Granby Drummer | March 2019

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Volume XLIX, No. 6 • March 2019

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Board of Finance sets budget guidelines

By Michael B. Guarco, Jr., Chair, Board of Finance At its January and February meetings the Board of Finance considered operating budget forecasts from the administrations as well as the various pieces of the revenue picture. In January the Board of Finance set operating budget guidelines of 4 percent, reflecting the increasing cost of special education and outplacements as well as for health benefits. Offsetting the increase in expenditures are an increase in revenues from the state in both the Education Cost Sharing and Special Education Excess Cost grants, as well as the beginning of a significant decline in annual debt service expense over each of the next three years.

Also of note is the first year of what should be three or four years of a slightly greater-than-average growth in the grand list of taxable property of 1.44 percent before any adjustment by the Board of Assessment Appeals.

Combined, these elements have led the board to target a mill rate change in the 2 percent range, which is in line with the modest inflationary trend faced in our own households.

Over the next month the administrations will be refining their respective budget requests for review by the operating boards. By April 1 the boards of selectmen and education will submit finalized requests to the Board of Finance for its consideration. After weighing the budget requests, and balancing them against all relevant revenue information available, the BOF will prepare the final budget package to take to public hearing for review and comment. After this public hearing, which by charter is held on the second Monday of April (4/8), the BOF will makes its decision on whether to modify or send the combined budget package as-is to referendum, which again by charter is to be held on the fourth Monday of April (4/22).

A significant component on the revenue side of the ledger – and lately the wild card – is what the town receives from the state in terms of municipal aid. While what the Governor presented mid-February is overall fairly flat statewide, it does take money away from the towns and shift it to the cities. Under his proposal, Granby looses a total of $352,909 in the first year and another $278,000 in the second — equivalent to

Finance sets budget guidelines cont’d. on p. 7

DOT hosts public information meeting on center road improvement project

by Shirley Murtha On Jan. 15, representatives from the Connecticut Department of Transportation presented information on the current status of the project to reconfigure Granby center. The 90 residents gathered in the Senior Center saw an array of photos, maps and charts that explained what has been planned to improve the intersection of Routes 10/202, 20 and 189.

Project engineer Joe Arsenault gave a history of this project. In 1998, the Capital Regional Council of Government (CRCOG did a study of the Rte. 10/202 corridor as requested by the town. In 2011-2013, the town requested financial assistance from

CRCOG to make improvements in the center. In March 2016, the DOT held its first public information meeting in Granby, explaining its preliminary ideas for widening, lane additions and sidewalks. That was followed in March 2017 with a more detailed presentation of the initial design features. A meeting was held with town officials in the summer of 2018.

Since much of the project’s area of potential effect falls within the Granby Center National Register of Historic Places, the State Historic Preservation Office was consulted.

The office determined that the project would have no adverse effect on the historic properties in the area. It was determined, however, that there are

DOT meeting on center project cont’d. on p. 2

Inside Toni Ann’s Silver Jubilee.... 17

Waypoints - Ice Fishing..... 26

Humans of Granby............. 21

Local artist’s work soars..... 29

“Tap” and sweet rewards can result Arlow Case, Jr., owner of Sweet Wind Farm in East Hartland, sets a tap to begin his maple sugar operation. His goal is to get 4,000 taps in each season, tapping trees in Granby, Hartland and other neighboring towns. He makes 200 to 1,000 gallons of syrup each year. He has made syrup since the age of 8 at “Arlow’s Sugar Shack” when he and his family lived on Bushy Hill Rd in Granby. Enjoy the fruits of his labor at the annual Maple Festival at Case’s farm, 339 South Rd, East Hartland, on Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Photo by Susan Case

Tackling capital and infrastructure

By Michael B. Guarco, Jr. Chair, Board of Finance In recent months, the Capital Program Priority Advisory Committee (CPPAC) has been meeting to formulate a multiyear plan to address what the boards view as their greatest priority capital needs. The focus is on the next five years as we look to balance potential expenditures with operating budget needs and the revenue picture. CPPAC uses a computer-planning model to help assess the potential financial impact of introducing capital over time to meet those prioritized needs. It is a useful tool in assessing how and when to bring them forward for approval from the boards and the voters.

Over the next three years two factors will help to better handle any capital expenditures. Existing debt service will decrease by about $700K in each of the three years, and the grand list will grow a little more than it has been tracking in recent years as the Copper Brook home development in the center and the project across from Floydville

Road come on line. The greatest threat to the fiscal picture going forward, for Granby or any town in Connecticut, is what the state does to statutory and other aid grants to the municipalities.

The three key projects under review currently are a bridge replacement plan, a solar field to reduce energy consumption and cost, and a school project that primarily meets program needs left unaddressed when the high school was renovated and expanded nearly 20 years ago. Roof and HVAC unit replacements at the two elementary schools are also under review. In all three cases there are grant moneys and reimbursement funding formulas that are key to analyzing the net cost to the town. In all three cases there are future operating costs that will be less than they would be if the projects were not undertaken. Even with the overall planning in place, each project has to follow a vetting process by the boards and the public before voter approval is sought. More information will be forthcoming as the process unfolds over the next few months.

Photo by Peter Dinella

Page 2 The Granby Drummer

DOT meeting on center project cont’d. from p. 1 some bats nesting in some of the trees in the project area. Considering that these animals are in great decline, the state will not take any of those trees from May 15 to August 15, the nesting period.

Data collected showed that in an average 24-hour period, about 14,000 cars travel through the intersection on Rte. 10/202. Crash studies in the three-year period from January 2014 to December 2016 show a total of 108 crashes (48 of which were rear-enders) resulting in 26 injuries.

Arsenault explained that the purpose of the project is to improve movement through the center, reduce congestion, improve the turning radius for trucks — all of which will help to prevent accidents. Additional safety features will include more sidewalks, cross-walks and pedestrian islands. If affordable, granite will be used for the curbing; street lamps will match the newly installed ones south of the center. Thirty-two utility poles will need to be re-located and some drainage modifications may be necessary.

Specifics of the Project As written in the DOT report, the specifics of the project include “widening

Rte. 10/202/189 to provide five 11-foot lanes with four-foot shoulders, allowing for an additional left turn lane in each direction. Rte. 10/202 north of the northerly intersection will be widened to allow for five lanes including an exclusive left-turn and two through-lanes in the southbound direction, along with two receiving lanes in the northbound direction. The Rte. 20/189 leg of the northerly intersection will be realigned to better establish the east-west movements at both approaches by reducing the heavy skew angle and providing a more defined right turn onto Rte. 10/202/189. The Rte. 20/189 leg will also be widened to allow for an exclusive left-turn lane, a through lane, a right-turn lane, and two receiving lanes. The Rte. 20 westbound approach to Rte. 10/202 will be widened to allow for an exclusive left-turn lane, a through lane, and a combined through/right-turn lane. At the southerly intersection, Rte. 189 will be widened to allow for two receiving lanes from the double left-turn lanes on Rte. 10/202/189. The southern leg of the intersection will be widened to provide a dedicated left-turn lane into Stony Hill Village and Small World Day Care.”

March 2019

Downed power lines—don’t be a victim!

Granby’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is hosting a presentation by Eversource on the characteristics, issues, and dangers presented by power lines. Power lines on the poles present dangers as well as those downed by accidents or Mother Nature. Do you know what to do when a power line falls on your car? Do you know what to do when a power line falls in your yard? Find out the answers to these questions and many other dangers caused by power lines.

Great information for those who may be required to respond to emergencies: fire, police, ambulance, CERT, etc. The presentation is scheduled for Monday, March 18, at 7 p.m. at Granby’s Senior Center and is expected to last about one hour.

All are welcomed.

During construction, bi-directional traffic will be maintained during rush hours. Night work will be considered, but a limiting factor will be the residences in the area. Bank Street will be a convenient detour during part of the construction.

Property Acquisition There will be some property acquisition necessary. The process begins with the resident or business receiving a letter of intent from the state. After valuation, an offer of just compensation will be made. The owner will have three days to consider the offer after which negotiation may occur. Hopefully there will be agreement, but if not, the state would initiate acquisition by eminent

domain, for which there is a six-month appeal period.

It is expected that the design specifics will be completed in early 2020, with the project going out for bids for construction during the summer.

Construction should begin in the spring of 2021. The project should take about two years to complete, depending on how much night work can be done.

The cost of the project is $7,730,000, of which 80 percent will be covered by federal funds and 20 percent by state funds.

Public Input When opened up to residents for comments and questions, it was clear that not all are in favor of this project.

It was questioned how the relatively low number of accidents compared with the amount of traffic was enough to validate two years worth of considerable disruption and delays. It was noted that the expense was too great, considering how both federal and state budgets are constantly being cut.

Many residents, especially those who sit in traffic during rush hours, were in favor of the project, however.

Other comments and questions included the following. The new sidewalks were just installed in the center; what a shame some of them will have to be removed so soon. If tolls are instituted on the major highways in the near future, will there be even more traffic on the “back roads?” Will the small businesses in the area be compromised by blockage to entrances during construction? (Reply: access will be maintained.) Could we install flashing yellow lights like there are in Southwick for left-hand turns if there is no traffic coming? (Reply: Connecticut does not allow them at this time.) Will the Drummer building be safe after the road is widened? (Reply: yes; a second interior curb will be installed to shore up the bank in front of the building.)

Finally, a suggestion was made to have directional signs painted on the road surface far enough away from the center to warn drivers of upcoming lane decisions that will have to be made.

Arsenault noted that all comments and recommendations made at the meeting would receive consideration by the DOT. A form was provided for anyone who wished to make additional written comments, suggestions or questions.

Documents related to this project are available for public inspection (and copying) at the DOT engineering office at 2800 Berlin Turnpike in Newington, Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., holidays excluded.

March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 3

BOS meeting summaries Jan. 22, Feb. 4 and 19, 2019

By Shirley Murtha PUBLIC SESSION Jan. 22 Herb Hulbert had questions regarding the Kearns Community Center Project.

After turning down money for the town from the Evonsion farm offer, will we be doing the same with Kearns? There needs to be a financial benefit for the town. Has the town looked into grants? Is there another possible plan that will bring more income to the town? What will happen if the funding disappears? Will the final decision go to a referendum? Town Manager Ward replied that a referendum is not necessary if there is no sale.

Hulbert also wanted an update on the bridge repair situation and was told that the February Drummer would contain a detailed report.

Feb. 4 Susan Regan urged the board to heed her recommendation for a “Plan B” for Kearns Community Center. She noted that the town needs a contingency plan in case the center fails to reach the financial status it expects during its third year.

New Staff Town Manager John Ward introduced two new staff members at the Feb. 4 BOS meeting.

Harold Holmes is the new fire marshal.

Certified by the state for 27 years, he is an American Red Cross CPR/AED/first aid certified instructor, a certified life safety and public educator, and a member of the Connecticut Disaster Medical Assistance Team. He is currently a deputy fire marshal and volunteer firefighter for a fire district in Middletown.

Eric Vincent is the new Granby Emergency Management Director. A certified

fire marshal, emergency medical technician and fire service instructor, he is a captain with the Bradley International Airport Fire Department where he is responsible for shift supervision. He oversees responses to medical emergencies, fire alarms and material spills. He was formerly a fire and life safety officer for the Connecticut Department of Corrections.

BUSINESS/BUDGET BOF Guideline After receiving the preliminary municipal and education budgets, the Board of Finance has asked that the final budgets come in at or below a 4 percent increase.

Tax Penalty Deferment Town Manager Ward noted that the Connecticut state legislature approved giving municipalities the option of allowing residents furloughed in the government shutdown a deferral in the obligation to pay interest on late taxes. At the February meeting, the board declined to adopt a resolution to that effect as there have been no requests to date. If there is another shutdown, the resolution would require amending, so it seemed prudent to take a “wait and see” approach.

Revenue Town tax collection and other revenue is on schedule. There is still a surplus in building permit revenue due to the spring hailstorm; however, a transfer of funds may be necessary to pay for the building department’s temporary employee.

Assessor Sue Altieri filed the 2018 Grand List, which has increased by 1.44 percent.

Kearns Center Advisory Committee The board approved the addition of a new charge to the Kearns Community Center Advisory Committee. The com-

“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.”

— Epictetus

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!

March 10 at 4 p.m. The Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series presents: The Hartt Chamber Choir and the Hartt Chorale March 15 at 7:30 p.m. The Salmon Brook Music Series presents: Cheryl Wheeler

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

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

COST honors Witkos with Town Crier award

The Connecticut Council of Small Towns (COST), presented Town Crier Awards at its annual meeting on January 16. Sen. Kevin Witkos, l., who represents Avon, Barkhamsted, Canton, Colebrook, Granby, Hartland, Harwinton, New Hartford, Norfolk, Simsbury and Torrington, was one of this year’s recipients. “Sen. Witkos has been a strong advocate for providing towns with much-needed relief from unfunded state mandates and supporting programs critical to our small towns, such as the Resident State Trooper program,” said Leo Paul, first selectman of Litchfield and COST’s past president, in presenting the award. Submitted photo

mittee is to specifically evaluate the financial viability of the proposal with regard to both construction and operation.

First Selectman Report First Selectman Kuhnly noted that his January 22 Koffee with Kuhnly was well attended, with 20 residents interested in speaking with him and State Representative Bill Simanski.

Department Report Building Official Bill Volovski reported on the work of the Building Department, whose job it is to supervise contractors to ensure compliance with state codes and town zoning regulations for the towns of Granby and Hartland. He noted that, due to the hail storm of May 15, the usual 1,000 building permit applications had tripled. The unprecedented disaster necessitated the hiring of a temporary assistant. Under normal circumstances, an overload can be handled more easily by way of Granby having a mutual aid agreement with five neighboring towns

whose personnel can step in to help in times of emergencies or illness.

Volovski noted that the increased number of housing units in the town has definitely increased the work load. He mentioned that the department’s Ann Marie Winsor has been an incredible assistant during this time.

Resignations and Appointments Barry Avery resigned from the Conservation Commission and Tim Squier resigned from the Agricultural Commission.

Al Wilke was approved as the Board of Finance representative on the Kearns Center Advisory Committee.

The following have been reappointed: John O’Brien and Liam O’Leary to the Agricultural Commission, Phil Main to the Commission on Aging; Jim Caldwell, Ken Kuhl and Rob Rome to the Development Commission, Robert Donna to the Library Board and Peter Gunn to the Park and Recreation Board.

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Page 4 The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Selling the family farm

For many in town, as farm property has been passed along through the generations, zoning laws have become more restrictive and complicated each year.

When an aunt or uncle dies, several family members may own the farm. I am in this situation now. The new owners agree it is time to sell. We listed the property at 186 Case Street of 86 acres and immediately got a low-ball offer. I wanted to counter offer with less land to protect some of the acreage. The rest of the family wanted to counter offer on price. After raised voices from cousins that grew up as friends, we found out any counter offer would be rejected. Tension among the family members continues. The family says it is a democracy and the majority of owners decide. I told them legally everyone has to sign. Family should try to make everyone happy.

I want to save some property for farming and the rest of the family wants to sell the entire piece at once with no regard as to its future. When my wife and I bought my uncle’s house, which is the old farmhouse across the street from his estate, in 1994 the community planner was Fran Armentano. I believe he was fairly new to the town. I went to him with my concerns and desire to keep the fields in farming.

Many years later, the Case Street Study (that added many restrictions and requires four-acre building lots) was prepared with little input from large parcel owners. I told Fran then that this reduced property values substantially.

He said the building lots should sell at a higher price so the value does not go down. In the last couple of years I asked if the town would buy the development rights to save the fields for farming. He and others in the town said no. I talked to the state and was told it would be too small an acreage.

Finally the family decided. They said that they would sell me the property for an agreed price. Now one owner is in a nursing home and State Medicaid is in-

March 2019

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.

volved in the background. I do not have that kind of money. So I have been trying to get enough people interested to buy it. After many ads and signs, and many false offers, a site developer is working with me to develop the property. His son answered one of the ads and wants to build a house on the property.

A year has gone by and his father offered to buy about 40 acres in front and develop it once planning and zoning agrees to the subdivision. He is not interested in making money, but there are a lot of costs (soil scientists, engineers, a road or driveways). At this time it looks like we need to subdivide the property into seven building lots, of which he wants to build on one or two. Of course this will not protect the fields since it is the two best building lots near the road.

I am still pursuing saving the fields for agriculture.

The current planner, Abby, said the town has no money to buy the development rights, but she gave me some people to contact. I contacted the state again. Now they have a Community Farms Preservation Program (CFPP) for smaller acreage. If all goes right, the state will buy the development rights to two building lots. If so, only five building lots are needed to cover costs.

The state requires a partner like a municipality to go in about 25 percent, so I will be asking the town to assist.

Basically under Section 3.1.3.15 the zoning commission may authorize the applicant to pay a fee, which I believe is 10 percent of the property value, in lieu of designated open space. I will request the town use the fee I pay to partner with the state to save the farm land.

Please wish me luck. Sometimes the town does not understand the way I say things. If you can assist in explaining, please accompany me to the Planning and Zoning meeting. It should be scheduled soon.

Stanley Kardys

Questioning the Kearns proposal

We are concerned that the condition of the state finances is going to cause the taxes in Granby to go up. We have watched the Kearns School sit empty for almost 3 years, requiring maintenance annually for $30,000–$50,000.

There is a proposal now from a group that would like to start a non-profit entity in the building to use as a community center for Granby and the surrounding towns. The funding would be through grants and donations to do remodeling and refurbishing for set up and to cover the first year. Granby will get $1 a year for 10 years along with not having to pay for maintenance on the building.

We have some questions: 1. Has there been any attempt to aggressively market the property to either sell or lease it to bring in more income to Granby?

2. There were about 30 people who attended the public hearing and although at least 25 were positive we did not hear any commitment for any ongoing income after the first year to maintain the facility and proposed salaries of the two directors.

What happens after the first year when the initial grants are gone? Where will the money come from? We hope not from the Community Fund that already supports many of the clubs and services that are provided for our residents. And we hope not from the state, which in effect would be from state taxes.

3. Is there still an insurance cost for Granby to cover any potential lawsuits for injuries on the property?

4. If the project does go forward is there room for negotiation to bring in more money for the lease?

We would like to see our elected officials look for more projects that will bring in tax revenue to help ALL the residents of Granby.

Carol and Herb Hulbert

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

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2019 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, Nancy Dudenhofer, Nancy Fischer, 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, 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,

GRANBY FOOD BANK We currently need: Mayo/ketchup/mustard Salad dressings Canned fruit cocktail Pasta sauces Apple juice/coffee Strawberry jelly/jams Microwave popcorn Small bags dry pet food

FIND US

Donations can be dropped off at the VNA office on Salmon Brook Street

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, March 4, March 18 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Community Room, Monday, March 25 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Central Office, Wednesdays, March 6, March 20 Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall Tuesdays, March 12, March 26 Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Thursday, March 13 Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, March 11

Social Media www.facebook.com/Granby-Drummer

Karen Eustis, Advisor Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Becky Mikus

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

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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.

LETTERS POLICY

The Drummer welcomes letters.

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

March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 5

OP-ED: Kearns School project— a rush to judgment

By Susan Patricelli Regan I have written a number of op-eds on this subject and spoken at BOS meetings during public sessions over the past year or so. I acknowledge the objectives of a diverse public facility as proposed by the soliciting Facility Committee for the lease of Kearns School. However, debatable information, amended budget outlines, questionable timelines, as yet unconfirmed funding and 501C3 certification, cash flow uncertainty and lack of a CPA financial consult; I, and many other business-minded Granby citizens are convinced that this is not a viable economic commitment. I believe the Letter of Intent, even non-binding, was clearly assigned too soon.

The illogic of the BOS entertaining this current proposal by the Granby Study Committee, raises several strategic points of concern: A CPA actuarial accounting should have been done prior to making a proposal to Granby, yet the cost for this critical step was assigned zero dollars.

This is disconcerting because that is the first rule of thumb for any professional business plan, particularly a non-profit looking for so much municipal and state fiscal support.

The original Kearns School Study Committee in 2017 was tasked with determining potential purposes and status for the school as inherited from the education department. The committee’s final determination was that it could be used for various utilizations and most certainly could/should be marketed for sale. Time was of the essence to avoid ongoing maintenance, insurance costs, etc. In the two subsequent years, nothing has been done.

Since then, between $60K–$100K has been spent for preservation and I do not know the cost of insurance coverage.

Nothing has been spent on marketing activities or seeking further professional expertise as to options that would realize revenue—why?

Speaking of insurance, that coverage was added into the Facility Committee’s latest budget, but was not included in the previous one — was Granby expected to cover it? Even if this is a moot point,

YOU ARE NEEDED Granby residents are needed to fill vacancies on the Agricultural Commission and the Conservation Commission. If you are interested in serving on either of these commissions, contact the Democratic Town Committee Chair Christine Chinni at GranbyDemocrats@gmail.com, the Republican town committee Chair Mark Neumann at 860-653-9668, or the Town Manager at 860-844-5300.

Granby could still be open to litigation as the owners of the building and property.

Why a 10-year lease? Why not a threeyear lease at fair market value with an option to buy with a portion of the annual lease applied toward the final purchase price (TBD)?

Given Governor Lamont’s “debt diet” objective, how does a $2-million bonded donation factor into the Facility Committee’s fundraising plan? Will the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving just hand over $300K (if that is the correct amount) without oversight or expected parameters of use?

Those who attended the 2.0 CT Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth Forum on 2/13 at the Granby Senior Center were appreciably educated and informed as to the State of the State’s financial fiasco, leaving little room for expanding long term debt.

If the various services being proposed do not meet revenue needs and expectations, who will continue activity and how will they obtain cash flow from contributions to meet fixed costs? Some grants are non-recurring and have restricted uses.

There is no Plan B for the facility group nor the town if the whole thing implodes.

Will it simply be left on Granby’s doorstep and how would that be viewed by the State or Hartford Foundation for Public Giving should they forfeit the money?

Why can’t we initiate conversation with people in the daycare industry to determine interest since it is a growing business segment in Connecticut? They have the money and expertise to manage a project of that complexity and size?

The wetlands can be given to McLean’s Game Refuge and the remaining 12 acres sold with the facility.

Clarification is needed on why a sale of this property would require a referendum versus no public vote on a lease of town property. Why? The taxpayers are on the hook either way. Perhaps the Charter needs to be changed—and have a referendum on it.

Once again, I refer to Bob Patricelli’s comments about Connecticut having assets that it hasn’t bothered to market: quality of life, location between Boston and N.Y., high speed ferries, Sikorsky, etc), great educational institutions—

sounds like Granby— right? We are near Bradley International Airport and major interstate highways, parks and open space, great schools but we haven’t marketed it and both the state and Granby have not been particularly user friendly in the commercial department. Nor have we balanced the books on the fixed costs versus serious revenue.

We need to know the difference between what we want and what we need.

So, if we can rush to judgement on a non-binding letter of intent when we should be putting on the brakes, we need to rush to a marketing plan! We need to be Grand-by—not just Granby.

There are numerous other points that

could be made. I welcome the public’s commentary pro or con, but I revert back to this rush to judgment. We sat for two years on this town asset and now suddenly we have to come to a conclusion on one unsolicited proposal in one month?

Note: See ctvalleyviews.com for video coverage of the forum presentation by Bob Patricelli, Co-Chairman of Connecticut’s Fiscal Stability Commission.

Susan Patricelli Regan is the host of CT Valley Views TV program, president of Foxfield F.A.R.M. Foundation, founder of the Sylvia Davis Fine Arts Scholarship and former VP marketing and community trade relations for DIAGEO N.A.

Small towns urge lawmakers to oppose forced consolidation of school districts The Connecticut Council of Small Towns (COST) is urging lawmakers to oppose bills that would force the consolidation of smaller school districts, including SB-457, which requires school districts serving less than 2,000 students to consolidate with larger school districts, and SB-454, which requires schools to be consolidated into mega districts serving 40,000 students.

