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Published by Citizens for a Better Granby a non-profit 501(c)3 organization
Volume LII, No. 7 • April 2022
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Town planning enhanced citizen communications effort This monthly column highlights the good work of our municipal employees and Boards. It will also let folks know about important issues and activities in town. Great things are happening, and I hope to share some of them each month. Sign up for Town News Do you want better communication from your town and of it? Your town bout more boards and town manown ager want to deliver more news to your email, home phones and social media. Enhancing communications with residents is a priority. But you need to sign up to receive our messages. Communications with from the Town come Erica Robertson in two categories: Town Manager things you need to know right away and things you should be aware of but may not be as urgent. Alerts with information you need to know immediately are handled by Eric Vincent, the emergency management director, using the CT Alert system. The emergency notification system enables state and local 911 emergency centers to provide essential information in a variety of emergency situations when
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other modes of communication may be unavailable. The system is used for emergencies such as major storms, extended power outages or safety hazards when posting on a website or sending an email may not be appropriate. It is the non-emergency communication between the town and its residents that my staff and I are focusing on improving. Websites, Facebook pages and other social media platforms can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. And depending on the source, it is not always easy to discern fact from fiction. We want to establish a trusted communication channel to provide you with real, reliable information from Town government on a timely basis. To accomplish this, we are expanding the use of the text and email function on the Town website. Residents can subscribe on the website to receive a variety of information from general news and announcements to meeting agendas and minutes. Maybe you want an email when the Board of Selectmen have a meeting or a text when a road or bridge is out. Or maybe both. You can do that and more, but you must sign up. We can’t reach you if you don’t subscribe on the website. It takes just a few clicks to get started. Go to the town website—granby-ct. gov—and click the Subscribe button on the homepage. Enter your email and or text information, select the topics you are
About Town cont’d. on p. 4 The Planning and Zoning Commission wants to hear from you!
Public Comment on Cannabis Establishments April 12, at 7 p.m. in the Senior Center Community Room
Under the cannabis legislation that went into effect July 1, 2021 (An Act Concerning Responsible and Equitable Regulation of Adult-Use Cannabis), a town may prohibit a cannabis establishment (i.e. a cannabis cultivator, wholesaler, product manufacturer, retailer or testing laboratory), establish restrictions regarding the hours and signage, or establish restrictions on the proximity of such establishments to schools or churches and other uses. Unless regulations are adopted or the use is prohibited, cannabis establishments must be approved in the same way similar uses would be approved. Therefore if a retail establishment is allowed as-of-right in a zone, so would a retail cannabis establishment. Based on population, Granby could have one micro-cultivator and one retail cannabis establishment. The legislation provides incentives for municipalities to
allow facilities in their town, enabling them to collect 3 percent sales tax on such businesses. In August 2021, the Planning and Zoning Commission enacted a moratorium on cannabis establishments to give them time to study the issue. The moratorium expires at the end of August 2022. As part of the commission’s discussion about next steps, it would like your input. Would you like to see such establishments allowed in Granby but regulated? Would you like them to be prohibited? The commission will be holding a public comment session on the topic at its meeting on April 12. The meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the Senior Center Community Room. If you would like to comment but are unable to attend the meeting, you may submit written comments to the Community Development Department, akenyon@granby-ct.gov
The Granby Memorial High School basketball team lines up for the national anthem before the March 10 game against Cheney Tech in the second round of the state tournament. The team won that game 61-58. Photo by Kathy Brown
Granby Boys basketball season ends at Mohegan Sun Granby topped Cromwell 59-48 on March 15 in the semifinal round of the state tournament, earning them a spot in the CIAC 2022 Division IV State Championship game at Mohegan Sun on March 20. The 4th ranked Bears played the 6th ranked Bloomfield Warhawks—the only team to defeat Granby at home during the regular season. The Bloomfield team defeated the Bears for the division title with a final score of 58-54. The senior-laden Granby team coached by Walter Hansen finished the season with a 21-6 record. In the championship game, the Granby Bears were down by two at the end of the first quarter. They did tie it up in the second quarter, but they ended the half with a score of Bloomfield 31 and Granby 27. The end of the third quarter found Granby trailing by six (43-37) and despite the Bears playing well right up to the very end, the Warhawks closed it out at 58-54.
