Granby Drummer | November 2022

Community Matters

While writing this article, I found myself reflecting on the recent tragedy in Bristol. Bristol lost two young police officers in a heinous ambush. The night mare that the Bristol Police Department, the families of the fallen officers, and all those who love a man or woman in blue find themselves in is heartbreaking.

of officers or just 16 as we do in Granby each member is precious.

About town

Abraham Lincoln reminds us in the Gettysburg Address that Officer Hamzy and Sergeant Demonte gave the “last full measure of devotion” to their community. May we all increase our devotion to that cause for which they gave their lives.

Long-term Conservation and Sustainability Plan for Holcomb Farm passes unanimously

Community matters. Compassion matters. Working for the betterment of our neighbors matters. I am proud to be a public servant. I am proud of every Granby employee who works each day to make this community safe, beautiful and valuable.

with EricA robErtson Town Manager

Every day that members of the law enforcement family put on their uniforms and go to work, there is the chance that they won’t clock out at the end of their shift. What happened in Bristol could happen in any community. Whether the department has hundreds

The holiday season is fast approaching. May we give thanks for living and work ing in a community as special as Granby. And may we remember to cherish each day and live life to its fullest. I wish you peace and joy in the remaining months of this year.

Granby Center Road Construction Status

The contractor plans to continue granite curb installation and pave the widened shoulders of the road during late October and first weeks of November. It is also expected that sidewalks and ramps will be completed this fall, weather permit ting. After this work is complete, the contractor will work to stabilize the area and winterize the project before shutting down for the winter. It should be noted that road paving will not be complete this year before the shut-down.

BOS and P & Z joint meeting addresses affordable housing and town center study

By Shirley Murtha

Due to the importance of two topics under consideration, the Board of Se lectmen and the Planning and Zoning Commission held a joint meeting on Sept. 19. To be discussed were the questions of whether there should be a town center study and which board or commission should study each of the components of the Granby Affordable Housing Plan.

To comply with the State law that every town in Connecticut devise an affordable housing plan, a committee appointed by the BOS in 2021 studied the recom mendations and presented a draft to the selectmen. Some amendments clarified to the State that the town’s infrastructure,

especially the location of public water and sewer, does not allow the latitude to comply with some of the state’s require ments. The final plan was approved by the BOS in June 2022. At the Sept. 19 meeting, each objective was discussed and assigned to either the BOS or the P & Z for further study.

The five objectives of Granby’s Afford able Housing Plan:

1. Reduce restrictions for accessory apartments, including monitoring the recently amended zoning regulations regarding such apartments to see if any further changes are needed.

2. Examine the regulations governing development of multi-family housing.

Joint meeting cont’d. on p. 3

ON ELECTION DAY

Set Your GPS to 54 North Granby Road

The Registrars anticipate heavy traffic and a very busy parking lot on Election Day at Granby Memorial High School. Entering from Route 189, there will be one-way traffic to the polls located in the Community Gym. This entrance is next to the Public Works department so if you are using an electronic device to guide you, please set it to 54 North Granby Road.

By Shirley Murtha

After almost three hours of input and discussion among interested parties on Oct. 17, the Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to approve a proposal that gives town-owned Holcomb Farm a long-term Granby Land Trust conserva tion easement and a path to sustainability. Operation and maintenance of the Farm is the joint effort of the Town and the vol unteer group Friends of Holcomb Farm. Although other community groups con

tribute to various projects, the need for a long-term plan was made clear by the limitations on the Friends’ ability to make costly improvements and its limited abil ity to obtain grants and other funding for projects such as the construction of a new footbridge over the West Branch of the Salmon Brook that was washed away in 2021. The Plan provides a fund and protections that will help limit the use of taxpayer’s dollars. For the details of the accepted proposal, see p. 29.

Urgent Care Center opens in Granby

Hartford HealthCare-GoHealth Urgent Care opened a new center at 7 Mill Pond Road, just north of the Farmington Val ley YMCA. The new center provides the community with a more affordable option for safe and efficient care outside of higher-cost settings like the emergency department. It also offers a direct con nection to Hartford HealthCare’s robust network of care, which regularly earns national recognition for excellence in quality, safety, research and innovation.

“We strive to improve the health of our communities by providing affordable on-demand care that is located directly within our patients’ neighborhoods,” said Eric Walsh, M.D., Medical Director, Hartford HealthCare-GoHealth Urgent Care. “The opening of our new center in Granby provides the community with direct access to care when and where residents need it most, whether it be within our new conveniently located center or from their home via a Virtual Visit. We look forward to caring for this historic community and working with local community organizations like the Farmington YMCA to ensure the health and safety of those who work, live and play here.”

The new location will offer treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, on-site X-ray services, sports physicals for kids and COVID-19 test ing. It will serve the community Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those seeking care can be seen quickly and easily by walking in or by going online (gohealthuc.com/Hartford) to save a spot and pre-register.

Citizens

Granby

photo by Mark Bombard

Packed Town Hall photo by Jenny Emery

OCTOBER 3, 2022

Present: First Selectman Mark Fiorentino, Frederick Moffa, Mark Neumann, Kelly Rome, Margaret Chapple, Student Liaison Charles Orluk, Town Manager Erica P. Robertson, Finance Director Kimi Cheng.

Wildflower Meadow Presentation

Friends of the Wildflower Meadow presented the board with the shovel used for the groundbreaking and expressed gratitude for the support of the board. The group spoke about various achievements and highlights including achieving a 501(c)3 designation status, formalizing a mission statement and being selected by UMass Amherst for a scientific study for pollinators.

Restoration of the exterior of the Holcomb Farm Farmhouse

Robertson reported that the Friends of Holcomb Farm has expressed concern that the Holcomb farmhouse needs exterior renovations, specifically that the exterior has become chipped, a great deal of woodwork needs to be replaced and lead paint needs to be removed. Robertson said that bids have come back higher than what had been allocated and that the Town is requesting additional funding in the amount of $50,382.74.

The board authorized an additional appropriation of $26,282.09 from the Capital Projects Fund, $9,101.23 from the HF

SELECTMEN MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

Improvement Fund, and $14,999.42 from the Open Space/Property Improvement Fund to support the completion of the farmhouse project. The board further authorized closing the Capital Projects Fund and HF Improvement Fund after this appropriation.

Consideration of Membership and Charge for Charter Revision Commission

Fiorentino thanked members of the public who expressed interest in serving on the Charter Revision Commission. The various Town Committees were prepared to move forward with their recommendations. The board appointed the following nine members to the Charter Revision Commission; Ed Ohannessian (R), Mark Lockwood (R), Ben Perron (R), Rebecca Brewer (U), Anthony McGovern (U), Tony Cappelli (U), Lynn Guelzow (D), Francis Brady (D) and Terri-Ann Hahn (D). The board instructed the commission to consider revisions to the Granby Town Charter it deems appropriate and to submit a report of its recommendations in sufficient time for proposed charter revision question(s) to be placed on the Nov. 7, 2023, Election Ballot. In order to meet this schedule, a draft report will be due to the board before May 20, 2023.

Town Manager’s Report

Robertson welcomed Troy Wolf as the new Deputy Fire Marshall. Wolf is currently the Assistant Fire Chief for the East Granby Fire

Department and he will provide coverage when the Granby Fire Marshall is on vacation.

Zen Catering has opted not to renew its contract for the Salmon Brook Park concessions. A Request for Proposal will go out this winter to solicit a new vendor to provide concessions as well as a lunch program for summer camp.

The Police Department hired a part-time dispatcher, Alden Mezger, a Granby resident.

Social Services has seen a rise in requests for Energy Assistance this season. The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) opened for intake a month early on Sept. 1 because of the anticipated higher demand due to fuel prices and increases in cost of living. The basic benefit levels have been reduced by nearly half this season. The department will utilize Operation Fuel, Granby Community Fund, Salvation Army and the Granby Local Assistant Fund to supplement residents who continue to struggle meeting their heating bills.

The greater part of the road overlay program has been completed. Crews continue to shim and patch selected areas and repair catch basins. Crack sealing is under way to keep water from freezing in cracks causing the roads to continue to break up. This process is part of the pavement preservation plan.

Invasive species at Moosehorn Bridge have been cut and removed around the bridge site and utility work has started. Wetlands permitting is under way for Donahue Road and the project will

go out for design later this year with replacement scheduled for 2023. Simsbury Road Bridge is still on the schedule for replacement in 2024.

Doherty Road Bridge was recently inspected. It was determined that the bridge should be replaced at an estimated cost of $2.5M. A 50 percent reimbursement is anticipated for the project. The bridge is under 20 feet in length, so it does not qualify for the state’s new program, which has better reimbursement rates. To date, the state has not replied to our request for replacement.

First Selectman Report

Fiorentino said work has begun on the Town Webpage and that information would be coming soon including an opportunity for the public to offer input.

Respectfully submitted, Scott A. Nolan, Town Clerk

To read the full meeting minutes, please go to the Town website, Granby-ct.gov

Revaluation Notices to be mailed mid-November

By Susan Altieri, Assessor

State Law requires all municipalities to conduct a revaluation of all properties every five years so that all properties can reflect their current market value. Granby’s last Revaluation was completed in 2017. The Assessor’s Office has been engaged in the process to complete the 2022 Revaluation over the last 18 months.

The Assessor is in the final stages of reviewing and analyzing the data and anticipates mailing out the new assess ments in mid-November. Each property owner will receive an individual notice of their new assessment. All property owners will be given an opportunity to attend an individual informal hearing for the purpose of discussing any questions regarding the assessment process and valuation issues.

The Assessor’s Office thanks Granby residents for their participation and coop eration throughout the 2022 Revaluation project.

As a reminder, please do not multiply the new assessment by the current mill rate to estimate your taxes. A new mill rate will be established in the spring / summer of 2023 once the Grand List is finalized and the town budget is com pleted.

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Members selected for Charter Revision committee

By Shirley Murtha

The Town of Granby is governed by charter, carried out by a board of select men and a town manager as established in 1960. A five-member board of select men is the Town’s legislative body and an appointed town manager serves as the chief executive. The selectmen are elected every two years, serving a twoyear term. An elected board of finance is the town’s budget authority. A part-time treasurer, the town manager and a finance officer oversee the town’s finances. Some of the areas covered in the char ter include elections, duties of the town manager and the various boards and commissions, taxation, the budget and town meetings. An important function of the charter is to assure that there is minority representation on the boards and commissions.

Every 10 years, the Town of Granby revisits the charter that defines how its governing bodies carry out their duties.

In Memory Of …

The most recent revision occurred in 2012, so the Board of Selectmen recently put out a call for residents willing to serve on a committee that will review the current charter to see if and where any revisions should be made.

First Selectman Mark Fiorentino noted that an unusually large number of residents volunteered for the com mittee, making it difficult to choose the required nine members. He thanked all who participated and encouraged them to remain engaged in the town government. Those chosen for the committee are: from the Democratic Party—Fran Brady, Lynn Guelzow, Teri-Ann Hahn; from the Republican Party—Mark Lockwood, Ed Ohannessian, Ben Perron; Unaffiliated— Rebecca Brewer, Tony Capelli, Anthony McGovern.

The committee has eight months for its study. It will report back to the Board of Selectmen before May 22, 2023 and residents will vote on any changes pro posed on November 7, 2023.

The future is here!

Holton, Stephen D., 73, husband of Ruthie (Bixler) Holton, September 9 Bell, Edward Donald, 92, September 24 Sutherland, Francis (Frank) V., 91, husband of Patricia (Hunter) Sutherland, September 27

Casstevens, Audrey Marguerite (Smith), 88, wife of the late Rev. Robert C. Casstevens, October 3

What’s Up in Town Hall

1. Approved funding for repair and resto ration of the exterior of the Holcomb Farm Farmhouse.

2. The BOS and P&Z held a joint meet ing to assign study areas for the Granby Affordable Housing Plan and to discuss conducting a Town Center study.

3. Accepted a STEAP grant from the State of Connecticut to construct an ADA-accessible path through Salmon Brook Park at GMHS and Kearns School; upgrades to police cruiser cameras; upgrades to town technol ogy infrastructure; and improvements to the town website.

1. Consider revisions to the Town Charter.

2. Continue to solicit comments on a draft strategic plan. A copy of the draft plan can be obtained at: granby-ct. gov/.../f/uploads/strategicplan.pdf, and comments can be submitted by sending an email to: strategicplan@ granby-ct.gov

3. Begin improvements to the Town website.

In addition to the center zone, there may be other zones with public infrastructure that would allow two-family, triplexes or even larger scale multi-family devel opments. Consider the current density allowed in appropriate zones with an eye to possibly increasing the density if the infrastructure allows. Consider a reduction in the required minimum lot size for multi-family developments. Explore the establishment of a housing trust fund funded by developers who are unable to comply with current require ments regarding a certain percentage of units being deed-restricted affordable (inclusionary zoning). The collected funds would then be used to develop af fordable housing.

3. Encourage the development of single-family affordable housing by perhaps reducing the minimum lot size, which would reduce the overall cost. Also, consider modifying zoning regula tions to require the set-aside of a certain number of affordable housing units in any planned residential subdivision.

4. Promote the modest expansion of public infrastructure. Several compo nents of this objective include expanding existing sewer and water systems where feasible, in particular, north and south of Floydville Road to the East Granby town line. Requesting regular updates from gas and water companies about their infrastructure plans for Granby would be an important aid in this objective. Based

on future housing plans, CTtransit bus routes should be studied for possible changes or additional stops to better serve Granby residents.

5. Actively seek partnerships with af fordable housing developers. Determine which properties of town-owned land will likely not be needed by the Town for future municipal facilities or uses. Determine which of these are best suited for residential development.

On the question of whether a center study should be implemented, Planning & Zoning Chairman Mark Lockwood noted that the center comprises three zones: commercial, edge and the com mons. These should all be considered in any study. Most members of the BOS and P&Z pointed out negatives about the existing situation. It is not conducive to walking about; there are only two parking areas; and, in general, it is not attractive. P&Z member Eric Lukingbeal summa rized what a study should ask: “What do we have that we do not want and what don’t we have that we want? Figure that out and adjust the zoning accordingly.”

The consensus was that a study was needed. It was approved for the P&Z to make a recommendation to the BOS on a process for determining the scope of the study, i.e., what areas should be studied, what issues, how will the results of the study be used.

To read the full meeting minutes, please go to the Town website, Granby-ct.gov

Managing Editor

Formed

Citizens for a Better Granby, publisher of The Granby Drummer, is looking for a Managing Editor. This part-time paid position is responsible for putting together and producing each issue of the Drummer, which publishes monthly 10 times a year.

Ideal for someone with experience in publishing production who would also enjoy working collaboratively with our volunteer staff of copy

editors and others on our advertising, production and

staff.

For more information, email: Kathy Norris, Chair, CBG at kk.norris@yahoo.com

in its 53rd year!

The Granby

Joint meeting cont’d. from p 1

The Granby Grunts Robotics Team showed off the versatility of #3146 at the September Men’s Breakfast meeting. Quite astonishing! Team members in the picture: Mason Gianimoto, Dr. Flush (Don Rethke), Kian Woods, Ely Hosack, and Mike Puskar.

Submitted photo

Drumbeat

Letters to the Editor

BOS Minutes Clarification

Please be advised that the statement that I made to the Board of Selectmen on September 6 was incorrect. What I told the board was, “I asked Erica Robinson (town manager) if she knew what the four piles of dirt were in the center of town, covered with white tarp.” I continued stating, “It had been brought to my at tention that there was a sewer blockage in the center of town. I was told that these piles of dirt were contaminated on Rte 10/202, and they were covered with white tarp, which is used for con taminated soil, also that the piles are not secured properly.”

Please make this correction, thank you. Robert Flanigan Jr.

A Community for the Thinkers

When did we start believing that the two major political parties—vehicles designed to hoard power—get to dictate our values? Weren’t values supposed to be determined by our local communities, through culture, civics and spiritual life?

Not surprisingly, the political parties are doing an awful job. They’re using increasingly divisive rhetoric to bogey man the other, all the while becoming more extreme and divisive. They’re indoctrinating our friends, families and neighbors, making conversation nearly impossible.

We recently joined the Forward Party, with the intention of breaking this loop. The two major parties seem to dictate how you should feel and mandate topdown solutions. The Forward Party listens to what you say, expects civil discourse and helps us find bottom-up, local solutions. All the while, it helps cultivate our civic responsibility, and it develops leaders on the ground.

We encourage all looking to break the vicious cycle of rhetoric destroying our communities and families to join the Forward Party. We’re active right here in Granby. We would love to have you join us to help organize at the local level. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to either of us at Thomas. proctor@yahoo.com

For more information online and to join, go to ForwardParty.com/Connecti cut, and look for upcoming events.

Not left. Not right. Forward! Toby Proctor and Michael Reis

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 mes sage at 860-653-9222 or send an email to: editor@granbydrummer.org

KEEP US IN THE LOOP

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

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.