“Consolidation does not always produce cost savings. Several smaller school districts have explored consolidation options and concluded that consolidation would not result in significant cost savings. Instead, consolidation raised concerns regarding whether the quality of education would suffer,” said Betsy Gara, executive director of COST. “There are many reasons why consolidating small school districts may not be in the best interest of students, taxpayers and the community,” added Gara. “For example, many small school districts are located in rural areas where homes are spread out across a wide geographic area. For these students, forced consolidation may result in less time in the classroom and more time on the bus.”

“In addition, additional transportation costs, including costs associated with fuel, maintenance, bus driver wages, benefits and overtime, bus leasing and/or purchasing, insurance, garage and parking facilities, may wipe out any savings generated from consolidation,” Gara explained.

“In Connecticut’s small towns, schools are often the heart of the community. Residents of all ages attend plays, concerts, and athletic events

to come together as a community to support the students and each other.

Decisions about whether to consolidate schools should be left up to the town and the taxpayers,” Gara said.

“If you do the math and review the studies that have been done, it is clear that top-down, forced consolidation simply does not work. Instead, we should work with towns and school districts to encourage them to pursue regional, shared services approaches that make sense for their community and for their students,” Gara said.

“In addition, the best way of assisting towns in reducing education costs is to eliminate state mandates that drive up costs. For example, under the Minimum Budget Requirement (MBR) mandate, school districts must budget at least the same amount for education as they did in the prior fiscal year, with certain limited exceptions,” Gara explained.

“The MBR mandate is holding town budgets hostage, imposing a tremendous burden on property taxpayers to fund unnecessary levels of education spending. Towns need more flexibility to ensure that education budgets can be adjusted to reflect declining enrollment and other areas where savings can be achieved,” Gara said.

“Providing towns with meaningful relief from the MBR mandate will go a long way toward helping towns control the growth of local budgets to ease the burden on property taxpayers,” Gara said.

COST is an advocacy organization committed to giving small towns a strong voice in the legislative process.

Granby is a member.

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Plus-one budgets presented at annual three-board meeting

by Shirley Murtha The Boards of Selectmen and Education presented their Plus-One Budgets to the Board of Finance and town residents at the annual Three-Board Meeting held on Jan. 22. First Selectman Scott Kuhnly began the meeting with a brief explanation of the Plus-One process, which calls for the BOS and BOE to meet with the BOF to review expenditure needs. Following this meeting, the BOF provides a preliminary guideline for the BOS and BOE to use in formulating municipal and education budgets.

Kuhnly went over the details of the proposed municipal budget, which is developed to maintain the town operations that residents need and expect, while covering the expenditures for salaries and benefits. Some add-backs have been included that reflect additional needs for town services (IT operations, library services and an additional public works person for half-year.) As of Jan. 22, three contracts were still being negotiated, so obviously the budget as presented was not yet complete.

The municipal budget as presented was $732,800, which is a 6.8 percent increase over the current operating budget. This budget meets the minimal requirements for existing town operational needs for 2019-2020. If the add-back items are included, the budget is $799,900, or a 7.4 percent increase.

The most significant increases are in fringe benefits ($200,000 increase, includes health, Medicare, FICA life insurance and disability); wages and salaries for full and part-time ($192,000 increase, includes required step increases); and contingency and reserve miscellaneous ($110,000 increase, due mainly to a substantial increase in the deductible for underground storage tanks).

Board of Education Chair Melissa Migliaccio presented the BOE operating budget of $31,088,607, which represents a 4.83 percent increase over the current year. As usual, state mandates play a large role in the increases, many of which are in special education programs responding to the rising social and emotional needs

of today’s youth. The BOE has been aggressive in reducing staff, adjusting to declining enrollment, which for Fiscal Year 2020 is 44 fewer students. In an effort to make the district attractive to potential newcomers, some programs such as the new string program and the continuation of Mandarin Chinese have been implemented.

The details of the municipal and education budgets are available for residents to review The education budget can be found at the Granby Public Schools website under BOE/budget. You can see the details of the municipal budget by requesting to see a copy in the Town Hall.

BOF Chairman Mike Guarco noted that the town continues to struggle to balance the needs and wants of the town government with what the taxpayers are willing to pay. He noted that the increase in housing due to the various new developments will add to town revenue in an as yet unknown amount. The town’s portion of the bridge repairs and the projected installation of solar at the high school will certainly affect the budget. As usual, the state budget is still to be determined; it will probably be finalized in February.

Further consultations with the town departments and workshops will occur between now and the budget vote, which will take place on the fourth Monday in April, as per town charter.

After budget presentations, residents were welcome to make comments or ask questions. Nelson Toussaint cautioned the boards to take heed to BOF Chairman Mike Guarco’s recent article in the Drummer that noted that a recent commission on economic stability called for the state to get a grip on its spending and to stop raising tax rates year after year as that becomes counterproductive as a revenue source. Toussaint requested diligence in separating the town’s wants from its needs.

Susan Regan complimented the BOE on doing “a phenomenal job” of running the education department and suggested that it would make a good template for town operations, as well.

March 2019

Focus on Education Alan Addley, Ed. D.

Crafting the FY20 budget On March 6, I will present the FY20 Administrative Budget to the Board of Education. The budget is a spending plan that is responsive to the needs of the district, a Board of Finance budget guideline of 4 percent, a huge State budget deficit, and a proposed Governor’s budget that reduces $254K in State educational funding to Granby.

Over the years, in response to the significant economic challenges, the district has taken steps to reduce its budget by realizing line-item efficiencies and closing a school. The 10-year average increase for district operating budgets is 1.34 percent and the district has returned an average of $195K per year to the town during this same period. Granby’s perpupil spending continues to be one of the lowest districts within our Demographic Reference Group and lower than other districts across Connecticut. At the same time, student achievement remains high and taxpayers are receiving an excellent return on their educational investment.

Changes in next year’s employee health, salaries and benefits, special education costs, and transportation alone account for a 4.74 percent increase in the FY20 Budget. Developing a 4 percent budget to present to the Board of Education has only been possible through additional line item efficiencies, reduction of staff, limited use of the Quality & Diversity (Q&D) Fund, and, utilization of grant funding, including those from the Granby Education Foundation in support of the strings program.

A 4 percent operating budget and use of the Q&D Fund provides for few improvements and barely allows the district to protect the investment the community has already made to education. The modest

Focus on Education cont’d. on p. 7 Focus on Education cont’d. on p. 7

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improvements include support for new high school Pre-AP, AP and Art courses; middle school Chinese in Grade 7; the expansion of a district strings program to Wells Road; school safety; and, at Kelly Lane, the makeover of a makerspace/ STEM lab and the purchase of a limited number of iPad carts.

We know that an excellent school system directly benefits taxpayers by maintaining property values and making Granby a desirable town for families to live and a great place for teachers to work. Granby’s commitment to providing a quality education is reflected in the community’s support for town budgets and capital projects. It is critical during these turbulent financial times that the town continues to protect its educational investment while being fiscally responsive to the taxpayers.

I am pleased to report that it looks likely the town is ready to address necessary improvements to the high school facility highlighted in the recommendations from the recent NEAS&C accreditation visit and to complete scheduled roof renovations for the other school buildings. A May 2019 referendum package for community consideration is currently under review by the Board of Selectmen. The referendum package includes school projects (high school and roofs), a revenue-producing solar project and the replacement of five town bridges.

More information for the community is forthcoming regarding these projects.

Remaining a high-quality school system with years of minimal budget increases, increased contractual and health care obligations and escalating special education costs is increasingly more challenging and is only possible with

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Finance sets budget guidelines cont’d. from p. 1 nearly 1 percent in property tax in the first year alone. This includes the start of shifting a portion of the state’s funding cost of the teachers’ pension plan from the state to the towns. This change simply shifts the burden but does nothing to address the underlying cost drivers.

As we shape each year’s budget, BOF looks beyond the upcoming year to those immediately following. In the fall when the two operating boards begin

preparing a look at the next year (the Plus One Budget), they also look ahead at subsequent years and not just operations but also infrastructure and capital.

Each fiscal year is but an integral part of the long view of how to best manage our resources— programs and people, buildings and infrastructure— to meet the needs of the people of Granby with quality product at a reasonable cost.

Chamber of Commerce installs new officers and board of directors

A book for every child

Mrs. Diemer’s Kindergarten class lines up in front of the truck that picked up over 400 books collected by Kelly Lane students for the Read to Grow program. The program’s vision is to ensure every family — regardless of income and primary language — will understand the critical importance of early childhood literacy and will take an active role in their child’s reading development. Submitted photo

Focus on Education cont’d. from p. 6 continued community support and innovative leadership from public officials.

Thank you for your support of the school system over the past number of years. This year, in particular, I encourage everyone to stay involved in the budget process and have your voices heard by our local legislators and elected officials. You can also participate in the budget process by visiting the district website, following us on social media and by attending any of the upcoming budget meetings: Presentation of the

Administrative Budget (March 6 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall Meeting Room); Board of Education Budget Workshops (March 13 and March 27 if necessary at 7 p.m. at Central Services); Board of Education Budget presented to the Board of Finance (March 25 at 7 p.m. in the Senior Center Community Room); Board of Finance Public Hearing (April 8 at 7 p.m. in the GMHS Auditorium); and the Annual Town Budget Vote on April 22 from 12 noon–8 p.m. in the Town Hall Meeting Room.

New Chamber of Commerce officers installed are (from l.): John Laudati, president; Mary Anne Guarco, past president; Todd Baily, director; Lindsay Allen, director; Annelise Hurley, director; Frank Schoenrock, treasurer; Kevin Riggott, director; Scott Riley, first vice president; Jamie Rice, second vice president, Brian Guarco, director; Bob Marx, director. Missing from photo are: Vicky Mosteanu, Meg Statile, Tim Baker, Kathy Ungerleider, and Tony Roda. Submitted photo

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Page 8 The Granby Drummer

Drumrolls

Jonah T. Yeakley and Kyle Gilmore, class of 2020, were named to the fall 2018 Westfield State University dean’s list.

Timothy Nolan, class of 2018 and former contributing writer for The Drummer, was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list for The Newhouse School, Syracuse University.

Sam Kuhnly was named to the fall dean’s list for Endicott College. Kuhnly is a junior majoring in communications marketing with a business management minor.

Samantha Hasenbalg, Class of 2020 at Connecticut College, has been named to the dean’s list for the 2018 fall semester, achieving Dean’s High Honors.

Hasenbalg is a psychology and human development major.

The following students were inducted into the Western New England University College of Business Honors Program: Katrina Howes, majoring in accounting and Benjamin Ranicar, majoring in sport management.

Caitlin Kopf and Jessica Manion were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Hofstra University.

Paige Lee graduated from the University of New Hampshire in December, earning an MS in occupational therapy.

Emma Beman and Julia Mazzotta were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Fairfield University.

Jordan T. Zajac was named to the highly selective dean’s list at Colby College.

Nathan Duray, Nathan Jennings, Shannon Jennings, Andrew Kuczma, Simon O’Neil, Olivia Papa, Elizabeth Whytock, Joseph Accetura and Richard Hall were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at University of Hartford.

Lucille Papile, a sophomore at Dickinson College, has been named to the dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

Emma Percival, a graduate student in special education at the University of Scranton, will serve as a student teacher for the spring semester in the Dunmore Pennsylvania School District.

Kat J. Bade, Max J. Toczydlowski and Olivia Johnson were awarded faculty honors for the fall 2018 semester at Trinity College.

Samantha L. Dolan, a senior majoring in wellness management, earned dean’s list recognition at SUNY Oswego for the fall 2018 semester.

Zachary Robert Quinn has been named to the dean’s list at Clemson University for the fall 2018 semester. Quinn is majoring in financial management.

The following Springfield College students were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list: Lily Holm, health science and prephysical therapy; Jessica Storch, health science and pre-physical therapy; Ashlie Novak, health science/occupational therapy; Frederick Moffa, movement and sport studies, and Bryce Alexander, sport management.

Connor Reardon, a Northeastern University student majoring in chemical engineering, was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list.

Heather Sunshine Smyth was named to The University of Alabama president’s list for fall 2018. She is majoring in public relations.

Charles Large has been named to the Champlain College dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester. Large is majoring in computer networking and cybersecurity.

Heather Salter has been named to the University of Delaware’s dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

Ethan Beloin, majoring in public and community health at Ithaca College, was named to the dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

Katrina Wheeler who majors in accounting, and Abigail Wilson who majors in art, were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Eastern Connecticut State University. Wilson, class of ‘22, was also honored with a first year writing award.

Kaelyn Ludwig, Krista Iwanicki and Rachel Kadis were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Quinnipiac University.

The following students have been named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire: Courtney Rambush, highest honors; Parker Berberian, high honors; Brian Rainville, honors, and Austin Butler, highest honors.

Taylor Nowak, a mechanical engineering major, was named to Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s fall 2018 dean’s list.

Kyle Desjardins has achieved dean’s high honors for the fall 2018 semester at Nichols College.

Angela Cappelli has been named to the Siena College dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

March 2019

Granby hosts forum on state’s fiscal stability and economic growth

Robert E. Patricelli (l.), co-chairman Connecticut Commission on Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth with Granby First Selectman Scott Kuhnly. Submitted photo

Granby was provided an opportunity at the town’s Senior Center, co-moderated

by First Selectman Scott Kuhnly and Susan Patricelli Regan, to hear an exclusive presentation on the state’s fiscal status and challenges, given by Robert E. Patricelli, co-author of the document 2.0 Fiscal Stability and Economic Growth manifesto. Patricelli is the co-chairman

on the State’s Fiscal Stability Commission along with Jim Smith, former president and CEO of Webster Bank.

Attendees had the opportunity query Patricelli on the presentation’s contents as well as to speak with him on a oneto-one basis at the close of the evening.

See the video on Granby’s town website and on ctvalleyviews.com

Russell Stone has been named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at American International College. He is majoring in health science.

Rebecca McCord was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Muhlenberg College.

Michael Atkinson-Woodward was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at the University of Albany.

Ann Gabrielle Freeman, a veterinary medicine student, was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Iowa State University.

Benjamin Swisher and Jack Tortland were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Emerson College.

Samantha Bates has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s fall 2018 president’s list.

Owen Harter,a civil engineering/environmental engineering major, and Matt Hawthorne, a engineering and management major, have been named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Clarkson University.

Zachary Ziemnicki and Jacqueline Grimaldi, both students at the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and

Forensic Sciences, were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list.

The following students were named to the University of Rhode Island’s fall 2018 dean’s list: Jessica Askew, Julia Duffy, Grace Hoeckele, Andy Main and Marcine Rogers.

Colin Kanter was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Lehigh University.

Clayton Stupienski is named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Belmont University.

Vincent Lucca, a junior at Worcester Polytechnic University, has been recognized as a Worcester Area Football All-Star.

Emily Guillerault and Kerry Gilmore were named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Elm College.

McKayla Hoover, a Clarion University senior majoring in biology, and a member of the women’s cross country/ track and field teams, was named a scholar-athlete for the fall 2018 term.

Andrew Holmes was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Bentley University.

Caroline Miltenberger was named to the fall 2018 dean’s list at Castleton University. Miltenberger was also a member of the Castleton University Varsity Women’s Soccer Team, appearing in all regular season games.

Bryant University named the following students to the fall 2018 dean’s list: Lindsay Brodeur, Erin Henebry, Malcolm Mongeau and Danielle Sturgeon.

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 9

PTO Corner

By the PTO Executive Board

March is proving to be a busy month for the PTO. The spring session of our afterschool chess program begins on March 4 and will meet on consecutive Mondays through June 3. For more information or to register, please visit the PTO Facebook Page: facebook.com/granbyctpto/ The Kelly Lane Science Technology Engineering Art and Math Committee will be hosting a Family Coding Night in the cafetorium at Kelly Lane on March 7 from 6—7:30 p.m., and the Wells Road STEAM Committee will be hosting a Family STEAM Night at Wells on Tuesday, March 12th from 5:30—7 p.m. These are FREE, fun and educational events for the entire family to enjoy together. Our Kelly Lane families will also be treated to something special during this month’s parent-teacher conferences: displays created by students as part of our very first Creativity Fair, sponsored by the PTO’s Gifted and Talented Committee.

Our annual PTO Art Project is in full swing. At the end of February, Kelly and Wells students created their masterpieces in class with the help of their amazing teachers and room parents. Parents can expect to receive a personalized letter with price list and instructions for online ordering on or about March 8; online ordering will close on March 18. We hope you will consider purchasing one or more products as this is one of our biggest fundraisers and offers wonderful keepsakes that will preserve your child’s artistic creation for years to come! Any questions regarding the project should be directed to the Art Project Committee at artprojects@granbypto.org.

We would like to extend an open invitation to join us at the next PTO Meeting

on Monday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Wells Road Media Center, where we will hear from Dr. Addley regarding next year’s school budget. The Board of Education will vote on the budget at 7 p.m. on March 20 in the Town Hall Meeting Room, and the town-wide budget vote is scheduled for April 22. For more information on the budget, as well as dates for upcoming budget workshops and related town meetings, please visit granby.k12.ct.us/page. cfm?p=5588 Wells Road will hold Granby Days on March 15 and May 17 to help foster a sense of community connection and pride. Students and teachers are encouraged to wear Granby clothing on these dates. Please check out our selection of Granby merchandise on our website under the store tab, granbypto.org/content. asp?PageID=6. A portion of each sale helps to support all of the programming and activities sponsored by the PTO. The PTO anticipates having several open committee chair and committee member positions for next school year. We are in the process of planning a volunteer recognition and recruitment event for current and prospective volunteers to highlight the many ways in which you can get involved and be a part of this organization. Watch our FaceBook page in the coming weeks for details. To learn more about vacant positions for the 2019-20 school year, you can also email vp@granbypto.org. Without the support and involvement of our parent community the PTO would not be able to provide the activities, programming and classroom enhancements that enrich the educational experience of our students and teachers alike. Please volunteer when and where you can.

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A Dr. Seuss breakfast of Green Eggs and Ham

Too wet to go out.

Too cold to play ball?

Then come for breakfast, There will be fun for all!

Join in the fun Saturday morning, March 2, as Granby Recreation and Leisure celebrates the 115th birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss.

A breakfast of Green Eggs and Ham, fruit, toast, juice and coffee will be offered to the very young and the youngat-heart. This fun-filled family event will be held at the North Barn Pavilion at Holcomb Farm and will have two seatings at 8 and 9 a.m. The room will be brightly decorated with all things Seuss, and filled with lots of his beloved books to read and share with all. And bring your camera—it’s rumored that the Cat in the Hat may be loose in Granby that day!

What better way to celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday and his love of children and reading. Participate in the National

Education Association, Read Across America Day. Cost is $5 for ages 2-8, and $8 for ages 8 and older. Tickets can be purchased online at GranbyRec.com

It’s not all Rainbows and Unicorns

A confidential support group for tweens and younger teens who have experienced anxiety and depression will meet on Friday’s beginning March 19 from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Each session will focus on reinforcing positive coping techniques using a framework of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness techniques. Art, music, meditation and other expressive ac-

tivities will be included with guided discussions and sharing.

Cost is $10 to join. Call the Youth Service Bureau at 860-844-5355 to register your child.

Facilitated by AnneMarie Cox MS; CPS Granby YSB Youth Counselor, Board Certified School Psychologist and Prevention Specialist.

Page 10 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS OPPORTUNITIES Democratic Town Committee The Democratic Town Committee (OTC) invites applications for the award of a $1,000 scholarship to a Granby Memorial High School 2019 graduating senior.

For students who are interested, the eligibility requirements are as follows: applicant must be a Granby resident; graduating from Granby Memorial High School in 2019; if 17 or older, must be registered to vote, and the application must be received by May 3, 2019.

All applications for the scholarship should include proof of voter registration, if 17 or older; completed scholarship application, and an essay or multimedia presentation on the topic: “Is the U.S. Electoral College process an effective way to conduct presidential elections?” Discuss and defend your answer, evaluating the merits and faults of the current system in place.

The Granby DTC selects and supports party-endorsed candidates for elected and appointed positions in municipal, district, state and federal government; to actively promote Granby residents’ participation in the political process; and to raise residents’ awareness of opportunities and issues in local government. For more information on the Granby DTC, or to request a scholarship application, contact GranbyDemocrats@gmail.com

Granby Drummer Citizens for A Better Granby annually offers a $1,000 scholarship to a GMHS graduating senior who is pursuing higher education in journalism or a related field.

The board encourages interested seniors to contact the high school guidance department to apply. Deadline is May 1.

Citizens for A Better Granby publishes The Granby Drummer and advocates for organizations that make our community a better place to live.

2019 Sylvia Davis Patricelli Fine Arts Once again, the Sylvia Davis Patricelli Fine Arts Scholarship spring competition will be held at Granby Memorial High School. Susan Patricelli Regan established this award in memory of her mother, an internationally acclaimed Australian portrait painter whose first exhibition in the U.S. was opened by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.

Selections from the family’s historical collection of landscapes, portraits and

still lifes are available for sale to support the annual financial prize to the winner, a graduating senior pursuing a career in the creative arts and acknowledged at the GMHS graduation awards evening.

Community Scholarship Association of Granby The Community Scholarship Association of Granby (CSAG) offers annual scholarships to graduating Granby Memorial High School seniors. Applicants must be Granby residents who will graduate this spring and accepted at an institution of higher learning approved by the selection committee. The largest scholarship, the David A. Schupp, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, will be awarded to a student pursuing a STEM major. The primary basis for selection is scholarship, with consideration given to need, initiative, character and responsibility.

CSAG has been performing this service since the first graduating class of Granby Memorial High School in 1958.

To date, CSAG manages contributions

of all kinds, but particularly funds from a Holcomb family endowment and annual fundraising in conjunction with the Granby Road Race. CSAG has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars to nearly 400 students making a significant impact on their young lives.

With the always-rising costs of a college education, CSAG asks former scholarship recipients, as well as the community, to consider making taxdeductible contributions to CSAG so that the organization can award more scholarships and provide more substantial awards. Contributions should be made out to CSAG and mailed to Steve Schock, Treasurer, 19 Moosehorn Road, West Granby, CT 06090.

Scholarship applications are available online through Naviance, at the College and Career Center or through your guidance counselor. Completed applications should be submitted to Mrs. Caruso in the GMHS counseling office on or before May 1.

Sylvia Davis Patricelli, International Portrait Painter

Prepping for Empty Bowls fundraiser GMHS student Madeline Peling glazes a bowl made by fellow student Brian Boyle (not pictured) for the annual Empty Bowls fundraiser to be held in the high school commons area March 22, from 5-7 p.m. The event is hosted by the National Honor Society.

Submitted photo

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 11

GMHS production of Grease is March 15-17 Granby Performing Arts at GMHS is back again, with this year’s spring musical: Grease by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey and in cooperation with Samuel French Publishing and directed

by Nikki Currie-Huggard. It’s 1959, and Rydell High School’s senior class is in rare form. The too-cool-for-school “TBirds” are stealing hubcaps and acting tough and their gum-snapping, chainsmoking “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 fifties 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 (club vice president) as Rizzo, senior Max Morris as Kenickie, senior Sophie Speliopoulos (club secretary) as Frenchy, senior Melena Koft as Marty, senior Ana Bourque (club president) as Jan, senior Hunter Chicoine as Roger, sophomore Nick Boyd as Doody, sophomore Tommy Dlugolenski as Sonny, senior Ben Davis (student director) 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, Saturday,

Parents of sophomores: please volunteer for the 2019 GMHS Grad Night

By Thérèse Mulvey

Chaperones: Contact Sara Scotto at

scottofamily@cox.net

The 2019 GMHS Grad Night event is The March meeting is at 7 on Tuesday, held at the Granby YMCA every year on March 12, in the GMHS Media Center. graduation night and offers a free, funPlease come and be a part of this special filled, substance-free event in June of next event!