Top scorers in the game were Justin Phillips with 16, and Josh Brown and John Bell with 12 each. When asked about the season, Dr. Jordan Grossman, Superintendent of Schools stated, “We are very proud of the Granby Memorial High School boys’ basketball team. Throughout the season they have represented our school and our town to the highest level possible.” The Bears, who competed for the state title in 2019 and clinched it in 2013, worked diligently all season. GMHS principal Mike Dunn echoed that sentiment when asked about the championship game. “We’re so proud of all the hard work and teamwork of our boys this year, under the masterful leadership of Coach Hansen and his crew. They’ve fought hard all year long and deserved their place in the Sun to compete in the championship game.”
Granby and Simsbury Chambers of Commerce approved to merge By Bob Marx Granby and Simsbury Chambers of Commerce have announced that their memberships voted to approve a merger between the two organizations. The merged organization will officially begin June 1 with the first event being the 3rd Annual Granby and Simsbury Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament on June 13 at Hop Meadow Country Club. The new organization will initially be called the Granby/Simsbury Chamber of Commerce but a marketing
Read the Drummer online at GranbyDrummer.com
committee will be created to develop a regional name, logo and marketing after June. The incoming Board President, Tim Baker of Metric Financial, is currently vice president on the Granby Board of Directors and a director on the Simsbury Board, bringing experience and insight to his new position. “We are so proud to see membership take advantage of this historic opportunity. Our team continues its dedication to providing a platform to support the success of our member businesses,” states Morgan Hilyard,
Chamber merger cont’d. on p. 3
photo by Paul McDonnell
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Board adopts goals and objectives for FY 2023 SPECIAL MEETING FEB. 22, 2022 Present: Mark Fiorentino, Sally King, Fred Moffa, Mark Neumann, Kelly Rome, Town Manager Erica Robertson
Public Session
Glen Ballard, 280 Granville Road, inquired why the First Selectman is not in favor of using taxpayer funds to do an efficiency study, but funds were used for the solar project. He also believes the goals listed in the packet are not goals and do not line up with the responsibilities in the charter. Kate Bogli, 198R Salmon Brook Street, hopes the board will be as thorough questioning applications from local businesses. She would also like clarification whether alcohol can be brought into the park.
Appointments
The board voted (5-0-0) to approve the following Democratic Town Committee appointments: Lynn Guelzow (D), 41 Cooley Road to the Zoning Board of Appeals as an alternate for the balance of a four-year term beginning immediately and ending November 21, 2023. (David Hennessey)
Dave Roberts (D), 6 Thronebrook Road to the Zoning Board of Appeals as an Alternate for the balance of a four-year term beginning immediately and ending November 18, 2025. (Wayne Chapple) Sandra Fischer (D), 28 Cider Mill Heights, to the Library Board for the balance of a two-year term beginning immediately and ending January 9, 2023. (June Ashworth) Anna Sogliuzzo (D), 15 Olde Orchard Road to the Development Commission for the balance of a two-year term beginning immediately and ending January 8, 2024. (Monica Logan) The Board voted (5-0-0) to approve the following Republican Town Committee appointment: Greg Dion (R), 62 Silver Brook Lane to the Park and Recreation Board for the balance of a two-year term beginning immediately and ending January 8, 2024. (Kevin Hobson)
Old Business
Robertson and Fiorentino have been attending town board meetings regarding the strategic plan process. They asked board members to consider ideas and submit suggestions for consideration.
Business
Consideration of Recreation and Leisure Services’ Summer Concert Series in
Partnership with Rider Productions – Hosting of Event and Approval of Alcohol Use during their event. On behalf of the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services, Kristine Vincent is requesting permission to host the Sunset Concert Series at Salmon Brook Park and allow general overall use of alcohol to be provided by Zen Catering in accordance with State law and the Ordinance Authorizing Promulgation of Rules and on the following dates from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 2, 9, 16, 23; Rain Dates July 3, 10, 17, 24 The park would not host any other structured/ scheduled activities during that time. Attendees were allowed to bring in coolers last year and there were no issues. The board voted (5-0-0) to grant permission. Consideration of Food Trucks in the Valley, LLC Request for Use of Alcohol at Salmon Brook Park During their event Taco Festival Vincent is requesting permission for sale and consumption of alcohol by Food Trucks in the Valley, LLC at the Taco Festival at Salmon Brook Park on Aug. 20, from noon to 6 p.m. Vincent will provide Fiorentino a packet of information regarding the use of alcohol at the park, per his request.