Support for Anderson

I am calling all Independent/Unaffili ated voters like myself to vote for Mark Anderson this November.

I have been a registered independent voter in Granby for over 20 years and I try to evaluate policy positions without a political party bias. Connecticut has had its fair share of independent politicians which I always felt made our state stand apart from most. That, sadly, has changed for the worse since we have become completely controlled by one party in the state government, from the Governor to the Senate and House of Representatives.

Today, at the Federal level, we see the effects of one-party policies that have devastated our standard of living since January 2021.

Top that with complete one-party rule at the state level and we are hit with double the trouble. Our local taxes in Granby are already going up since the new town budget was passed, our stan dard of living is worse and there is no end in sight unless we turn the tide by keeping our Republican representation in place and trying to expand it wherever we can in our state elections.

As an Independent/Unaffiliated voter, I have only two real choices on Election Day—Democrat or Republican.

In my opinion, we do not need more of the same Democrat Party policies from Kim Becker. We need to retain Mark Anderson as our voice for alternate ideas about state tax cuts, public safety and economic expansion that would improve our state for the better.

I have spoken with Mark and I believe that he is the best person to represent us in these efforts. Please join me in fight ing to attain our ‘independence’ from one party rule.

Beth Carroll

I attended the recent debate between the incumbent District 62 State Representa tive Mark Anderson and his opponent. Questions were provided by the GMHS civics class and covered a broad range of important issues affecting Granby citizens. In each and every case. Mr. Anderson’s responses were based upon conservative principles rather than just telling the audience what he thought they wanted to hear. It is this principled approach that will result in the best leg islation to enhance the lives of citizens in Granby, and of course Connecticut. I continue to support Mr. Anderson and recommend that you do too.

Robert Moss

ADVERTISERS AGREEMENT

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

We are very proud to support Mark Anderson for reelection as our State Representative as he reflects the integrity, critical common sense, and leadership that is needed in the Connecticut leg islature.

Susan and Bill Regan

I am writing to express my continued support for Mark Anderson as our state representative for the 62nd District. I have known Mark for years, and in ad dition to being responsive to anyone who reaches out to him, he is genuinely com mitted to listening to and representing his constituents. Mark is committed to driv ing change within our state, seeking to improve the tax climate, drive economic growth, and reduce corporate welfare treating all businesses equally. I support his focus on cutting taxes and reducing regulations and the size of government to make Connecticut a more attractive and affordable state. I hope you join me in supporting Mark Anderson on elec tion day.

Kelly Rome

We are all deeply saddened by the shooting deaths of two Connecticut Po lice Officers from Bristol. We see these police deaths taking place in our large cities like Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta, etc. but we never thought these horrific murders would take place in Connecticut.

Letters cont’d. on p. 5

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar

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

Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, November 7 and 21

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept. Community Room, Monday, November 28

Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, November 2 and 16

Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesdays, November 8 and 22

Inland Wetlands and Water, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, November 9

Development Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Monday, November 14

GRANBY FOOD BANK

We currently need

related food

oatmeal pkgs.

crackers Laundry detergent Dishwashing liquid

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 Avon, CT, and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The granby Drummer P.O. Box 165

Granby, CT 06035-0165

Copyright ©2022

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

Jennifer Bell, Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff

Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor

Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor

Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages

Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor

Dave Tolli, Photo Editor

Kathy Agresta, Carol Bressor, Carolyn Carter, Karen Cleary, Nancy Dudenhofer, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley reporterS & ContriButorS

Jennifer Benson, AnneMarie Cox, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, Jim Lofink, Amy McCue, Shirley Murtha Kristin Rice, Lisa Salazar, Pam Sherrer, Karen Stanhope, Brooke Star, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Merle Yoder, Sandy Yost advertiSinG team

Deneika Janski, Advertising Coordinator Jen Bell, Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey WeBSite manaGer

Jake Kean

SoCial media Leisa Ritchie

SuBSCriptionS & delivery Sam & Becky Mikus

LETTERS

POLICY

Donations

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

Letters cont’d. from p 4

I am happy to endorse Mark Anderson for re-election to the House of Repre sentatives for the 62nd district. Mark’s background—an Army Reserve officer who retired as Lieutenant Colonel after 28 years, May 1983-June 2011, a Stra tegic Intelligence Officer assigned to the Iraq Intelligence Working Group with direct daily reporting to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and other intelligence work give him strong cre dentials needed to help solve many of the problems facing our state today.

Representative Anderson and his Re publican colleagues are going to undo the enacted barriers police face when performing their duties. The Protecting Our Communities Act that they are work ing on is legislation putting the rights of victims ahead of the rights of criminals and a key part of the Act is to provide law enforcement the tools necessary to perform their duties.

Please make sure you vote on Nov. 8 and I strongly urge you to vote for Mark Anderson, running as a Republican and Independent candidate, so he can con tinue with the great work he has been doing for Granby and our state.

Ginny Wutka

Support for Becker

I look forward to casting my vote for Kim Becker this November in the race for the 62nd State Representative District. Kim’s previous experiences in social work, nonprofit management, and communications make her uniquely qualified to succeed in this position.

I met Kim 10 years ago when she was Chair of the Board of Directors at Valley Pre-School, and I was Chairman of the Board at the Granby Education Foun dation. She later joined me at the GEF where her competence and dedication not only made her an invaluable director, but led to her nomination as its current leader. I am confident she will be an equally ef fective public servant.

Kim’s dedication to Granby is evi dent in the variety of ways that she has become involved in our community throughout the years. She has taken the time to get to know the people she will represent and the issues they face. I sup port her strategies for reducing the tax burden on small towns, employing fis cally responsible methods to move our school system forward, finding ways to protect our local farms and providing security for our seniors. Kim Becker is the strong, sensible champion we need representing rural values in Hartford.

Rebecca Brewer

I am a small business owner of a design and engineering firm, and I am a volunteer board member for Granby Ambulance Association (GAA). I am a right-leaning independent. I believe our district needs Kim Becker as our next State Representative. As an architec tural-structural engineer, I have a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of design and integrity that marks a superior solution. Having worked closely with Kim over the past five years, I have no doubt that Kim will work hard for our community with integrity and compas sion.

Kim and I first worked together in the development of the schematic design building plans to transform the vacated Kearns School into the Kearns Commu nity Center (KCC). This bold plan would have restored a decaying educational structure into an intergenerational com munity center for the Town of Granby. But the real creativity was in the eco nomic vision. By leasing the building to KCC for a minimal sum and obtaining seed funding from foundations, the town

would relieve itself of a budget burden and KCC could balance the operating budget through site fees. Sadly, almost five years later, Kearns remains an empty, unused facility for our town.

I was very impressed with Kim’s dedi cation to the Kearns Community Center. For these reasons, I recommended Kim for the Granby Ambulance board of directors. I believe she will be an asset for GAA as well as our representative at the state level.

Kim is the ideal blending of the val ues we hold dear in our community: constructing creative solutions to assist our neighbors, blending talents of citi zens, businesses, and governments, and ensuring sustainability through fiscally responsible approaches. That’s why we need her in Hartford. Please join me in electing her on Nov. 8.

Lorri DiBattisto

I am writing this letter as a member of the Barkhamsted Senior Center where Kim Becker volunteers regularly and at tends our monthly ceremonies honoring area veterans. I am part of a small group of volunteers who cook breakfast and lunch every week for up to 40 people. Kim steps in and is willing to do what ever we need her to do. No hesitation with any task, no matter how big or small. She is a valued member of our kitchen group! I support her future efforts as our State Representative with every wish for her success.

Bonnie Reynolds Barkhamsted

As the First Selectman of Barkhamsted, I would like to strongly endorse Kim Becker to represent Barkhamsted, Granby, New Hartford and Hartland in this year’s State election. Kim and her family moved to Granby 14 years ago and she has been a strong advocate for our communities since she arrived here.

Running for State Representative is an extension of her public service and commitment to our communities. She passionately believes in quality educa tion; property tax relief in small towns; access to quality healthcare and mental health care for everyone; protecting women’s reproductive freedom; and supporting small businesses and family farms. As our State Representative, she will continue to listen to constituents and will take those stories and experiences with her to Hartford.

Her spirit of volunteerism is incredibly strong. She is Chairperson of the Granby Education Foundation; a member of the Granby Commission on Aging; a board member of the Granby Ambulance As sociation and has volunteered with the Cyber Lions and at the Barkhamsted Senior Center.

The following represents the issues that make her the best candidate for our towns. She will not be a rubber stamp for leadership at the Legislature.

Support for rural towns: She will give us a voice in Hartford to advocate for small and rural towns and to advocate for our issues. She will work to support our farms through diesel tax forgiveness for farm equipment and easier distribution for farm products. She will work to bring affordable housing to our region and to make it available for our seniors who are no longer able to manage their family homes, and to our younger generation just starting their careers.

Education: She understands that part nerships between parents, teachers, and students are more important than ever as we navigate maintaining good schools, dealing with behavioral issues and creat ing welcoming school climates. She will work to rebalance the education grant formulas and take some of the pressure off the towns’ budgets and property taxes.

Health Care: Women need access to the full range of healthcare, including repro ductive healthcare, contraception, and abortion. Kim will advocate to make sure that doctors and medical professionals will be allowed to perform legal pro cedures for all people, not just women.

Kim will work tirelessly to support our communities and residents and her en ergy and enthusiasm will assure support for our communities in all areas where it is needed.

For these reasons and many more, I am proud to endorse Kim Becker to repre sent our towns in Hartford as our State Representative.

Donald S. Stein Barkhamsted

I would like to thank Kim Becker for taking the time to talk with me in regard to the Volunteer Fire Department get ting volunteers and getting funding for equipment. We see a lot being done for the Police Department, but a lot of our representatives did not know of all the regulations we (the Fire Department) follow. Thank you, Kim, for taking the time to listen. My vote will go to Kim Becker for State Representative.

Allen J. Button Sr.

Chief, West Hartland Volunteer Fire Department

Kim Becker cares about the same is sues that I care about and that is why I’m urging everyone to join me in voting for Kim on Nov. 8.

Kim has demonstrated her commit ment to Granby consistently since moving here 14 years ago. She is the current Chair of the Granby Education Foundation and has a long history of volunteering and leading other volun teers helping the schools ever since her kids attended Valley Pre-school and continuing up until today. My own chil dren received an excellent education in Granby and I know Kim will advocate for strong schools when she represents us in Hartford.

Kim has great ideas on how to relieve small towns of the high property tax burden required to operate excellent schools. I agree with her that we need to bring more state money into our smaller school districts and that the state should fully fund special education costs.

Kim talks every day about the need to help seniors age in place or downsize if they wish to without having to leave the communities where they raised their families. Kim will be a compassionate advocate for our seniors.

I believe that many are worried about the high cost to live in Granby. We need a strong advocate who has a demon strated record of working in a bipartisan way to the quality of life in our small towns, someone with a commitment to help make life more affordable for all. Kim is the right person for this job and I will vote for her.

Laura Donna

Support for Kissel

I want to add my voice to those endors ing John Kissel’s candidacy for reelection to the Connecticut State Senate. John has always treated his constituents and our concerns with notable evenhandedness regardless of one’s party or station in life. This is, to say the least, reassuring and supportive.

At the same time, he has expressed and endorsed a conservative record that responsible Nutmeggers should have no trouble continuing to enthusiastically endorse—namely public safety, respon sible financial policy and spending, and maintaining local control, i.e., doing his best to keep state and federal bureaucrats out of our local affairs!

Senator Kissel has established a strong record for supporting all Granby citizens as our Senator over the past two decades. He has earned our continued support.

Cal Heminway

Senator John Kissel has faithfully served the Town of Granby and its citizens as the State Senator for the 7th District. He has become a well-respected leader in the State Senate and gives the towns he represents a voice at the table. John is incredibly responsive and ap proachable, always making time to meet with students who are visiting the State Capitol, attending functions and meet ings in our town, or advocating for his constituents in Hartford. John is busi ness friendly, fiscally responsible, and is the right choice to continue serving as Granby’s State Senator for the 7th Sen ate district. Please consider casting your vote for Senator John Kissel on Nov. 8.

Sarah Thrall

Support for Mangini

I am writing to endorse Cynthia Mangini for the 7th State Senate election on November 8. She has served on the Enfield Town Council for 20 years. She is a local realtor and a religious education teacher, a member of Enfield Rotary and the Mt. Carmel society. She cares about our community and I know she will serve our district well.

Cynthia is dedicated to defending women’s health care reproductive rights. She views the right to choose as a cor nerstone to a free society. Cindy believes in expanding our mental healthcare system to include all children across Connecticut.

I am confident that Cynthia will be dedicated to the people of Granby and the 7th District. She will advocate for ALL the residents in our communities, and she will reach across the aisle to get the job done! Please join me in voting for Cynthia Mangini on Nov. 8.

Dr. Frederick Moffa

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

OCTOBER 12, 2022

Present: Kristina Gilton, Monica Logan, David Peling, Whitney Sanzo, Sarah Thrall, and Rosemarie Weber

Absent: Donna Nolan, Student Representatives Chase Alexander and Tess Bajek

Superintendent’s Announcements

Dr. Jordan Grossman met with the town regarding the high school track. Many community members other than students use this track. There is some puddling on the track and a consultant will look at what might be causing this. Creation of the FY24 budget is well underway. Meetings with administrators begin in November.

Schools in the Spotlight

Michael Dunn, GMHS principal, introduced students Kelsi Stickels and Cole Max who participated in the College Explorations Program. This program has run since 2008 and exposes students to colleges and the college process with the goal of designing a financially acceptable

introduction to a variety of schools. Twenty students visited eight schools. There was a guided tour at each school and information sessions at a couple of the schools. Kelsi said that having all of the visits scheduled for her was great and that her mom did not need to take time off of work to take her. This trip inspired her to get excited about applying to colleges. Cole explained the tour of schools helped relieve his anxiety about college searches and he felt more comfortable making these visits with his peers.

Continuous Improvement Plan –Granby Memorial High School

Dunn presented his Continuous Improvement Plan. The first goal under Student Learning and Achievement is to increase the percentage of 9th, 10th and 11th graders scoring at benchmark on PSAT. Dunn said students are off to a super start and students had multiple opportunities to practice the PSATs before taking the tests to better understand the type of skills they need. Weber inquired about re-establishing writing

Time to change batteries; supplies available

By Catherine Lanyon

Granby Fire Marshall Brian Long successfully applied to the Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries program for a grant from the Ener gizer Corporation. Last year, the town received a small number of batteries from the Connecticut Fire Academy, but Long knew more could be done.

National Fire Protection Association statistics confirm that three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties with NO smoke alarms, or smoke alarms that were not working.

“Through our Community Risk Re duction Plan we have determined that Granby is not immune to these statis tics,” Long says. “Very often Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarm batteries are overlooked for replacement dur ing our day-to-day life.” The Town of

Granby and the Fire Marshall’s Office have been working to help our com munity reduce these risks.

Both 9-Volt and AA batteries are available for pickup in the Town Clerk’s Office, the Granby Senior Center, the Library main branch and the VNA Food Pantry. The goal is to provide batteries to the most vulnerable citizens in the community in prepara tion for the Daylight Savings Time change on Nov. 6.

The Fire Marshal’s office promotes changing your smoke detector’s battery at least twice a year when Daylight Savings Time begins and ends. For more information on how you can reduce your risk of fire and to protect your family, please visit the National Fire Protection Association website: nfpa.org/Public-Education

tutors. Dunn said the program was available several years ago with students tutoring one another and it will be reinstituted this year. Logan asked about increasing data capacity to target classroom interventions. Dunn stated after the scores from today’s tests are received, interventions can take place.

The second goal under Student Learning and Achievement is for every student to enroll in at least one college-credit-bearing course while in high school. Dunn said there are opportunities for students to earn college credit while in high school and 89 percent of the 2022 graduating class took at least one college-credit course while at GMHS.

Goal #2 under Community Engagement is to improve communication that captures and celebrates the school community through online resources and platforms. This will be done by reinstituting a newsletter to showcase department/school highlights; increase family and staff input through teams, surveys, and PAC meetings; support the new Advanced Communications course and Broadcast Club; support school-to-career and collaboration with community business; and to increase participation in curriculum nights, parent conferences and PAC meetings.

Goal #3 under Safety and Social Emotional Well-Being is to create safe, inclusive and socially and emotionally responsive classrooms and school environments by training teachers to use the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment (DESSA) instrument. DESSA is an online screening tool to target SEL goals/actions; renew school climate/SEL team implementation of goals/actions; increasing student leadership on action teams including grading and social media; and implement Voice4Change initiatives. Weber asked if parents will be contacted regarding the DESSA. Grossman said communication will be going out to parents and, if red flags are raised, parents will certainly be contacted.