Help us support this proud year. This event cannot happen without tradition and give the seniors a night to volunteers to help with food, room set remember. up, decorations and chaperoning. Many Another way to support this event is parents are retiring from the committee by surprising your friends with a flock this year, so we really need new people to of Pink Flamingos roosting on their lawn sign up, especially from the sophomore for 48 hours. The Birds mysteriously class. migrate when the time is up and go on If you are interested in volunteering, to roost at another address. You can please attend a meeting held at 7 p.m. participate in the FLOCKING for a the second Tuesday of every month in donation of $25 or more to the Granby the media center at GMHS. Parents for a Safe Graduation. If you are The event is chaperoned by interested in Flocking please contact Sara underclassmen parents not by the senior Scotto at scottofamily@cox.net parents. Senior parents can help with the planning prior to the event. If you can’t attend INCLUDE: Forts & Shelters, Advanced Survival, Wild Plant Medicine & Food, CAMP OFFERINGS butScout wantTracker, to help, Woodland Arts, Feather, Fur & Fin, Wildwood Adventurers, Wildwood Rangers, please and Fire,contact Wood & Stone. the following individuals: Don’t Miss Our Free Family Fun Day Open House!

Room set up: th Contact Saturday Coreen April 9 from 1 to 4 pm T h o m p s o n a t Holcomb Farm

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March 16 at 7 and Sunday, March 17 at 2. 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

Granby high school performing arts students rehearsing for their upcoming production of Grease. Submitted photo

Hungry Heart dinner is March 23

by Johanna Briggs Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen’s gourmet dinner is this month. Preparations are in progress for another fun evening with a gourmet dinner, silent auction and raffle.

All profits go to support Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen in its tenth year of serving the community.

The sixth annual Hungry Heart dinner will be on Saturday, March 23, at St Therese Parish Center Great Hall. Tickets are $50 per person, and the event likely will be a sellout again this year. Tables of 8 or 10 are available; smaller groups are welcome to come and meet new friends.

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Don’t Miss Our 4th Annual FREE Family Fun Day!

Sat, April 16th from 1-4 pm Sticks and Stones Farm 201 Huntingtown Drive, Newtown, CT Featuring… Family Nature Stations, Making a fire without matches, Nature Art, Wildlife Tracking, Storytelling, Drumming, Nature Games, Wild Edible Plant Hike, Marshmallow Roast, Live Music, Food and more!

Camp staff will be on hand to discuss the camp experience, give tours and answer questions.

RSVP for the free event at

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Extraordinary Summer Camps for Ages 5 to 14 Learn More at www.TwoCoyotes.org

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nights of the show. We hope to see you there and thank you for your support of the performing arts!

Please note: PARENTAL DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

www.TwoCoyotes.org

The cocktail hour starts at 6 p.m. The raffle and silent auctions have a large range of prizes for everyone’s wallet, including artwork, evenings out, food and other amazing values.

If you have something you would like to donate to the silent auction or raffle, please contact Sandy Flagg at sandyflagg10@ gmail.com.

Tickets are available by contacting Patty Sansone at 860-653-3838 or birchhillgirl@ cox.net, or at Granby Pharmacy.

Come feed your hungry heart, enjoy an evening with friends, and donate to this wonderful cause.

Page 12 The Granby Drummer

Out of Town

Women take flight at Air Museum

McLean Auxiliary fundraiser to benefit residents personal needs fund

All are invited to attend the McLean Auxiliary’s Fundraiser at Flatbread Company in Canton on Tuesday, March 12, to benefit the McLean residents personal needs fund.

A portion of the sales during the evening will be donated to this cause — $3.50 per large pizza and $1.75 for every small pizza.

Enjoy an evening of delicious food and raffle baskets, and help support this group of volunteers who are dedicated to supporting the quality of life and wellness for McLean residents, patients, and clients.

From the beautiful gift shop in the McLean Health Center that is open to the public, to annual fundraisers and numerous activities for residents, the McLean Auxiliary is an integral part of the McLean community. Last year, the Auxiliary provided 16,500 in grants to benefit life at McLean.

Flatbread Company, located at the Shoppes at Farmington Valley in Canton, is a popular restaurant that offers flatbreads (pizzas) using locally grown ingredients baked in a wood-fired oven. Its menu also includes vegan flatbreads and gluten free desserts. On Tuesday evenings they partner with the community to donate a portion of sales to benefit local organizations.

Join Simsbury Fish and Game Club

Like to fish? Enjoy trout fishing for the 2019 season in a local secluded reservoir that provides a beautiful natural setting.

Twelve-to-fourteen inch trout are stocked several times during the fishing season.

A Children’s Fishing Derby is held in May for member’s children age 14 and under.

Membership/permit is required. (The membership is for fishing only.) Please respond as soon as possible, memberships are limited. For an application and /or more information, call Fred at 860-243-1280.

Tension, Thread and Needles

Cathy Racine from the Charlton Sewing Center will give a humorous lecture on “Tension, Thread and Needles” at the March meeting of the Farmington Valley Quilters. The meeting is Wednesday, March 20, at 7 p.m. in Eno Memorial Hall, 754 Hopmeadow St, Simsbury. Sign-in begins at 6:45 p.m. Guests are welcome for a guest fee of $10.

Storyteller’s Cottage launches charming tea room The Storyteller’s Cottage in Simsbury now offers a delicious variety of tea, coffee and pastries in its charmingly remodeled English Country Kitchen.

During any of its standard operating hours, visitors may stop in and enjoy a romantic literary snack, either while chatting with friends, or while working on their writing projects (just like J.K. Rowling, who wrote the entire Harry Potter series while sitting in an Edinburgh cafe).

Baked goods are provided by Popover’s Bistro of Simsbury, and are inspired by classic books and the favorite dishes of literary celebrities.

The variety changes from week to week, but guests may find dishes such as Hobbit Cake (a poppy seed cake that Bilbo loves), Turkish Delight (Edwin’s downfall in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe), or gingerbread cake made from Beatrix Potter’s favorite recipe.

March 2019

The Storyteller’s Cottage Tea Room is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Tea and coffee is available for just $1 per cup, and baked goods range from $1 – $3 each. Charming bistro tables dot the house in not only the kitchen, but in the Victorian Library, the Regency Salon, and the Fairytale Sun Porch, so guests are sure to find the perfect cozy nook for a peaceful literary interlude.

The Storyteller’s Cottage is located in a vintage Victorian house in the center of historic Simsbury, and hosts all manner of immersive literary events throughout the year, including Agatha Christie inspired live murder mystery parties, Great Gatsby-themed Jazz Supper Clubs, fascinating close-up illusions at Fine Parlor Magic nights, a Literary Dinner Party series on select evenings at midnight, and more.

Girl Scouts visit the Air Museum.

Submitted photo

The New England Air Museum will hold its annual Women Take Flight event on Saturday, March 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in commemoration of Women’s History Month and in conjunction with Women of Aviation Worldwide Week.

Visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate women’s contributions to aerospace history through a variety of hands-on activities, special events, and lectures.

This year’s keynote speakers include Shaesta Waiz, Founder and President of Dreams Soar, Inc. In 2017, Waiz became the youngest woman to fly solo around the world in a single engine aircraft when she completed a journey that took her to 22 countries in 145 days. Born in an Afghan refugee camp, Waiz is the first female certified civilian pilot from Afghanistan, and was the first person in her family to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Waiz will speak about her experiences at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and will be available to meet with visitors from 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Additional keynote speakers include Mary Anne Cannon, vice president of commercial programs at Pratt and Whitney in East Hartford; and Kristi Fleischmann, managing director of Acrojet Aerospace Solutions in Stratford. With more than 29 years of experience at Pratt and Whitney across engineering, quality, and operations, Cannon currently manages several Pratt and Whitney product lines including the PW4000, PW2000, PW6000, JT9D and JT8D engines. Cannon will speak about her career in aviation at 2:30 p.m., and will be available to meet with visitors from 1-2 p.m. Fleischmann’s aerospace career began in the Air Force where she commanded missions in the C-141 and trained pilots in the supersonic T-38 Talon. She currently works to solve aerospace industry challenges using innovations in flight training with her company Acrojet Aerospace Solutions.

Flesichmann will speak about her career in aviation at 12:30 p.m., and will meet with visitors from 11a.m. – noon.

Women Take Flight offers visitors the opportunity to meet women pilots, engineers, and industry professionals from

the 103rd Airlift Wing of the Connecticut Air National Guard, the 439th Airlift at Westover Air Reserve Base, Bombardier Hartford Service Center, Collins Aerospace Systems, Kaman Corporation, Milestone C, New England Section of the 99s, Pratt and Whitney, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Society of Women Engineers Hartford Section, TAC Air Bradley International Airport, University of Connecticut Storrs’ Mechanical Engineering Department, the Wright Sister Engineering Club, Women in Aviation Connecticut Chapter, and the Connecticut Women’s Transportation Seminar.

Women Take Flight will also feature hands-on STEM activities for children, flight simulators, and climb-aboard experiences in historic aircraft, including a Lockheed 10-A Electra— the same model aircraft that Amelia Earhart flew during her attempted around the world flight in 1937.

Women Take Flight is supported by Jet Support Services, Inc. Additional support is provided by Peerless Precision, Inc, a woman-owned company, as well as the Sheraton at Bradley International Airport.

Food and beverage will be available for purchase compliments of Kane’s Market.

The event is open to the public, and all lectures, events, and activities are included with general admission unless otherwise noted. Discounted admission is available for pre-paid groups of 10 or more with advance reservations. Additional information is available on our website at www. neam.org or by calling (860) 623-3305.

Women Take Flight will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the museum will close at 5 p.m. Admission is $15 for ages 15 to 64, $14 for seniors 65 and up, and $10 for youth ages 4 to 14. New England Air Museum members and children ages 3 and under are admitted free of charge. The New England Air Museum is located in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, adjacent to Bradley International Airport.

Old St. Andrew’s Church events

Mardi Gras will be held Tuesday, March 5, beginning at 6 p.m. Music will be provided by French 75; food by Mardi Parti. $10 adult, $5 child.

St. Patrick’s Day will be celebrated on Sunday, March 17, 11:30 a.m. Music will be provided by the Jolly Beggars; food by the Cheesecake Factory. $20 adult, $10 child.

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 13

In Town Focus Granby men’s breakfast news

Join us Friday, March 8, at the Granby Senior Center. The center may be senior, but you do not need to be! Breakfast is from 8:30 – 10 a.m. If you are a new participant, please arrive by 8:15 a.m. so you may be properly welcomed. Ask for Nat. After the morning welcome and news update, we enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast (typically includes eggs, pancakes, or French toast, sausage, home fries, coffee and orange juice), followed by a 45-minute presentation. For the March meeting, Don Rethke will present his Mars program: start with a life support system and build a spacecraft around it. If you have the time, please do come.

Author talk and book signing

Come meet Nan Rossiter, New York Times best selling author on Wednesday, March 6, at 6:30 p.m. at the Farmington Valley YMCA community room. Free and open to the public. Rossiter is an award-winning adult and children’s book author often compared to Nicholas Sparks, Elin Hildebrandt, and Nancy Thayer. Bring some friends and join us for a fun event! For more information contact meg.statile@GHYMCA.org

The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations.

Announcements may not exceed 120 words. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, March 4, at the Granby Senior Center at 7 p.m. The guest speaker for the evening will be Mark Battista, a freelance artist and fine art photographer.

Mark’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. Guests are welcome for this special program. To learn more about the club go to: GranbyCameraClub.com

SB Music Series Cheryl Wheeler Mar. 15

Come to South Church Granby, 242 Salmon Brook St. on March 15 to hear Cheryl Wheeler. The very respected songwriter’s works have been covered by artists as diverse as Dan Seals, Peter Paul and Mary, Kenny Loggins, Garth Brooks, Suzy Boggus, Bette Midler, and more. 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. Proceeds go to support the mission of South Church.

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.

SALMON BROOK APARTMENTS 287 SALMON BROOK STREET GRANBY, CT 06035 HOUSING FOR ELDERLY & DISABLED Applications being accepted for our Waiting List One Bedroom units

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Hartt Chamber Choir at South Church

The Hartt Chamber Choir will be joined by the Hartt Chorale in an eclectic program of works from the Renaissance period at 4 p.m., March 10, at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook Street. Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series concerts are free to the public, with a suggested donation of $10. 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

Swedish Pancake Breakfast and More

The youth at Pilgrim Covenant Church will host a Swedish Pancake Breakfast and Scandinavian Bake Sale on Saturday, March 9, from 8 to 10 a.m. at Pilgrim Covenant Church, 605 Salmon Brook St., just before the Massachusetts state line.

Swedish pancakes, lingonberries, bacon, sausage and breakfast beverages will be served. Delicious Scandinavian and other home-baked goods will be available for sale. This is a donation-breakfast benefiting the youth groups and youth missions.

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS

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Civic Club welcomes surprise speaker

The Granby Civic Club will meet on March 21 at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center.

Our featured surprise speaker will be one of our members. Members and guests from Granby and neighboring towns are welcome at the meeting. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Ginny Wutka at ginny@lostacres.com

Women’s Breakfast Beauty Bunch

On Wednesday, March 7, the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will host a “The Expressive Beauty Bunch’ featuring Andrea Cortex from Tainted Beauty Studios. The event will take place at the Granby Senior Center. Be prepared for an entertaining and informative session.

Breakfast will be at 8:30 a.m. and program at 9 a.m. Great time to introduce a friend to this breakfast group who have been meeting for 14 years. Cost is $4.

Call Corinne Dickerson at 860 653-9891.

Donations to the Granby Food Bank are always welcome.

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Page 14 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MINUTES JANUARY 8, 2019 Action on the minutes of December 11, 2018 The minutes of December 11, 2018 were reviewed.

ON A MOTION by James Sansone seconded

by Charles Kraiza the commission voted (4-0-2) to approve the minutes of December 11, 2018. Eric Lukingbeal and Margaret Chapple abstained.

Informal Discussion Discuss possible redevelopment of 6 Hartford Avenue, gas station.

Abby Kenyon stated this item will be discussed at the next Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Jan. 22, 2019.

PUBLIC HEARINGS Application seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations Sections 3.5.2, 8.21.4 and 8.21.9 that would allow by Special Permit a self-storage facility in the Business (C2) and Aquifer Protection Overlay Zones. File Z-23-18.

Wilson Alford Jr., PE of Alford Associates, Inc. addressed the commission about a proposed amendment to the Zoning Regulations that would allow a self-storage facility in the Business and Aquifer Protection Overlay Zones by Special Permit.

Alford recapped the commission’s concern from the September 25, 2018 informal discussion regarding the impact this facility could pose to the aquifer. He explained renters would sign a contract prohibiting the storage of hazardous materials. Margaret Chapple asked how the stored items would be monitored. Jeff Michaelson, Contractor, addressed the commission and said there would be 24/7 camera monitoring on the facility but you wouldn’t be able to see what was actually being stored unless a staff member took notice at the time items were loaded into a unit.

James Sansone asked what engineering safeguards would be in place in the event that the aquifer is compromised. Alford responded that his team would come up with engineering solutions that would satisfy the commission but there were no specifics at this time.

Paula Johnson opened the floor for public comment.

The following people spoke against the application: Christine Roche, 198 Salmon Brook Street; Bob Nimmo, 37 Spring Glen; Jean Perron, 25 Archie Lane; and Sandy Crain, 20 East Street. They noted the lack of oversight to monitor what is being stored in the units; there are other facilities in the area that have vacant units and therefore feel there is not a need for a storage facility in town; that the proposed use is not appropriate on Salmon Brook Street in a location that is a gateway to the town; and the risks the facility poses to the environment are too great.

Jack Lareau, Salmon Brook Water District, noted the district has no objection to the proposed use but should there be an issue with contamination, the district could vote to dissolve and the Town would have to step in.

Mr. Lareau also explained the district would likely begin Level A mapping in the coming year and would have a better idea of exactly where the aquifer and drawdown area are located. He also stated land use regulations would then have to be drafted to comply with the state model ordinance regarding aquifer protection.

The commissioners discussed the application. It was noted it may be better to wait for the results of the Level A mapping as this would provide more information about the extent of the aquifer. The commission also noted concerns regarding the potential contamination of the aquifer from the proposed use and that the risk to the town was too great.

The commission stated for the record letters were also received from the Farmington River Watershed Association and Sara Ryan, 15 Halwood Drive.

The commission decided to keep the public hearing open until the next Planning and Zoning meeting on January 22, 2019.

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.

Wilson Alford Jr., PE of Alford Associates, Inc. addressed the Commission about the proposed zone change from Economic Development (ED) to the Business (C2) Zone. He displayed a map of the area and explained the property slopes downward and there is a waterbody separating 100 Salmon Brook Street

from the adjacent property to the south, which is in the ED Zone. Alford said this is a natural boundary and therefore it makes sense for the zone boundary to follow this. Alford went on to explain a small portion of the property is currently zoned C2, rezoning the entire piece to C2 would be consistent with the properties to the north along Mill Pond Drive.

Paula Johnson opened the floor to for public comment.

Fred Jones, 19 Copper Brook Circle; Amy Gallant, 9R Brook Pasture Lane; and Bob Nimmo, 37 Spring Glen, commented on the application.

In response to comments, Abby Kenyon noted Inland and Wetlands Commission approval is not required for a zone change application but prior to any site development application, the wetlands would have to be mapped and its approval may be required.

Eric Lukingbeal also explained anyone can propose a change of a zone and if asked ‘why’ the applicant does not have to explain their development plans for the property. However, given the previous application this evening, it was noted the applicant would like to construct a self-storage facility on the property.

The commission discussed the application. They reviewed uses that would currently be allowed in the ED Zone and those that would be allowed if the property were changed to the C2 Zone. Kenyon explained the ED Zoning Regulation outlines a comprehensive plan for the entire ED Zone, including internal access roads. Given the natural separation of 100 Salmon Brook Street from the remaining ED properties, it may be appropriate to consider the zone change, as the property is somewhat separated from the remaining ED Zoned land. It was also noted while the ED Zone Regulations outline specific building, landscape, and site standards, any site development in the C2 would still have to meet building and site criteria in the Zoning Regulations and as part of this, the commission could require a landscape buffer.

The commission discussed the various uses allowed in the zone, access to the property, and the zone of properties along Mill Pond Drive.

The public hearing was closed for the application.

Paula Johnson stated the commission has 65 days to come to a decision.

Consideration of the above applications, where the Commission has concluded the public hearing.

The application seeking a change of zone from Economic Development (ED) to Business (C2) for property located at 100 Salmon Brook Street was closed. The Commission has 65 days to render a decision.

Appointment to CRCOG’s Regional Planning Commission Abby Kenyon stated that CRCOG is requesting a representative and an alternate to serve on the Regional Planning Commission. The commissioners will let her know if anyone is interested and the commission can vote on a member appointment at a future meeting.

STAFF REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE There is a DOT public informational meeting regarding the town center intersection improvements on January 15, 2019 at the Granby Senior Center at 7 p.m.

Kenyon noted there may be a conflict with the meeting space for the January 22, 2019 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. She will inform the commission of the new location if the meeting has to be relocated.

COMMISSION DISCUSSION OF ITEMS OF INTEREST OR CONCERN Paula Johnson stated she had driven by the back area of Starbucks to check on the recycling bin location. Kenyon mentioned that the Zoning Enforcement Officer, William Volovski, had met with the property owner. It was noted that Starbucks and other businesses had modified their recycling/trash container locations to comply with the approved plan.

Jonathan Boardman noted that the new law office sign located at 4 East Granby Road does not appear to be in the location approved by the commission. He asked that staff look into that.

There was brief discussion about the newly installed sidewalk lighting. It was noted additional shields for the lights have been purchased.

JANUARY 22, 2019 Public Session Dante Boffi, of Dante J. Boffi Architecture, LLC addressed the commission to request an informal discussion item related to 500, 508, and 514 Salmon Brook Street be added to the agenda.

On a motion by Eric Lukingbeal, seconded by Eric Myers, the commission voted to add the informal discussion to the agenda.

The minutes of Jan. 8, 2019 were reviewed. It was noted Jonathan Boardman’s last name was spelled incorrectly.

On a motion by Margaret Chapple, seconded by Eric Lukingbeal, the commission voted to approve the minutes of Jan. 8, 2019 as corrected. Eric Myers abstained.

Informal Discussion Wilson Alford, PE of Alford and Associates, addressed the commission. Alford presented a layout plan of 500, 508, and 514 Salmon Brook Street and explained the property owner would like to build a gas station and convenience store with a coffee shop.

He noted another convenience store and gas station option in town would help alleviate traffic in the center.

Alford noted the property is in the Industrial Zone and a change to the zoning regulations would be required for the gas station use in the Industrial Zone. The commission asked about the proximity to residences and the expected traffic from the site.

PUBLIC HEARINGS Application seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations Sections 3.5.2, 8.21.4 and 8.21.9 that would allow by Special Permit a self-storage facility in the Business (C2) and Aquifer Protection Overlay Zones. File Z-23-18. Continued from January 8, 2019.

Wilson Alford, PE of Alford and Associates, addressed the commission and summarized concerns raised at the previous meeting including concerns that a self-storage facility would be an eye-sore and there is no guarantee the storage or spillage of hazardous material could be prevented. Alford noted the facility would not be visible from the road. Mr. Boffi addressed the concern regarding containment of any spills. He distributed information to the commission regarding epoxy sealers that seal the concrete, and trench drains, which can be installed in the floor and would catch any potential spills.

The commission discussed the proposed regulation change. Eric Lukingbeal distributed a memo detailing the potential for groundwater contamination, also noting Granby’s aquifer is the second largest in the state. He reiterated the high cost to remediate any potential contamination, as explained by the Salmon Brook District Water to the commission during the January 8, 2019 meeting and he concluded it was not worth the risk. The commission discussed the potential for contamination and lack of ability to monitor materials stored in the units.

The commission noted potential locations a selfstorage facility would be allowed by Special Permit in the Business (C2) Zone. It was also noted the Business Zone is primarily located along Salmon Brook Street with a small Business Zone at the intersection of Mountain Road and Granville Road.

The commission discussed the compatibility of the self-storage facility with other uses allowed in the Business Zone.

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

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.

The commission discussed separating the proposed zoning regulation change into two parts, the first to consider the self-storage facility in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone by Special Permit and the second to consider the facility in the Business Zone

by Special Permit.

On a motion by Eric Lukingbeal, seconded by Margaret Chapple, the commission voted to deny an amendment to Zoning Regulations Sections 8.21.4 and 8.21.9 which would allow by Special Permit a self-storage facility in the Aquifer Protection Overlay Zone. Commissioners Boardman, Kraiza, and Myers opposed.

On a motion by Eric Lukingbeal, seconded by Eric Myers, the commission voted to approve an amendment to Zoning Regulations Section 3.5.2 which would allow by Special Permit a self-storage facility in the Business (C2) Zone.

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. Eric Myers stepped down and Brennan Sheahan was seated.

The commission discussed the proposed zone change for 100 Salmon Brook Street from the Economic Development Zone to the Business Zone.

They noted the natural features separating the property from the remaining Economic Development Zone and the uses that would be allowed in the Business Zone.

On a motion by Margaret Chapple, seconded by Jonathan Boardman, the commission voted to approve a change of zone from Economic Development (ED) to Business (C2) for property located at 100 Salmon Brook Street. File Z-24-18.

STAFF REPORTS AND CORRESPONDENCE Abby Kenyon announced there is a seminar, free to CCM members, presented by the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities on How to Run Legal and Effective Public Meeting, on Tuesday, Jan. 29, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Park House at Salmon Brook Park.

COMMISSION DISCUSSION OF ITEMS OF INTEREST OR CONCERN Jonathan Boardman asked if there was follow up with regards to the new law office signs located at 4 East Granby Road. Kenyon said she has discussed the sign location with the property owner and the foundation is located incorrectly per the approved site plan. She will be meeting the property owner on-site to review the approved location.

Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 15

Granby chamber presents awards The Granby Chamber of Commerce honored Bob and Joy Marx of Landmark Tours and Cruises as their “Business Persons of the Year” and Tim and Deb Lenihan as their “Humanitarians of the Year” at its annual Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting on Feb. 7 at Hop Meadow Country Club in Simsbury.