The board voted (5-0-0) to grant permission.
Consideration of Budget Goals and Objectives
The goals are reviewed regularly by the Board of Selectmen through the budget development process. Robertson indicated she has revised the goals slightly and reviewed them with the Board. On A Motion by Selectman King, seconded by Selectman Rome, the board voted (5-0-0) to adopt the following budget goals and objectives for FY 2023 and beyond. Deliver and maintain excellent town services that maximize the highest quality of life for all residents while budgeting in a conservatively and fiscally responsible manner. Explore alternative methods of providing services and ways to expand revenue sources to minimize property tax increases. Provide appropriate funding to maintain the Town assets and to meet the long-term capital needs of the Town. Move away from capital lease borrowing and fund cash purchases in the Capital Equipment/ Improvement Fund. Develop a multi-year plan to maintain unassigned fund balance reserves at a minimum of fifteen percent. Improve and fund communication strategies with residents and business in all areas of government.
Town Manager Report
The Senior Center is piloting a new digital platform, Secure Senior Connection, which focuses on health and well-being. The 2021 Grand List grew 3.53 percent. The Summer Program Guide is now available online and the next program guide will be published on June 1, 2022. Highlights for Revenues: Tax collection is consistent with previous years at 95 percent. Total billed for auto supplements was $620,456.79 and $406,423 was collected as of January 31, 2022. Collection rate for auto supplement is 113 percent. The second Education Cost sharing payment from the State was received in January. The last installment is due in April. Town Clerk and Building Permit Fees continue to be strong. Highlights for Expenditures: General Administration deficits are for Salaries and IT Operations (monthly service agreement). E. Robertson will request year-end transfers from Contingency Payroll Regular and Misc. Expenses line items to cover these overages. Building Inspection, Police Department Administration, Public Works Administration, and Recreation Department deficits are due to salaries. Increases were budgeted in Contingency Payroll Regular line item. The town was in contract negotiations with the unions when the FY 2022 budget was adopted. The Department of Public Works is on track but currently running low on salt.
Selectman Reports
King inquired about the repair (replacement) of the bridge at Holcomb Farm. A grant to fund replacing the bridge is being explored. Neumann reported the draft of the Affordable Housing Committee’s plan is on the town website and the committee is working on the final plan to present to the board. Fiorentino will grant the committee more time if necessary. Respectfully submitted, Erica P. Robertson Town Manager
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Registrars of Voters
Page 3
Basketball champs have perfect record 8th Grade travel team wins Division II championship
Vote in the April 25 Budget Referendum!
The Town Budget Referendum will be held on Monday, April 25, in the Town Hall Meeting Room, 15 North Granby Road. The polls will be open from noon to 8 p.m. As with all opportunities to vote, if you can, please plan to bring an ID, preferably a photo ID to be checked off our official voter list to vote on a paper ballot. The check in tables will be separated based on STREET address, not last name. As in the past, non-registered, but otherwise eligible voters who are Granby property owners will also be allowed to vote. They will need to fill out a special form at the assessor’s table if their name appears on the last published grand list. Absentee ballots can be filed in person with the Town Clerk prior to the vote, during Town Hall business hours after the public hearing. (There is insufficient time to do mailings for Referendums.) Absentee ballots are not available during the referendum, so the cutoff to issue an absentee ballot for the Referendum is noon on Monday, April 25. High School Seniors Registration Drive The Registrars of Voters will be conducting a Spring Voter Registration Drive at Granby Memorial High School on Wednesday, April 20. High school seniors who will be 18 years of age by the Nov. 8 elections will be eligible to register at this session. It would be helpful for those seniors who have state-issued IDs to have these with them to facilitate the registration process. Poll workers are needed The Registrar’s office is compiling an e-mail list of poll workers. Volunteer poll workers must be at least 16 years old and can choose to volunteer for a few hours, to fit their schedules. To be added to the list, e-mail the registrars at: registrarofvoters@granby-ct.gov Poll
worker training will be done in April for the referendum; in July if there is a municipal primary on August 9, and again in October for the Nov. 8 election. Poll worker training is required to serve; for more information or to apply contact the Registrars at: registrarofvoters@ granby-ct.gov Looking ahead Monday, April 11 is the public hearing for the town budget. Details on town website. Wednesday, April 20 Voter Registration Session for high school seniors at Granby Memorial High School Monday, April 25 is the town budget referendum—voting is between 12 and 8 p.m. at Town Hall. Monday, May 9 is the last day to change political party to participate in the state primary (if held). Between May 3 and 24, major parties will hold their conventions to choose who is on the November ballot. Only party delegates with voting privilege are eligible to vote in these conventions. Voter registration is a public record, and it’s easy to confirm your voter registration. You can go on the State’s website or stop by the Town Hall, to check the voter registry. You can stop by to register to vote, figure out which is your voting district or make corrections in person at the Registrars’ Office in the Town Hall every Wednesday. Regular office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: www.sots. ct.gov Questions? Please feel free to contact the registrars, Laura Wolfe and Sonja Smith at 860-844-5322 or email them at registrarofvoters@granby-ct. gov, lwolfe@granby-ct.gov or ssmith@ granby-ct.gov