Goal #4 under Budget Development and Fiscal Management is to manage the budget process to maximize efficiencies while increasing needed supports for students who struggle academically and socially/emotionally by communicating developments on the construction project; monitoring class sizes to ensure appropriate learning environments; exploring alternative school structures to address SEL needs; and, continuing to analyze achievement data to ensure adequate supports/staffing.

Goal #5 under Embracing Diversity is continuing to improve systems and practices to maximize equitable opportunities for all students by partnering with student-led groups (Bridges, SAFE, Black and Latino Studies, etc.) to celebrate cultural heritage; continuing to partner with the Granby Equity Team; and continuing to build staff capacity to approach conversations around equity with students during Advisory.

Goal #6 under Professional Learning is to continue to improve staff capacity to clarify outcomes and use data protocols to inform instruction by restructuring PLC teams; developing the capacity of leadership teams to model and use protocols to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of teams; and increase data capacity to target classroom interventions. Weber asked about equitable grading practices. Grossman said that Parsons would speak about grading practices at a future meeting.

Curriculum/Policy/Technology/ Communication

Peling said coaches’ monthly meetings have started—over 100 parents attended the Hartford Athletics Game; resilience family training on QPR (suicide prevention) for parents; and rollout of new talent ed system. Also received was reports on the Teachers Writing Project and a pilot for Grade 3 Phonics.

Respectfully submitted, Rosemarie Weber, Vice Chairman

West Granby resident describes flying helicopters

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Photo by Joan Ducharme

ThomasD.Sullivan

Major Melinda Rizer Gould, USMC, Retired, entertained the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group on Oct. 5 with her global experiences as a helicopter pilot.

Art Show at Lost Acres Vineyard open through November

yourself in New England’s natural beauty at the Granby Land Trust’s 15th annual juried art show, open through Sunday, Nov. 27, at Lost Acres Vineyard, 80 Lost Acres Road in North Granby. Gallery hours are Friday and Saturday from 12 to 6 p.m., Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. This show, held in partner ship with the Granby Artists Association, draws work from artists across the region—all inspired by New England’s natural beauty. All art is avail able for purchase, with a portion of sales benefiting the Granby Land Trust.

This year’s show was juried by Nata lie DeQuarto, assistant curator at the Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury. The Granby Land Trust show is highly selec tive and only the best art is chosen.

GLT hopes everyone can find some time to enjoy this beautiful and diverse collection of fine art in one of Granby’s most beautiful settings.

The Land Trust is grateful to all its award underwriters and particularly to its event sponsors: Mark Wetzel of Fiduc ient Investment Advisors, LLC and Ted Cormier of ALIRT Insurance Research, LLC for their ongoing, loyal support of the show.

The Granby Land Trust protects nearly 3,000 acres of open space, forests, wildlife habitat, agricultural land, water buffers, ecologically sensitive areas and scenic vistas in Granby. To learn more about the work of the Granby Land Trust or to learn about other upcoming GLT events, visit www.GranbyLandTrust.org and follow us on social media.

The Granby Land Trust’s 15th juried art show is underway at Lost Acres Vineyard.

In this photo, Laura Eden paints plein air for the first GLT Art Show in 2006.

Photo by Peter Dinella

Photo at Dismal Brook by Danny Cohan

Photo at Dismal Brook by Rick Orluk

Photo at Mary Edwards by Don Shaw Jr.

ELECTION 2022

New Website–Get My AB–is available until Nov. 3

by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

way

together—you may have TemperoMandibularDysfunction, (TMD).

know how uncomfortable TMD and Orofacial Pain can be. Here are some self-care tips to protect the jaw joint and relieve painful symptoms when they occur:

• To protect your jaw joint and keep it from locking open, don’t open your mouth too wide.

•Eat small bites.

• Take frequent breaks during all dental appointments.

• For mild to moderate pain, apply moist heat for 20 minutes to increase circulation and promote muscle relaxation.

• For severe pain, apply cold for five to ten minutes during the first 72 hours.

• Hot-cold therapy works for muscle pain: apply heat for five seconds, then ice for five seconds. Repeat four to five times.

• Lightly massage the jaw and temple muscles to stimulate circulation, relax muscles and decrease soreness.

• Apply accupressure to relieve pain; massage the “hoku” point between the thumb and forefinger.

• Sit up straight; don’t allow your head to droop forward.

Don’t cradle a telephone between your head and your shoulder.

• Lie on your side or your back when you sleep, making sure your neck is supported.

• Avoid high-impact exercise. The slow, stretching movements in yoga are an excellent way to exercise and alleviate stress.

• Take over-the-counter medication for pain and inflammation, such as Ibuprofen.

• Remember that good nutrition promotes joint and muscle healing.

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. Conebeam CT technology allows us to view your head and neck in 3 Dimensions, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and early detection of problems and Computer guided implant placement. At the Granby Dental Center, we even offer CEREC, an amazing technology that allows us to fabricate porcelain crowns in just one visit! This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength!

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

If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/GranbyDentalCenter/ Scan the QR code below to find out more:

In 2022 every registered voter can choose to apply for an absentee ballot if they are concerned about sickness, however the ap plications were not automatically sent out as in 2020. If you already applied for an absentee ballot, you should have received your ballot in the mail. You must drop your completed ballot in the drop box in front of Town Hall before Election Day. Any bal lots dropped on Election Day will not be counted until it has been verified the voter has not also voted in person at the polls.

If you haven’t applied yet, you can com plete an absentee application with a new website that uses your electronic signature from the DMV. The program is “Get My AB” and is found at: portal.ct.gov/SOTS The Town Clerk will immediately receive it, but plan to wait for the processing. This option closes at midnight on Nov. 3.

Carefully read the instructions and drop your completed ballot in the official ballot drop box. Use both envelopes provided. If you are a brand-new voter who has never shown ID, you need to enclose a copy of proof of ID in the outer envelope—the in ner envelope is just for your ballot.

Completed absentee ballots received before the close of polls on the day of the election will be counted after ensuring that only one vote is cast. Any absentee ballots dropped off on Election Day will NOT be counted if we find that the voter came to the polls to vote on Election Day.

Do not bring absentee ballots to the polls, the polling place is exclusively for in-person voting.

Voter Registration Deadlines

There is still a seven-day Voter Registra tion Deadline, whether by mail, online or

in person. The Registrars provide a last chance opportunity to register to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 1 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Seventeen-year-olds who will be 18 by Nov. 8 can register to vote. You must be a US citizen to register to vote. It is easy to confirm or change your voter registration online 24/7. The Town of Granby’s website has links available to connect you to the SOTS’s Online Voter Registration system for either option.

Top three reasons for rejection of Absentee Ballots in Granby

Forgetting to use both envelopes, for getting to sign the inner envelope and not sealing as directed. Read carefully and follow the directions. Never share to save postage—each voter must use their own issued envelopes.

Invalid signature on the inner envelope.

The signature must match to whom the ballot was issued. Family members and those with power of attorney cannot vote a ballot for someone else.

Received after Election Day. Only ballots received by the Town Clerk by 8 p.m. on Nov. 8 will be counted. There is no grace period, no check of postmarks after Nov. 8.

Sample Ballots for District 1 and District 2 are available on the town website and the state website.

Verify you are Registered Before Going to the Polls

Voters need to be aware that voter reg istration is nontransferable. If you moved recently, you need to register at your new address. Currently there is a seven-day registration deadline, whether it is done online, mail-in or in-person. There are a few cut off exceptions, for brand new residents (within the last week before the election), handicapped and military. Please

review the calendar below for these dead lines. The Registrars strongly recommend going online to check your registration, to ensure your right to vote.

Calendar Review

Official Drop Box for Ballots and Appli cations is open 24/7 in front of Town Hall.

Tuesday, Nov. 1: Deadline to Post Mark a Mail-In Registration

Tuesday, Nov. 1: Last Day to Register to vote in person

Tuesday, Nov. 1: Voter Registration Ses sion Registrars office in Town Hall from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 2: Filing of Certified Voter Registry List with the Town Clerk Monday, Nov. 7: Last Day to Register for Brand New Residents, Military, Handicap Monday, Nov. 7: Voter Registration Ses sion Registrars office in Town Hall from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 8: Polls Open 6 a.m.–8 p.m. HS Community Gym

Tuesday, Nov. 8: Election Day Registra tion at Town Hall, 15 North Granby Road 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Feel free to stop by to register to vote, to determine your voting district or to make corrections in person at the Registrars’ Office in the Town Hall every Wednesday, (our regular office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Please note that voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: www.sots. ct.gov

Questions? Please feel free to contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Paul Willis, at 860-844-5322 or registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov

Granby girls travel soccer wins tournament

Congratulations to the Granby Rovers U15 Girls team for winning its division at the Capitol Cup Tournament in Concord, N.H. on Oct. 8-9. This was the team’s first tournament out of state since 2019, and everyone was excited to play against new teams and have some fun.

On Saturday the team had one game and won 2-1 with goals from Sarah Slade and Hazel Lamb. On Sunday, the team had two games and possibly a third depending on the results of the first two games. The team won its first game 1-0 (goal by Sarah Slade) and second game 2-0 (both goals by Emma Lynch and as sisted by Emily Allshouse).

These two wins placed the team auto matically into the Finals with the best record in the division. Playing three games in one day was a lot, but the girls

dug deep and got fired up for their last game. They came close to scoring a few times, but at the end of the two halves it was tied 0-0. The game went straight to Penalty Kick Shootouts and Granby won 4-2. Goalkeeper Greta Forneris did an excellent job in goal saving two shots and Sarah Slade, Hazel Lamb, Jaclyn Scanlon and Charlotte Bennett all scored.

Head Coach Heather Hurczyn and as sistant coaches Kori Lamb and Dalton Lemoine could not be prouder of how well the team played. Each and every person played an important role in each game. They played together as a unit, which made them unbeatable. The pass ing was beautiful, and the defenders were strong in every game. As the team’s last Fall Soccer Tournament as Granby Rovers, it couldn’t have gone any bet ter—great job team!

By Shirley Murtha

Every fall, the Granby Board of Select men appoints a student representative from Granby Memorial High School

meetings and give updates on the happenings at the school. This year, that rep resentative is junior Chas Orluk.

Chas says he applied so that he “could learn more about how our town government works and how big decisions get made.” He looks forward to being upto-date with what is going on and learning how residents feel about the various proposals being discussed in town. Elected to a class office, he feels he understands the student population and can represent it well to the board. Although he is unsure of what career he will pursue in the future, he thinks this experience will serve him well whatever he decides to do.

A member of the Granby chapter of the National Honor Society, Chas’s

favorite subjects are math and science. He notes that these courses “follow logic, and make the most sense to me.”

He is involved in the student government as class treasurer and plays on the school’s soccer, basketball and baseball teams. Outside of school, he also plays on a premier soccer team as part of the CFC (Connecticut Foot ball Club). His team is based out of East Windsor and plays mostly out-of-state teams, with the exception of a team based in Farmington.

In addition to Chas’s active sports life, he is a coordinator for the Granby Land Trust’s Youth Conservation Corps, a group of young people who assist with various projects such as trail mainte nance on Land Trust properties. This is an understandable extension of his love of nature and hiking. In his down time, he likes to watch sports, read, bake, and play games with his family and friends.

GMHS presents Daughters of the Appalachians

Granby Memorial High School Per forming Arts will present an original work, Daughters of the Appalachians, on Nov. 11, 12 and 13. This show, written by Linda Goodman, is a collection of stories based on her childhood. Goodman, a Virginia Appalachian Mountain native of Melungeon descent, learned the art of storytelling from her father, a former coal miner who was himself a master yarn spinner. She has appeared in and taught workshops. Her works are known for their Southern Appalachian “flavor”, and stories from her award-winning CDs, Jessie and Other Stories and Bobby Pins have been aired on several NPR programs.

Goodman is a past Program Coordi nator of Boston’s Sharing the Fire, the country’s largest and oldest regional sto rytelling conference, and served for three years as Program Chair for the Three Apples Storytelling Festival. She joined

the Dramatists’ Guild in 1992, after her play, Empty Wells, was named a finalist in a national competition.

High School Performing Arts is hon ored to be presenting an original work by a former Connecticut resident. Senior Abby Caruso will play Boojie alongside a cast of wonderful characters. Per formances will be Friday, Nov. 11 and Saturday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for the general public and $12 for students and seniors. Presale tickets are available now and can be purchased visiting this link: bit.ly/ GMHSDramaF22 or using the QR code above. Parents can also access tickets via their MySchoolBucks account.

The cast of the GMHS drama Daughters of the Appalachians.

Photo by Deneika Janski

Things may be cooling down, but

Work with

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With Eric McPheat,

officer who has years of

helping Granby

get a

Chas Orluk

Granby Rovers U15 Girls team won its division at the Capitol Cup Tournament in Concord, N.H. on Oct. 8-9. Team photo by Maria Scanlon

Simple ways to save on home heating this winter

By Kent McCord

It’s mid-October as I write this, and I still haven’t turned on the oil furnace to heat my home. With the skyrocketing price of oil this season, I am lucky my home is a passive-solar design from the early 80s, with a wide expanse of south facing windows to garner heat from the sun and a large thermal mass in the concrete slab to keep the house cool in early summer and warm in late fall. Add super-insulating triple-pane windows, good insulation and a wood stove insert in my center-column chimney to burn the 90-foot oak tree that fell in my backyard two years ago, and we hope not to burn oil until Halloween. We’ll no doubt need to snuggle up in our warmest hoodies and throws.

Of course, not everyone has an energycrisis designed home, the resources to afford expensive windows and insulation and the abundance of wood that my oneacre lot regularly generates. Most everyone will be facing large increases in the cost of heating their home this year, so the Con servation Commission thought it would be worthwhile to discuss how to save money and be more comfortable in your home this winter.

Let’s start with simple measures that are easy and cost little to nothing. The first step is to turn down your thermostat at night and when you are not home. You may wonder if this really saves money, because it makes your furnace crank up to full blast twice a day. But the physics are clear—heating costs are directly related to the difference in temperature between inside and outside. In fact, The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that turning down your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours per day, at night for example, can save 10 percent on your annual heating expenses. If no one is home during the typical workday, you could add another 10 percent savings. This can easily be achieved by manually adjusting old-fashioned thermostats, with a common programmable thermostat ($25$50), or a new-fangled smart thermostat ($50-$200) which can be adjusted through an app on your phone and can “learn” the routine and habits of your home. If a smart

thermostat is of interest, be sure to check out the substantial discounts available through Eversource at poweredbyefi.org/ eversourcect

Another easy action is to take full advan tage of the sun. Open blinds and curtains on south-facing windows during the day to maximize heat gain from the sun, and close them at night, especially on clear nights when the black frigidness of space sucks heat from your home with surprising effectiveness. Insulating curtains and solid window shades are effective at reducing drafts around windows and sliding doors, but be sure to feel for major leaks that can be plugged with simple weatherstripping available at a hardware store. Make sure windows and doors are locked to make them as airtight as possible.

If you have a forced-air heating and cool ing system, be sure to keep the air filter clean, which, according to the DOE, can save up to 15 percent annually. It is gener ally recommended to change filters at least every three months, more frequently in the heart of the winter.

If there are unused rooms in your home, turn down the heat in those rooms by closing air registers or reducing radiator flow. Another tip is to use ceiling fans on slow speed, and reversed direction if avail able, to bring warm air down where it’s needed, especially for cathedral ceilings. And finally, be sure that fireplace damp ers are closed when not in use, otherwise your expensive warm air will escape out the chimney

If you want professional advice, check out the Home Energy Solutions program offered through both Eversource and Con necticut Natural Gas with the EnergizeCT program (energizect.com/). For a cost of $50 (potentially $0 for income-eligible par ticipants), you get a complete home energy assessment and on-the-spot solutions such as simple air sealing to stop leaks. Accord ing to an Eversource representative, “Both of these programs focus on weatheriza tion solutions like air sealing and access to incentives for insulation. Eversource offers rebates that cover up to 75 percent of approved insulation projects through HES and 100 percent for income eligible

customers.” This assessment is also a great starting point for tackling larger, more impactful measures like enhancing wall and attic insulation and replacing old heating systems with new energy-efficient solutions.

It’s cloudy, cold and wet today as I finish

this article. My college student is home for the weekend, and I begrudgingly turned on the heat to a modest 68 degrees to keep her from shivering. Oh well, maybe I’ll make it to November next year.

Kent McCord is a member of the Granby Conservation Commission.

PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

SEPTEMBER 27, 2022

Present: Jonathan Boardman, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, Brennan Sheahan, and alternate Paula Johnson, as well as Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon and Land Use Coordinator Renee Deltenre. Absent: Mark Lockwood and Matthew Peters.

Seating of Alternates

Johnson was seated for Lockwood.

Public Hearings

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.28 for a residential landscape business and Section 8.1.3.4 for a garage in excess of 1,000 square feet for property located at 86 Granville Road, R2A Zone. File Z-14-22. Continued to Oct. 25.

Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.1.3.4 for a garage over 1,000 square feet for property located at 2 Appletree Lane, R2A Zone. File Z-15-22. Consider reduction of application fee.

Property owner and applicant Joseph Galiatsatos discussed the application and answered questions. He is looking to construct a 1.5 story, 46’ x 26’ detached garage to house personal equipment, vehicles, gardening equipment, etc. In June Galiatsatos merged 2 and 4 Appletree Lane to create one large parcel in preparation for the proposed structure. The structure will be built by Kloter Farms, consisting of white wood siding, a white metal roof, a poured concrete floor with the potential for future radiant heat, and black gooseneck lighting, which will face the property owner’s home.

Galiatsatos is looking to break ground in the spring and will work on a planting plan for the creation of a buffer between the structure and neighbors once the remaining debris has been removed. There was no public comment.

Kenyon provided background information regarding application fees and the fee reduction request as it pertains to this application. Galiatsatos had previously submitted and withdrew an application in June, but no refund was requested or issued. It was recommended that the fee for this application be reduced to the $60 state fee and the $100 town fee would be waived.

The commission voted (6-0-0) to approve the application and reduce the fee from $160 to $60.

Receive applications and schedule public hearings

Kenyon said an application was submitted for a Site Plan Modification for Station 280, located at 280 Salmon Brook Street. Proposed modifications include reduced parking, two mail kiosks with circular drive, convert a carport to a garage, a larger swimming pool, changes to building elevations and walkway locations, etc. There was consensus among the commission to schedule a public hearing for this application for Oct. 25.

Granby Center Study and Scope Process

Kenyon provided an update on the Sept. 19 joint meeting with the Board of Selectman. There was an agreement to move forward with a study for Granby Center and guidance was requested from the Planning and Zoning Commission regarding a process to scope a study. The commission agreed to continue discussion to the next regular meeting so that chairman Lockwood would be present for the conversation. Johnson asked that Kenyon provide a guide outlining different options for scoping a study.

Staff Report and Correspondence

Kenyon provided an update regarding Harness Way where three homes are currently under construction. Development at Murtha’s Way is progressing as contractors are working towards the center where a pool and clubhouse will be constructed. Certificates of Occupancy have been issued for a handful of duplexes and singlefamily homes, and a final course of pavement will be laid for a section of road before winter.

Commissioner Reports and Correspondence

Johnson commented on the dilapidated fence located at the corner of Route 20 and Hungary Road. She was curious on the status of the property and if the town could contact the owner in hopes of having the fence removed.

Respectfully submitted, Renee Deltenre, Land Use Coordinator

860 653-7289 www.southchurchgranby.org

Out of Town

Harvest Crafts Fair

The Suffield Fire Department Auxiliary will host the return of its Annual Crafts Fair on Saturday, Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Center Firehouse, 73 Moun tain Road (Rte 168), Suffield.

Craftsmen and local artisans from the area will be displaying numerous items of interest such as jewelry, hand-spun textiles, wooden items, ornaments,

pottery, floral arrangements, fairies, homemade jam, jellies, dips and fudge and holiday gift baskets just to name a few. Something for everyone can be found. This will be the perfect time and place to start your holiday shopping for those unique gifts you’ve been looking for. This fair is part of the “Christmas in Suffield” Craft Fairs.

Classical and Classy: Brahms, Beethoven, Ella and Louis

On Thursday, Nov. 17 , starting at 10 a.m., the Musical Club of Hartford presents a concert of classical and jazz inspired musical gems in the sanctuary of Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2080 Boulevard, West Hartford. Free to club members and students, the concert is open to the public ($5 admission) and will include the following performances by Musical Club members and guests: Sonata No. 2 in A Major, Opus 100 by Johannes Brahms (performers: Lisa Ku gelman, violin; Annette Shapiro, piano)

Duets and solos inspired by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong (per

formers: Patrice Fitzgerald and Richard Leslie: voice; Walter Gwardyak, Walter Mayo, and Theodore Hine: instrumental accompaniment)

Sonata in G Major, Op. 14, no. 2 by Ludwig van Beethoven (performer: Sandra Ann Craig, piano)

Face masks are optional; proof of Co vid vaccination is not required. Ample free parking and wheelchair access available. For a full schedule of concerts and special events, please visit musical clubhartford.org

S & S customers support Second Chance Ranch

FV Chorale offers festival program

Farmington Valley Chorale is pleased to present a festival program, Master works for this Moment, for its concert on Sunday, Nov. 20, at 4 p.m. at St. James’ Episcopal Church, 1018 Farmington Avenue in West Hartford.

Under the leadership of artistic director Dr. Ellen Gilson Voth, excerpts of choral works performed by chorale over its fiftyplus year history include those by Bach, Durufle, Faure, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Rutter, Schubert and Vivaldi.

The following professional soloists and keyboard artists will accompany the chorale:

Sean McCarthy, Director of Music and Organist at First Church of Christ in Wethersfield.

Stephen Scarlato, the piano accompa nist for the Farmington Valley Chorale.

Lisa Williamson, soprano, teaches voice at the universities of Connecticut and Eastern Connecticut.

Meredith Ziegler, mezzo soprano, holds a Master of Music in voice from the University of Connecticut.

Travis Benoit, tenor, the Adjunct Voice Faculty at Phillips Academy.

Greg Rizzo-Flower, baritone, a member of the choral music faculty at Southing ton High School.

These masterworks “are both timeless and enduring, and speak to the current moment we are living in, in powerful ways,” says Dr. Voth.

Ticket prices are $10 for students and $25 for adults. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door at the time of the concert. To reserve tickets or for more information contact info@ farmingtonvalleychorale.org

Christmas Craft Fair

The 39 th Annual Christmas Cottage Fair will be held at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 224 Lovely Street in Avon. The fair runs on Thursday, Nov. 3 and Friday, Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on

Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come see a full showcase of beautiful crafts and fine arts for sale by 30 local juried artisans. Cash or check only, no debit or credit cards.

Turkey Trot fundraiser

Join Bottoms Up on Nov. 24 for the fifth Thanksgiving Day 5K Turkey Trot to benefit patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The event will be held at Thompson Brook School at 150 Thompson Road in Avon.

Race begins at 9 a.m. Online registra tion is now open and ends Nov. 20. The registration fee is $40 until Nov. 10, $45 from Nov. 11 to 20. Day of race regis tration fee is $50 at Thompson Brook between 7 and 8 a.m.

Packet pickup at Fleet Feet in West Hartford on Tuesday, Nov. 22, from 4 to 8 p.m. Swag bag and finisher medal for the first 500 participants, prizes for top male/female finishers, prizes for top team and individual fundraisers. Current COVID guidelines will be followed. Proceeds support the Connecticut Chil dren’s Gastroenterology Department and Infusion Center.

To partner, sponsor, advertise or be a vendor, please contact Dawn at 860301-7332.

In Town Focus

Camera Club

The Granby Camera Club will meet on Monday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Granby Senior Center. The program will be Camera Talk. Bring your camera and lenses for an evening of sharing ideas and questions about various cameras and lenses. The Scavenger Hunt words for this month are fall, curiosity and favorite.

Men’s Breakfast

On Friday, Nov. 4, the Granby Men’s Breakfast will serve a hot breakfast at the Granby Senior Center. The speaker will be Granby’s Mark Fiorentino, discussing his role as our First Selectman.

Please arrive between 8 and 8:30 a.m. to check-in, pay the $3, get your badge, hear announcements and enjoy cof fee. Please register by calling the Senior Center at 860-844-5352 as there will be limited meals available.

Men of any age interested in joining the Granby Men’s Breakfast should send their contact information to gmensb kfst@gmail.com to be added to the email notification list.

Save the date: A Christmas Concert with Mindy Shilanski and the GMHS Chorus will perform at the Dec. 9 break fast meeting.

Women’s Breakfast

The guest speaker for the next Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will be Char maine Glew, world traveler, who will entertain with her beautiful photography of China on Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Granby Senior Center. Reservations are required. To register please call the Senior Center or enroll online on the Granby Senior website. Cost $5.

Civic Club

The Granby Civic Club will meet on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. Our guest speaker will be Jennifer Abalan-Kershaw, Granby’s Municipal Animal Control Officer. Her experiences have encompassed large and small animal care, farm animal care and wildlife rehabilitation. AbalanKershaw is certified by the Connecticut Department of Agriculture. Everyone invited. Refreshments will be served. Any questions, please contact ginny@ lostacres.com

The Drummer welcomes an nouncements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

@by e-mail: editor@granbydrummer.org

Thanksgiving Thoughts

This Thanksgiving Day we give thanks to our Creator for His many blessings: the love of family and friends, the warmth and shelter of our homes as winter approaches, the plentiful food, turkey and all the trimmings on our tables, the companionships of our pets, the melodious sounds of music and the songs of birds, the beauty of the world that surrounds us, and the memories of those who once shared this day.

Wherever we gather—in our homes, community centers, military bases, nursing homes, or hospital rooms, we are thankful to be together again. We are warmed by the sight of loved ones’ smiling faces.

At the end of this day let us be thankful, too, for the freedoms we have in America. Let us always treat others with dignity and respect. Let us share our blessings with those in need. And, let us be people of peace, striving to bring peace to the world.

–Bernadette R. Gentry

Holiday Gift Book Tree

Please help the Friends of Granby’s libraries continue the holiday tradition of providing children’s books for Granby’s Department of Social Services annual Holi day Gift packages for families.

The Holiday Gift Book Tree, decorated with gift tags noting each child’s age and gender, will be on display Monday, Nov. 28 through Tuesday, Dec. 13 at the Main Branch of Granby Public Library. Please stop in to select

a gift tag from the tree and then return your holiday-wrapped gift book and tag to the library by Tues day, Dec. 13. If you prefer not to shop for a book but wish to donate to this program, please leave your donation with a librarian at the Granby Public Library.

“A Book is a gift you can open again and again.”

Garrison Keillor

Public Works

Transfer Station: The transfer station will be open Wednesday mornings (8 a.m. to noon) through Nov. 16.

Trash Holiday: Thursday, Nov. 24 (Thanksgiving) is a holiday for Paine’s. All Thursday and Friday trash pickups will be delayed by one day that week. Confused about which holidays will change your pickup schedule? Sign up for email alerts from Paine’s Inc. Notifications are only sent if there is a holiday or weather event that will affect trash service. Sign up at painesinc.com

Extra Trash: If you have extra trash, town-approved “extra trash” bags are available for purchase for $2 each. Paine’s will pick up ONLY these

designated purple bags. Place the purple bags next to your trash barrel on your regular trash day. The extra trash bags are available at Granby Public Works, 52 North Granby Road from 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or from the Transfer Station attendant during Transfer Station hours.

Textile Recycling: To recycle textiles curbside contact Simple Recycling to schedule a pickup. It can be done online at simplerecycling.com or by calling 1-866-835-5068.

Bear Barrels: Bear barrels are available for a one-time fee of $230. Please call Public Works, 860-653-8960.

Volunteer opportunity Writers needed

Do you like to write?

The Drummer is looking for a few writers to cover stories about Granby and its residents. Email us at editor@granbydrummer.org or leave a message at 860-653-9222.

Your hometown volunteer newspaper.

Browse & Borrow

Adult Programs

Crafters Café: Basket Making : Thursday, Nov. 3, 6–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Learn a simple technique for making baskets from rolled newspaper. Craft instructor Denise Hannon, Designs by Dee, will guide participants in this Do-It-Yourself workshop. Sample baskets will be on display at the library. All materials are provided; space is limited. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Stitch-In: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 1:30–3:30 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. at the Main Branch. Members of the Connecticut River Valley Chapter of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America invite adults, teens and tweens with an interest in embroidery to a Stitch-In. Bring your stitching and enjoy a relaxing session with others who share the same hobby. Bring your questions, too, and take advantage of the knowledgeable stitchers in the room. Registration requested though drop-ins are encouraged. Be sure to view the Guild’s exhibit entitled, We’re Back!, on display through November at the Main Branch.

Metaphysical Monday: Crystals: Monday, Nov. 7, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Many people believe gemstones and crystals can be used to promote mental wellbeing as well as immunity and pain relief. Understand these unique healing properties and learn to harness their energy with Isabel Carrington, The Bell and Raven. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Conservation Conversation: Choose to Reuse : Monday, Nov. 14, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Join us for a presentation and discussion featuring practical options for reducing waste by reusing durable products. Special guests from Granby Social Services will answer questions about the Town’s successful medical loan closet, and members of Granby’s Conservation Commission will share additional information about other reuse options to benefit the community. This program is part of a continuing series of Conservation

GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

granby-ct.gov/library 860-844-5275

GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Hours, 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.

Library Hours, Cossitt Branch Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 3 – 8 p.m.

Registration is required for many of the library’s programs. To register, follow the links on the library’s website or call the library. To learn more about upcoming pro grams, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter on the website or by telephone.

Conversations sponsored by Granby Public Library and Granby Conservation Commission. Registration requested.

Crafters Café: Holiday Centerpiece : Wednesday, Nov. 30, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. Enjoy the season by creating a holiday nature-scape for your home. Allie Kraushaar, founder of the new age nursery Mosslife, leads a holiday arrangement workshop for adults. All materials are provided; space is limited. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Cantica Nativitatis: Six Centuries of Christmas Music: Thursday, Dec. 1, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Cossitt Branch. For adults, teens, tweens. No tradition has yielded a greater collection of music than Christmas. Historian and musician Richard Franklin Donohue will explore this extraordinary repertoire from the 14th through 19th centuries. Hear carols sung in their original languages of German, Latin, Middle English, French and Modern English accompanied on Harpsichord and Portative Organ. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library and the Salmon Brook Historical Society.

Time for Chess: Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. Do you enjoy the game of chess? Players

of all skill levels are encouraged to register online for friendly matches held weekly on Thursday mornings. Drop-ins are welcome.

Book Discussions

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

Something About the Author Book Club: Monday, Nov. 7, 1:30–2:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. The group will read and discuss works by Chris Bohjalian. In 1998, Bohjalian’s book Midwives was selected for Oprah’s Book Club and it became a #1 bestseller on the NYT and USA Today book lists. Since then, his popular works have been published in over 30 languages and have been adapted into three films and a television drama. His novels tend to focus on ordinary people facing difficult situations. Bohjalian lives in Vermont (where many of his novels take place) with his wife. To participate in the book club, read any Bohjalian novel of your choosing and attend the discussion lead by John Rusnock. Registration is requested.

Page Turners Book Club: Wednesday, Nov. 16, 6:30–7:30 p.m. at the Main Branch. The

group will read and discuss, Lock Artist, the 2011 Edgar Award Winner for Best Novel by Stephen Hamilton. The novel is narrated by Michael, a young man who hasn’t spoken a word since surviving a trauma at eight years old, and who has an extraordinary talent for picking locks and cracking safes. He becomes a hot commodity in the criminal world until a seemingly simple job turns into a nightmare and he’s forced to return home and finally face the secret that has kept him silent for all these years. Discussion lead by Beth Morrill. Registration is requested.

Sci/Fi Fantasy Book Club: Wednesday, Nov. 30, 6 – 7 p.m. at the Main Branch. Read and discuss, On the Beach, the 1957 apocalyptic novel by Nevil Shute. W orld War III has destroyed the entire Northern Hemisphere and deadly radiation is spreading towards Australia bringing certain death to the few remaining survivors. Among these survivors is an American submarine captain and his crew. When a faint Morse code signal is heard transmitting somewhere near Seattle the captain leads his crew into the ruined world looking for signs of life. As the radiation nears, each character deals with impending death differently. Discussion lead by Doug Soucier. Registration is requested.

Teen and Tween Programs

Monday Funday: Woven Stars: Monday, Nov. 14, 3:30–5 p.m. at the Main Branch. For grades 6–12. Create your own rustic woven winter stars using cardboard, book pages and twine. Registration requested. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Children Programs

Baby Rhyme Time: Tuesdays, Nov. 1, 15, 22 and 29 (no Nov. 8), 10:30–11 a.m. at the Main Branch. For ages Birth to 2 years, with

Library cont’d. on p. 15

NOT WANTED

Thursday, November 3, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Every other year the Connecticut In vasive Plant Working Group (CIPWG) hosts a day-long conference on invasive plants. It’s packed with presentations and workshops aimed at professionals, home gardeners and everyone in between.

CIPWG is the state’s central hub on invasive plants, and the conference is a super source of up-to-date data on best practices and plant science.

This year, as in 2020, the event is virtu al. Registration is $65 ($25 for students).

All sessions are recorded, and registrants can view at any time. Register at cipwg. uconn.edu/2022-symposium

A few of the promising presentations include:

• Strategies for Managing Invasive Plants: Assess, Remove, Replace, and Restore.

• When is a Licensed Professional Applicator the Best Option for Invasive Plant Removal—Granby’s own Zachary Donais (CT DEEP).