Other award recipients were Faye Bowles of Freshie’s Café, recognized as “New Business of the Year,” and Mike and Mary Keating, who received a community service award for their many contributions as volunteers and owners of Granby Pharmacy.

Bob and Joy Marx are entering their 28th year as owners of Landmark Tours and Cruises, the last 25 as members of the Granby Chamber of Commerce. The Marxes started the travel company in 1991 and moved to West Granby a year later, moving their office into their home.

In three years the business outgrew the home office and was moved into an office suite in Southwick in 1995 where it has remained ever since. In 2001 Bob joined the Granby Chamber’s Board of Directors, where he has served a total of 14 years over two terms. In his two years as chamber president, Bob helped membership grow to more than 200 businesses and he started a marketing committee that resulted in “Giddy Up to Granby.” He has also served as president of two local service organizations—the Granby Lions Club, where he has been a member for 22 years, and the Granby UNICO Club.

A native of Rye, N.Y., Bob has served on several committees with the National Tour Association and been a speaker at many travel conferences. A former

newspaper reporter and editor, he served as Sports Information Director at Ithaca College, his alma mater, and Springfield College before entering the travel industry in 1986.

Joy is a native of Springfield, Mass., and a graduate of Springfield College.

Before joining Bob in the travel business, she was a YMCA Fitness Director and the first Wellness Director at Johnson Memorial Hospital. Joy was elected president of the Granby UNICO Club in 2018 for a two-year term, having previously served three terms as the chapter secretary. The Marxes have five children and five grandchildren.

Tim and Deb Lenihan have been major supporters and fund raisers for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation since the birth of son Jason in 1997. Both Jason and his younger sister Amy were afflicted with the disease and are now college students.

Tim and Deb formed “Team AJ” to raise awareness of Cystic Fibrosis and have worked diligently to raise funds for the past 21 years. They started their support in Enfield at the annual national Great Strides Walk for CF, and in 2001 they started the Granby Great Strides Walk, which continued until 2013 when they re-joined the Enfield event. To date they have raised over $800,000. Tim has served on the Board of Directors of the Connecticut Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for the past 18 years, and in 2018 he and Deb were honored as Cystic Fibrosis Volunteers of the Year.

A resident of Granby for the past 16 years, Faye Bowles opened Freshie’s Café in September of 2018 on Route 10/202, serving breakfast and lunch.

Faye had previously worked for James

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Faye comes from a family of restaurateurs. She grew up in Winsted, where her family owned a restaurant, and at a young age she purchased her own hot dog cart. When 2018 Granby Chamber of Commerce award recipients the opportunity pre- From l.:. John Laudati incoming Chamber president, Deb Lenihan sented itself, she and Humanitarian of the Year, Tim Lenihan Humanitarian of the Year, her husband Mark Faye Bowles owner of Freshie’s Café New Business of the Year, acquired the former Mike and Mary Keating Community Service Award, Joy and Bob Peppermill Restau- Marx Business Persons of the Year and Mary Anne Guarco, outrant that closed in going Chamber president. Submitted photo 2017. Faye chose teered in the schools and libraries. Mary the name Freshie’s because she was algraduated from Granby Memorial High ways considered the freshest one of her School in one of the first four classes siblings. The other reason for the name is to graduate. She and her classmates because she uses the freshest ingredients. continue to organize reunions for these Her menus and homemade soups change four classes. She was also the Registrar based on the seasons. of Voters for the town of Granby and Mike and Mary Keating are best known worked the polls for many years on as the owners and operators of Granby Election Day. Pharmacy, where they have generously They are active members of the pargiven their time and dedication to the ish of St. Therese Church. Mike grew Granby community and surrounding up in Bloomfield but moved to Granby towns. In addition to the pharmacy, with Mary to raise their family of four Mike and Mary have spent several years children. For years Mike and Mary have volunteering and serving on multiple treated their customers and employees committees and organizations. Mike like family, and it was important to was a part of the Granby Ambulance for transition the sale of the pharmacy to years, a board member of the Farmington new owners in a way that would keep the Valley VNA, helped drive the bus for the care of their customers the top priority.

Marquis of Granby and has generously They continue to serve the community in donated to many organizations. many ways. Mike is still working at the Mary was chairman of the Valley Prepharmacy, and they both enjoy spending school board and chairman of the Board time with their children and grandchilof Directors of CREC. She was a board dren who all live close by. member of the following organizations: The Chamber also announced its new Granby Board of Education, Granby slate of officers and board members for Education Foundation, Democratic Town 2019. John Laudati was introduced as Committee, and Commission on Aging. the new president of the Granby ChamShe collected for the Granby Community ber, replacing Mary Anne Guarco who Fund, ran the Snack Shack at Salmon stepped down following a three-year Brook Park and over the years has volunterm.

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March 2019

GRANBY LAND TRUST

Land Trust applies for accreditation renewal The land trust accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. The Granby Land Trust is applying for renewal of its accreditation. A public comment period is now open.

T h e L a n d Tr u s t A c c r e d i t a t i o n Commission, an independent program

of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs. Four years ago, the Granby Land Trust became one of the first land trusts in Connecticut to be accredited by the Land Trust Alliance.

Accreditation is a mark of distinction and is awarded to land trusts meeting the highest national standards for excellence and conservation permanence,

Guarco elected UNICO governor

named outstanding district governor in Brian Guarco, a longtime Granby resithe country by UNICO National. He dent and owner of State Line Propane/ also serves on the board of directors of Oil, has been elected Eastern Regional the Granby Chamber of Commerce and District Governor by UNICO National, as state director for the Propane Gas Asthe nation’s largest Italian-American sociation of New England since 2013. service organization. Guarco will assist The Granby chapter recently elected and consult with all UNICO districts its new officers who were installed in and chapters in the eastern U.S. from a ceremony led by Brian. Elected for New England to Florida. He was one of two-year terms were: Joy Marx, presithe founders of the Granby Chapter of dent; Mike Antonucci, vice-president; UNICO in 2002 and served as its first Dick Briggs, secretary; and Mary Anne president. Since then the Granby chapGuarco, treasurer. ter has grown steadily to more than 30 members and has donated more than $150,000 to local charities, scholarships and needy families in the Granby community. During the recent holiday season, Granby UNICO donated $10,000 in gift cards (food and clothing) and toys to 19 needy families and 46 children in Granby, assisted by Geissler’s and Bob’s Store, as part of its “Secret Santa” project.

Previously Guarco served four terms as district governor of the Conn. District 2, which includes Brian Guarco, UNICO’s new Eastern Regional chapters from Granby, Avon, District Governor, installs Joy Marx as the new Bristol, Southington, Torrington president of UNICO’s Granby Chapter. Submitted and Farmington. In 2014 he was photo

A Life Plan Community

including strong ethical practices, fiscal accountability, strong organizational leadership, sound transactions, and lasting stewardship of the lands they conserve. “Achieving accreditation proves our deep commitment to land conservation and the protection of our natural resources,” says GLT President Rick Orluk.

“In addition, our organization is stronger today, having gone through the rigorous process of achieving accreditation.”

The commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications.

Comments must relate to how The Granby Land Trust complies with national quality standards. These standards address the

ethical and technical operation of a land trust. For the full list of standards see landtrustaccreditation.org/help-andresources/indicator-practices.

To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment, visit landtrustaccreditation.org, or email your comment to info@ landtrustaccreditation.org.

Comments may also be faxed or mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn: Public Comments: (fax) 518-587-3183; (mail) 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Comments on The Granby Land Trust’s application will be most useful by April 19.—Trish Percival

Land Trust considers nesting birds At a recent board meeting of the Granby Land Trust, a discussion occurred regarding dog walking on Land Trust properties. Leashed dogs have been and are always welcome, but board member and veteran birder John Weeks brought “secondary scent-vectored predation” to the table at a recent board meeting. With regard to the Land Trust properties, this term relates unleashed dogs with nesting birds.

Many of the birds in our area nest on the ground, among them wild turkeys, veerys, ovenbirds and black and white warblers. Unleashed dogs may go into the brush right up to one of their nests, and although the dog usually does no harm except to sniff, it leaves behind its

scent. The scent attracts other animals, such as fox, coyotes, raccoons, bobcats as well as domesticated cats — all of which will do more than just sniff.

Therefore, although dogs should be leashed at all times, the Land Trust hopes that visitors to the properties from April through the end of July will be especially careful to keep this in mind while walking the trails. The Land Trust is cognizant of ways to promote positive ecology for wildlife, and leashed dogs go a long way toward that end. Not only is this beneficial to the wildlife, but also to the dogs, who are less likely to pick up ticks that cling to the tall grasses off the trails.— Shirley Murtha

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 17

for

Toni Ann’s

opened November 14, 1994

One

of life’s simple pleasures is going out for breakfast.

Choices far exceed what’s on offer at home, and the luxury of being served is an affordable indulgence. A restaurant (that’s got it right) greets one gently with subdued murmurings of coffee-happy people overlaid by the reassuringly familiar aromas of coffee and bacon. Half a dozen good choices for a morning repast exist in Granby and close-by towns. Of course people have their favorites based on many factors, such as proximity to home, a delectable Eggs Benedict, a cozy booth.

But only one restaurant has one—all of the above, two—the name of its owner over its entrance, and three—an owner who actually greets and then serves you herself. Toni Ann Chamberlain is the eponymous hands-on owner and manager of a snug restaurant at 518 Salmon Brook Street in Granby. Toni Ann’s, open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week, caters to those seeking an intimate, friendly, and relaxed setting in which to start their day.

Happiness is Breakfast Out. Judy Gove, waitress and Rosemarie Mendes, customer.

Dec. 1, 2018

Originally a waitress for six years at Sunrise (formerly in Granby Center), Chamberlin decided to strike out on her own when Sunrise closed. She and her husband, Bobby, opened Toni Ann’s on Nov. 14, 1994. The original area was half the size it is now; a wall was removed and Bobby carried out the renovation and expansion, creating a space that feels just right. That was 25 years ago: 2019 is Toni Ann’s Silver Jubilee Year.

Judy Gove, Joyce LeJeune, and Linda Bergeron are waitresses. Lorraine Molloy, baker, has been with Toni Ann “from day one.” She comes to the kitchen three days a week at 4:30 a.m. to turn out muffins (raspberry, corn and blueberry),

cream cheese coffeecakes, pies (pecan, blueberry, pumpkin and apple) and apple crisp. Kyle Cahill, a Southwick High School student, is busser and dishwasher.

Lines can blur on job descriptions: everybody pitches in as needed—including regulars who will pour coffee for a newcomer if staff is in the kitchen.

Matt Buldrini and Rich Bergeron are the cooks, boasting 85 years of culinary experience between them. They plate up forty-five pounds of Farmland bacon and ninety dozen eggs weekly. Buldrini, in signature baseball cap, is noted for good-natured heckling of his boss and non-stop kibitzing with customers during his infrequent escapes from the kitchen.

He says, “The difference between this place and others is that we know all our regular customers. We remember what they like and how they want it prepared.”

Toni Ann’s is comfy with a country vibe. Patchwork quilts, rotated seasonally, gladden the walls; Boyd’s Bears nestle in sheltered spots; family photos overlook the check-out area. Collection jars for Granby’s Mary’s Kitty Corner and Paws4Rescue (North Granby) sit conveniently next to the cash register.

An ATM tries in vain to look inconspicuous; failing that, it makes up by easing payment: Toni Ann’s accepts only cash or local checks.

Excepting busy weekend mornings, one can choose seating from among seven booths and five tables set for four.

A U-shaped counter designed for crosscounter chatter offers 10 stools. The regulars have their special spots here but Toni Ann says do join in if there’s room.

Lively conversation revolves around current events in Granby, politics, the weather, and updates on families and pets. Pesky kitchen odors are kept at bay by a Plexiglass panel dividing kitchen from patrons. Enjoy the cooks in action while resting assured that Bacon Eau de Parfume will not be your chosen scent for the day.

While breakfast out is a once-a-week treat for many, Toni Ann’s enjoys a significant number of patrons who

The Who’s Who of Toni Ann’s. From l. are Linda and Rich Bergeron, Joyce LeJeune, Lorraine Molloy, Toni Ann Chamberlain; front: Judy Gove; back: Kyle Cahill, Matt Buldrini. Feb. 3, 2019

show up every morning. Barbara Berkowitz, top listing and selling agent with Coldwell Banker, is in at 6:30 when she isn’t on a cruise. She’ll show you photos of her rescue donkeys, Abigail and Penelope. Carmine Pandolfi, owner of Granby Package Store, stops by for coffee before going on to work to sell beverages of a VIPs. From l.: Bill Moody, Jim Holcomb, Charlie Baldis. Jan. 29, 2019. different sort. “Jo” December it was a jazzed-up version of and Ed Ferrin have come for breakfast Jingle Bells followed by an exuberant every day for five years. Sally and Hank Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer. On Tuinstra, married 60 years in January, February 2, romance was in the air with come routinely every morning Monday Sentimental Journey, Ain’t Misbehavin’, through Saturday and have done so for and In the Still of the Night.

25 years. Gil Justo, 85, drops in for coffee Charlie Baldis, Jim Holcomb, and Bill several times a week. Many more people Moody, average age 90, meet for breakmake Toni Ann’s a part of their regular fast every Tuesday at 8 a.m.. Veterans of routine; regretfully all cannot be includthe Navy, the Air Force, and the Army ed. But rest assured: Chamberlain values respectively, their combined service each person who crosses her threshold. totals 45 years.

Tables are readily combined to accomAsked about retirement, Chamberlain modate special interest groups such as swiftly asserts: “Retirement is not in my members of The Sweet Adelines who vocabulary. This is my home, my famarrive the first Saturday of each month ily.” Sally Tuinstra says, “We’re a circle at 9 a.m.. Rosemarie Mendes explains, of friends and a bunch of ‘huggers.’ We “Most of us are retired from our Sweet don’t always know everybody’s name but Adelines groups but meet once a month we’d be willing to help out if needed.” to stay in touch.” Retired or not, these Virginia Satir (1916-1988), American songbirds treat their fellow breakfasters author and family therapist, wrote, “We to a mini-concert in between ordering need four hugs a day for survival. We and receiving their bacon and eggs. In need eight hugs a day for maintenance.

We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”

Sweet Adelines sing Make your way to Toni Ann’s one of every first Saturday. these mornings. You might hear a song, From l. to r.: Pat Lary you might find a veteran to thank, and (active in Farmington you might get a hug. But you’ll definitely Valley Chorus), feel the heartbeat of Granby. With bacon Marilyn Averiell to boot. (active in Sound of New England), Chris Healy, Peggy Frawley, Thelma Livingston, Rosemarie Mendes, Marge Sperry. Also present: Joan PerkySmith. Dec. 1, 2018

Story and photos

by Faith Tyldsley

Page 18 The Granby Drummer

TOOTH TALK by MichaelUngerleider D.M.D

Do you Still have old silver Mercury fillings?

Also called amalgams, these type of fillings were used extensively until about 15 years ago. Although fewer and fewer dentists place amalgam anymore, there are still plenty of dentists that continue to use it because of its ease of placement and low cost. It is often the only material available to economically challenged areas.

However, about 25 years ago, a new type of filling material and placement method was developed. This ceramic, or porcelain material, called Lithium disilicate, is stronger than amalgam and actually bonds to the tooth, thus strengthening the tooth.

Traditionally, ceramic restorations had to be completed in two or more visits to the dentist. However, with the development of CAD CAM processes, a porcelain restoration, or crown can be completed in just one short visit. The CEREC process involves a chairside design computer which takes an image of the prepared tooth and creates a three dimensional rendering of your mouth. The dentist can then skillfully design the crown and then in under 30 minutes, the reinforced ultra strong porcelain crown can be milled and then bonded to your tooth in just one visit!

Imagine having beautiful, strong white teeth in just one visit…Call our office now to find out if you qualify for this amazing procedure! That’s 860-653-3220 The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Lasers can eliminate the need for injections and the sound of the drill! CEREC CAD-CAM technology allows us to make crowns in just one visit without the impressions or temporaries!

Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! INVISALIGN lets you straighten your teeth without braces—we are your Invisalign connection!

“Smile Vision” allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with straighter, whiter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION! If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us at 860-653-3220 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:

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March 2019

Who are the Friends of the Cossitt Library?

By Amy McCue Established in 1957, the Friends of Cossitt Library (FOC) is a group of volunteers devoted to the enrichment of library services, materials, and facilities at Cossitt Library.

The members of the FOC generously dedicate their time to assisting with special events and celebrations at Cossitt, bringing books to local retirement villages, creating a holiday gift book program, and providing the coffee cart for library patrons. Members are always looking for volunteers to assist

in decorating for the holidays, helping to maintain the Cossitt garden beds, and helping with events.

Beginning in 2018, the FOC has worked to secure funding via the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving to make much-needed improvements on the Cossitt Library building. To date, its efforts have resulted in over $20,000 in grant funding for the town in support of the Cossitt branch library. The Friends of Cossitt Library meets the third Tuesday of the month.

How to get involved: Help the Friends of Cossitt preserve and nurture Cossitt

Library in the 21st century while retaining the ambiance and personal service of an earlier, gentler era by joining the FOC (membership forms are available at both branches of the library, and on the website) or by donating to the organization.

Gifts from the Friends of Cossitt to the library are used for adult, teen, children and family programming, and DVD collection at Cossitt Library. Past projects include improvements for the children’s room, the annex, new roof, shelving, outdoor furnishings and plantings, and the adult room restoration

Become a member of the Friends of Granby Public Library

By Brian Tomasino The Friends of Granby Public Library (FOGPL) begins its new membership year on April 1. You can find the membership form inserted in this month’s Drummer. The form can be mailed or dropped off at the library circulation desk.

Renewing or becoming a member, means that you are helping to support numerous activities and purchases for the Granby Public Library throughout the year. You can be assured that 100 percent of the membership contributions go towards the library. These funds help pay for various programs, and events, along with museum passes, magazines, DVD’s,

books, etc. that are used by all patrons of the library. Many of these items would most possibly be eliminated due to budget limitations and are made possible by the fundraising through FOGPL. While annual membership funds are important, the majority of the money is raised through the annual book sale that takes place in September. Another income source is the monthly book table sales located within the library. FOGPL is totally volunteer supported from those that hold positions on the board to the many volunteers that help out, especially during the months leading up to and at the annual book sale.

While spring is getting closer and you might start to do a little cleaning up, make sure to keep aside any items that could be donated for the annual book sale. Starting on June 1, items can be dropped off at several locations around town. Books are welcome donations for both children and adults. Games, puzzles, DVDs and CDs are also available. More announcements will be made closer to the date for both donating items and volunteering for the book sale.

For the month of March, the book sale table at the library will feature travel books to specific places and traveling in general.

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B O A R D 0 F E D U C AT I O N M I N U T E S January 2, 2019

Superintendent’s Announcements • Roof replacement at the HS is complete • Construction of the HS mantrap does not need to be overseen by a building committee project.

Teaching and Learning Chuck Hershon, assistant principal at the middle school, updated how STEAM Committee work is making its way into classrooms across the district.

Last year a shift was made to create collaborative action teams (CATs) that worked on several projects last year: the development of an AP Computer Science program, a re-design of the media center at Wells Road, the implementation of iPad carts at Kelly Lane and Steam Day at the middle school. This year, CAT goals are to create a STEAM database of activities that teachers can draw from within the district, expand Computer Science offerings, and grow Google and teacher technologies by exploring how to apply these tools. Google representatives will be coming to the Jan. 15 professional development day to work with teachers.

Students from the middle school and high school have joined the CATs this year. Steam Day at the middle school this year will be an entire day of STEAMbased activities and a steam career fair has also been incorporated to share steam related career pathways with students.

Consent Agenda A motion was made by Jenny Emery and seconded

by Sarah Thrall to adopt the consent agenda.

This motion passed with one abstention (Melissa Migliaccio).

New Courses A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Mark Fiorentino that the board approve the following courses: Chemistry of Art; General Portfolio I and II; 3D Studio III; and, 3D Studio IV. Mr. Tranberg stated the new course in this list is Chemistry of Art that was previously a club that demanded a lot of student and teacher time and had a high level of rigor. Ms. Hecht and Ms. Paton saw this as an opportunity for a new course. Other changes are in course level from academic to honors trying to create the appropriate pathway for students to take AP level courses. Dwaritha Ramesh inquired if honors credit could be given to students who take courses at Asnuntuck Community College. Currently they only receive academic credit for a college level course. This motion passed unanimously at 7:25 p.m.

FY20 Plus One Budget Dr. Addley presented the FY20 Plus One Budget to the board. The Plus One plans five years ahead and includes operating and quality and diversity (Q&D) budgets as well as small/large capital projects. This document should be used as a framework to set the budget discussion.

Q&D is essentially done in this document but is presented as a separate agenda item in February for more detail. There has been an average of a 3.77 percent increase over the years. This Plus One comes in at 4.83 percent. The base budget is at +2.47 percent; new programs (not including special education positions) is at +0.95 percent; Special Education +0.76 percent; Q&D +0.58 percent; +.40 all other line items, a negative from retirement savings of -0.33 percent, and a 0 percent savings in enrollment. Dr. Addley stated assumptions are made from transportation to health to salaries (built in a Master’s step 5). The special education number listed in the memo is typically a very high number due to outplacements. The overall 0.76 percent increase includes positions needed for next year as well as outplacements. District enrollment is down 44 students for FY20. The Q&D budget numbers do not include the possibility of adding preschool students.

This cannot be included in the budget until the Board decides to do so.

January 15, 2019,

Business Manager’s Report Dr. Addley presented the December statement of accounts. General education realized a savings of $175K and although the forecast for special education continues to be unfavorable, the change from last month is favorable due to savings in out-ofdistrict transportation and special education teaching assistants. There were additional savings of $100K in employee benefits on the general education side as well as a realized savings in HSA deposits and retirements. An additional $839K in revenue for the town is due to unanticipated funding from ECS that is basically a $400K difference to the good.

Schools in the Spotlight Kristin LaFlamme and Caroline Martin, fifth grade teachers, and Meredith Kamis, third grade teacher, at Wells Road Intermediate School, and some of their students presented Celebrations of Writing to the board. Celebrations are different for each grade level with 5th graders writing memoirs, 3rd graders writing short stories and sharing with 5th grade and 4th graders writing narrative stories.

Annual High School Athletic Presentation Brian Maltese, High School Athletic Director, presented the Annual High School Athletic Report to the board. Maltese stated the 2018-19 year has been very successful thus far and 73 percent of athletes have achieved honor roll status. In the fall, six out of seven varsity teams participated in the state finals.

He reviewed the 15 different sports offered for girls and 14 sports offered for boys. This year two girls participated on the football team and two girls on the wrestling team. Participation numbers have remained steady over the past three years and 320 students participate in at least one sport. He stated 19 of 22 students from the Choice Program are participating in a sport this year.

He reviewed the athletic budget over the past four years and stated there is about a $12K increase for next year, which consists mostly of coaching salary increases, officials and transportation costs. He recommended continuation of the $5K contribution toward the football program. Maltese informed the board he was recently contacted by the CIAC regarding a co-op with Canton High School as their football numbers have been decreasing over the past few years and they may not be able to field a program in the future. He stated he had an initial discussion with Canton administration and the football league voted not to support a co-op program.

Jenny Emery inquired what percent of the student population is on the honor roll. She stated she is also interested in knowing how much would it cost if Granby paid for all athletic volunteers. Sarah Thrall inquired about opportunities for girls to compete on a girls’ team or co-op girls’ team for swimming. Maltese stated he would like to survey the current girl swimmers to see what they would like to do if offered the option.

Plus One Budget The board continued to discuss the FY20 Plus One Budget. A motion was made by Jenny Emery and seconded by Brandon Webster that the Granby Board of Education approve the FY20 Plus One Budget and move it forward to the Three-Board Meeting on January 22, 2019. Lynn Guelzow stated she is concerned the district is compromising general education by scrutinizing purchase orders for the sake of the special education deficit. Addley stated there have been no budget cuts but rather scrutinizing all expenses including special education. Guelzow inquired how confident is the district that enrollment will decrease 4.9 percent over the next five years.

