given to the December full moon, and there was a huge full moon on that night—we’re sure of—but we couldn’t see it through the cloud cover. That didn’t dampen spirits, though. Hike leader and GLT Board member Dave Emery led an informative hike through the GLT’s Holcombe Preserve, up Crag Mountain, across Dismal Brook, and back to the beautiful farm he shares with his wife, Jenny. (Some of this hike took place on private land, and is not accessible without an invitation from the Emerys.)

A crock of warm soup, a roaring fire in the woodstove, and the conversation of friends new and old warmed everyone up before they headed home.

Seth and Lucy Holcombe left 150 beautiful, secluded acres of land to the Land Trust in 2016. They loved this land and wanted others to enjoy the property that brought them so much joy during their lifetimes. Since then, the GLT has worked to honor their wishes by marking the trail system and by creating maps, both print and interactive, to help visitors navigate its trail system. The property is open to the public and maps are available at the trailhead, at granbylandtrust. org, and on the Avenza app on your smartphone.

Dave and Jenny Emery own Emery Farm, a private property on Loomis Street. The GLT is grateful to them for inviting us onto their property, for opening their home to us, and for serving us a lovely meal. Most of all, we are grateful to the Emerys for all they do to support the Granby Land Trust throughout the year.

MARK BRADY KITCHENS Next available time slot for complete kitchen remodel is February 2019

860-306-5867 • Granby markbradykitchens.com

HIC.0557564

The Farmington Valley Days for Girls group meets once a month at the Senior Center to make washable, reusable hygiene products for girls around the world. Submitted photo.

Swim Your Stress Away in the

Valley’s Best Water

subseven Locally Owned

860.653.6630 info@subseven.net Supporting the Farmington Valley.

Digital Workflow.

Computers.

Networks.

Digital Security.

Swim Center at Westminster School Crystal-Clear Water Lap Swimming Swim Lessons Water Fitness Monthly Memberships Masters Swimming Family Fun!

860 408-3021 www.SwimCenter.net 995 Hopmeadow Street (Route 10) Simsbury

Page 32 The Granby Drummer

February 2019

Closer to Home

Support our local businesses while saving some gas and time.

Tell them you saw their ad in the Drummer.

Advertiser Page Beacon Mechanical 26 Beman Hardware 10 Berkshire Hathaway Copper Beech 16 Berkshire Hathaway Home Services 24 Berkshire Hathaway Shepherds Way 17 Berkshire Hathaway Nancy Reardon 7 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s Motors 12 Carmon Funeral Home 3 Carter Robert Painting 10 Chiropractic Care 5 Christopher Bryant Co. 16 Coldwell Banker 32 Command Corporation 8 Creative Learning Preschool Center 20 CT Firewood Lee’s Landscaping 27 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 22 Debbie Finney Sewing 23 First Congregational Church 19 FV YMCA 29 GCF-Meals on Wheels 30 Granby Dental Center Dr. Ungerleider 13 Granby Dental Dr. Kirschbaum 18 Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Insurance 6 Granby Package Store 28 Granby Pharmacy 9 Granby Village Health 10 Higleyville Coin 13 Horses and Hounds 11 Jim Clark Snow Plowing 16, 27 Judy Guarco Berkshire Hathaway 9

Advertiser Page Larry’s Construction 28 Main Street Door 31 Maple Corner Farm 6 Mark Brady Kitchen 31 MeadowBrook of Granby 17 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing 12 O.P. Painting 19 Pierce Builders-Meadowgate 30 Route 10 Tire 13 Salmon Brook Shops 30 Sanditz Travel Management 13 Santa Realty 8 Schoenrock Financial 26 Seniors Helping Seniors 25 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 12 Small Town Septic 22 South Congregational Church 11 State Line Oil Propane 8 Strain Family Equestrian 12 Subseven 31 Sullivan Hardwood Floors 11 Swim Center at Westminster 31 Thomas Sullivan Morgan Stanley 25 Troiano Oil Company 21 Two Park Place 5 Valley Brook Community Church 14 Walker Kitchen Design 19 Walsh Chiropractic 16 West Granby Methodist Church 14 Westfield Bank 15 Windsor Federal 18

Keeping a sharp eye out for dinner James Suller captured this photo of a blue heron wading in his pond on Strawberry Fields Road in early December.

March 2019 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, February 13 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org.

ARTICLES: Monday, February 18 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: February 12-25 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents.

The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at: www.granbydrummer.org.