• How to Assess a Property for Suc cessful Invasive Plant Removal—Jessica Toro and Sari Hoy (Native Habitat Resto ration, a 15-year-old Stockbridge, Mass. invasive plant removal and native plant restoration contractor).

• Designing With Native Plants: Meld ing Function and Form—Lisa Turoczi (Earth Tones Nursery in Woodbury, a premier local supplier of native plants).

• Mile-A-Minute Weed: Ten-year Strategy for Biological Control—Carole Cheah (an expert on discovering and cul tivating insect predators for the hemlock woolly adelgid and Mile-a-Minute, CT Agricultural Experiment Station).

• Mile-A-Minute: Case Study in 100 Backyards—Kathleen Nelson (Mad Gardeners, a northwest Connecticut organization).

Plus: sessions on tree-of-heaven, aquatic invasives like hydrilla and water chestnut, how to find and propagate na tive plants from seed and how to dispose of invasive plants.

Closer to home

Granby residents join forces on the second Saturday morning of every month to control invasive plants in visible public locations such as Holcomb Farm. Visit GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly.com to sign up, to get more information on the CIPWG conference, to learn more about invasive plants and to search and access Not Wanted columns since October 2019.

Wildlife Meadow will be studied by UMass team

The recently-planted Granby Wild flower Meadow at 175 Salmon Brook Street has been chosen for a five-year study of insect pollinator networks led by a team at UMass Amherst. The study is designed to better understand the rela tionship between pollinator habitat and the diversity and abundance of bees. It will also provide detailed assessments of how pathogens affect a specific bee species.

On August 2 the UMass team visited the meadow for the first time and took baseline measurements. Every two weeks throughout the growing season the study team will observe the number and diversity of flowers and bees using stan dardized sampling methods. The team will also observe another private meadow in town to provide control observations. The UMass team will provide its data and insights to the Granby Wildflower Meadow and the Town of Granby so that we can better understand the impact of the native plant initiative on our local ecosystem.

caregivers.

Mother

Bedtime

Tuesdays, Nov. 1, 8, 15 and 29 (no Nov. 22), 6–6:30 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. Children aged 4 to 7 years join Miss Heather for stories, songs, and a craft activity. Pajamas encouraged. Registration requested.

Special Events

Dia de la Muertos (Day of the Dead) : Wednesday, Nov. 2, 4–5 p.m. at the Main Branch. For ages 8–12. Join us in celebrating the Mexican Day of the Dead with a special craft activity. Registration requested. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Thursday Makers : Thursdays, Nov. 3,

10 and 17, 4–5 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. For grades K–5. Join us for fun, engaging handson learning activities. Each week will feature a different theme and type of S.T.E.A.M. activity. Registration requested. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Pokémon Art: Saturday, Nov. 12 10:30–11:30 a.m. at the Main Branch. For grades 2–5. Join us as we prepare for the release of the next chapter of the Pokémon Game by painting our own Pokémon cards

Library cont’d. from p. 14

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum

Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum

Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY

Jason Raney

SPECIALIST

Dr. Matthew Lepowsky GENERAL DENTISTRY

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

Local woman makes history on Nantucket

began to take shape. The prize money al lowed her to hire a camp director, Skylah Reis; remaining costs were covered by Madaket Marine. This year’s session lasted only eight days, but Slattery plans for it to be a full summer program in the future.

Ten girls, aged 13–15, bunked in the marina’s employee housing and took their meals at the project headquarters— Slattery’s home. All the educational components of the program took place at the marina or on the water.

The educational components fell into the categories of a STEM curriculum: science, technology, engineering and math. A Harvard graduate working on her master’s degree in marine biology, Reis provided educational lectures and demonstrations on a wide range of ma rine-related topics that included how to raise shellfish, perform an aquatic survey, and codify the results.

By Shirley Murtha

When she was growing up on Nantuck et, Granby resident Catherine Slattery learned that being a girl had some disad vantages. She couldn’t work at or go to the Caddy Camp at the island golf club. “Boys Only” was the rule. That was al ways in the back of her mind, and, many years later, when she became one of the owners of the island’s Madaket Marine, she was determined to start a Captain’s camp for young women. Not only would this even the long-ago score, it would increase the talent pool from which she could draw staffing for the marina. What Slattery would do and how she would go about it came easily to her; raising the funds to finance the project

was a different story. Fortune favors the prepared mind goes the saying, and just the year before the Nantucket Chamber of Commerce had begun a business pitch competition based on television’s Shark contest. Individuals or small groups of entrepreneurs audition their ideas for projects. Four or five are chosen to present their concepts to a live audience and three judges. First prize is $10,000, second is $5,000 and third is $2,500.

On Sept. 24, 2021, Slattery, accom panied by three young ladies who demonstrated how to quickly activate a life vest, presented her plan to the audi ence and judges at the Dreamland theater on the island. The project won the $5,000 second prize and the Captain’s Academy

Between Reis and Slattery, the girls learned how to pilot a boat, navigate us ing GPS, find fish with SONAR, snorkel, repair engines and how to successfully

run a business by studying profit and loss statements and balance sheets. The girls also met with the Nantucket Con servation Foundation’s team of women scientists.

This program shows the young women that marine-related careers are not just for men. At this time, only two percent of the world’s 1.2 million seafarers are women. Since 1848, there have been female ma rine biologists, but not so many female boat captains, and rarely a female harbor master as there is on Nantucket. Slattery is a perfect role model for the girls: an owner of the busy Madaket Marine, she knows how to run a business and knows her way around all types of watercraft.

Paid for by Mark4CT, Robert Moss, Treasurer. Approved by Mark Anderson.

Granby

Slattery receives the $5,000 check from the Nantucket Chamber of Commerce for her Captain’s Academy proposal.

The bunk house at the Captain’s Camp.

Catherine Slattery at Madaket Marine.

Two Granby girls participated in the 2022 Captain’s Academy: Chloe Delaire (bottom row left) and Alyssa DiTommasso, (bottom row right) are both students in Granby public schools. Photos by Shirley Murtha

It’s going to be a walk in the Park!

By Shirley Murtha

The Town of Granby has received a $453,000 grant for the installation of a pedestrian-friendly walking path along the perimeter of Salmon Brook Park.

In 2018, the Town constructed a side walk along Route 10/202 that continued a bit into the park. Fast forward a few years and the Parks and Recreation Board began thinking about extending the sidewalk.

Kristine Vincent, the director of Recre ation and Leisure Services, conducted a survey in 2021 to find out what residents might like to see added to the recreation program, and specifically what they would like to see added to Salmon Brook Park. Residents gave a lot of positive feedback to extending the initial sidewalk further into the park, and now that is go ing to happen, thanks to the grant.

The grant is being provided through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), which is a state pro gram that delivers grants to small towns for capital projects. The Salmon Brook Park Pedestrian Connector is the official working title for this project. Construc tion is expected to begin the spring.

Vincent notes that persons in a wheel chair, pushing a stroller, riding a bike, running, or just walking, will be able to use this five-foot wide asphalt path to access all parts of the park and the hiking trails around it. It will connect to the McLean Game Refuge trail system, located to the west of the park. This will give those who lack sidewalks in their neighborhoods a safe place to exercise and enjoy nature.

The construction of this path contrib utes to the vision of creating a walkable connected Granby Center.

The new walking path is indicated in red, at left.

Dorothy Howard Mather, age 94, passed away on Thursday, September 15th, 2022 while under Hospice Care, surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted wife (pre-deceased), a loving mother and wonderful grandmother. Raised in Sta ord, CT, she was valedictorian of her high school class. “Dottie” then attended the University of Rhode Island and was a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority. She graduated in 1950 with a degree in Microbiology and then went on to work in the laboratory department at Hartford Hospital. In 1954 she married Richard Mather from Windsor, CT and lived in Granby and North Granby, CT for over 30 years. Dottie and Dick raised three girls: Jennifer Mather Clays of North Stonington, CT, Pamela Mather of Annapolis, MD and Leslie Mather-Jones who resides in Vero Beach, FL. Dorothy was integral in her husband’s numerous businesses, including Country Club Cars of New England in East Windsor, CT. They moved to Vero Beach in 1991. For 26 years Dottie volunteered at Indian River Hospital. She loved traveling, cross stitch, tending to her owers, reading, her dogs, seafood engagements, chocolate and, most importantly, her family. She leaves behind her daughters, son-in-laws Patrick Cullen and Darren Jones, and ve grandchildren: Tyler, Sydney, and Brendan Clays and Haley and Madison Jones. A beautiful woman of grace, she will be remembered for her grateful and generous nature.

Arrangements are entrusted to Strunk Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1623 North Central Avenue, Sebastian, Florida 32958.

You may sign a guestbook on-line at www.strunkfuneralhome.com

Dorothy Howard Mather

By Leslie O’Neill

For years, the eighth grade Washington, D.C. trip was a rite of passage for Granby Memorial Middle School students. For many, it was the first time away from home and the first time visiting our na tion’s capital. Many alumni have fond memories of trips to Washington, D.C, and still have the souvenir picture that each student received of their class on the U.S. Capitol steps. Unfortunately, due to Covid the Washington D.C. trip hasn’t happened in the past three years. However, for the current eighth-grade class, the Washington D.C. trip is back on the calendar for spring 2023 and the planning and excitement have begun.

This spring’s trip is planned for May and will be three days in length. The students will explore the various monuments and memorials, visit the Smithsonian Natural Museum of American History, National Zoo, and Museum of Natural History. They will tour the U.S. Capital, the White House for a photo opportunity, and the U.S. Supreme Court and the Library of Congress. Finally, they will visit Arling ton Cemetery and see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before returning to Granby.

Pre-Covid, the middle school would begin fundraising to help defray the trip cost in sixth grade. However, the current eighth-grade class was in fifth grade when Covid hit and the past few years have been far from normal. This has hindered planning and fundraising. It wasn’t until late this summer that the return of the Washington, D.C. trip was confirmed and announced.

Granby eighth graders— the Class of 2027—are looking for community sup

port to help bring down the overall cost of the trip so that all students have the op portunity to participate. Without financial assistance, the cost per student will be more than $700 each. Granby residents that would like to assist can donate via the direct donations link below. The Class of 2027 is also hoping there are local businesses that are willing to help with financial support. So far, the class has held dine-out events at The Grill at Cop per Hill and Four Dads Pub. Many of our local businesses have ties to the Granby school system either by having children in the schools or by being alumni who had the opportunity to attend the Washington, D.C. trip and have fond memories of the experience. Donations are tax-deductible. If you have questions, please email GMMSWashingtonDCTrip@gmail.com

To make a donation, please visit myschoolbucks.com/ver2/ prdembd?ref=ZZHFPBB22104CAU_ ZZ5W645ALAPVEFD or scan the QR code below.

Photo by Jill Hart

Class of 1972 celebrates 50 years

By Bruce Hart

As Bob waited in the check-out line at Stop and Shop, he heard a voice call out, “Mr. Bazyk”. While the man’s voice sounded vaguely familiar, it wasn’t until he turned around and saw his high school friend Charlie Ray that the flood of memories rushed back.

This chance meeting in the summer of 2021 spurred a reunion discussion between classmates Charlie Ray and Bob Bazyk. A planning committee was formed soon after and it met regularly to make the reunion a reality. Those efforts culminated at an early October gathering when the Granby Memorial High School class of 1972 celebrated its 50th reunion!

The day started with a tour led by cur rent National Honor Society members, of the GMHS campus. Many ‘72 graduates were amazed by how different everything looked with the numerous additions/ changes/improvements made over the years. Being in “our” old buildings started the memories flowing and, as we wandered the halls, we shared stories about our many experiences. In appre ciation for the students who led the tour, the class of ’72 made a modest monetary donation to the National Honor Society.

After the tour, we reconvened at La Figata for a good meal and an afternoon

of reminiscing and catching up. Twentysix graduates from across the nation, including Arizona, Oregon, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania joined in the fun. After Bazyk provided some introductory com ments, Rob Miner shared thoughts on the old days and Donna Mission Hiltz shared an email from classmate Bob Erickson. A link to a video from John Carlson was shared for later viewing. After the meal, requisite class/group photos were taken, and much table hopping went on as everyone attempted to catch up with as many old friends as possible. We were delighted to have three of our teachers, Ray Smith, and Dick and Doris Nable attend. Conversations about one-act plays and trips to Amsterdam and Paris happened with almost every graduate who chatted with them.

Barbara Moulton Guarco invited the group to her home for an after party. Many members went and continued con versations with each other or caught up with those missed at the restaurant. An other almost four hours flew by!

All involved agreed that they’d had a great time, that it had been a special day, and that we should do it again in five years.

The 1992 Granby Memorial Middle School 8th Grade Class trip to Washington D.C.

Submitted photo

Front Row: Peggy Galemski Greci, Tina Gough Gagne, Kent Bushey, Tracey Wilson, Paul Langlois. Second Row: Wendy Kemp, Mike Flynn, Keith Moquin, Gail Williams, Doris Nable (teacher), Dick Nable (teacher), Sue Bradford, Donna Mission Hiltz, Candy Walker Maillot, Gary Anderson, Deb Stenhouse, Dave Wagner, Bob Wellemeyer (’73). Third Row: Scott Cunningham, Rich Therkelsen, Barbara Moulton Guarco, Tom Roehl, Bob Fisher, Ray Smith (teacher). Back Row: Betty Courser Burkhart, Gregg Simonsen, Bob Bazyk, Bruce Hart, Rob Miner. Kenny Dubois joined us as well but is not pictured here.

Parks & Recreation

Director of Recreation and Leisure Services: Kristine Vincent, CPRP

Recreation Supervisor: Daphne Shin der

Recreation Supervisor : Terri Ziem nicki

Telephone: 860-653-8947

Website: GranbyRec.com

SPECIAL EVENTS

Comedy Night: Saturday, Nov. 13 at Holcomb Farm. Doors open 7 p.m., showtime 8 p.m. Two comedians, full bar, bring your own munchies and charcuterie. This wildly popular event sells out every year. Purchase tickets for date night ($45pp) or purchase a whole table with your friends. Comedians are popular, touring

performers and are top notch. The lineup will be announced soon, get your tickets today.

Mini Photo Sessions: Saturday, Nov. 5 (rain date Nov. 6) on grounds of Holcomb Farm. Capture beautiful pictures with your family, significant other, pet—you name it. Kristen Weldon Photography (kristenweldonphotography. com) will be on-site for a day of mini sessions with several locations to choose from at the picturesque Holcomb Farm. Sessions are 20 minutes for $100. You will receive a minimum of eight edited digital images. These filled up quickly last year so book soon if interested. After submitting payment, book at: book.usesession. com/s/LhG_p72r4

Holiday Marketplace: Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Stop by the Holcomb Farm holiday marketplace, sip a holiday cocktail and shop for

all those holiday gifts. Pick out something you can only get in one place. Soaps, holiday décor, candles, wood signs and much more.

Holiday House Decorating Contest: Do you decorate your home or business every year? Why not enter to get rewarded for all of your hard work and creativity. Join Granby Rec Department for the Third Annual Decorating event to spread some holiday cheer throughout our town. This free event is for Granby residents only. Register by Dec. 12. We will post a link with the map of all entries on Dec. .13.

Santa’s Breakfast : Sunday, Dec. 11. Two seatings, at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., in the Holcomb Farm North Barn Pavilion. You and your family are invited to this wonderful event that includes a full, catered breakfast, holiday craft making, a visit with Mrs. Claus and Santa and more. Don’t

forget to bring your wish list for Santa. Limited seating available, register today so you don’t miss out.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Granby Nature Preschool: Granby Nature Preschool is a farm and nature preschool for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds based at Holcomb Farm. It is a five-day program for morning, afternoon or full day, except Fridays which are half day, with visits to, or visitors from, local farms and nature trails. The school embraces outdoor living and learning, so participants plan to be outside for some part of every day except in extreme weather. Indoors at The Barn at Holcomb, learning is enhanced learning through community living, relationship building, caring for one another and plants, and with art, movement, music and storytelling activities.

Rolling enrollment is offered for new students including children who turn three after school begins. New students will start at the 1st of every month. Fees are pro-rated on a monthly basis. GNP follows the Granby Public School calendar. For questions, please contact director Amanda Hochschartner at info@granbynaturepreschool. com Register at GranbyRec.com

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Granby Youth Basketball League: Now is the time to register for the winter Youth Basketball Program. The league strives to provide a positive recreational basketball program for youths in grades K-8, to instruct the players in the rules of the game, to develop individual skills, to foster teamwork and proper sportsmanlike attitudes, to establish a foundation of basics for future support of the High School programs and to create an opportunity for children to be with their friends and to make new friends.