Addley stated the numbers were adjusted accordingly.

New Course Proposals and Changes The board discussed the approval of new courses and course changes.

Motion #1: A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Sarah Thrall that the Granby Board of Education adopt the following courses: Pre-AP Algebra I, Pre-AP English and Pre-AP Visual Arts. Rosemarie Weber stated Granby was selected by the College Board to take part in the pilot program for Pre-AP courses. These courses would be opened up to all students and supports a pathway to take AP courses in their high school career. The subcommittee agreed to do this for three courses but it is a package deal. Pre-AP Visual Arts–College Board would present the district with a framework that will enhance the current color and design art course. Pre-AP Algebra I replaces Algebra 1A in 8th and Algebra 1B in 9th and the Algebra I course currently being offered at GMHS. This is a two-year pilot program offered in 9th grade the first year and will likely expand to middle school students the second year.

Christopher Tranberg stated one of the goals of the program is to better position students to take AP courses. Weber stated the subcommittee asked a lot of questions about the program and the benefit to Granby students. She stated the subcommittee felt that having the College Board work with us increases the rigor for all students, which is in line with the district’s equity goals.

Guelzow stated her biggest concern of the three courses is the Pre-AP English course. Migliaccio stated this program is attractive to her because 1) College Board AP is the gold standard; one of 100 schools selected; benchmarks are provided for the courses throughout the year. She stated it also fits perfectly with the charge given to the board by the Equity Taskforce.

Mark Fiorentino inquired about the budgetary impact going forward. Christopher Tranberg stated it is $4K per course with an additional $2K for training and course materials. Addley stated this amount will be in the base going forward. Jenny Emery expressed her concern regarding English and stated she would not like to see the same thing happen to English that happened to Big History but stated she is comfortable going forward as College Board supplies the curriculum, assessments and benchmarks.

Fiorentino stated he would like to see a flowchart in how students progress through courses. This motion passed unanimously at 8:38 p.m.

MOTION #2: A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Lynn Guelzow that the Granby Board of Education approve the elimination of the course English 11 Honors. Weber stated she remembers, as the longest sitting member of the

board, when the English 11H was eliminated from the program of studies and caused considerable angst among parents and students.

This course has not run the last seven years due to the low number of students enrolled in the course. As a result of that, English Honors has not been looked at for a curriculum revision. If it were to run in the future, it would require a complete revision. Concerns in subcommittee are that a lot of students take AP or an academic course in their senior year if there is no honors course to choose from. Emery stated she would like to see the course stay to see what happens with the new model and if students would even be taking academic English necessarily after taking PreAP English. Migliaccio stated she is generally not in favor of eliminating this course and feels this can be revisited next year. Sarah Thrall stated she is in favor of keeping the course for students who may want to stretch themselves in their junior year and take an honors course. Guelzow is in favor of eliminating the course as she does not feel re-creating the course is a good use of the district’s resources. Dr. Addley stated he feels leaving the course the way it is currently is fine. This motion did not pass with two votes (Lynn Guelzow, Melissa Migliaccio) to five votes (Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster).

MOTION #3: A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Sarah Thrall that the Granby Board of Education approve the course level change in Calculus from academic to honors level. Weber stated the calculus course on the books as an academic course has been a mischaracterization for years; hence, the change from academic to honors. Guelzow stated she is opposed to this change as nothing is being done to improve the rigor of this course. It is important to have senior level academic math and she feels changing the course to honors will decimate the AP calculus course. Jenny Emery inquired if the high school would change the curriculum if this course were left as is. Fifty-three percent of seniors are taking calculus this year and looking at the rigor in the class it covers the basics. This motion passed five votes (Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster) to two votes (Lynn Guelzow, Melissa Migliaccio).

Finance/Personnel/Facilities Jenny Emery reported that most of the meeting was spent discussing the solar project. The timeline has been adjusted and there are many implications that include a $24K performance bond payment to Eversource due by January 22 to keep the project alive. It will be very challenging to bring this home but the payoff could be big.

There is an upcoming CPPAC and, ideally, it will be deciding what to bond. However, there is no certainty if the committee will feel this project should be off to the side because it will pay for itself. Emery and Fiorentino are in agreement that if the solar project is viewed as paying for itself, then the board needs to decide if a check should be cut for $24K. More will be known after the CPPAC meets. If the message from CPPAC is that this project will not affect other items in the large cap and the board is comfortable in getting it done, Emery stated she is comfortable in putting in the funds. The board decided to have Emery and Fiorentino go to the CPPAC meeting and inform Addley how the meeting went.

Addley will decide where to take the project from there.

February 6, 2019

Superintendent’s Announcements • The guideline for the budget has been set for 4 percent. The Plus One Budget came in at 4.83 percent, which means approximately $250K will need to be cut.

• The Administrative Budget will be presented on March 6 and a budget workshop on March 13.

• Two emergency days have been used thus far. June 12 is currently the graduation date.

Guest Legislators Senator John Kissel, Senator Kevin Witkos and Representative William Simanski discussed education related legislative issues with the board.

Representative Simanski, a member of the Education Committee, discussed some items of interest: regionalization of educational services, expelled students and the mandates, education mandate relief—currently 77 mandates on the list, technical training for students after graduation, Education Cost Sharing (ECS) formula and special education program and service centers and hopes of getting the burden of proof for services into the conversation.

Senator Kevin Witkos stated on February 20 the Governor will make his budget address and it will be interesting to see how he anticipates funding issues such as retirement for teachers and how to fully fund it. Witkos serves on the Finance Committee, stating 60-70 bills have been raised for public hearing and some of those will impact education.

Senator John Kissel congratulated Dr. Addley on his selection as Superintendent of the Year. He said that with the new administration a lot of things are in flux. Kissel is on three committees: Judiciary, Law and Transportation. He spoke about regionalization and, although he does not sit on the Education Committee, stated one would have to know how boards of education could work together and that can be a very complicated process. He believes Governor Lamont wants to make a positive change in Connecticut; he is optimistic about the future but hesitant with the reality of budget decisions for current programs.

Brandon Webster was curious about specifics with regard to ECS. Witkos stated the days of individual legislators bringing money back to their district are over. Districts were frozen in 2011-2012 at one level and a formula devised based on a town’s poverty level and number of students. If a district was getting more than it should, the dollars received were phased out. He does not see the legislature changing this formula now. Granby is slated to receive $5,391,340, $600K increase.

Kissel spoke about the issue of Minimum Budget Requirement where a lot of municipalities should not be penalized for being efficient. A holistic approach to ECS would be terrific. Simanski said Granby suffered when funds were re-distributed to less wealthy districts. Webster also inquired about the hiring of minority teachers. Simanski said this issue has been raised in the Education Committee every single year and there is a big initiative especially in the younger grades. Kissel stated we need to hire minorities but we also need to ensure that they can advance their careers.

Lynn Guelzow commented on the state budget and declining enrollment with increasing costs in the schools and how this will require really tough decisions. She said regionalization is the only way to save the state from collapsing unless we can come up with millions of dollars. She asked the legislators if they are willing to make hard decisions for things that might hurt the towns they represent. Simanski stated absolutely, and everyone is aware that regionalization has to occur and that incentivizing regionalization may help. Witkos favors incentivization and perhaps the state should pay a superintendent for a three-year period to start integrating schools which will be a cost savings to the municipality. Kissel felt back-office functions should be looked at, i.e., IT services for town/ schools. If towns are pushed to regionalize or share services, they will not do it. He used an example of a chart of accounts so there can be one finance person for the schools/town and for that matter, other towns.

Mark Fiorentino inquired about how board members can help make their job easier. Simanski said testimony at public hearings by individuals with personal stories is very persuasive. Witkos stated vaping, marijuana, tolls, casinos, and sports betting are big topics. Vaccination has also become a topic and how it will impact the health of public education.

Addley commented on the school safety bill and how it continues to violate students’ rights. There are rising social/emotional issues for many students and those students would suffer with this bill. He also commented on superintendents and administrators being arrested for DCF issues and how it is an unhealthy environment currently for teachers and administrators and impacting all school systems. Witkos stated he would be happy to arrange a meeting with CAPSS and new Commissioner of DCF. He stated she has the full support of her staff and is willing to make changes.

She would be happy to meet as this is a dialogue that needs to happen. Rep. Simanski stated the disruptive behavior bill made it through the legislature but the Governor vetoed it but it is on the list again.

Public Comment Tom McGuire, 110 West Granby Road, a parent of two kids who graduated from Granby, expressed concern that school nurses should carry Narcan because kids are using opioids. He looked up data and in 2014 overdose deaths in Connecticut were 17 percent/100,00. Dr. Addley said that our nurses have Narcan available and he is glad Granby is doing this now.

Consent Agenda A motion was made by Rosemarie Weber and seconded by Brandon Webster to adopt the consent agenda. This motion passed unanimously.

Secondary School Improvement Plan Updates Sue Henneberry, middle school principal, and Michael Dunn, high school principal, shared updates on their School Improvement Plans with the Board.

Henneberry’s mid-year plan shows progress since the beginning of the year. Vision, Mission and District Achievement Goal: student intervention teams meet once a week and Administrators and guidance counselors attend them as well. Improvement is being seen in student behaviors. PLC teams were tweaked to focus on student work. Professional development is focusing on Collaborative and Proactive Solutions, google suite and equity. Student Achievement Goal: SBAC interim assessments were added so to better prepare students in 8th grade. Instruction Goal: Instruction is becoming more personalized, which is

BOE Minutes – Feb. 6 cont’d. on p. 24

Page 20 The Granby Drummer

The

SENI O R

MUSIC

Music Jam Sessions every other Wednesday at 11:45 a.m. on March 6 and 20. Facilitated

by Michael Walter, Musician. Do you play an instrument and long to play with others? Come to an informal music jam session and play along. All instruments welcome. Bring your own instrument (we have a piano). Free. Call 860-844-5352 to let us know you’re coming.

CREATIVE ARTS

Rolled Paper Coil Art, March 19 at 10 a.m., Instructor, Susan Schmidt Ranstead Make rolled paper coil crosses for Easter or Spring birds.

Paper is rolled into small coil circles and placed in a form outline of a cross or bird. The circles fill in the design. Call 860-844-5352 to register by March 5. Cost: $12 includes materials.

Art Class with Deborah Leonard March 18 at 10 a.m. Instructor, Deborah Leonard, Artist.

Bring in your supplies in whatever media you prefer. Instruction for acrylics, watercolor, oils, etc. This is a rare opportunity to take lessons from this well-known and award-winning artist.

Call to register by March 4. Cost $15.

Greeting Card Stamping Class Thursday, March 21 at 9:30 a.m., instructor, Sharyn Holness. Create four beautiful cards. Cost $5 includes all materials.

YOUR PERSONAL BEST

Spring Makeover Friday, March 15 at 10 a.m.

Instructor, Lori Wagner, makeup artist and owner of “Hello Lovely” will offer makeup tips and techniques as you apply makeup, eyelashes, etc. provided. Try out a new look as she guides your personal makeover. Call 860-844-5352 to register by March 8. Cost $5

CUE SPORTS

Billiards Clinic 1: Thursday, March 7 at 1 p.m.

Mark Kulugian, National Trick Shot Champion, will present the first of several billiard clinics planned for this spring. Enjoy some trick shooting by a National Champion followed by instruction and help with the game. Class size limited. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Cost $5.

GAMES

Cribbage Club Mondays at 1 p.m. starting March 11 Facilitator, Robert Coughlin. Cribbage involves playing and grouping cards in combinations to gain points. The object is to be the first player to score a target number of points. Group meets for approximately two hours.

Beginners to advanced players welcome. Group will meet every Monday. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Free

GARDENING SERIES

Getting the Basics Right Wednesday, March 20 at 10:30 a.m. with instructor Barry Avery, Master Gardener. The second of four in our maser gardening series Barry will teach you basic garden requirements— soil, light, nutrition, water— and all the things required for a healthy productive garden. Register by calling 860-8445352 by March 15. Cost $5.

GREAT COURSES (DVD BASED)

Life in the World’s Ocean’s (Part 2) Friday, March 22 at 1 p.m. The series continues with award winning Professor of Marine Science, Sean K. Todd. Explore whales and marine mammals; the importance of sound in the oceans, breeding and reproduction in a large ocean, behavior and sociality of marine mammals and finally, intelligence in marine mammals. The photography in this final series is exciting and colorfu. Register by March 15. Cost $25.

NATURE

Songbirds of the Northeast: Monday, March 25 at 1 p.m., naturalist John Root presents Northeast songbirds that you learn to identify by sight and the sound of their songs. Featuring both photographs and recordings of our region’s songbirds. Learn the role song plays in a bird’s life, their diet, social behavior, and adaptations for survival. Participants also learn how to provide attractive habitat for songbirds. Register by March 11. Cost $15.

LEND A HELPING HAND Helping Hands Needed Wednesday, March 27, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Please join Days for Girls International (daysforgirls.org) who will be sewing for women in need of sanitary products.

March 2019

MARCH HIGHLIGHTS St Patrick’s Day Luncheon Wednesday, March 13 at 12 p.m. A traditional corn beef and cabbage luncheon, with decorative cake for dessert. Entertainment will be the Small Planet Dancers who will perform Irish dancing. Wear your green. Call 860-844-5352 to register

by March 6. Cost $7.

Winter Wildlife and Eagle Cruises, Essex, Ct. Wednesday, March 6, departing 10 a.m. Enjoy the river and its wildlife on this two-hour cruise plus the museum and special Eagles of Essex Exhibit. This is prime time for eagle spotting on the Connecticut River. Lunch on your own at the Griswold Inn. Cost $47. Registration starts immediately.

AARP Tax Preparation By appointment on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Availability March to April 3.

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.

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.

Please visit our website at https://www.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.

Need sewers and non-sewers to volunteer. To learn more, please call Josie Klein at 860-6535752 or email josiklein640@gmail.com.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Hearing Clinic w/ 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.

Alzheimer’s Support Group: Tuesday March 12 at 10 a.m. Peggy Coburn, McLean Home Care and Hospice. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Learning to cope with the changes in their behavior and understanding how to handle it is best explained by those dealing with a similar situation. Free.

Caregiver Private Consultations: Friday March 1, starting at 10 a.m. Esther Corcoran of the Alzheimer’s Association is offering half hour personal consultations if you are a family member or caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s. Call for an appointment.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Thursdays at 12 p.m.. A group for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Join others, to share friendships, tips and ideas on being a parent again. Free.

MS Support Group Monday, March 11 and 25 at 1 p.m. Self-help group for persons with Multiple Sclerosis and their caregivers.

On Grief and Loss Wednesday March 13 and 27 at 2:30 p.m. Led by Jane Johnson. Through discussion, this non-therapeutic support group helps you in understanding and coping with grief.

Support, information and strategies.

Parkinson’s Support Group Monday March 18 at 1:30 p.m. Facilitated by Krisztina Jarai, Residence at Brookside. A support group for those with Parkinson’s and their families. Free.

Please call 860-844-5352 to register.

Foot Care Clinic with Pedi-Care By appointment. Monday, March 18 and Friday, March 22. A specially trained nurse will perform an assessment of the feet and lower extremities, trimming, filing and cleaning of nails. Cost is $29.

(Not covered by insurance) Free Blood Pressure Checks Every Thursday 11 a.m. –12:30 p.m. Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association. Held in the Senior Center Community Room.

Free Blood Sugar Checks First Thursday of the month, March 7, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Farmington Valley VNA.Held in the Senior Center Community Room.

Chair Massage with Bev Harris Tuesday, March 5 and 19. Concentration is on upper and lower back and shoulders. Fifteen minutes is $10.

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. 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.

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’ll visit 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. Call the Senior Center for available shows. Cost from $199.

Whale Watch from Plymouth, Mass.

Saturday, August 10. Imagine being within feet of some of the most graceful, rare animals in the world. Your trip includes transportation, 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. 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.

Passports required.

Mackinaw Island, Back in Time: August 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: September 13–15

Called the “Queen of the American Lakes” with 300-plus islands, 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 SERVICE & EXCURSIONS

The Granby Senior Van provides rides for adults 60 and over to shopping and activities at the Senior Center. Please call our Transportation Coordinators at 860-844-5353 one week in advance for scheduling.

Shopping Trips

Enfield Square: Enfield March 22, departs 10 a.m. Register by March 15. Cost $5 Lee Premium Outlets: Lee, Mass. Friday, April 12 at 9:30 a.m. Ann Taylor, Chico’s, Coach, J. Crew, Michael Kors and Talbots are just some of the wonderful outlets you will find at this premium outlet mall. Lunch on your own. Cost $5.

Trips

Please call 860-844-5352 to register for all trips.

Dine and Drive The Corner Pug: Friday, March 25, departs at 10:45 a.m. Register by March 11. Cost $5. Chow down on Mac’s Big Burger or a heaping plate of Mac-N-Cheese with a side of good company.

Spring Bulb Show at Smith College: Northampton, Mass Friday, March 15 at 9 a.m Dive into spring with a spectacular array of hyacinths, narcissi, lilies and tulips. Lunch on your own at Sylvester’s; shopping afterwards at Webb’s and Main Street Shops. Cost $5.

Register by March 8.

FITNESS AND EXERCISE

The Granby Senior Center offers a variety of affordable exercise classes throughout the week. $6/class for Granby residents when you pay the session price. Intensity levels range from house cat to cheetah. Classes run by session or pay a drop-in fee.

March’s Featured Class

Yoga: Tuesdays at 4 p.m. with Paula Pirog.

Thoughtful breathing and controlled postures Yoga Flow: Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Emphasis on finding a balance between flexibility and strength and exploring how, with practice finding 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 strength, balance, flexibility and coordination. Focus on improving voice power and speech clarity. With Paula Pirog.

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 achieved through the various yoga poses. Great for those with limited mobility.

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.

Fast-paced class provides an all-around great workout. Instructor, Mary Fuller Chi Gong: Fridays at 8:30 a.m. A gentle, lowimpact, standing or seated class focusing on flexibility, balance, healing and pain management is routed in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins Cardio Combo: Fridays at 10:15 a.m. Quicker pace and more aerobics. Instructor, Mary Fuller.

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

Peak: Sundays at 7:30 a.m. For the weekend warrior. Vigorous aerobics and weights with Jennifer Dzielak.

March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 21 and lift the heavy trees and branches out of the way one by one so that he could drive through.

The situation was especially dangerous for people in town because live wires were often brought down with the trees and you couldn’t really go out with a chain saw to help clean your street without serious risk. It took days to open the roads up and an entire year to get back to normal. There were cots at the senior center for people who couldn’t get to their houses. Most people were without power for nine days.

Some power poles were actually snapping in half. Everyone had to wait for the power company to come and re-set the wires/poles.

How do you feel about living in the town of Granby?

I have lived here for 18 years and raised my family in this town. Coming from Southington, we all liked the small town atmosphere and the fact that there is a lot of preserved land. I know a lot of residents personally and like being able to meet and deal with the public here in Granby. My children are grown up now and both have chosen to remain in Connecticut.

My wife and I are so fortunate to live near the Lost Acres Farm Store and look out at the surrounding hills. My wife is now a member of the Granby Horse Council. Although there was an old house on the land we have settled on, it had to be torn down and replaced. All major beams and woodwork had rotted and the walls literally had holes in them. We did put up a colonial style house in its place, however, that blends in with the history that is such a part of the town.

Best of all I have a job where there is a good deal of camaraderie amongst the workers. The people at the DPW are a great bunch and will help each other whenever the need arises.

Rick Morton

Supervisor, Granby Department of Public Works Age: 59 Talk about how you came to be in this job here in Granby…

I grew up in Southington and worked there for a while for its DPW. After I got married my wife really wanted a place where she could have horses to ride. We were fortunate to be able to find seven acres of land in Granby in the year 2000.

At that point my commute from Southington to Granby began to wear on me so one day I stopped into the DPW office in Granby and asked if they had any openings. It was serendipity because at that very time they had placed a newspaper ad describing a job opening. The secretary thought I was actually responding to that ad. Since my qualifications were strong, after two interviews I was hired in 2001.

What projects do you work on?

We are routinely involved in road construction, pothole repair, putting in drainage pipes, and paving. There are 94 miles of roads in Granby that need to be continually attended to. We also do extensive tree work, usually roadside trimming, and take care of all the public grounds such as cemeteries, two parks, town greens, and Holcomb Farm.

In the winter it feels like a constant battle since there are lots of dying trees that line the roads that need to be cut back. Of course we also pre-treat roads before storms, plow and salt.

Exterior

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

Since this is a town with a lot of trees, what are your memories from the “great October Storm”…

I was out plowing on East Street when that storm came through on October 29, 2011. Since the leaves were still on the trees and the snowfall went on for hours, heavy oak trees began falling and landing all over the roads. A tree came down behind me and the only option for me to get back into town was to head north on Rte. 10 and come back on Vining Hill Road. Unfortunately I was stuck there again for five hours until two guys with an all-wheel drive plow truck helped me out. This was an easy situation though, compared to one of our men who was trapped on Barn Door Hills Road for nine hours. A pay loader had to go up

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

860- 6 5 3 - 6 8 2 8

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Choosing to be conscious of others Sunday Night Youth Group Winter Theme 2019

The Rev. Carl Mazza calls it “The Spirituality of Meeting”. He suggests that our lives are like a voyage on which we discover each other. He says that when we remember our lives we remember people - not so much a sequence of events, but those moments when we truly encounter people and realize we have been changed through meeting and knowing another human being - the more different from ourselves, the greater the transformation.

In our winter retreat, we explored this spirituality of meeting through four discussion sessions. We talked first about those intimate relationships we all have (family, friends, partners). The closeness is threatening, because we are letting another human being see our messiness, our “West Wing” to borrow from BEAUTY and the BEAST. But that risk becomes our greatest hope – to be known AND to be loved. The next morning we talked about how easy it is to walk through our lives in a default setting - only interacting with the people we choose to know. A protective measure, no doubt, but how much do we miss by keeping the circle closed assuming everyone outside is an “other”. Later that night, we asked ourselves – “Do I have an obligation to someone hurting or struggling?” In Stacy Abrams’ wonderful story, she tells us that her father gave his coat to a poor man who was freezing on the street, leaving himself then to nearly freeze to death. When asked why he did that, he told his family, “Because I knew you’d be coming for me.” It seems there are two kinds of people in the world those who have someone coming for them, and those who don’t. What then should we do? Finally in our last session, we decided that relationships change us. They change who we are, and we should let them. They will stretch us, wound us, challenge us, and heal us. That to us is “The Spirituality of Meeting.”

Come Join Us! Wednesday, March 6 at 6pm Fat Tuesday + Ash Wednesday = FAT ASH WEDNESDAY Join us for a festive pancake dinner in the spirit of Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras) followed by a short Ash Wednesday service.

NOT in Curbside Recycling

Retail Bags

Faith Matters

Air Pillows

SUNDAYS IN LENT Journeying with Jesus Worship each Sunday at 10:00 AM

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

Produce Bags

Carryout Bags

Dry Cleaning Bags

Product Overwrap

NO Chip Bags • Prewashed Salad Bags • Frozen Food Bags • Foam • Packing Peanuts GRANBY DPW (860) 653-8960 www.granby-ct.gov

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

860-653-4537

www.firstchurchgranby.org

Page 22 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

An English immersion program in Spain is originally from Venezuela, but, along with her husband and unborn child, has What do 13 Spaniards and 15 Anglos fled her native country to live in Spain. have in common? The answer lies in the The Anglos are all from English speakVaughan Town experience. What exactly ing countries: Great Britain, Scotland, is Vaughan Town? It is an immersion Ireland, Singapore and United States. program that is considered the most powAfter meeting our Spanish friends, we erful and effective English-improvement board a bus bound for Barco de Avila and program in the world within the time the resort of Gredos. During this three stipulated (six days). The Vaughan Town hour drive, we get to know our Spanish format is designed to force the student to students and they get to know us. From overcome the psychological barriers to this time until Friday after lunch, they communication in English. will not be allowed to speak one word Our adventure begins on January 13 of Spanish. The week’s mantra is: Speak when we travel to Madrid, Spain where only in English, speak constantly and soon you will begin to Think in English.