The 8th Grade Boys Granby Travel Basketball won the NCC Travel Basketball Division II Championship against Ellington on March 6 at Windsor Locks High School. The team ended the season with a perfect 18-0 record. Many of these boys have played together since fifth grade. The coaches were extremely proud of how hard the boys worked this year, but more importantly the coaches were proud of the character with which they played. Front, from left: Aiden Thibodeau, Will Sleavin, Nick Lopriore, Sean Kennedy, Brady Liss. Back from left: Coach Brian Liss, Kayden Davis, Cameron Stewart, Danny Lopez, Thomas Rushin, Tyler Uveges, Gavin Austin, Coach Kristy Uveges, Coach Rebecca Rushin. Submitted photo
Chamber merger cont’d. from p. 1 executive director of the Simsbury Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a win-win situation,” says Granby Chamber President Bob Marx, who first served on the Board of Directors in 1998. “Granby will always maintain its small town feel, but our members want to grow their businesses and what better way than to join forces with our neighbors from Simsbury. Our combined chamber will offer the kind of diversity and opportunity not previously found in our little hamlet.” Simsbury Board President Joe Beale says, “The purpose of any Chamber of Commerce is simple: provide support to its small business members so they can thrive and grow. As Granby and Simsbury merge into one organization, they will be able to use their combined resources to fulfill that vital mission at a higher level than ever before.” The chambers are merging to provide members with increased value, a trend seen on a both local and national scale. Members will receive more visibility
and business opportunities with a larger membership base and already successful events will continue to grow. The merged chamber will have more power to advocate for the business community and available resources will be more efficient coming from one core entity. The merged organization of almost 500 will also attract businesses from the area to participate and the expectations for growth are exciting. The Simsbury Chamber of Commerce began in 1959 when a group of businessmen met at a local tavern and formed a retail merchants association. Since then, the Simsbury Chamber has specialized in creating opportunities for its members to succeed by supporting local business, providing resources and cultivating relationships. The Granby Chamber began in 1956 and some of its founding members are still around today, including Mike Guarco, Sr. of State Line Oil, Hal Pierce of Pierce Builders and Mike Keating of the former Granby Pharmacy.
—we hope to see you again very soon!
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— A Sanctified Art LLC Love Lights the World. Join us some Sunday to discover how living faithfully can make a world of difference. We are an Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome! In-Person Services — Wearing Masks: April 3rd, 8:30 & 10:00 a.m. — South Church (Communion) April 10th, 10:00 a.m. — Union Service at South Church April 14th, 7:00 p.m. — Maundy Thursday at South Church April 17th, 6:30 a.m. — Ecumenical Sunrise Service at High Meadow April 17th, 10:00 a.m. — South Church (Easter Sunday) April 24th, 10:00 a.m. — Union Service at South Church 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org
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The Granby Drummer
Drumbeat Affordable Housing Appearing on the first page of the March 2022 edition of the Drummer was an article entitled: Granby answers state call for Affordable Housing Plans. The name(s) of the author(s) are missing. The article leads readers to believe that the main emphasis of this piece will help residents understand what may lie ahead for affordable housing options in Granby. Many of us know that a special committee met, held meetings for the public, and finally produced a DRAFT dated February 2022. What I find concerning, aside from this article failing to identify the writer(s), was that much of the story appeared to focus on the initiatives of Granby Racial Reconciliation (GranbyRacialReconcilation.com), Courageous Conversations on Race in the Park series and a description of another program offered by Desegregate Connecticut and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. Featured speaker was Sara Bronin who “shared a video from SegregatedbyDesign.com that helps explain the circumstances under which
About Town cont’d. from
editorials, commentary & letters to the editor
many American communities became segregated.” My suggestion to the writer(s) moving forward: write a separate article that informs readers about GRR and their events. Linking this group’s past programs to the Affordable Housing Plan shows a particular bias that’s unwarranted; Granby is an inclusive, diverse and welcoming town. Maureen Eberly Editor’s note: The article was submitted by the Granby Racial Reconciliation committee. As with most articles written by a committee, i.e., with multiple contributors, it was printed without a byline. The content was reviewed with the Affordable Housing Plan committee prior to submission.