All State and local Covid policies will be followed and masks will be required by all indoors. This program is open to girls and boys in grades K–8. Leagues consist of co-ed grade K; co-ed grade 1; grade 2 girls and boys divisions (gr. 2 divisions will combine if necessary), boys’ grades 3-4, 5-6, 7-8; girls’ grades 3-4, 5-6, 7-8. There is no special team request placement. Register now. Early Bird Registration Deadline: Friday, Nov. 11 and pay $110. Registrations received after Nov. 11 will be $135.

Food Explorers, Fall Baking: Thursdays, Nov. 11–Dec. 8, 4:30–5:30 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park House. For grades 3–6. Join Food Explorers for five brand new baking recipes. Each week make and bake something delicious: Pumpkin Mousse Cups, Caramel Apple Cheesecakes, Carrot Cake Energy Bites, Pumpkin Cannoli Cones and Snickerdoodle Dip. Recipes are nut free and will contain dairy and/or eggs. $99.

AFTER SCHOOL

Art-ventures

Fall

Mad

Monday

Monday

Nutmeg

Reader’s

Thursdays TEAM Sports with Mr. Migneault at Wells Road School

Tuesdays Rock Wall Program with Mr. Norton at Kelly Lane School

Soccer Shots at Salmon Brook Park

SPECIAL EVENT AND PROGRAMS

Thanksgiving Luncheon : Thursday, Nov. 17, 12–1:30 p.m. Sponsored by SafePals Home Care. We will be serving a traditional turkey dinner with stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables and pumpkin pie for dessert. Cost: $8

MakeUp for Mature Women Workshop: Thursday, Nov. 10, 1–3:30 p.m. This workshop is the perfect place for women to learn how to create a makeup style that compliments their personal features and skin tone. We will explore products and tools and musthaves for your personal makeup collection. You will participate in hands-on makeup demonstrations. Workshop led by Joby Rogers, a certified, professional makeup artist with 30+ years’ experience. Cost: $20.

Christmas Lights and Song Trip : Wednesday, Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m. –6 p.m. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Student Prince, a charming, German-style restaurant in the heart of downtown Springfield, known for its fine food and service and beautifully decorated for the holidays. The full course meal will offer a choice of roast pork with apple glaze or baked scrod with crumb topping or chicken schnitzel with gravy, and includes salad, vegetable, potato, apple strudel a la mode and coffee. Be entertained during lunch by the famous Fort Street Holiday Carolers Sing Along!

Following lunch spend time at MGM Springfield Casino with its slots and table games. Casino bonus not available at this time.

After the casino head to the pure magic of Bright Nights at Forest Park in Springfield, with over 2 1/2 miles of lighting displays and 250,000 lights. This is a riding tour on our deluxe motor coach through one of the Top Ten Holiday Happenings in America while listening to Christmas carols. Cost: $105.

LIFETIME LEARNING

ACADEMY

Katharine Hepburn: Tuesday, Nov. 1, 10–11 a.m. Katharine Hepburn was an American actress of film, stage and television. Hepburn’s career as a Hollywood leading lady spanned more than 60 years. Known for her headstrong independence and spirited personality, she cultivated a screen persona that matched the public image, and regularly played strong-willed, sophisticated women. Presenter: Joseph Ouellette. Cost: $5.

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: Tuesdays, Nov. 1 to Dec. 27, 1–2 p.m. Since 1979, Betty Edwards’s book, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain®, has enabled millions of people around the world to learn to draw. Would you like to learn to draw and paint skillfully and beautifully? Or perhaps you just want to enhance your creativity and learn to see the world in new ways? If so, you are in the right place! Instructor: Gail Altschwager. Cost: $25, includes workbook and kit.

Southwick Jog Story: Wednesday, Nov. 16, 1–2 p.m. How did the Southwick Jog come to be? The one-square-mile piece of Southwick that descends below the border and resides

Parks & Rec. cont’d. from p. 20

ADULT PROGRAMS

Paint Night with Paint Craze: Thursday, Dec. 1, 7–9 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. Grab a friend or two for a fun evening of canvas painting. Paint a cute welcoming snowman who will warm your heart. Perfect for a gift or a personalized welcome sign. Everything

in Connecticut, was the subject of controversy between the two states for 150 years. What made this piece of land so attractive? How did a surveyor’s mistake start this long dispute? Learn how this happened from noted story-teller Mike Allen. Cost: $5.

Cookie Decorating : Wednesday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. –1 p.m. You will learn how to beautifully decorate holiday cookies with an instructor from Mimi’s School of Cake Decorating. You will get one dozen cookies to decorate and take home with you. Limited to 12 students. Register by Nov. 18. Cost: $10, includes all supplies and a gift.

TRIPS

Smith College Chrysanthemum Show : Monday, Nov. 7, 9:30 a.m. –3:30 p.m. Botanic Garden staff and horticulture students begin preparing for the Chrysanthemum Show months ahead to ensure that everything is ready opening night. The show is a look at how they create some of the floral pyrotechnics. Cost: $10.

Corbin Corner: Friday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Shopping at the Corbin Corner stores and lunch on your own. Cost: $5.

Dine and Drive–Maine Fish Market: Wednesday, Nov. 30, 11 a.m. –3 p.m. The Vamvilis family began a Fish Market in 1980 that had a retail market and served take out fish and chips and other entrées. Nick and John Vamvilis have run the restaurant in the current location since 1986. Cost: $5.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

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

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

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

Cribbage: Fridays, 1–3:30 p.m. and Tuesdays, 6 p.m. Free.

Set Back: Tuesdays, 1–3:30 p.m. Free.

Music Jam: Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. –1 p.m. Bring your instrument and join in. Music from 60s-80s. Free.

Stamping: Thursday, Nov. 17, 9:30–11 a.m. Make beautiful cards for all occasions. All materials provided. Cost: $5.

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

Camera Club: First Monday of the month at 7 p.m. The club is for photography enthusiasts. Each

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

If you are a Granby Senior Center member, please register for programs through SchedulesPlus.com/granby If you are not a member of the Granby Senior Center or you do not have access to a computer, please call 860-844-5352

month a different topic of interest is discussed. Annual membership is $10.

Women’s Breakfast : Wednesday, Nov. 2, 8:30–10 a.m. On the Road Again, with world traveler Charmaine Glew. Cost: $5.

Men’s Breakfast: Friday, Nov. 4, 8:30-10 a.m. Cost: $3.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Hearing Screenings: Second Tuesday of the month, 9–11 a.m. Hearing Care Centers will be on-site conducting hearing screenings that include hearing aid cleaning and evaluation. Free.

Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic : Thursdays, 11–12:30 p.m. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association. Held in the Senior Center Community Room.

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

Footcare with Sarah: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 8:30 a.m. –2:30 p.m. By appointment only. Cost $35, not covered by insurance.

Medicare 101 and 2023 Updates: Wednesday, Nov. 2, 1:30-2:30 p.m. What are the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, HMO, POS, PPO, and PDP? What is new in 2023 for Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D? What are your choices and when can you make changes? Come learn about these things and more, presented by Chris O’Neil from AIM Insurance Agency. Free.

Hospice and Palliative Care Informational Presentation: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 10–11 a.m. November is National Hospice and Palliative Care month. “Death is not something I want to think about” is a common sentiment, but are you aware of the different options for end-of-life care? Tully Meyer from McLean Home Care and Hospice will provide an educational presentation regarding Hospice, Palliative Care and different end-of-life options. Free.

Medicare Made Perfectly Clear: Monday, Nov. 14, 1–2 p.m. New to Medicare? Coming off Group sponsored employer plan? Already have Medicare

but not sure if you’re on the right plan? All of these questions will be answered by Madison Roberson, from Roberson Tierney and Associates. Register by Nov. 10. Free.

EXERCISE PROGRAMS

Chi Gong via Zoom: Wednesdays, Oct. 12–Nov. 30, 9–9:45 a.m. The practice of Chi Gong helps us to feel grounded, nurtured and relaxed so that the body’s energy can be naturally directed to help our organs function optimally, create flexibility in the muscles, suppleness in the joins and bring balance to our emotions. Accessible and beneficial to all skill levels. Instructor: Mary Ellen Mullins. Cost for 8 classes: $54 residents, $63 non-residents.

Gentle Movement for Strength and Balance: Mondays, Oct. 3–Nov. 28, 11:15 a.m. This class will gently increase your strength, help your ability to balance, and provide stretching to maintain and increase mobility. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Cost for 8 classes: $48 residents, $56 non-residents.

Chair Yoga : Tuesdays, Oct. 4–Nov. 29, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic Yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Cost for 9 classes: $48 residents, $56 non-residents.

Tai Chi/Qi Gong: Thursdays, Oct. 13–Nov. 17, 9–10 a.m. Instructor, Maryellen Mullins. Continuing the forms learned in previous sessions, this class will move on to learn Forms 9–12 of the Yang style Tai Chi. The first half of class will consist of Qi Gong warmups. Experience in first eight forms required to participate. Cost for 6 classes: $48 residents, $56 non-residents.

Yoga : Tuesdays, Oct. 4–Nov. 29, 4-5 p.m. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilates floor work. Cost for 9 classes: $48 residents, $56 non-residents.

Line Dancing with Mary Root: Thursdays, Nov. 3–Dec. 29 (no Nov. 24), 1:30–2:30 p.m. Instructor, Mary Root. A line dance is a choreographed dance in which a group of people dance along to a repeating sequence of steps while arranged in one or more line or rows. No experience needed, learn as you go. Cost for 8 classes: $48 residents, $56 non-residents.

you need will be supplied including a 12” x 24” canvas. Feel free to bring food and beverages to enjoy while you paint. $40.

Adult Rec Basketball : Mondays and Thursdays, 7–9 p.m. at Wells Road Gym.

Granby Rec is offering up the gym for adults to come and play pick-up games. $75 season pass or $3 drop-in fee.

Each of these local candidates in the November election was invited to submit biographical information and to reply to the questions below.

What are the top two issues facing Connecticut and what will you do about them if elected? Here are their responses.

State Senator

7th District

Cynthia Mangini Democratic Candidate

I am Cynthia Mangini. I have been an Enfield resident for over 50 years. I earned my Associates in the Arts de gree from Asnuntuck Community college, went on to earn my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Connecticut and a Masters in law from western New England University. I have rep resented Enfield as a town council member for 20 years. I also have served as a board member for Connecticut Conference of Municipali ties. As the first woman from Connecticut to serve on the board of directors for National League of Cities, I served as vice chair of the Finance Administrative Intergovernmental Relations committee and on the public finance committee. I am honored to have been able to serve in these capacities.

As your State Senator I will defend our freedoms and make our state more appealing and prosperous. I support early voting and increased accessed to voting. Laws that protect LGBTQ, minorities and other groups who are often discrimi nated against need to be strengthened. Supporting women’s reproductive rights, stronger gun safety laws, continuing to support tax reductions, protecting our environment through better legislation, improving our infrastructure—roads and bridges—including expanding public transport, and bringing better paying jobs to Connecticut are all ways this will be accomplished.

We are living in challenging times. Two top issues facing our state are women’s reproductive rights, and taxes. In order to provide our residents with the quality of life they deserve, we need to address these issues. I will take steps necessary to protect women’s reproductive rights by supporting a woman’s right to make her own reproductive decisions. It is not government’s role to make these deci sions for her. Also, I will ensure that our state takes measures to work with fiscal responsibility. To accomplish these goals, it is important that government work in a bi-partisan fashion. I have reached across the aisle numerous times on a local level to successfully get the work done. I will continue in this manner to meet our goals on a state level.

State Senator 7th District

John Kissel Republican Incumbent

State Senator John A. Kissel, is current ly the Chief Deputy Senate Republican Leader, and the Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee, addressing matters relating to the Department of Correc tions, courts, judicial procedures, and criminal law.

Sen. Kissel also serves as Ranking Senator on the Regulations Review

Committee, which reviews regulations proposed by state agencies before regula tions are implemented. Additionally, he serves as a member of the General Law and Transportation Committees.

For many years, Senator Kissel has been a leading advo cate for seniors. He has received Legis lative Achievement Awards from AARP for his efforts to protect seniors from financial exploitation.

The Connecticut chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driv ing (MADD) selected Senator Kissel to receive the Public Policy Award for his dedication to promote safe and sober driving through legislation in 2016.

In 2012, Senator Kissel was named Legislator of the Year by the Connecticut National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials for his efforts in promoting safe, sanitary and drug-free housing.

In 2007, he received the Connecticut Commission on Aging’s Agewise Advo cate Award, given for ongoing exemplary support of seniors. He was recognized by the Connecticut Association of Adult Day Care Centers for his work on behalf of adult day cares.

Senator Kissel was named Legislator of the Year by the Connecticut Assisted Living Association and the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association.

I am running for re-election because the 7th District deserves a strong voice that will fight for working families to make Connecticut safe and affordable. Connecticut’s economy and its policies are not delivering for working, middle class families. We are facing a 40-year high inflation in a state where residents are overtaxed and income growth is not keeping up with the cost of living. Ev ery working- and middle-class family is experiencing tough times, trying to figure out how to balance their household budgets and meet the needs of their loved ones as prices skyrocket on everything from food to heating oil to health care.

Connecticut must do better. I’ve put for ward a package of proposals that show a better way forward. These include pro posals to cut taxes by over $1.2 billion including a permanent cut to the income tax on wages, social security and pen sions, a plan to reduce families’ health insurance premiums by over $6,400 per year on average, and policies to better support our workforce with pathways to careers and job growth. Learn more at BetterWayCT.com

We need to make our state a safer place with a holistic approach to not only ad dress the symptoms of crime, but to get to the root causes of crime—that includes judicial reforms, creating opportunity, safe housing, and mental health support.

We must create opportunities and good paying jobs that will enable everyone to find prosperity and success. I have advocated for comprehensive solutions to improve Connecticut’s crime response, support law enforcement, and remove barriers to intervention services, as well as policies to address the root causes of crime including issues related to trauma, education, housing, and jobs. I will con tinue to fight for solutions that not only

ensure law enforcement and our justice system have the tools they need to keep all people safe, but that also strive to end the cycle of juvenile injustice and a lack of opportunity that pushes people, especially young people, towards crime. Learn more at SaferCT.com

State Senator 8th District

Paul Honig Democratic Candidate

Paul Honig lives in Harwinton with his wife, Diane, and their two sons, Jake (23) and Harry (20). Honig is currently serving his second term on the Harwinton Board of Selectmen. Honig graduated from the University of Pennsylvania’s Dual De gree Management and Technology program in 1985. He earned a BSE in finance from the Wharton School of Business and a BAS from the School of En gineering and Applied Science in computer science. Honig had a successful 22-year ca reer in fixed income finance. He currently serves as treasurer for two local charities and is a Food Rescue US volunteer. Affordability is an important issue facing our state. Connecticut was an expensive place to live even before the inflation we’ve experienced recently. With the current surplus, I’m committed to finding sustainable ways to reduce taxes on working families. I’m open to continuing the gas tax holiday, extending the child tax rebate, expanding the ex emption of retirement income from state income taxes, and listening to other ideas. However, taxes aren’t the only prob lem. It’s the cost of healthcare, housing, electricity, education and internet ac cess. For me the cost of healthcare and prescription drugs is most pressing. It’s a burden on individuals, it’s a huge bur den on businesses, and municipal, and state budgets. In recent years, the state passed a landmark transparency law to shine a light on the process for pricing prescription drugs. Drug companies must provide an explanation when the price of a drug increases above a threshold— but the law has no teeth. I support creating a Prescription Drug Affordability Board like several other states have done with the authority to cap drug prices when they’re priced unfairly.

The Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision handed down in June has made abortion rights a top issue in Connecticut. Abor tion is a personal decision, and the state should not be involved. The vast major ity of abortions happen very early on in a pregnancy. Tragic, situations resulting from complications affecting the life or health of the mother or the viability of the pregnancy lead to abortions later in a pregnancy. Medical practitioners who perform or assist with abortions should not have to think twice about providing critical medical care, or worry that they might be breaking the law. I support last year’s legislation that expanded those practitioners allowed to perform some abortions and protected abortion provid ers and patients from being sued in state courts that have vigilante anti-abortion laws. Connecticut’s abortion laws have served its women well for more than 30 years. I support them and will fight to preserve them.

State Senator 8th District

Lisa Seminara Republican Candidate

I am an elected member of the Avon Board of Education, licensed clinical social worker and dedicated community servant. I graduated with honors from St. John’s University and later earned a mas ter’s degree in social work from Colum bia University. My husband Nick and I have three children: Martina, Madelyn and Nicholas. When Mar tina was born with Cerebral Palsy, advocating for her and for all who live with disabilities became my life’s mission. I founded the Avon Special Education Parent Association, became active in Special Olympics, Amy’s Angels, and created a nonprofit that developed a large parcel of land into Avon’s first fully handicap-accessible playground that was then donated to the Town of Avon. I am a candidate for the State Senate seat in District 8, as a Republican and Independent.