Gredos was much like Granby- rural, quiet and idyllic. Sam and I felt right at home. Upon arrival we received the grand tour, procedures, schedules and do’s and don’ts were explained. We met our Program Director Daryl, and our Master of Ceremonies Carlotta. The group was very fortunate to have this twosome for the week. Daryl and Carlotta have worked together many times in the past, Anglos in Gredos. Rebecca and Sam Mikus (l.) with three and they kept the week other English speakers who took part in an immersion running smoothly. Carlotta project. Submitted photo. entertained us with her theatrical skits and presentations. She was amazing! on a bright Sunday morning we meet Our day started with breakfast at nine our Spanish students. These Spaniards and ended with dinner at nine. It is cusare all adult learners of English; they tomary in Spain to eat your main meal are professionals who work, for the at two and then have lighter fare at nine. most part, for American companies in Seated at each table in the dining room Spain. One young woman is from Lima, were equal number of Anglos and SpanPeru and she is starting a Vaughan Town iards engaged in constant conversation. program in Lima. Another young woman

By Rebecca Mikus

By the way, Sam and I never sat together throughout the entire week.

It felt kind of odd that here we were a couple married for 49 years and we didn’t sit together at meals. Most days we followed the same schedule: breakfast, two Spanish students and English speakers in Barco de Avila. or three one-on- Submitted photo. one conversations, that time to finish it. telephone conversations with a problem As we look back at the six days we to be solved, and a conference call with spent with our Spanish friends at Gredos, the Anglo leading the conversation and our hearts are full. During this time with the Spaniards doing most of the talking. us, we experienced the joy of watching Interspersed with these conversations their spoken English blossom. The culwere different group activities such as minating activity for the Spaniards was skits, creative picture poses and prea five-minute assigned topic presentation sentations. For example, Sam, Beatrix in English in front of their peers and (Spanish), Roz (British) Encarta (SpanAnglo teachers. They were very nervous, ish) and I presented a spoof on The but they all did well. Sam and I and our Dating Game. What a fun time we had fellow Anglos admired the work ethic creating and presenting this skit. of the Spaniards. These people left their For the rest of the week our schedules families, some had young children, a few were much the same. The Anglos rotated were single, but all of them were profeswith the Spaniards so that we met with sionals who wanted to improve their each Spaniard once or twice on a one-toEnglish language skills. They chose to one basis. You may ask if we were given attend Vaughan Town. It was important subjects to discuss with them. We were to them. given a list of topics, but we never reFor Sam and me, it was an experience ferred to them because we never needed we will never forget. We made new those topic starters. We just shared and friends, both Spanish and English. On talked the whole 50 minutes. What we Friday evening, when we parted there were given for each meeting was an idiwere tears and lots and lots of hugs. We om and a verbal phrase that we explained have many invitations to return to Spain to our individual student. English is not and visit. We hope to do just that. The an easy language to master because we Vaughan Town experience enriched our have so many idioms, exceptions to the lives. We felt we made a difference. It’s rules and colloquialisms. Throughout the a very good feeling. week we were given a siesta time usually Hasta Mañana after lunch until 5, but sometimes if we hadn’t finished an assignment we used

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY

THE

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 23

Marquis of Granby celebrates its 49th season

By Polina Crotty 2018 was a spectacular year for the Marquis of Granby Ancient Jr. Fyfe and Drum Corps. On Jan. 12, the corps held a banquet to celebrate the achievements of its members and to express thanks for the extraordinary commitment of corps’ music instructors, its board and director, and the many parents and members of the community that have contributed time and resources to the organization.

An annual affair, the banquet is a special and beloved event. It brings together current members and their families, as well as past participants, directors and teachers: all sharing in a common interest and commitment to a rich historical musical tradition that has been kept strong by the Marquis since it was founded 50 years ago.

As is customary, the event opened with a performance for the 100-plus attendees. Entering the banquet hall by order of rank, the members played a medley of tunes they selected for the occasion.

Following the performance, the director of the corps, Kimberley McCord, gave a warm welcome and thanked the family members, instructors and broader community for all their support and commitment to the Marquis and its mission.

A Special Parent Recognition award was given to Heidi Darling for her meticulous attention to the corps’ uniforms and for spearheading a successful Scotland trip fundraising event.

Throughout the delicious dinner, the attendees enjoyed a slide show highlighting memorable moments of the 2018 season. And during dessert, Rachel Abrahamson unveiled the Scotland slide show.

Awards and promotions followed and began with the following rank promotions: Marching Recruit – Amelia Bielawiek, Abby Caruso, Anna Sprecher, Addison Landheer. Private (playing line,

snare drum) – Nate Abrahamson and Brody Landheer. Private (playing line, bass drum) – Jack Darling and Katrina McCord. Private (playing line, fife) – Alice Crotty and Alyssa Groneman.

Sergeant – Allison Christensen. Lieutenant – Shannon Leydon. Sergeant Major – Katherine Benoit, Brayden Mandeville and Shannon McCord. The highest rank a member can achieve during their years in the Marquis of Granby is the rank of Major. Keith Seger was promoted to Major.

Several members reached important service milestones. Grace Darling, Alyssa Groneman, Brayden Mandeville and Katrina McCord received pewter mugs for five years in the corps. Rebecca Rose Kaczmarek and Keith Seger received a pewter plate for seven years of service.

Three members were recognized for 100 percent performance attendance and excellent practice attendance: Katherine Benoit, Brayden Mandeville and Keith Seger. With over 20 events in a year and weekly practice, this is an outstanding achievement. Corps members with an attendance rate of above 90 percent were acknowledged: Sam Askew, Allison Christensen, Alyssa Groneman, Brittany Janzer, Rebecca Rose Kaczmarek, Katrina McCord and Shannon McCord.

Members with such extraordinary attendance records receive their choice of a credit to their travel account, or a scholarship to fyfe and drum summer camp.

In addition, Nate Abrahamson, Evelyn Brooke, Layne Cramer, Nick Rondeau were recognized for attendance rate of above 80 percent.

Traditional and historically significant music is at the core of the members’ experience in the organization. The corps’ long-standing fife and drum instructors, Carol Sullivan, Jennifer Wick, Dr. James Clark and Paul Cormier, chose the members for the next set of awards: Most Improved Marcher—Amelia Bielawiek

(Recruit). Most Improved Fyfers—Anna recognizes long-standing commitment Sprecher (Beginner) and Alice Crotty and support for the Marquis by an indi(Playing Line). Most Improved Beginvidual or organization in the community. ner Drummer—Nairobi Mouning. Most This year’s recipient was the corps’ fife Improved Beginner Drummer—Brayden instructor and past member, Carol SulMandeville. Most Improved Playing Line livan.

Drummer—Keith Seger.

Closing remarks were focused on the The Jacky Award is given to honor the future. In 2019, Marquis of Granby enters memory of Jacky Welsh, a Marquis memits 50th year. Stay tuned for an update on ber from East Granby who passed away the 50th anniversary festivities, one of in August of 2011. The corps at that time which will be hosting a weekend-long wanted to establish a kind of memorial Fife and Drum Muster! that would pay tribute to Jacky. It was The Marquis is generously supported decided that an annual travel scholarby the community through donations to ship would be given to a member of the the Granby Community Fund. Membercorps who shared those characteristics of ship in the Marquis of Granby Ancient Jacky that they all admired: smart, witty, Fyfe and Drum Corps is open to youth engaged, mature, confident, passionate, ages 9-21 from Granby and the surdedicated, quiet, respectful, considerate, rounding towns. Prospective members caring and brave. The recipient of this are always welcome to attend a practice award is therefore voted on by the corps at the First Congregational Church on members. This year’s recipient was Lizzy Wednesday evenings. For more inforCappelli. mation, visit www.marquisofgranby.org The recipient of the Knight of Knipton award is also chosen by member vote, and is given to the new member who best exemplifies the corps values of a great attitude, overall contributions and willingness to act as an “Ambassador of the Corps.” The 2018 recipient was Abby Caruso. In addition, the Marquis members elect Junior Board Members. This year’s representatives will be Keith Seger, Shannon McCord, Rebecca Rose Kaczmarek and Brittany Janzer.

The Marquis Director’s Award recognizes the accomplishments of an exceptional member. The award for 2018 went to Rebecca Rose Kaczmarek, recognized for exceptional dedication to the corps and for being an excellent role model and mentor Last year’s Jacky Award recipient, Brittany for younger members.

Janzer with this year’s recipient Elizabeth The final award presentation was Cappelli. Photo by Kent McCord the Marquis Peacock Award, which

CTVV news

Foxfield F.A.R.M. news

Rx for your healthcare coverage

Foxfield F.A.R.M. hearing with vets committee

One of the least well known agencies in Hartford is the Connecticut Healthcare Advocate. It is headed by Ted Doolittle, a seasoned government executive, attorney and former Federal prosecutor. He aslo serves as the deputy director of the Center for Program Integrity at Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT Valley Views, visited with Doolittle to discuss providing free assistance to Connecticut Healthcare consumers with plan selection, education, enforcement of healthcare rights, and improving healthcare access. Link to the Office of the Healthcare Advocate ct.gov/OHA Be sure to see this informative CTVV segment on Cox/Enfield Channel 15 Fridays at 6 and Saturdays at 9:30 AM during February and see all of of CTVV’s programs at ctvalleyviews.com Healthcare Advocate Ted Doolittle. Submitted photo

The silent culture of domestic violence

What do you do if you fear that you or your children are or will become victims of domestic violence? This is not limited to physical, but includes verbal abuse, harassment, and threats of assault directly or to the immediate family, estrangement from friends or family or curtailment of financial support. The silence is leveraged through the predator’s emotional control via warnings of imminent harm or even murder.

There is an agency that is a phone call away. Susan Patricelli Regan, host of Connecticut Valley Views interviewed Karen Jarmoc, president and CEO of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence in 2014 and revisited Jarmoc’s office to provide the public with updates on technical services, process, counseling and training and 24/7 ability to respond immediately to the caller with protected privacy rights to all solicitations.

Karen Jarmoc, president and CEO, Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence with Susan Patricelli Regan at CCADV offices in Wethersfield. Submitted photo

On Thursday, Feb. 14 Senator John Kissel and Susan Patricelli Regan presented Senate Bill 543 that states as its purpose “to require health insurance coverage for equine therapy for Veterans and the chapter 700c of the general statutes be amended to require health insurance coverage for equine therapy for Veterans.” This bill was previously submitted to the Committee on Insurance and Real Estate that approved it for process forward to the Veterans Committee. Susan and her husband Bill Regan are the founders of Foxfield F.A.R.M., a 501(c)(3) charity in Granby that utilizes a groundwork equine therapy curriculum to diminish and eradicate the effects of PTSD and related mental issues on U.S. Veterans Susan Patricelli Regan (left) and Senator John Kissel and First Responders. presenting Senate Bill 543. Submitted photo

Page 24 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

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 GranbyRec.com for program registration.

Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: GranbyRec.com Program/Trip Registration: All Granby Parks and Recreation Department 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. You can register for all of our programs online at GranbyRec.com

NOW HIRING! Summer Lifeguards and Camp Counselors.

Now accepting applications for summer staff.

Applicants must be 16 years of age by June 30.

Applications available at GranbyRec.com Green Eggs and Ham Family Breakfast — Celebrate Dr. Seuss, Saturday, March 2 at 8 and 9 a.m. Scrambled eggs, ham, toast, juice and coffee, stories and more. Do you like Green Eggs and Ham? We think you will, oh Sam-I-am.

North Barn Pavilion at Holcomb Farm. Under 8 $5, 8 and up $8, Under 2 free

SPRING PROGRAMS Turbo Kick—the Kickboxing Party! Monday Mornings or Thursday Evenings beginning March 4. Fun, rhythmic cardio kickboxing moves and high-energy music, you’ll have a blast! Sign up with a friend and have some fun. Salmon Brook Park Building, $65 per session, Monday mornings, 8:15–9 a.m., Thursday evenings, 7–7:45 p.m. Thursday Evenings, March 7– May 2.

Adult Badminton – NEW, Thursday evenings, March 7– May 2. Badminton is the number two “participation sport” in the world, second only to soccer. Increase aerobic fitness and stamina with this weekly program. Players can burn 600-1000 calories an hour. Roger Young, will provide coaching including racket grip, score keeping, and history of badminton.

For all skill levels. 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., $75 per person. Granby Memorial Middle School Gym TAZ’s Spring Preseason Conditioning and Fitness Camp, Mon through Fri, March 11–15. Get in shape or further increase your fitness-conditioning for the start of the spring sport season. This non-sport-specific camp is fitness based and incorporates drills to enhance endurance, footwork and agility, full body strength training, core-based exercises, balance and flexibility. Some long and short distance endurance runs as well as aerobic and Pilates classes. Many core strength exercises throughout the workout each day. Bring an exercise mat, water bottle and hand-held weights (approx. 5-8 lbs.). Instructor: Terri Ziemnick.

Grades 7–12, 2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m., Granby Memorial High School, $80 Safe Boating and Personal Watercraft Course, March 4, 6 and 11 from 6-9 p.m.

Upon completion, participant will have satisfied the DEEP’s requirements and be able to apply for a Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation (CPWO) A SBC/CPWO is required by individuals 10 years of age and older to operate any recreational vessel registered in Connecticut except a personal watercraft (Jet Ski-type vessel) on Connecticut’s waters. Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room, Fee: $25 DIY Workshop: Custom Family Sign, Thursday, March 7 from 6:30-9:30 Design your own family sign. Choose colors and font to create a perfect accent for your home.

Sign night at Joy and Wit is a popular way to relax with friends, so bring a bottle of wine, snacks and finger foods and enjoy the evening. Registration for this class ends three days prior to the class.

Sponsored by and held at Joy and Wit Design Studio, 2 Salmon Brook Street. $65 per person Paint Night: Ocean Pebbles, Thursday, March 14 from 7–9:30 p.m. Spring is just around the corner. Celebrate with friends and paint a scene under the tutelage of local Granby resident and artist, Laura Eden. All the materials are provided, and you’ll be delighted with the masterpiece you create. Bring your own snacks and beverage of choice. Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. $40 per class

Succulent Terrarium Workshop, Sunday, March 17 from 2-4 p.m. Learn the basics of building a succulent terrarium. All materials for one basic terrarium will be included. You can purchase additional plants at workshop. You may also bring other decorative elements to add to your terrarium—figurines, crystals, shells, etc.

Sponsored by Bouquets of the Valle. Salmon Brook Park House Gathering Room. $45 includes all supplies Indoor Field Hockey League for Grades 5-8, Wednesdays, March 20 – April 17. Four teams will be created to play 6v6. Modified Indoor rules are played. Each night there will be two 25-minute games, each team is guaranteed two games; maximum eight players on each team. Each participant must provide own stick, shin guards, and mouth guard. 6:30 p.m.– 7:30 p.m., $55 per person. Granby Memorial High School Gym Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, Wednesday, March 20. The course prepares you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children and infants and meets OSHA/ workplace requirements. This is a blended learning course including an online portion and an instructor-led classroom skill session.

The online portion must be completed prior to attending the in-class portion and must be taken on a PC or tablet with a highspeed Internet connection. Allow approximately two hours and 30 minutes to complete the online portion. Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a digital certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years. 6 p.m. 7:30 p.m., $95 per person. Salmon Brook Park, Park House gathering room Lunchtime Walkers Club, Tuesdays beginning in March. Meet at the Park and Recreation Building Gathering Room at Salmon Brook Park. Being active is the secret to staying

healthy! Walking is an easy and inexpensive way to get moving. Join the walking club and walk with us every Tuesday at Salmon Brook Park during the lunch-time hour. The route stays on the pavement around the park for 45 minutes of fitness, conversation and fun. Dogs and strollers are welcome. Dress for the weather. This free program will run through the winter and spring months. Registration is required. 12 p.m. –12:45 p.m., Free to everyone. Salmon Brook Park, Park House Gathering Room Music Together Ages 0—5 with Caregiver, Mondays, April 1–June 17, 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Join this international, research-based music and movement program for children from birth to Kindergarten, and the grownups who love them around the globe, families share in songs, rhymes, movement and instrument play, both in class and throughout daily life. Designed as a multi-semester program to grow with your little one over the course of early childhood, a beautifully illustrated songbook and CD is included each semester. Held in the Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. $220 first child, $115 second child, $90 third child. Infant siblings under eight months on first day are free.

Plan your Party or Special Event with Granby Rec., Have your next family or other private event at SBP or the Holcomb Farm. The Salmon Brook Park House is a beautiful facility that accommodates up to 99 people, featuring a gas fireplace for the winter months and central air in summer. Make an appointment today for a tour and see if it is the right fit for your next event.

The North Barn Pavilion is open at the Holcomb Farm. Built to look like a barn, this gorgeous new building has all of the modern amenities to make your event for up to 125 people a day to remember. Dates are filling fast. Call to get more information or visit GranbyRec.com to see pictures and rental information.

BOE Minutes – Feb. 6 cont’d. from p. 19 getting results. Students will present on the Ecology Center at the next PAC meeting on 2/13.

Dunn presented an update on his School Improvement Plan. Vision, Mission, District Achievement Goal is tied to closing achievement gaps and widening opportunities for students to take college-level offerings. Teams are looking specifically at the AP potential report to identify students with the ability to take these higher-level courses. The Student Achievement Goal continues to align with learning expectations that are tightly aligned with district goals. Instruction Goal: The just-received NEAS and C report from the visiting team identified continuing the alignment with learning expectations.

This is the second year of providing effective feedback to students through building-based walkthroughs and sharing of strategies. Collaborative action team establishment has not yet occurred. Dunn said the letter from NEAS and C regarding accreditation is due in a few weeks. Thereafter, two-year and five-year plans will need to be put together. Addley commended Dunn on the NEASC report and said the board will receive a copy shortly.

FY20 Quality and Diversity Budget Dr. Addley presented the FY20 Quality and Diversity Budget to the board. This is a preliminary look of what the Q&D budget will look like. The Q&D fund is held by the town and funded by revenue received from Open Choice. It helps Granby meet the state requirement of increasing opportunities for students. Open Choice is a point of pride for the district and Granby has led the way for many years. Addley reviewed the revenue received and compared revenue from last year to this year. He stated Q&D typically includes magnet school tuition, clubs, etc. He highlighted some items that are new for next year: Two kindergarten teachers will be moved to the operating budget as well as two kindergarten teaching assistants; four iPad carts for the primary school; equity taskforce (funding ran out and this is a one-year placeholder); transfer of 11 clubs from Q&D to the operating budget except the Bridges Program that will be a new club for this year

in Q&D. Addley reviewed the Open Choice enrollment, stating it is imperative that Granby gets a 4 percent enrollment rate and has an attrition rate of 4-5 students per year. Magnet school enrollment was reviewed.

From 2007 to 2012, 50-plus students attended magnet school and currently there are 23. Tuition for magnet schools was discussed. A 3 percent increase is built in for the budget; however, Addley stated it may be higher than 3 percent.

VI.A. Board Standing Committee Reports Curriculum/Policy/Technology/Communication Rosemarie Weber reported the subcommittee met to discuss the assistant superintendent’s report. International technology standards are being embedded into classroom work or library/technology time. Plans for four raised beds by the tennis courts at the high school starting this summer with funds from the farm-to-school grant. The start-time study will come to the board at the end of March. What summer will look like if opportunities are opened up at the high school for college career readiness.

Finance/Personnel/Facilities Mark Fiorentino reported the Finance Subcommittee had a special meeting on January 23 that focused on the solar project expectations and costs as well as potential savings to prepare for the upcoming CPPAC Meeting. The schedule is still very tight. The most significant piece of news is the deadline is not a final deadline.

Start Time Study Lynn Guelzow reported the Start Time Study Taskforce recently held video conferences with Guilford and Wilton. Wilton changed two years ago and Guilford just last year. Brian Maltese, Athletic Director, attended, so many athletic questions were asked. There are two or three issues that seem to cause districts to stop discussions about this topic. A lot of different options are available. The board can take as long as it wants to for a decision. Hoping to get decisions this year but will not implement until 2020.

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 25

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.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS, AND TEENS To register for any program call 860844-5275, email gplibrary@granby-ct. gov or register online at granby-ct.gov Granby Library has exciting news to share. Online program registration is now available on the library website. Just click on the Program and Events Calendar tab and select the programs you want to attend. Of course, you can still call or visit the library to sign up for programs, talks, activities, and special events.

Saturday, March 2, 2–3 p.m. Snow date March 9. The Historic New Haven and Northampton Canal, at Cossitt Branch Library, Upper Level. 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 4, 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.

Tuesday, March 5, 6:30–7:30 p.m. snow date March 12. Do you want to learn how to take better pictures with your iPhone, Android or iPad? Adults and teens are welcome to register for this introductory class with Andy Mars, commercial photographer and instructor.

Cossitt Branch Library, Upper Level.

Registration required; space limited.

Note: Attendees will supply their own mobile device and will need to download the Snapseed app; check online or call the library for details.

Thursday, March 7 and 21, 3:30–4:30 p.m. Snow date March 28. at Cossitt Branch Library, Upper Level. Adult and teen artists of any ability level are invited to attend two sketching sessions featuring a still life exercise (session 1) and a live model exercise (session 2). Locally acclaimed artist Suzanne Roz Magoon will be on hand to answer questions and offer guidance. Registration required; space limited.

Note: Artists will supply their own materials; check online or call the library for details.

Thursday, March 7, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Snow date March 14. In the early 20th century a great cultural explosion occurred in the United States. AfricanAmericans migrated from the South and swelled the urban populations of the North. Many consider Harlem, in New York City, to be the focal point of this migration. Our favorite professor of

history, Hamish Lutris, will highlight the important works of the Harlem Renaissance, as well as talk about its greatest figures and their legacy. Granby Library, Main Branch. Please register in advance.

Monday, March 11 and 25, 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 keep strumming and jamming with instructor Jim Lenn on the second and fourth Monday of the month.

Tuesday, March 12 and 26, 6–7:45 p.m. The Cossitt Writers group meets at the Cossitt Branch Library, Upper Level.

Adult fiction writers are welcome to join this friendly group. Writing exercises, sprints and critiques are all a part of the bi-monthly sessions. Registration recommended, drop-ins are always welcome.

Thursday, March 14, 10–11:45 a.m.

The chess group meets at the Cossitt Branch Library, Upper Level. Chess fans are invited to join in for friendly and competitive games the second Thursday morning of every month. If you want to play, but the time doesn’t fit your schedule, leave your contact info with library staff and we’ll put you in touch with chess players available at other times.

Registration recommended, drop-in’s are always welcome.

Wednesday March 20, 10:30 a.m.

Health + Fitness For Women at the Granby Public Library, Main Branch.

Are you a new mom or a busy parent?

Do you have questions about health and nutrition? Join us for a free informational session with certified Fitness Mentor and Coach, Alison Gaffney. Enjoy a smoothie as you learn more about overall female fitness, short but effective workouts, getting back your pre-baby body, general nutrition, meal planning and more. There will be plenty of time for your questions as well. Please register in advance.

Thursday, March 28, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

First Ladies: An Adventure In Glamour, Guts And Gumption at the GPL Main Branch. Enjoy a lively and humorous talk with Marianne Millard, a licensed Washington, DC travel guide who weaves historical and modern events and facts into her presentation about First Ladies of the United States. Gain an understanding of the important role these women played and the challenges they faced navigating politics, protocol and publicity. Please register in advance.

BOOK DISCUSSIONS AT GPL MAIN BRANCH Free and open to the public; copies of the selected titles or author’s works are available for borrowing. Register online, drop-in, or call 860-844-5275.