Federal funding for cultivated meat research
With China including cultivated meat in its latest five-year agricultural plan, the United States should make sure it isn’t left behind by not investing heavily into cellular-agriculture development. For those who don’t know, cultivated
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interested in and click Subscribe Me at the bottom of the page. You’ll be hearing from us soon. Budget Schedule April is a busy month. The Board of Finance holds its public hearing on April 11 and residents vote on the budget on
April 25. We hope that you participate in our local budget process. See box below. Current news and information can always be found on the Granby web page — granby-ct.gov You can also find us on Facebook Town of Granby CT
Town Budget Meetings
Includes regular meetings of the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance Monday, April 4 at 7 p.m.—Regular BOS Meeting in Town Hall. Thursday, April 7—Proposed Budget Available for General Distribution Monday, April 11 at 7 p.m.—BOF Public Hearing in High School Auditorium. Special Meeting of the
BOF follows the Public Hearing. Monday, April 18 at 7 p.m.— Regular BOS Meeting in Town Hall. Monday, April 25 — Annual Budget Machine Vote, 12 to 8 p.m. in Town Hall. Special Meeting of the BOF follows the referendum.
Please tell us if you find an error in this issue of the Drummer. We’ll attempt to correct it in the following issue. Leave a message at 860-653-9222 or send an email to: editor@granbydrummer.org
KEEP US IN THE LOOP Send your news articles and ideas, photos and letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org. Please include your name, phone and email address. Deadlines for the next issue are printed on the back page in this issue or visit our website: www.granbydrummer.com
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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,
CORRECTIONS • The late Arthur Bailey Locke was the husband of Aurelle Smoot Locke. The March issue’s In Memory of piece incorrectly stated the relationship. • In the article on Gordon Daniels last month, his daughters’ ages were listed as 4 and 8 years old; in fact, they are now grown.
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
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 Finance, 7:30 p.m., Police Dept. Community Room, Monday, April 25 Board of Education, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesdays, April 6 and 20
Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Rob Flanigan, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, T. Johnson, Jim Lofink, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, Shirley Murtha John R. Nieb, Kristin Rice, Lisa Salazar, Pam Sherrer, Karen Stanhope, Brooke Star, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent, John Violette, Laura Wolfe, Merle Yoder, Sandy Yost Advertising Team Jen Bell, Carol Bressor, Daneika Janski Deborah Kulwich, Beth Rathey Website Manager Jake Kean Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Becky Mikus
Planning & Zoning, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Tuesdays, April 12 and 26 Inland Wetlands and Water, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Wednesday, April 13 Development Commission, 7 p.m.,Town Hall, Monday, April 11
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meat is grown from animal cells, without slaughter. It’s better for animals, the environment and our health. “This nationwide strategic initiative could accelerate the country’s regulatory timeline for cultivated meat, drive more research and investment into the alternative protein industry and fuel broader consumer acceptance of these products,” said Josh Tetrick, the CEO of food-technology company Eat Just. “In short, this is one of the most important policy actions in the history of alternative proteins.” Our legislators should support increased federal funding for cultivated-meat research. This will help bring these revolutionary products to market faster at a competitive price compared with slaughtered meat. In order to reduce the suffering we inflict on animals, lower greenhouse-gas emissions, and minimize pandemic risk, we have to keep pace with China. Jon Hochschartner
Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall, Mondays, April 4 and 18
CORRECTIONS
LARRY KRAIZA
April 2022
Social Media www.facebook.com/Granby-Drummer
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GRANBY FOOD BANK We currently need Spaghetti Sauce in jars Assorted sweet cereals Chocolate frosting Box of popcorn packets Salad dressings Apple juice/Applesauce Hand lotion/ Bar soap
Donations can be dropped off at the VNA office on Salmon Brook Street
LETTERS POLICY
The Drummer welcomes letters. Letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the CBG Board and the Drummer. The length of letters will be held to 500 words and less. To be published, letters must be signed and include an address and phone number. This information will not be given to anyone other than the necessary editorial staff. Letters from readers who do not reside in Granby will have the town of residence noted with the letter. The Drummer reserves the right to edit and shorten letters, and to run them in any electronic form. Letters become the property of the Drummer. Email your letters to: editor@granbydrummer.org