Connecticut’s Economy: We need common-sense reforms to bring inflation under control, attract private investment, stop government overreach, and create the conditions for sustainable economic growth. There is no single policy or piece of legislation that will accomplish this. The only way to create a truly afford able Connecticut is to elect people who will consistently apply common-sense principles to every bill that crosses their desks. I will be relentless in pushing back on waste and reckless spending with the following commitments to restore affordability.

Spend Within Our Means and Reduce Tax Burden: Connecticut suffers from a spending problem. Confine state budget spending to only what we can afford. Require adherence to the constitutional spending cap.

Pay Down Debt: Reduce the amount of borrowing—bonding should be limited to public works projects, e.g., schools and roads. Eliminate pet projects and fund only those projects that provide a compelling return on investment.

If It’s Not Broken, Don’t Fix It; But If It’s Not Working, Get Rid of It: For every new budget line item created, at least one must be eliminated—stop the endless bureaucracy expansion and eliminate programs that do not deliver results. Re quire evaluations of every state-funded program every two years.

The More Government Tries to Do, The Less It Does Well: Be laser-focused on the core functions of government and hold departmental leaders accountable for their agency’s performance.

We Should Have All the Government We Need, But Only the Government We Need: Consolidate government ser vices to eliminate duplication, waste, and fraud. Oppose legislation that results in more regulation. Support legislation that results in lower taxes, expanded opportu nities for entrepreneurs, a more friendly climate for businesses, and places real value on innovation, responsibility, and hard work.

Crime: I will restore safety and secu rity by supporting policies that protect victims, deter crime, and support law

Cynthia Mangini

John Kissel

Paul Honig

Lisa Seminara

enforcement. The Connecticut State Fraternal Order of Police has endorsed me as, “the best candidate to move the safety and security of this state forward.”

Attracting and retaining good police officers must be a priority that starts by having their back and protecting them from personal liability stemming from baseless complaints.

Fentanyl killed over 1,500 people last year in Connecticut and in most cases, the user was unaware that the drug had been laced with Fentanyl. The penalties in Connecticut for those that distribute this deadly drug must be severe enough to end this crisis.

State Representative 62nd District

Kim Becker Democratic Candidate

My husband Chris and I moved our family to Granby 14 years ago to be close to my parents. Since then, I have used my Masters in Social Work every day in my community work and family life. It was my honor to be a Chair of Valley Pre-School, on the steering com mittee for Celebrate Granby 225, and the education reporter for The Granby Drum mer. Currently, I serve our community as Chair of the Granby Education Foundation, board member of the Granby Ambulance Association, and a member of the Granby Commission on Aging. As a Cyber Lion, I also volunteer at the Barkhamsted Senior Center.

In this work, I learned how to col laborate to forge the best solutions and that leadership has much more to do with listening and doing than titles. As your State Representative, I will work tirelessly on the issues that you told me are important: affordability, quality healthcare, good public schools, helping seniors, and working in a bipartisan way to ensure that policies made in Hartford help our rural towns.

When I speak with people across the district, affordability is the key issue. Many people, particularly those on fixed incomes, are concerned about keeping their homes and staying in their commu nities. Because our small towns haven’t had a seat at the table with the leadership in Hartford, they have no idea how the policies made there impact here.

As your State Representative, I will work across the aisle to find common ground and fair solutions to issues that matter to us: good schools, quality healthcare, and stabilized property taxes. Because the Democrats voted to pay down the pension debts that have plagued Connecticut for decades, the state can now afford to fully fund our schools through the Education Cost Sharing and Special Needs Education formulas. This would be a win for our students, our town budgets, and our property taxes. By tak ing the pressure and uncertainty off the largest part of our towns’ budgets, we can reduce our reliance on property taxes to fund the schools, the backbone of our communities.

I also hear a lot of concern about the economy in general. High inflation and energy costs have taken a toll on our fam ily budgets, especially for our seniors and those on fixed incomes. Connecticut has some of the highest energy costs in the country both because our regulators are recruited out of the industry and because of our reliance on natural gas to create electricity. As your State Representa tive, I will support efforts to break the revolving door between regulators and industry. We need regulators who will hold the industry accountable to consum ers, not plump the profits of shareholders.

Additionally, I believe the Consumer Ad vocate’s role should be stronger putting consumers, not shareholders, front and center in rate discussions. This position should have the ability to truly oppose the outrageous rate spikes this public utility has demanded each year and actually pro tect consumers. I will also work to reduce our reliance on natural gas by investing in clean energy industries and in education programs to train workers moving into these jobs. While these investments will

take time, they will make Connecticut a leader in clean energy and job growth.

My experience and skills of building trust and working across the aisle to improve our communities make me the best choice to represent the 62nd District. I ask for your vote on Nov. 8.

State Representative 62nd District

Mark Anderson Republican Incumbent

My first term as your State Repre sentative has been deeply rewarding. I have enjoyed assisting constituents, building relationships, and promoting the best public poli cies for Connecticut.

My wife Carole and I have lived in the 62nd District for over eight years, first in Hartland and then in Granby. Carole is a retired dental hygienist, and our three daughters live in Granby and Hartland. My two sons live nearby in Western Massachu setts. We have one granddaughter who we care for twice a week.

Before entering politics, my call to public service was with the Army. It was a dual career as a part-time Army Reserve Military Intelligence officer, and as a full-time Army civilian employee. I served in multiple command, supervi sory, and staff positions while assigned to infantry, military intelligence, civil affairs and logistics units. The highlight of this service was a 2+ year mobilization to the Defense Intelligence Agency at the Pentagon. There, I led a team of analysts in the Iraq Intelligence Working Group which provided daily intelligence to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. While there, I was promoted to Lieuten ant Colonel.

I earned a Bachelor’s in Government from Western New England University. Following retirement from the Army, I completed a Master’s in Public Policy from Liberty University in 2018. I am also a 2021 graduate of the Charter Oak

Leadership Program, which aspires “to be Connecticut’s premier institute to develop, strengthen, train and equip emerging leaders to reach new heights in public policy and the political process.” All of these studies have prepared me to be a better legislator.

In my free time, I enjoy travel, as well as outdoor activities like hiking, biking, wildlife photography, hunting, fishing, kayaking, and golf. Despite the legis lature being a part-time job, however, there never seems to be enough time for leisure activities.

For me, these are making Connecticut more affordable, and increasing local control. Both are among the five legisla tive proposals of the House Republican Campaign Committee’s Contract with Connecticut. They are backed by the Republican House leadership, legislators, and candidates, and are not simply the good ideas of one legislator.

First, the proposed Affordable Con necticut Act offers relief to residents who face tremendous financial pressure from inflation and decades of tax increases. It includes reducing the income tax from 5 percent to 4 percent for the middle class, increasing property tax credits, reducing the sales tax, and repealing the highway use tax (HUT) on trucks that will drive up the cost of everything. The HUT will go into effect on January 1, 2023.

Second, the proposed Local Control Act would reduce state interference in local affairs. One example is to “take a more honest approach to affordable housing by including existing properties that meet income-based affordability standards, and eliminate the requirement for deed restrictions for owner-occupied affordable housing which restricts the ability to create home equity.”

In conclusion, these proposed changes may seem too incremental for some. They are, however, a reversal from long term trends by lowering taxes and empowering local government. I ask for your vote on Nov. 8, so that, as stated in the Contract with Connecticut, I can be part of “a new legislative majority that will challenge the status quo and trans form a state government that is too big, too expensive, and too intrusive.”

Connecticut Allow for Early Voting Amendment

The Connecticut Allow for Early Vot ing Amendment is a question on the ballot in Connecticut as a legislativelyreferred constitutional amendment on Nov. 8.

A “yes” vote supports amending the state constitution to authorize the state legislature to provide by law for inperson early voting before an election.

A “no” vote opposes amending the state constitution, thereby maintaining that early voting is not authorized in the state.

from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. All Granby resi dents will vote in the Granby Community Gym, located in Granby Memorial High School in the center of town. Traffic is anticipated to be heavy. Access the gym will be from the high school’s entrance off North Granby Road–Route 189, next to Public Works. Voters will leave the polls from Salmon Brook Street –Route 10/202, next to the Middle School. All Granby schools will be closed on Election Day. The Registrars strongly recommend voting between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if you have the option to do so, as the heaviest voting will be between 6 and 10 a.m., and the second rush will be between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Expect an outside line

When you come to the polls be pre pared to wait, be patient, wear a mask and dress warmly—it may take extra time to cast votes, especially with 10 races. We expect 5,000 and 6,000 people will be voting.

at the Moderator’s table IF you have previously proven your ID. With no federal offices, provisional ballots are not available.

Voting is by District, and alphabetical by street. Not sure which district you are in? Residents in the southwest corner of Granby, roughly 6 percent of the town, live in District 2. Check in the lobby for the short street list.

Parking will be an issue with longer voting times

We are anticipating over 300 cars per hour, so please be patient. All voters must enter using the North Granby Road/ Route 189 entrance next to Public Works and exit using the Salmon Brook Street/ Route 10/202 exit, next to the Middle School.

IVS Ballot Marking System is available for everyone

requested by the voter. In addition to the touch screen and audio ballot options, the Registrars have added an adaptive button and SNP (Sip and Puff) option to aid voters who would like to be able to cast a ballot privately and independently.

Election Day Registration at Town Hall

One Polling Site for the Election

For the Gubernatorial Election on Tuesday, Nov. 8, the polls will be open

To speed check in at the polls, please have a photo ID handy. Should you not have a photo ID, there is a form to swear and attest your identity to fill out

A touch screen voting option is avail able for those who have trouble using a pen, or seeing the ballot. This system can also read aloud the ballot to a voter, allowing everyone to vote privately and independently. It is a printer ballot marking system which fills the ovals as

Same day registration, also known as Election Day Registration is available at Town Hall, for eligible US Citizens who are 18 or older on Election Day. New voters must provide proof of both identity AND residency if they wait until Election Day to vote at Town Hall. The data entry and crosstown check take time, Election Day Registration can be a lengthy process. If you come on Election Day be prepared to wait outside if there is a line. To ensure no one votes twice, those who are from a different town in Connecticut will have their ballot set aside. A confirmation phone call with their previous town must affirm they have not voted before the ballot can be counted. Voters can prefill their voter registration form online prior to and on Election day: voterregistration.ct.gov

Kim Becker

Mark Anderson

Granby

Alex Lopez

Alexander Anisimov

Annukka Ritalahti

Bill McGonagle

Carolyn Dittes

George Mattingly

Laura Eden (r)

Linda Yarasevecz (l), Avis Cherichetti (r)

Mark Gottlieb

Rita Law-McConaghy

Sally Markey

Susan Canavan (l)

Photos of the artists by Shirley Murtha

Alyssa Bordanaro sends

Granby Memorial junior goalkeeper Divine Collins kicks a deep goalie punt.

Granby Memorial freshman Noah DelGallo sends a cross to a teammate.

Granby Memorial junior Chas Orluk scores a goal against SMSA.

Jay Harder, Granby Camera

Make Holcomb Farm part of your end-of-year giving

So much good is happening at Holcomb Farm—for the benefit of not only Granby residents, but residents throughout the region—and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of our members. Our members are our supporters, plain and simple. Make a gift to Holcomb Farm and you are considered a member for the year. Nothing is asked of our members, and in return for your membership, you will receive advance notice of special events at the farm. You also will get the satisfaction of knowing you supported a community resource that grows healthy food without chemical pesticides, pro vides the public with opportunities for outdoor recreation, is building an educational Tree Trail for public use, mows meadows and manages invasives to support the pollinators—and enhance our views—helps feed people in need, includes hundreds of acres of wildlife habitat, and pays homage to our past with an eye always toward the future.

If you’re a current member, thank you, and we hope you will renew your membership for 2023. Our annual ap peal drive starts now. If you’re not yet a member, please consider supporting our organization through an annual gift of $25 or more. You can donate online at holcombfarm.org (click on “Donate”) or use the QR code that accompanies this article to go directly to our donation page.

Funds donated by our members sup port all our programs, including Fresh Access through which we provided $80,000-worth of fresh produce to people in need last year, and the Holcomb Tree Trail—our arboretum/interpretive trail, where our volunteers have planted ap proximately 80 trees and have created a series of fascinating, educational signs about the trees, wildlife, and history of the area.

We hope you will consider supporting this vibrant community organization this year.

Would

Add local veggies to your fall meals

Our Winter CSA sold out in record time this year, but you still can get your hands on some delicious Holcomb Farm vegetables. If you haven’t tried Holcomb Farm carrots or sweet potatoes yet, you don’t know what you’re missing. What could be better for your Thanksgiving

meal than delicious local produce, grown sustainably on a historic New England farm? Here are opportunities to buy Hol comb Farm veggies this month:

Start November Right Veggie Sale at Holcomb Farm Store, 111 Simsbury Road, Nov. 4 and 5, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Big Thanksgiving Veggie Sale at Hol comb Farm Store, 111 Simsbury Road, Nov. 18, 19, 21 and 22, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Thanksgiving Market at Lost Acres Vineyard, 80 Lost Acres Road, Nov. 21, 1-7 p.m.

Summer CSA Feedback

Our Summer CSA shares sold out again this year, and the farm was hopping all summer long. Our crew worked hard in the hot fields to provide the community with beautiful, delicious, nutrient-dense vegetables. Here’s some of the feedback we heard:

“The CSA produce has been excep tional this year. The variety and quality are the best. Thank you to you and all the farm workers.”

“Always a great experience.”

“Thank you so much! We are so appre ciative of your hard work and have loved our summer share. We are so happy to be able to continue into the winter!”

“We’ve enjoyed coming to the farm. Staff are always friendly. The vegetables, and fruit, taste so much better than what you can buy in the store. Thank you for what you do!”

“Thank you to Holcomb Farm - love the farm and the experience of picking up my CSA.”

“Always a wonderful experience. Friendly, comfortable, relaxing and grounding.”

“This is my happy place!”

“First time shopping here- loved the fresh amazing offerings- I’ll be back!”

“Always friendly staff.”

“We LOVE Holcomb Farm!”

Think you’d like to participate in the Holcomb Farm CSA next summer? Go to our website today and sign up to receive emails from Holcomb Farm so you’ll be among the first to hear when shares go on sale!

Tree Trail Hikes Update

Sunny and pleasant weather with oc casional light breezes greeted 15 walkers at the Holcomb Tree Trail on Open Farm Day. The group walked the mowed grass paths to view and learn about the 80 trees of over 30 species planted since October 2018.

Barry Avery and Eric Lukingbeal led the group, describing how the trees are watered (5-gallon buckets driven uphill in a Subaru), where they are sourced (Rare Earth Nursery in Cazenovia, N.Y., O’Brien Nursery in Granby and Bosco’s Nursery in Simsbury), and how invasive plants are managed with volunteers and no chemicals.

The tour lasted almost two hours. Friends of Holcomb Farm offers tours of the Tree Trail to interested groups of all ages. The Trail is also open to the public 365 days from dawn to dusk.

Winter CSA Shares have sold out, but you can still get your hands on some delicious produce, grown right here at Holcomb Farm, by attending one of our special sales this winter. You can get winter squash, carrots, beets, potatoes, sweet potatoes, greens from our greenhouse and much more. Go to holcombfarm.org for details.

Photo by Melody Smith.

Granby’s Cherichetti displays rug at weaving center

Great things are happening in the Hartford Artisan Weaving Center studios, from intricate handwoven scarves to beautiful wall hangings and rugs.

The Hartford Artisans Weaving Center, 42 Woodland Street in Hartford, is a supportive and creative community that preserves, promotes, and teaches the craft of hand-weaving. Visit on Nov. 12-13 for the Annual Open House and Sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit weavingcenter. org

Lou Cherichetti displays his rug woven with shades of green including grassy green and seafoam. Submitted photo

Melody Smith, a member of our amazing Farm Crew, wed Joshua Welch in a beautiful ceremony at the Farm on Oct. 1. It rained hard that day and the barn area was muddy, but Melody knew she could count on her fellow crew members to keep her gown out of the mud. Photo by Lyndsay Hannah Photography

Happy fall from the Farm Crew at Holcomb Farm. Photo by Emma Hoyt

Selectmen approve Holcomb Farm Conservation and Sustainability Plan

Friends of Holcomb Farm and Granby Land Trust work with Town to build a sustainable future

By Jenny Emery

At its October 17 meeting, the Granby Board of Selectman (BOS), in front of a packed meeting room and with many people joining via Zoom, reviewed the proposed Holcomb Farm Conservation and Sustainability Plan (“the Plan”), listened to input and took questions from some 20 residents. The vote, after three hours, was unanimous in favor of the plan. Future Drummer articles will report more specifically on the meeting. This article briefly outlines the Plan and provides answers to Frequently Asked Questions to help the community better understand this historic action.