Something About the Author: Monday, March 4, 1:30 p.m. The group will discuss Pulitzer winning poet Richard Wilbur.

Around the World: Monday, March 18, 6:30 p.m. New Zealand is the chosen country; the group will discuss Death on Demand by Paul Thomas.

Sci Fi / Fantasy: Wednesday, March 27, 7 p.m. The group will discuss Wool (Book 1 of the Silo series) by Hugh Howey.

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES Granby Public Library and F. H. Cossitt Branch Library. Registration is available in person, by telephone, or online at www.granby-ct.gov. Call 860-844-5275 for more information.

Cossitt Craft Days: March 2, 5, 7 and 9. Cossitt Branch Library. Stop by the Children’s Room at Cossitt and make a child-friendly craft to take home. All materials provided.

Craft Week At GPL: Monday – Saturday, March 11-16. Granby Public Library – Main Branch. Drop in anytime during the week and create a fun craft to take home. All materials supplied.

Preschool Story Time: Tuesdays: March 5, 12, 19 and 26 at 10:30 a.m.

Granby Public Library – Main Branch.

Preschoolers and a caregiver share stories, songs, finger plays and a craft with Miss Joan. Best for ages 3-5. No registration required.

Wee Ones Story Time: Thursdays: March 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 10:30 a.m.

Granby Public Library – Main Branch.

Board books, finger plays, songs and gentle movement for ages birth to two years with caregiver. No registration required.

Family Movie Night: Wednesday, March 13 beginning at 6 p.m. Granby Public Library – Main Branch. Drop in and enjoy Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax. We’ll provide the popcorn. All ages welcome.

Kindness Klub For Tweens: Thursday March 14, 3:30–4:30 p.m. Granby Public Library – Main Branch. It’s a new club for tweens age 8-12. Get together to participate in fun projects that help spread kindness in our community. We’ll brainstorm during this first meeting – bring your ideas. Please register in advance.

Playing For Pizza: Saturday March 16, 3–4:30 p.m. Snow date Saturday, March 23. Cossitt Branch Library. All ages are invited to share a slice of Sotelo’s pizza and play a round or two of your favorite board game. Choose from dozens of games at the library or bring your own. Please register in advance.

March Events At the East Granby Public Library 24 Center Street

St. Patrick’s Day Songs and Storytelling East Granby Public Library is inviting adults and children of all ages to celebrate the luck of the Irish.

Folksinger and Storyteller Tim Van Egmond will transport us to old Ireland with his wisdom, humor, and inspiration while sharing tales and folk music in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Saturday, March 9 at 2p.m. Please register for this event at egpl.org, or call 860-653-3002.

Chess Program Award-winning chess instructor and coach, Alexander Lumelsky is back by popular demand to offer an instruction-based chess program at the East Granby Library for all aged students. Students in grades K-12 are welcome to come for class instruction on chess play and strategy. This class is intended for all skill levels. The program runs for four weeks on Mondays: March 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Please call or visit the library today to sign up! Sign up is required.

Afternoon at the Movies Wednesdays at 1 p.m. – East Granby Public Library March 6: Pope Francis: A Man of His Word March 13: Free Solo March 20: Instant Family March 27: A Private War

Sharing the love A little bit of love goes a long way. There was no better way to spend Valentine’s Day than at the Granby Library program Gotta Love Therapy Dogs. Dozens enjoyed meeting Bradley Bright Spot Buddies James, Deja and Raven and their handlers, Sally King, Paula Johnson and Karyn Cordner.

Photo by Holly Johnson

Page 26 The Granby Drummer

Waypoints

By Mark Fiorentino

Icefest 2019 Every winter, with the blessing of our sausage lasagna, smoked bratwurst and wives, a group of us dads get away for kielbasa. Funyuns, fried pork rinds, chips a weekend. It’s our time to forget our and salsa. We also bring salad to help the jobs, have a few laughs and bond over an digestion process, but it doesn’t always activity we all enjoy. Do we play golf in get eaten. Thankfully, we have learned Florida? No. Poker in Vegas? Nope. We to rent a house with multiple bathrooms. head north to go ice fishing.

Feb. 8, 12:30 p.m., Hinsdale, While I’m not likely to completely con34 degrees. vince you of the sanity of this, perhaps, Ken, Rich, John and I have arrived at utilizing a “journal” I kept this year, I can the rental house (Dave will arrive early give you some insight on why we always this evening and Bill tomorrow morning). look forward to the trip. Spoiler alert: it’s Despite daytime temperatures that have more about the people you are with than been above freezing for more than a week, the things you are doing. we have convinced ourselves that the ice Feb. 2, 6 a.m., North Granby, will be safe enough to get in a few hours of fishing this afternoon. We can’t get -4 degrees. into the house until 3, so we park in the Ken and I recently split the cost of a new driveway and start down the path to the battery-powered auger to drill through the lake. Spirits are high. With strong winds ice. We’re anxious to try it out before our forecasted for tonight and tomorrow, this group trip next weekend, and plan to fish could be the most pleasurable fishing of a few hours at a local pond. While I’m the trip. waiting for Ken to pick me up, I prepare Dismay. When we reach the shore, we my packing list for the group trip. There find sketchy conditions. Most of the lake are currently more than forty items on is covered with ice, but our obvious path the list, ranging from a fleece pullover out is peppered with large, seemingly to extra gloves. But the most important unconnected, blotches of open water. It’s item is the DVD version of Bigfoot’s Wild clear that a stream feeds the lake someWeekend. The summary on the back of where nearby. A short debate results in the DVD case includes this description: consensus that we will wait until morning “Skeptical tabloid reporter learns Bigto fish. Hopefully, the wind foot isn’t a scary monster, and overnight temperatures but rather a beer-drinking, will firm up the ice. panty-stealing party animal.”

We eat lunch at a local This sounds like a must-see: greasy spoon. Except for a cross between Harry and Ken, we all have some verthe Hendersons and Porky’s. sion of a cheeseburger with Feb. 6, 5:30 p.m., North fries and/or onion rings. We Granby, 40 degrees. also buy more chips and Dave has sent the group a some popcorn at Walmart. text that reads: “Down to -25 Stomachs are already begintonight up here on the hill ning to protest. [in Hartland]. Making good Feb. 8, 3:45 p.m. ice.” He’s trying to make Ken and Rich have decidus feel better about the ice Yay! Ice Fishing. ed to look for a different path conditions. We’re all worried onto the lake.

They head out to drill some about the recent weather. It’s been well holes and test the thickness of the ice. John above freezing during the day, with lots and I stay behind to “get our gear ready for of rain. This year, we’re fishing a lake in tomorrow.”

For a while, we watch them Hinsdale, Massachusetts, considerably through the floor-to-ceiling windows as further south than usual. And we all know they move slowly across the ice, stopping Dave fell through the ice two weeks ago occasionally to drill a hole. We joke about at a lake not far from where we’re going. how dumb they are for walking so close Feb. 7, 5:30 p.m., Southwick, together. When they move out of view, 38 degrees. we lose interest.

I have completed my share of the A text from Ken. They are finding eight grocery shopping. The menu for the trip to 12 inches of ice. Perfectly safe condiis exactly what you would expect for tions, but the water is shallow. They’re six guys operating without supervision. going to fish for a while.

Bourbon and beer for those that drink.

Another text from Ken. They have alIce tea and seltzers for those that don’t. ready caught a number of perch and claim And, a whole bunch of spicy, greasy and bragging rights for being willing to brave often nutritionally challenged food: chili, the ice. John and I shrug off attacks on our

TAP Needs YOU VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TAP is the Transportation Action Program that involves driving ambulatory Granby residents to medical appointments.

Anyone interesting in volunteering to drive or coordinate can call 860-844-5351 for details.

TAP acts in coordination with the Granby senior van that takes folks to medical appointments on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. TAP fills in on Tuesdays and Thursdays and handles any overflow from the other days of the week.

March 2019

when a fish takes the bait). Others we manliness and take some solace in the fact jigged through, using lures with names that all of the perch they caught were tiny. like the Swedish Pimple and the Lindy Feb. 8, 10:35 p.m.

Perch Talker.

Following tradition, we have played a Feb 9, 1 p.m. number of rounds of Setback, a card game We have returned to the house for lunch. that is perfect for our trips. The game The unheard of has happened. No one got involves two teams of two players each skunked.

Each of us has caught at least competing to be the first to reach eleven one fish.

All of the fish were small for points. Winning requires a combination of their species, but we are luck, skillful bidding, satisfied with our effort successful bluffs and and our perseverance. the ability to play in The wind-blown air was synch with your partso cold that removing ner. There is plenty our gloves to land and of trash-talking and, release fish was painful. usually, some controNo one complained (at versy. Tonight, both least not out loud). We the trash-talking and worked together to share controversy focus on glove warmers, bait and Ken’s decision not to tackle. We took turns bid when he was the checking and resetting dealer with his team the tip ups. well ahead and needDave used his Blueing only two points tooth speaker to stream to win. Ken lost the satellite radio through ability to control which his phone.

To help stay suit counted for points. warm, we sang along John and I won the with our favorite tunes, hand, then fought back including Pure Prairie to win the game. Insults, some from his John with a prized yellow perch. League’s Amy. Twice. teammate, included: We have already run out of Funyuns “What was Ken thinking?”, “Ken’s lost and pork rinds.

There is still plenty of his touch.” and “Did Ken fall and hit his salad.

Thankfully, we have settled into an head on the ice?” unspoken bathroom rotation.

Feb. 9, 2:03 a.m., Hinsdale, Feb. 9, 8 p.m.

15 degrees.

We’re back from two more hours of I am awakened by howling winds. It fishing. The wind died down a little, and sounds like a freight train is passing conagain everyone caught fish. Dave and Bill tinuously by the house. Oh boy, I can’t actually caught a couple of panfish that wait to get outside. were big enough to brag about. Shouts of Feb. 9, 6:30 a.m., 10 degrees.

“Look at the size of this Pumpkinseed” Dave has sent me a text from the bedand “That is a huge Crappie” floated room upstairs. It’s a Fox News video across the lake. entitled “Hunters Claim Bigfoot Sighting We concur that Bigfoot’s Wild Weekend in Utah Mountains.” I watch in disbelief as is one of the greatest movies of all time. a hunter films an object that appears to be The movie earns its R rating in the first a least a mile away from the camera. It’s a two minutes, and it’s immediately clear dark brown spot on a steep, partially snow that Bigfoot is, indeed, a party animal. It’s covered, hillside. There are condos in the been a long time since a movie has made foreground. In 30 seconds of filming, the me laugh so hard. My favorite line comes spot never moves. It is clearly a patch of from an exchange between a reporter ground where the snow has melted, but investigating a string of sightings and a the cameraman says: “It can’t be human. professor who claims to be an expert on Look how far up the mountain it is.”

Bigfoot. It went something like this: Dave is a cryptid enthusiast and the Professor: “Contrary to popular belief primary reason I bought Bigfoot’s Wild that they are dim-witted oafs, I have found Weekend.

Bigfoots to be intelligent and thoughtful.”

Feb. 9, 8 a.m.

Reporter: “How do you know that?”

By unanimous consent, we will watch Professor: “I taught one to play catch in the Bigfoot movie tonight, after dinner less than five minutes.” and before Setback. We also agreed that we will not question each other’s manliness. Despite constant 25 mph winds and a wind chill temperature around zero, we will all fish.

Feb. 9, 9 a.m., extremely cold.

We worked our way to the one spot on the lake that looked like it might provide some small measure of protection from the wind: the lee side of an island. The going was tough. With the wind at our backs, the sleds we use to carry our gear kept getting blown past us. My sled converts into a small shelter, so it is heavier and taller than the rest. At one point, the wind caught it perfectly, and it sailed past me, pulling me along. With visions of a fractured skull racing through my head, I had to make a quick decision: drop the Rich tending a tip-up. tow rope (and watch the sled slide all the way to the far shore, with the prospect Feb. 10, 8 a.m., Hinsdale, 20 degrees. of pulling it back into the wind while the Bill made an excellent breakfast casseother guys fished); fall on my butt like I role, which we enjoyed with a lot of hot was taught when I learned to ski (with the coffee and the last of the chocolate chip knowledge that getting up would be both cookies. The plan is to pack everything up very difficult and likely unmanly); or hold and be gone by the noon check out time. on for dear life. I held on.

Ken, John and I will fish an hour or so Feb. 9, 10 a.m. before we leave. Dave, Bill and Rich will We drilled several dozen holes along head straight home. I notice there is plenty the shore of the island. Some we set with tip-ups (lines tied to a flag that “tips up”

Waypoints cont’d. on p. 27

March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 27

Public Works Extra recycling: Extra recycling can be brought to the transfer station free of charge. We have a single-stream dumpster so no need to cut up large boxes.

If you have extra on a consistent basis, you may request a second barrel to be used curbside. For a second barrel, call Public Works at 860-653-8960.

Transfer Station: The Granby Transfer Station is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please bring proof of residency.

Fees may apply. Check out the Public Works page at the Town of Granby website (granby-ct.gov) or call 860-6538960 for more information.

Household Hazardous Waste: During 2019, there will be three hazardous waste collections for Granby residents.

The first will be held in late April at the Farmington Town Hall. Please check next month’s Drummer for the date.

Spring cleaning: As you are clearing out those closets and basements, please consider the following before throwing items in the trash: Textiles and shoes should be recycled,

and they can be dropped off in any collection container around town; including two at the Granby Transfer Station.

Torn and stained items are accepted.

Oil or mold stained items should go in your trash.

Paint is recyclable and accepted at the transfer station. For a list of accepted items check the Public Works page at the Town of Granby website (granbyct.gov) or call Public Works. Leaking, unlabeled or empty containers are not accepted.

Donate what you can. There are numerous charities in the area that accept household goods: Goodwill in Avon; Gifts of Love in Avon; ReStore in Bloomfield, Salvation Army in Hartford; and Covenant to Care in Bloomfield.

If after donating and recycling you still have more trash than will fit in your barrel, stop by Public Works and purchase town approved extra-trash bags. They can be placed next to your barrel on trash day.

Camera Club hosts photographer of old mill towns The Granby Camera Club is excited to have Ted Roth as the guest photographer for its April 1 meeting. The meeting starts at 7:15 p.m. and is held at the Granby Senior Center. Roth has been shooting photographs since childhood. He studied both design and language arts at Carnegie-Mellon University, simultaneously earning degrees in architecture and literature. His photographic passions lead him to careful compositions under natural light only, but no image is finished without slow development of the

image’s full potential in the darkroom of his computer. After 40 years living and teaching in Connecticut’s Northwest Hills, he became fascinated with the old mill towns of the Naugatuck Valley and their history, and began following the tracks through old ruins until he was led to the last functioning brass mill. For the past four years, he has been photographing the men at their work, traveling back in time, and learning how it all came to be. Guests are welcomed for this special program.

Waypoints cont’d. from p. 26 of salad to bring back, and not much of anything else.

Feb. 10, 8:17 a.m.

We are out of toilet paper in the downstairs bathroom. Upstairs, the supply is precariously low. Tensions mount.

Feb. 10, 8:25 a.m.

We cannot find the extra supply of toilet paper. Toilet paper is not on the list of things guests are told they need to bring, so where can it be? Timing for this calamity, at least for me, could not be worse.

Feb. 10, 8:32 a.m.

Ken has found a large quantity of toilet paper in a basement closet. All hail Ken, who, in a period of about 40 hours has gone from ridicule to savior.

Feb. 10, 2 to 5 p.m.

Through a series of group texts, we share photos, appreciation for a great time and enthusiasm for next year’s trip. I can’t wait.

On your road to recovery, at

Drumrolls The following students were named to the University of Connecticut’s fall 2018 dean’s list: Benjamin Buchanan, Jeffrey Glassman, Prasad Gosavi, Lizzy Jacobs, Chris Jacobs, Samuel Kilby, Fiona Loschi, Taylor Malinowski, Ivana Prats Del Valle, Noah Swanson, Sarah Cusano, Ben Florian, Jonah Garcia, Noah Greer, Cooper Hernsdorf, Simone Huot, Emily Laflamme, Sydney

Menard, Kelly-Anne Moffa, Victoria Myers, Sam Nguyen, Tyler Powers, Sam Spak, Jesse Stanhope, Christopher Trouern-Treno, Dan Walter, Jacob Yoder, Michelle Allen, Emily Betterton, Grant Dorman, Sarah Fede, Gage Fiorentino, Abby Phillips, Emma Sheahan, Ian Hancock, Chris Kardys and Justin Lengvarsky.

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Additional information, job description and application may be obtained at granby-ct.gov Applications will be accepted until 12 p.m. on 3/15/19. Equal Opportunity Employer

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Page 28 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

March 2019

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Local artist’s art is flying high The Royal Netherlands Air Force 323 TES (Operational Test and Evaluations Squadron) chose Tortland’s Diana, Goddess of the Hunt to be emblazoned on the tail of its F-35A Lightning II to commemorate the squadron’s 70th anniversary. Photo courtesy of the Royal Netherlands Air Force

By Christine Tiffany West Granby artist Christy Tortland is a talented and creative illustrator who combines technology, mythology and art.

Her renderings of mythological beings are

prominent in many of her pieces and have always been a part of her focus.

Imagine Tortland’s surprise when the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s 323 TES (Test and Evaluation) Squadron contacted her asking to use her art to commemorate

its 70th anniversary. The piece titled Diana, Goddess of the Hunt features the mythological Diana and is now emblazoned on the tail of an F-35 A fighter jet, currently stationed at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The empowering im-

age of Diana, Roman goddess of wild animals and the hunt determinedly gazes upon her target and is fitting for fighter jet.

“It’s exhilarating to know my ‘Diana’ is going to be soaring through the skies and breaking the sound barrier,” Tortland said.

“It’s incredible.”

As a lifelong resident of the Farmington Valley, Tortland attended art classes at a young age, eventually pursuing her BFA in illustration at Leslie University, and her MFA in creative writing for children at Simmons University.

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March 2019 Granby Drummer

Page 30 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

Historic Footnotes Carol Laun

Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society

Saga of a Reluctant Whaler, Part 2 More letters from the young sailor from West Granby – Harris Holcomb.

October 2nd 1850 “Dear Father, Last Saturday there was about twelve or thirteen sperm whales close in sight, so they lowered all four of the boats and went in pursuit of them but did not take any. If I could be at home now and you had some rye bread and butter, you would be alarmed at how I would eat.

We expect to touch at Fayal (Faial in the Azores) tomorrow so I must hurry.

Dear Edward, We don’t have anything very odd here except to hear some of the hands talk. There are four Portuguese, one Spaniard, one Spanish negro and a cook who is as black as an old crow. When the four Portuguese get together talking, it sounds like a flock of blackbirds. There is one little boy here just about as big as you, but I can’t understand a word he says. He is a cabin boy and waits on the Captain and the mates.

Dear Estelle, You get the Atlas and find the western islands and you will see where I am now. Then you follow along until you find the Cape of Good Hope, not Cape Horn, and around to Hong Kong and up the sea of Okotts (Okhotsk), where I am going.

This is the last letter you will have a chance to get from me at least for one year.

Give my respects to all that enquire and tell them when they can neither beg or steal a living to go a-whaling, but not before.”

Ship Braganza, Fayal, Oct. 6, 1850 “We are now near to Fayal in the western islands and as I have a little time to spare I will write you a few lines. Today the Captain is on shore and we are alaying here, but we can’t go ashore only to pull in the boats.

This morning there was two boats came out to the ship loaded with apples, figs, oranges, cheese about as big as a tea saucer and one inch thick, to sell to us on board, or to trade for clothes, which some did at a pretty dear rate too.

There is one island here named Pico with a very high mountain, the top of which is always covered with snow. This morning it was very clear so we could see very plain. The Portuguese which own these islands live near the shore where the weather is very warm, they hardly ever have a frost. Almost anything grows here. The houses are, most of them, painted white and from here look very nice. This morning the top of Pico was above a large cloud and when the sun shone on it, it looked wonderful.

From here we can see churches, villages and houses, which look very pleasant.

We are agoing to take in potatoes, onions etc. here and then sail for Cape of Good Hope. I suppose that I shall not get my feet on land until we get there. There are three islands in sight now, Pico, Fayal and St. George. I am now very well, but not so as to stand night watches yet.

West Granby bridge over Salmon Brook. Submitted photo.

It is quite warm here, just about as warm as it was when I left home.”

A year passes before there is another letter from Harris to his family. Some of his letters may have been lost, either at sea or in transit. Also, it is obviously difficult to mail letters from the Arctic.

Port of Lahaina, Oct. 20, 1851 “When I sailed from New Bedford, I did not intend to go a-whaling, but to come out here and run away from the ship and go to California. The old Skipper did not think any such thing, so instead of coming round the Horn and here, he went around Cape of Good Hope and to New Zealand, so I have had to try one season in the Arctic.

We were up to Latitude 40 North. About the first of May we went from that to Latitude 71 ½ North. So that we were in cold weather and ice and snow until the first of August. The whales were not very plenty, for instead of getting the ship full, as they

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expected, we only got 400 barrels while the ship carries 4000.

The weather there in the Arctic is very cold and foggy. The land is in sight most of the time and is covered with snow and ice. There was 12 or 13 ships lost up there this season; some in the ice, some drove ashore in a gale and some drifted ashore in a calm.

I have seen the natives that live there on the coast, they are small, of dark complexion and ugly. They live on whales, seals, walrus, dogs and anything they can get. They come out to the ships in canoes to sell walrus tusks and different kinds of skins for tobacco, thread, needles and they sell a coat made from the skins of otter for one half pound of tobacco.

We have been to Hilo in Owyhe (Hawaii) and had our liberty and got our wood and water and sweet potatoes for a cruise asperm-whaling.” (to be continued)

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 31

HEALTH NOTES

By the

Farmington Valley VNA

Parkinson’s disease: An overview

Parkinson’s disease was first recognized in 1817 by Dr. James Parkinson in England, however the symptoms of the condition were written about as early as 175 AD. Previously referred to as the shaking palsy It was often simply assumed that a shaking voice or hand was part of aging. Dr. Parkinson saw similar characteristics in patients with tremor and specific decline in motor skills. Today, as celebrities Michael J. Fox, Alan Alda, and the late Robin Williams and Muhammad Ali, acknowledge having Parkinson’s, it is now a familiar medical condition with one in 300 individuals diagnosed. Fortunately, recognition and research has provided great improvement in understanding the origin, symptoms and treatment. While there is not a cure, there is treatment.

A progressive nervous system disorder, Parkinson’s results when specific neurons in the brain die and cause a decrease in the amount of the chemical messenger dopamine. This results in messages not being sent to move muscles or in other cases to tremor with increased movement. Whereas we typically think of the tremor or shaking, many people have freezing of motion, stiffness of limbs, and slow motions.

Symptoms usually are mild in the beginning and often only one side of the body is affected at onset. By the time physical symptoms are evident, the brain has had reduced dopamine for many years. Many times, subtle changes such as loss of smell, small handwriting, slight stumbling, constipation, depression or voice changes precede the more visible symptoms by many years.

Tremors are often first seen in an arm or hand and are visible at rest. It may include the repetitive rubbing of thumb and forefinger, called pill rolling, or an internal vibration sensation. There is slowed movement/rigid muscles, steps shorten, balance may be affected, and range of motion decreases. The forward stoop and shuffling step associated with Parkinson’s usually appears many years after diagnosis.

One thing to always remember is that the disease presents itself differently for everyone. Some have a diagnosis and very little progression of symptoms.

Others have a more rapid progression.

Where some people have acute tremor, others have body freezing where they cannot move their feet, legs or hands, or a combination. Sometimes there is associated muscle pain or cramping. The

loss of automatic movements such as blinking, smiling or other expressions often result in what is known as the Parkinson’s mask, where the face does not reflect feelings or reactions. When this is combined with a reduction in speech control, such as a soft voice, inability to articulate sounds or very rapid speech, the result is often an inability to communicate well. As the disease progresses, there can be cognitive difficulties, depression, emotional changes, swallowing, chewing and eating issues, sleep problems, bladder and constipation issues, orthostatic hypotension where one is light-headed upon standing or changing position, fatigue, muscle pain, sexual dysfunction and taste/smell dysfunction.