The Plan, available on the BOS website in the meeting packet located under “Public Documents” (granby-ct. gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3171/f/uploads/ bos_packet_10_17_22.pdf), does the following:

• Places a permanent conservation ease ment held by the Granby Land Trust on 277 acres of the 310-acre town-owned property, which restricts the Town from ever subdividing or developing the land (see map);

• Accepts a $500,000 gift from the Granby Land Trust to establish a new Town-owned restricted fund, the Hol comb Farm Stewardship Fund, to invest and support the Town’s capital and oper ating costs at Holcomb Farm; and

• Revises the historic 30-year relation ship between the Town and the Friends of Holcomb Farm (“the Friends”) through a 15-year, renewable Lease and Use Agreement, more clearly articulating the Friends’ role in performing its nonprofit farming and volunteer land stewardship services.

In an effort to help the community bet ter understand how excited the Friends are about this Plan, we offer the fol lowing answers to Frequently Asked Questions.

Why Now? Interest in permanent pres ervation of the property has existed since the Farm first came to the town in 1992 and has been identified as a goal in the

Town’s Plan of Conservation and Devel opment. The Town’s and Friends’ use of the farm, for the benefit of Granby, has evolved over the past 30 years.

The last 10 years have seen increased community-focused uses of the property. This includes the Town’s management of the Main Campus for programming and revenue-generating events, and the Friends’ financially sustainable farming program and new investments, like the Tree Trail, that require long-term stabil ity and predictability. Both the town and the Friends want to build on this momentum. This proposal offers the structural enhancements, including per manent restrictions against development of much of the land, that will allow the Farm to serve the community and thrive in perpetuity.

Where did the $500,000 come from? Past and current donors to the Granby Land Trust have made it possible for the GLT to support the permanent preservation of open space in Granby. While the Holcomb Farm is a unique situation—it is already Town-owned and tax-exempt—this donation to launch the new Town-owned restricted fund supports and encourages the Town’s continued capital and operational invest ments in this asset.

How will the money be used? The fund will be the Town’s, but the Plan restricts the Town’s uses of the fund and its investments to support its asset, the Farm. If the fund grows beyond a specified size, some can be used for other town-wide passive recreation activities.

How does this help the Friends? The Friends of Holcomb Farm exist only so long as the Holcomb Farm exists. Their ability to receive larger grants and build longer-term endowments to support its programs, such as Fresh Access and the Tree Trail, are greatly enhanced when they can assure the donors that much of the Farm’s land is now protected forever.

This permanency of forever protection will further strengthen the operation of Holcomb Farm and the Friends of Hol comb Farm.

Holcomb Tree Trail fall color

By Eric Lukingbeal

Sometimes, we just get lucky.

This fall, conditions have been close to ideal for brilliant leaf color at Holcomb Farm. According to the U.S. Forest Service, warm sunny days and cool, but not freezing nights make for the best color. Soil moisture, temperature and weather are also factors. As daylight wanes, chlorophyll production drops, and two colorful pigments in the leaves are revealed. These pigments are the antho cyanins (purple, red, crimson), and the carotenoids (yellow and orange).

Each tree species sports different colors. Red maple—the most common species in Connecticut—flaunts a bril liant scarlet; sugar maple an orange-red. Dogwoods are purplish-red, and sour woods and tupelos are a bright crimson, sometimes with hints of purple and even orange. Sassafras can be bright yellow, red or orange, or all three on the same tree.

The Tree Trail has all of these. The photos accompanying this text show the typical colors for the species. Good fall color is one of the traits sought when trees are chosen for planting. The ma ture trees, especially the maples, offer a spectacular background for the 80 or so trees planted by volunteers since October 2018.

What changes for the people of Granby? In the short term, nothing. The Town still owns the property for the ben efit of the public. The Friends, through a “Lease and Use” agreement with the Town, will steward the land (trail main tenance, invasive management, tree trail development) and farm the land (in sup port of the CSA, Farm Store and Fresh Access). The Town will run programs using the main campus and buildings and oversee the appropriate uses of the whole of the land. The GLT will assure that these uses do not conflict with the conservation principles that have been agreed to. Long term, the strengthening of the Friends for its own fundraising, and the Town’s new Holcomb Farm Fund’s financial support of the Town’s asset, the Holcomb Farm, benefits tax payers even as this community treasure grows as a public resource. Why is some of the land “excluded” from the Conservation Easement? The Town is conserving the major east and west flanks of the property, while retaining flexibility on future uses of most of the land along the west side of Simsbury Road—the main campus and agricultural fields. The active use of these areas for Town programming and Friends’ agriculture are, at this time,

best supported with this flexibility. The “excluded land” includes areas already developed (i.e., containing buildings); the most actively farmed lands where additional structures—greenhouses, barns, roads, etc.—may be needed in the future; and wetlands that are likely undevelopable.

Why are there things included in the conservation easement that aren’t even allowed now? The Town continues to own and control the land, subject to the terms of the Conservation Easement held by the Granby Land Trust. It is re vising and extending its agreement with the Friends to manage, or steward, the land (all except the campus, which the Town will directly operate), but it retains the right to make the rules, if they don’t conflict with the easement. For example, the easement says nothing about dogs, but the town has rules that allow leashed dogs on the land, and the Friends endorse those rules.

On behalf of the Friends of Holcomb Farm, we applaud this action by the Town’s leaders, thank the Granby Land Trust for its support, and recognize with gratitude the many community members who have participated in the evolution of Holcomb Farm into the thriving com munity asset it is today.

Black tupelo Photos by Eric Lukingbeal

Gray birch

Kousa dogwood

Red maple

Sassafras

Sourwood

Sugar maples

Personal histories added context to BOS discussion of Holcomb Farm conservation plan

By Shirley Murtha

During the public session discussion of the proposed Long-term Conserva tion and Sustainability Plan for Holcomb Farm on Oct. 17, some people presented personal memories and stories in their encouragement for approval of the plan. Their words added weight and were greatly appreciated by the many residents in the Town Hall meeting room.

President of the board of the Friends of Holcomb Farm, Bob Bystrowski, spoke of how he had “dreams of farming the land (aka Green Acres)” when he and his wife Catherine bought a vintage house on Wells Road. After purchasing several antique tractors, he realized that “farming takes much more skill than practicing law,” but still dreamed that their fields could be used to grow some thing valuable.

Catherine asked then Holcomb Farm farmer Sam Hammer if he would like to use their five-acre field as an accessory remote operation. After soil samples in dicated that, yes, chemical-free farming could be done there, kale, squash and broccoli were planted. Invited to Friends of the Farm events, Bob was eventu ally asked to join the board, becoming president just as the Memorandum of Understanding was being negotiated with the Town. He noted that the conservation plan “honors the legacy of all those who worked so hard to honor the legacy of Laura and Tudor Holcomb.”

Rick Orluk spent his childhood in Granby, exploring and enjoying the open space it provided. Noting that, “once land is gone, you can’t get it back,” it became increasingly important to him to become involved in its preservation. This eventu ally led to his becoming involved with the Granby Land Trust and he is now board president. He “whole-heartedly” approved of the Long-term Plan.

Joe O’Grady, Holcomb Farm’s passion ate farmer, spoke of how the Long-term Plan allows him to make long-term plans.

The security of knowing that for at least the next 15 years he can rotate crops so as not to overwork fields is very important to him. Although spiced with his quick sense of humor, his satisfaction with be ing able to stay on this farm whose soil he has nurtured for several years now was quite evident.

Of all who spoke, however, none was received more enthusiastically than Put Brown, whose personal relationship with Tudor and Laura Holcomb lent tremendous credibility to their wish the Farm be preserved. Put went to visit the Holcombs shortly after he and Nan nie moved to Broad Hill Road. He had heard much about the wonderful farm, a Granby jewel, on Simsbury Road, and how successful it was in growing a wide variety of crops.

Until Tudor died in 1978 at the age of 92, Brown visited them several times a year. Tudor was in charge of the ac tual farming; Laura kept the books and managed the investments. When Tudor retired in 1953, he had 150 employees on Simsbury Road and other properties that he farmed.

The Holcombs were generous with their property and their money. They allowed ice-skating on their pond in the winter and hunting in their woods in the fall. They provided the funds to build the West Granby fire house, they paid for building the town hall, and their funds in the Hartford Foundation for Giving paid for the library. Eventually they donated their farm to the University of Connecticut School of Agriculture, with a proviso that it would come to Granby if the college did not use it. Brown noted that their mantra was “We just want to do the right thing.” In addition to help ing their community in so many ways, doing the right thing meant preserving the property for agriculture. “And here we are now,” Brown said. “We have the opportunity to do the right thing.”

received a rousing round of

By the Farmington Valley VNA HEALTH NOTES

Healthy lifestyle may help to delay Alzheimer’s

As we go into the holiday season, there are many things to remember, prepare and do. No wonder we often start to doubt ourselves when we can’t find something or forget an appointment or special day. If we have had relatives with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, we start to be concerned.

There are some actions we can take. A recent study followed over 11,500 people with an average age of 54 for 25 years. It was found that even those with a high ge netic risk for Alzheimer’s benefited from a healthy lifestyle.

Participants were scored on American Heart Association’s Life’s Simple 7: physical activity, cholesterol, diet, obe sity, smoking, blood pressure and blood sugar This scoring system is designed as a way to measure cardiovascular and brain health. Better scores at mid-life of the Simple 7 were associated with lower dementia risk for participants with all levels of genetic risk.

To protect your brain and heart, get moving and eat well, including lots of

green vegetables and fruits and less red meat. Avoid all tobacco products, reduce alcohol, get at least seven hours of sleep a night, and work to reduce stress, excess body fat, blood pressure, LD cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as necessary. When you start moving, add in a daily walk or exercise time of 30 minutes at least five days a week. This may be done in increments if there is no time for a full 30 minutes at one time. These lifestyle habits may decrease your chances of de veloping dementia, plus they will provide a healthier and more vibrant life now. We often spend time worrying about potential health issues that professionals can readily address. Ask your medical provider for advice if you are questioning your cognitive ability. Remember, too, that the most organized people make lists, keep calendars on paper or their phones, and have a daily reminder system of to-dos. Living a healthy and organized life pays off, allowing us to enjoy the holidays and our friends and families.

Holiday Sponsorship Program

Granby families in

Wish Lists for qualifying

up to age 16 are fulfilled through

Call our Holiday Elf at 860844-5350 to request a list to fulfill for a Granby child this holiday season.

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

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP): During the winter months help is available to households to help pay for heating fuel in the form of oil, gas, or electric heat. Benefits are available to households with incomes up to sixty percent of the state median income. Processing will be delayed if the necessary paperwork is missing. Call the office at 860-844-5351 to see if your household qualifies. SNAP recipients and SSI beneficiaries are categorically eligible. Liquid asset test has been eliminated.

Eversource Assistance Programs: Winter protection for income-eligible households prevents shutoff between Nov. 1, 2022, and May 1, 2023. NuStart Program offers forgiveness of overdue balances as on time, monthly budget payments are made. Matching Payment Program offers monthly payments as low as $50 for qualified government benefit customers. Call Eversource at 800-2862828 or visit Eversource.com/BillHelp

Durable Medical Equipment Loaner Closet: Medical equipment , such as wheelchairs, walkers, commodes, canes, and more are accepted as donations and made available at the Granby Senior Center to those in need of them. To donate or to request an item call the Senior Center at 860-844-5350.

Mental Health

988–Suicide Prevention Hotline : The Lifeline provides 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Granby Youth Services Bureau: Available free of charge to Granby youth and their families, counseling is provided by professional marriage and family therapists and professional counselors to residents in need. Service is short term focused to help stabilize crisis situations and encourage positive behavior changes. Call 860-844-5355 for a confidential intake.

Food Resources

Granby Food Pantry: At 248 Salmon Brook Street. Hours are Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.–Noon and Thursday, 2–3:30 p.m. Before using the Granby Food Pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-8445350 to schedule.

Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen: Free meal available as drive up to pick up service every Wednesday 3–6 p.m. at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

Mobile FoodShare: Every other Tuesday, 1:30–2 p.m. Call for dates. Park behind South Congregational Church and Visiting Nurses Building only. Please remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather permitted cancellations visit ctfoodbank.org/gethelp/connecticut-food-banks-mobilepantry-schedule/ Life Church Hope 4 Life Food Pantry: At 23 Griffin Road. Open on Wednesdays 2–4 p.m. to members of Life Church as well as anyone who is in need. No qualification necessary. Due to COVID safety concerns, we have a drive through service. Volunteer staff will place boxes of food in the trunk of your car. Each box weighs approximately 50 pounds. For more information, please call the church office at 860-653-3308.

SNAP: CT Foodbank will continue to facilitate SNAP applications by phone. For help with SNAP call 860-856-4357. This process will take approximately 30 minutes and CT Foodbank will mail you a packet to sign and return.

Granby Public Library mini pantry: At 15 North Granby Road. Nonperishable items may be picked up at the library during regular hours.

Closer to Home

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Advertisers

Action Carpet 32 Alpha Dance 31 Anderson, Mark – candidate 17 Becker, Kim – candidate 16 Beman Hardware 26

Berkshire Hathaway – Harness Way 18

Berkshire Hathaway – Nancy Reardon 7 Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 Cahill’s MotorCars 5 Cambridge Brew Pub 27 Carmon Funeral Homes 12 Carter, Robert – Painting 30 Cetera Investors 30

Chiropractic Care of Granby 11 Christopher Bryant 8 D’Agata-Perry Granite & Bronze 9 Edward Jones – Jim Hammel 20 Evans Automotive 2’21.tif 13 First & South Church 11, 12, 14

GMHS Drama Daughters of Appalachia 20

Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 8 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 15, 26

Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Self Storage 26 Higleyville Coin 11 Kissel, John – candidate 24

Larry’s Construction 11 Mark Brady Kitchens 27

Martel Transportation 13

Mather, Dorothy – Obituary 18

McPheat, Eric – Total Mortgage 10 MeadowBrook of Granby 27

Morawski Cleaning 31

Necker’s 10

Premier Energy 8 Ravenswood 19 Route 10 Tire 13

Sanditz Travel 6

Santa Realty 10

Shaffer Beacon Mechanical 30

Small Town Septic 30

State Line Propane & Oil 19

Subseven 31

Sullivan Hardwood Floors 13

Swim Center at Westminster 21

Thomas Sullivan – Morgan Stanley 6

Troiano Oil Company 9

Two Park Place 12

Volunteers Drummer 13

Westfield Bank 25

Windsor Federal Savings 15

GOP Meet & Greet

Republican candidates held a Meet and Greet at Schoolhouse Farm in September. At left are Sen. John Kissel and Susan Regan. Submitted photo

The Manitook Hotel was Granby’s “in place”

By Todd Vibert

From 1929 to 1935, the Manitook Ho tel, and guest cottages on the west shore of the lake, was a thriving, bustling place. Tourists from New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and many other states visited to canoe, swim, play tennis, fish, hunt, and enjoy a vacation in Granby.

A.C. Wagner had the vision to build a hotel on Rte 10/202 near where State Line Oil is now located and cottages nearby on the shore of Manitook Lake. He believed tourists would flock to small, quiet Granby to escape the hectic pace of city life. Wagner promoted Granby as a vacation destination, advertising that, “…as one finds a natural scenery unsur passed by anything in this great country. With no humidity, but cool mountain breezes, the nerves relax immediately, and that tired feeling departs, while you inhale the invigorating mountain air.”

The Manitook Hotel, built in 1929, was equipped with tile bathrooms and showers, both hot and cold water, electric lights, and telephones in each furnished room. There was a chef on the premises as well as a “quick lunchroom,” so patrons

could either dine or grab a quick bite to eat. The hotel included its own store and barber shop as well as a two-story garage for the guests’ cars that included quarters for the guests’ chauffeurs.

A.C. Wagner was no stranger to ambi tious projects like this. In the early 20th century, his company built breweries in Philadelphia, Rochester and Washington, D.C. When Prohibition was enacted in the early 1920s, he dissolved his brewery business, joined the New England Fruit Company, and went into real estate.

The hotel and its cottages thrived as tourists came to Granby on vacation. In January 1935 A.C. Wagner died and in October of that year, the Manitook Hotel burned to the ground. It was never replaced and now only exists as a small memory in the history of Granby.

It was one of three catastrophic fires in Granby in 1935. The Pendleton home and hospital on the corner of Pendleton Rd. was badly damaged and the club house at Pendleton’s Granby Golf Club also burned to the ground. Firemen and equipment from East Granby and Ensign-Bickford and citizen volunteers responded to Granby fires in those

December 2022 DeaDlines

ADS: Wednesday, Nov. 9 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org

ARTICLES: Monday, Nov. 14 at noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org

WORK DATES: Nov. 9-20 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at granbydrummer.org

days. That would change in 1936 when the Lost Acres Fire Department was founded.

To learn more about the Manitook Ho

tel, A.C. Wagner, or other Granby history, join the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713, or go online at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

Photos of the Manitook Hotel courtesy of the Salmon Brook Historical Society