Much research is being done on the causes of Parkinson’s. Environmental toxins, such as herbicides, pesticides and PCBs are potential factors, as is Agent Orange. There is a higher incidence of Parkinson’s in farming areas where exposure to these chemicals occurs. It is not conclusive that Parkinson’s is linked genetically, though there may be a familial condition that contributes when other exposure factors are present. Research is being done on the gene alpha-synuclein, which may play a role. Whereas most cases are in people over 60, early onset Parkinson’s occurs in people in their 20s40s, where a genetic component may be a factor. More males than females have Parkinson’s and a history of head trauma is also a factor.

Although there is not a way to prevent Parkinson’s, avoidance of pesticides, a healthy diet low in sugar and fat, and some studies have indicated caffeine/ coffee, are deterrents. Upon diagnosis, these same preventions can be used in delaying the progression of Parkinson’s with daily exercise being forefront in treatment. Keeping active is critical. Specific Parkinson’s physical and occupation therapy, called LSVT Big, (lsvtglobal.

com/LSVTBig) is used to promote long steps and arm swing, increased range of motion, loud voice and continued motion. The Farmington Valley VNA has both physical and occupational therapists trained to bring this therapy into the home with a doctor’s request. Another therapy is Rock Steady Boxing that has shown exceptional benefits for patients.

All exercise keeps maximum functioning longer.

The gold standard medication is carbidopa levodopa that increases the level of dopamine, dopamine inhibitors that mimic dopamine or other medications that diminish symptoms. A specialized movement neurologist can provide the medication and therapy recommendations. This geographical area is fortunate that it has these advanced specialists.

Surgical intervention, called Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS, is another method of treatment. By placing electrodes deep into the brain, the electrical stimulation can decrease tremors, reduce rigidity, diminish involuntary movements and improve muscle movement.

Parkinson’s is a progressive debilitating neurological disease, but in many cases, it is very slow in progression and the life span of the individual is not shortened. Although often incapacitating as the disease progresses, with the current drug, exercise and surgical interventions, patients have found an ability to cope with the disease from day to day. Being proactive in therapy, treatment and support is essential.

This article does not replace or suggest medical advice. Please consult with your physician regarding diagnosis and treatment. For further information please go to: parkinsons.org, michaeljfox.org, mayoclinic.org Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse Assoc.

8 Old Mill Lane, Simsbury, CT 06070 860-651-3539 farmingtonvalleyvna.org

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Page 32 The Granby Drummer

March 2019

From the Ground UP: Learning to nourish a community

By A. Alicia Newton Members of From The Ground UP, Nourish My Soul’s high school leadership program, recently traveled to New Orleans to present their work with food rescue. These students have studied food systems, analyzed their own communities, and developed projects that improve the deficits they identify through this process. From The Ground UP leaders learned that Americans throw away 40 percent of their food supply, while one in five children go hungry. Food in landfills is a large contributor of greenhouse gas emissions while our soil is being depleted and not properly regenerated.

In January 2018, these students launched a New Year, No Waste campaign aimed at rescuing food from the waste stream and transforming it into delicious, free meals for the community to help raise awareness of how much food we are wasting. They also rehabbed a compost located at Granby’s South Congregational Church Garden of Gratitude to create a community compost for those that are intimidated by composting or afraid of attracting wildlife.

Since the launch of their campaign, these leaders have created over 1,000 meals to serve our community with the help of several partner organizations.

Courage There’s a break in the bitter temperatures, snow, and icy rain, and I’m able to keep my doctor’s appointment today.

The hospital’s parking garage is almost filled—so many people here today (I think.) One has to be careful just getting out of the car as little pieces of ice have fallen from cars parked here earlier. We make our way across the long skywalk and to the waiting rooms, some patients being pushed in wheelchairs by family members or other caregivers. Some use walkers or canes. It’s amazing I think, of all the challenges I see here and know that are throughout the hospital.

It takes courage to be here. Maybe we would rather be home with a nice hot cup of tea, at work, or at lunch with a friend. We’re here for guidance from the experts on how to deal with the challenges we really might not want to have. We smile or keep to ourselves, talk about the weather, or read a magazine.

But, there’s a collective power in this room. The power of our desire to make the most of our lives, strive to reach our own potential, and to be touched by the Beauty of the world and the joy of people God has sent into our lives to bless our way.

Somehow, I think, we are all survivors.

Bernadette Gentry, March 2019

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From l.: Nourish My Soul high school leaders Kenya Mouning, Jaira Paine and Isabella Vargas Blanchard are shown at the conference in New Orleans. Submitted photo

They also wrote, and were awarded, a grant from Foodshare to expand their work in 2019. One World Everybody Eats, a James Beard Humanitarian award-winning organization that assists with developing Community Cafes (pay what you can model), heard of From The Ground UP’s work and asked the student leaders to present at their upcoming conference so others can learn how to utilize food rescue from our young leaders.

Nourish My Soul is a nonprofit that builds communities around food and is dedicated to improving the food system through community-based agriculture, nutrition education, and youth em-

Thinking about gardening?

Sign up for Community Garden by May 1

By Jim Glenney It’s time to sign up for a garden plot and enjoy all the benefits of growing your own vegetables and flowers. The gardens are located just north of Ahrens Park on Hungary Road and are divided into an organic section and a conventional one.

A pump well provides a water supply.

The cost is $5 for a 20-foot by 20-foot plot. No new 20-foot by 40-foot plots will be issued this year until all requests for plots have been met. Last year’s gardeners wishing to reserve the same plots need to make their $5 or $10 payment by May 1. After that date, plots will be assigned to new gardeners. New gardeners interested in reserving a plot should email bluebirds987@sbcglobal.net or call Jim Glenney at 860-653-6179.

The gardens are usually ready for planting by the end of April. If you pay for a plot but fail to get started by June 1, that plot will be given to someone else. Getting started means you have either started planting or cleared your plot of weeds.

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powerment while advocating for food sovereignty. Food is the catalyst used to connect communities, encourage stewardship, and inspire new leaders in the food movement. From The Ground UP is a year-round high school leadership intensive where students become agents of change within their communities through agriculture education and their work towards food justice. If you would like to get involved in their work, please contact Alicia Newton at alicia@nourishmysoul. org . You can follow their work on both Facebook and Instagram, and sign up for newsletters at nourishmysoul.org.

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follow. Not everyone wants to listen to your radio, keep it low. Don’t plant so close to the pathways that your crop spreads into it making passage more difficult. Help keep the pathways clear. Avoid using cheap weed block; it deteriorates quickly and is difficult to pull up in the fall. It often ends up being chopped up in other plots in the spring. Better options are leaves, grass, straw, newspapers, woodshavings and cardboard. The use of chemicals in conventional gardens is discouraged, but not outlawed.

Make checks payable to Granby Community Gardens and mail them to Jim Glenney, 33 Glen Road, Granby Ct. 06035 All plots need to be cleaned up by the end of the season, usually the end of October. If you are growing a fall crop continue with that, but clean up the rest.

Volunteers will be needed to help stake out the plots once the garden has been plowed. We have been fortunate to have a great group of volunteers. Expect a call.

Thanks in advance.

Management of the gardens is undergoing a change this season. Stay tuned.

March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 33

Seniors Job Bank gets financial boost

by Bernie Weiss The Seniors Job Bank has received a $1,500 grant from the Rotary Club of West Hartford. According to Sheila Diamond, its executive director, “This very welcome donation has been earmarked to support enhancements to our website.”

The Seniors Job Bank, now in its 40th year, is a volunteer-driven community service organization that connects men and women over age 50 seeking work with businesses, government agencies, non-profits and households that have work to be done. From its West Hartford headquarters, SJB serves the entire Greater Hartford region.

Eileen Rau, West Hartford Rotary Foundation chair, noted that the award “signals a longstanding shared commitment of our local Rotary club and the Seniors Job Bank for us both to deliver value to our community.”

Dennis Carrithers, president of the Se-

niors Job Bank pointed out that, “Linking our job seeking service providers with the clients that hire them is free; we charge no referral fee to either party. So we depend on contributions from individuals, philanthropies and hometown supporters like Rotary to maintain our no-cost policy.”

Describing how the Seniors Job Bank operates, Diamond said that when a client with a job to fill calls SJB, its request is matched against a database of approximately 700 service providers, representing about 150 distinct skills and talents, blue and white collar. The potential employer, a company, other entity or household, receives contact information for several service providers qualified to handle the task at hand. The client then decides which service providers to interview and hire. Negotiating the specifics of the assignment: exactly what’s to be done, hours, compensation, etc. is between client and service provider. The

In Memory Of… Martindale, Dr. Richard H., 87, husband of Judith (Gable) Martindale, Jan. 17 Brockett, Eben “Ben” L., 79, husband of Susan (Burns) Brockett, Jan. 18 Grahn, Robert Reynold, 75, husband of Cathryn (Newton) Grahn, Jan. 19 Gilbert, Marilyn Ann (Tomilonus), 77, wife of James R. Gilbert, Jan. 21 Corlett, Timothy Austin, 69, husband of Pamela Corlett, Jan. 26 Young, Julia Ann (Lewis), 99, wife of the late Russell A. Young, Sr., Jan. 29 Bush, Patricia A., 79, wife of Edward Bush, Jan. 31 Phillips, Sheila (Pollack), 84, wife of Arthur E. Phillips, Feb. 1 Klaiber, Dr. Dana, 46, wife of David, Feb. 3

Cunningham, Adrienne Thomas “Drene”, 93, wife of the late James Allan Cunningham, Ph.D., Feb. 4 Zaldonis, Martha (Pacuska), 98, wife of the late Anthony T. Zaldonis, Sr., Feb. 6 Condon, Lena Marie (Brunoli), 100, wife of the late John Condon, Feb. 12 French, Trevor Michael, 58, husband of Patricia G. (Heady) French, Feb. 12 Wagemaker, William “Bill” Joseph, 90, husband of Emily (Marciniak) Wagemaker, Feb. 15 Van Valkenburgh, Johanna Megan (Nash), 92, wife of Karl J. Van Valkenburgh, Feb. 21

Seniors Job Bank merely facilitates the introduction. “While our service providers are over 50, the clients for which they work may be of any age,” Ms. Diamond added.

Some of the Seniors Job Bank’s domestic clients need help with one-time repairs and chores. Others engage an SJB service provider for ongoing home and yard maintenance programs or personal assistance such as with grocery shopping. Similarly, commercial clients look for aid on a regular, part-time schedule as well as for one-off assignments. These jobs may involve office, transportation, retail, industrial and many other types of work.

To discuss becoming a Seniors Job Bank service provider, or to inquire about hiring one, visit sjbct.org, call 860-521-3210, or email info@ sjbct.org.

From l.: Sheila Diamond, Seniors Job Bank executive director, Eileen Rau, West Hartford Rotary Foundation chair, Dennis Carrithers, Seniors Job Bank president, and Oscar Santo Domingo, Rotary Club of West Hartford president.

Submitted photo

Going to Lunch at the Senior Center Tuesdays and Thursdays have a special encounter A wholesome lunch at the Senior Center.

Menus of Fried Chicken, Macaroni and Cheese, Chicken Cacciatore, or Turkey Stew if you please.

All the folks who attend are delighted to find, The meal is a plenty, enough for all kind.

Start with juice then the main course of the day, A garden salad and mixed vegetables, per say Potatoes and gravy, a buttermilk biscuit.

Finish the meal with a dessert that’s terrific.

Thanks to the kitchen staff who prepare the feast, We appreciate your efforts, to say the least.

Generous servings, never attractingly lost, Are worth a King’s ransom whatever the cost.

For those over sixty we extend you this choice, Tuesday or Thursday, lunch with your host.

The Granby Senior Center, I say Will serve to brighten the rest of your day.

—Albert F. Schmid

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Page 34 The Granby Drummer

New year, new look for Granby Education Foundation

By Kim Becker For almost 20 years, the Granby Education Foundation has nourished educational excellence for people of all ages in Granby. As with any organization, growth is a component of keeping current. This month, the GEF launched a newly designed website along with a new logo and a new tagline, “ENRICH ENERGIZE ENGAGE: LIFELONG LEARNING.” The new website features the GEF’s past accomplishments, but it also provides local non-profits, and any group partnering with a non-profit, with an important funding resource to bring educational initiatives to life. The newly designed grants pages present overviews of our Community and Arts Endowment Grants, as well as a link to proposal applications. To be more responsive to the community, GEF created Mini Grants for those ideas that need under $750 and a faster organizational response. With rolling applications accepted September through May, GEF seeks to provide innovators with the funding needed to bring education and arts programming and events to Granby.

Filling the website’s pages are updates on the many successful programs that the GEF has funded, both in schools and in the community. One newly funded special project is the Strings Program, which began at Kelly Lane Primary School. With $40,000 of seed money,

the district hopes to leverage this program throughout the schools, possibly creating an orchestra at the middle and high schools in years to come. The GEF is proud to partner with Granby Public Schools with this addition to the arts curriculum as students benefit from a deeper understanding of music, self-discipline, and collaboration.

This year, GEF also supports several community groups bringing a variety of enrichment opportunities to Granby.

Its diverse grant awards include: the Bruce Porter Memorial Music Series at South Church; a 4-H initiative to create a VEX robotics team for high school-aged students; and the Granby Artists Association in rejuvenating the Family Art Day at Holcomb Farm. These programs touch many populations in the community, leading to greater engagement and exploration of both the arts and STEM. The 16th Annual Gran-Bee Trivia Competition will be held on May 3 at the GMHS Auditorium, with proceeds benefiting the Community Grants program. Team registration and sponsorship forms can be found on the new website.

Please join the GEF for a fun, family night filled with costumes, silly jokes, and of course trivia!

For more information on GEF’s work or proposal applications, check out the new website at: granbyeducationfoundation.org

March 2019

What’s for Supper?

A hearty chili with cornbread is tonight’s supper

By Pamela Scherrer Spring is just around the corner, but in the meantime, there is nothing better than a chili supper on a chilly night! This is a knockout combo recipe and is a hit whenever I make it. You can adjust the amount of seasonings to your preference.

Mom’s Chili Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef or turkey 2 15 oz. cans kidney beans, any color you like (drained) 1 can Campbell’s tomato soup 1 med. sweet onion, chopped 1 clove garlic, minced 2 15 oz. cans of diced tomatoes (with juices) 1 cup canned pure pumpkin ½ cup frozen corn ½ Tbsp. chili powder ½ Tbsp. cumin 1 tsp. paprika 1 tsp. parsley 1 tsp. white sugar Pinch of baking soda Salt and pepper to taste

Directions: Brown the meat on stove in a large pot over medium heat, add the onion, garlic and the rest of ingredients.

Stir and simmer at med-low for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Pennsylvania Dutch Cornbread Ingredients: ¾ cup yellow cornmeal ¾ cup flour ½ cup white sugar 1 ½ tsp. baking powder ¾ cup whole milk (OR buttermilk) ¼ cup salted butter (melted) 1 egg Directions: Mix all dry ingredients together in med bowl. Mix wet ingredients together in small bowl. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until all moistened, do NOT over mix. Bake in a greased 8x8 pan at 350° for 15-20 min.

(Bread should NOT get browned on top, just a light golden.)

Buon Appetito!

Graham-O’Shea engagement Sally and Robert Feingold announce the engagement of her son Colin O’Shea, formerly of Granby, to Jennifer Graham of Stoney Creek, Ontario.

Colin is a graduate of CCSU, and currently works for TWG in Toronto, Ontario.

Jennifer is the daughter of Leona and Gerry Graham. She is a graduate of Brock University and is a teacher with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board in Hamilton, Ontario.

A December wedding is planned in Niagara on the Lake.

Job Opening: Assistant Pre-School Teacher Valley Pre-School is currently accepting teacher applications for the 2019-2020 school year. Class hours are 8:45 - 11:30am. Time before and after school is required, as well as some evening and weekend commitments throughout the year. The 3’s classes meet Tues and Thurs, and the 4’s meet Mon, Wed, Fri.

Requirements: -Commitment to philosophy of play-based learning in Early Childhood -Early Childhood Education degree and experience preferred

To Apply: Send resume & cover letter to valleypreschoolkids@gmail.com, or mail to Valley Pre-School, PO Box 749, Granby, CT, 06035.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS MONDAY, MARCH 18TH.

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March 2019 The Granby Drummer Page 35

Attorney expands practice to Connecticut Regional law firm, Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin, P.C., serving clients throughout western New England and New York as well as nationally and internationally, today announced that shareholder David K. Webber is now licensed to practice in the state of Connecticut, in addition to Massachusetts.

“It comes down to customer service and convenience,” said Attorney Webber.

“Being so close to the state line, and having so David K. Webber many clients who live in Mass. and work in Conn. or vice versa, this allows for more flexibility.”

Webber, a resident of Granby, concentrates his practice in the areas of closely held business, corporate law, real estate, trusts and estates, and bankruptcy. He has been selected a Super Lawyers Rising Star, in the field of closely held

business, yearly since 2012. Highlights of his corporate work include assisting startups and entrepreneurs, representation of sellers in stock and asset sales, and negotiation and drafting of contracts of all kinds. He has extensive experience in seller-side due diligence and coordination of complex transactions including asset sales, bankruptcy sales, and real estate. He frequently works with high-net-worth clients and their advisors in estate planning and probate matters.

Webber holds a J.D. from the Western New England University School of Law, where he interned with Justice Francis X. Spina at the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court and served as note editor of the Western New England Law Review. In addition, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Massachusetts, where he graduated cum laude. He is admitted to practice before the Connecticut Bar, the Massachusetts Bar, the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts and the Bureau of Veterans Affairs.

Salmon Brook Music Series features Canadian singer-songwriter Dave Gunning is coming to the Salmon Brook Music Series. He is a master songwriter and musical storyteller who has earned the respect of his fellow Canadian songwriting legends: Ron Hynes, Dave Francey and James Keelaghan.

The Guardian wrote, “… what makes Gunning so remarkable as an entertainer is his rare gift to be able to befriend the audience as a whole from the stage throughout the course of the concert.”

And he’s bringing that gift to Granby!

His latest release, Lift, is Gunning’ eleventh album. And in true folk music tradition, some numbers could be considered protest songs. He said “this album has more personal and introspective songs than my past recordings. I do still love songs that are about things and tell a real story, like the songs of Stan Rogers.

They inspire me.”

A fine example of that here is I Robbed The Co. Store, which tells the true story of a group of British settlers in Nova Scotia in the 1770s forced to steal from a storehouse reserved for troops just so they could feed their families.

Another song, Sing It Louder, is actually a tribute to Pete Seeger. “My goal was to write a song you could imagine him singing,” says Gunning. “As folk singers we should all aspire to carry the torch of Pete Seeger and his message of social justice.”

Gunning’s recording career is now approaching two decades in length—his debut album, Lost Tracks, came out in 1996. Along with richly deserved peer respect, he has also earned a shelf full

Dave Gunning to perform at South Church.

Submitted photo.

of music industry awards. That tally now stands at eight East Coast Music Awards and two Canadian Folk Music Awards, plus a 2012 Juno Award nomination in the Roots and Traditional Solo Album of the Year category for his album …a tribute to John Allan Cameron, a compelling homage to another of Dave’s Maritime musical heroes.

True to Pete Seeger’s outreach spirit and love of young people, Dave will also be doing workshops in the Granby schools courtesy of a grant from the Granby Education Foundation.

Give yourself a Lift and check out the work of an authentic artist at his creative peak. Come to South Church Granby, 242 Salmon Brook St. on April 27. Tickets can be purchased online at salmonbrookmusicseries.com for $15 or by calling Arlene at 860-916-5066.

If not sold out, tickets will be available at the door for $18. 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.

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Page 36 The Granby Drummer

Closer to Home

Land Trust introduces free interactive trail maps

Support our local businesses while saving some gas and time.

Tell them you saw their ad in the Drummer.

Advertiser Page Beacon Mechanical 15 9 Beman Hardware Berkshire Hathaway - Matt Christie 22 Berkshire Hathaway Corp 28 Berkshire Hathaway - Copper Brook 32 Berkshire Hathaway - Kris & Sheila 29 Berkshire Hathaway - Nancy Reardon 7 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Budget Blinds of Simsbury 35 Cahill’s Motors 5 Carmon Funeral Home 5 Carter Robert Painting 8, 32 Chiropractic Care 14 Christopher Bryant Co. 22 Coldwell Banker Simsbury 36 Command Corporation 17 Creative Learning Preschool Center 13 CT Firewood Lee’s Landscaping 34 D’Agata Granite & Bronze 22 First Congregational Church 21 GCF-Meals on Wheels 35 GEF Gran-Bee 33 GMHS Drama Grease 35 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 18 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 13 4 Granby Food Bank Granby Package Store 13 Granby Pharmacy 10 Granby Village Health 15 Higleyville Coin 22 Horses and Hounds 3 Judy Guarco, Berkshire Hathaway 10 Larry’s Construction 12 Main Street Door 31 Maple Corner Farm 6 McLean Care 16

March 2019

The Granby Land Trust has undertaken a massive remapping effort on all of its hiking trails. The result is a series of new, interactive maps that can track you, via your phone or tablet’s GPS, so that you can always locate yourself on the trail.

GLT member Steve Perry has been loading all GLT trails into Avenza Maps, a mobile app that allows you to download maps for offline use on iOS or Android phones and tablets. With the Avenza Maps app, you can use your device’s built-in GPS to track your location, even when you are out of range of a network or internet connection. The app is free for recreational use.

In addition, a team of GLT members has been “boots on the ground,” clearing blow-downs, cutting back overgrowth, and marking trails with new, brightly-colored directional markers. The organization also is creating vivid new print maps for all of its hiking properties.

“We want to make our properties as welcoming and easy to navigate as possible,” says GLT President Rick Orluk.

Currently, you can use the Avenza app to navigate the Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve on Silver Street, the Western

Advertiser Page MeadowBrook of Granby 27 4 Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing O.P. Painting 21 Old Farms Landscaping 32 14 Pierce Builders – Meadowgate Public Works 21 6 Route 10 Tire Salmon Brook Apartments 13 Sanditz Travel Management 13 Santa Realty 9 Seniors Helping Seniors 23 Sig’s Plumbing & Pump 5 Simard, Stephen EXP Realty 34 Simsbury Bank 33 Small Town Septic 9 South Congregational Church 3 St. Therese Parish 29 State Line Oil Propane 10 Strain Family Equestrian Center 6 Subseven 9 Sullivan Hardwood Floors 6 Swim Center at Westminster 31 TAP Volunteers 26 TJ Bark Mulch 18 Tom Sullivan, Morgan Stanley 24 27 Town of Granby Sr. Center Troiano Oil Company 33 Two Coyotes 11 3 Two Park Place Valley Brook Community Church 11 31, 34 Valley Pre-School Walker Kitchen Design 18 Walsh Chiro 27 West Granby Methodist Church 12 Westfield Bank 30 Windsor Federal Savings 8

Barndoor Hill Preserve on Kettle Pond Lane (please park on Barndoor Hills Road), and the Godard Preserve on Donahue Road. Soon, the Mary Edwards Mountain Property on Mountain Road will be remapped and available in Avenza as well.

Downloading the Avenza Maps app You can download the Avenza Maps app from your app store (both iOS and Android). Click “allow” to give it access to your location. You do not need to sign in. You can simply go to the Avenza store (within the app), search for Granby Land Trust, and download GLT maps for free. You may load up to three maps at any given time for free; and these maps can be swapped out as often as you like.

More detailed directions on Avenza maps can be found at: granbylandtrust. org, where you can find the latest versions of the print trail maps, if needed.

The GLT hopes this makes it easier for you to get outside, get some fresh air and exercise, and enjoy the beauty of some of Granby’s most beautiful properties. See you out on the trails!

April 2019 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, March 13 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org.

ARTICLES: Monday, March 18 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: March 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.

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