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Opinion
Affordable housing plan needs a closer look
By Robert Flanigan
Connecticut’s Section 8 statute has been equitable in providing low-income families with rent and affordable housing. We do not need section 8 30-J or G, Public Act 21-29 (aka House Bill 6107). Currently taxpayers are told that a town cannot opt out of these bills. However, several towns are opting out of certain provisions of this bill: New Milford opted out at the P&Z level; Montville and now Glastonbury are limiting to elderly housing. The Town of Granby Affordable Housing Committee is made up of several different people with different backgrounds. Unfortunately, some of them have no knowledge of housing. The committee’s draft plan suggests a Granby trust fund. On March 3, I participated in a Zoom hearing at the capitol, and in the southern part of the state there seems to be trouble regarding the financing between affordable housing and developers. These problems are serious. The committee did not hire experts to provide them with economic or environmental impact studies. Donald Poland, of Goman+York, an East Hartford property advisor, spoke to the committee on the economics and financial feasibility of affordable housing at a meeting on Feb. 24. He stated that the town was going to get $200K income based on housing sales at $400K. Services/expenses would cost approximately $200K. I am sorry—I don’t see that to be true since it will cost the taxpayers more in services. Poland extolled the benefits of affordable housing and compared Granby to South Windsor. He specified criteria; however, he acknowledged Granby’s lack of industry, businesses and residents. South Windsor’s status, according to articles appearing in the Hartford Courant, is that it decided to impose a temporary moratorium to study recent developments (Chairperson Packonis).
At the conclusion of the meeting I attempted to ask a question. Attorney and committee chair Chinni refused to accept any questions from the audience. Why? Poland probably would have provided clarification of questions that taxpayers have. Also, in the committee’s draft was a map of shaded/colored areas where it wishes to put housing; however, streets are not named. This again shows a need for clearer communication. When a member of the audience attempted to ask a question, newly appointed Town Manager Erica Robertson told a taxpayer to “sit down and be quiet” and that she was not going to accept this conduct at a meeting. Her actions were totally unacceptable and should be addressed by the BOS. Her recent statement, quoted in the Drummer, dated March 22: “My staff and I will have a roadmap to getting Granby to where WE want to be in the future [emphasis added].” Taxpayers may draw their own conclusions on her disrespectful behavior. Robertson needs to realize that she works for the taxpayers of this town. It is obvious that the members of the committee spent their time quickly gathering information from various sources. Through this top-down process, one important source was left out—the taxpayers! Instead, on March 24, taxpayers will have an opportunity to make comments—after the fact. In my opinion, greater input from taxpayers was warranted from the beginning of the process. Other towns in Connecticut facing this mandate did surveys, interviewed residents, business owners and other constituents. Impact studies were done, and clearly illustrated maps were presented. Granby needs to slow down on this issue and talk more with the taxpayers. Many unanswered questions remain: 1) impact studies such as environmental (loss of the greening effect), town equipment needs (i.e. fire apparatus, trucks); 2)
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identifying how many units it will take to reach the 10 percent and what they will consist of as well as identifying current affordable housing up to and including elderly housing; 3) tax implications for residents when developers ask and receive tax abatements or incentives; 4) rationale for “modernizing” the center of town for the purpose of walking to jobs; 5) finally, how is this plan in keeping with the current Plan of Conservation and Development that contains numerous references to natural beauty and farming community? Putting more affordable housing in Granby as stated in this proposal will reduce all property values. Demographically Granby isn’t a good town to have this. Being too far from
cities, jobs are few and far between and there is no intra-town public transportation such as bus service. According to CT DOT there is no local service in Granby. We only have an express service bus to Hartford during mid-day. The next issue of the Drummer will appear after the March 24 hearing on the draft. I urge everyone who values the uniqueness of Granby to continue to make their voices heard. This initiative by the state to unilaterally dictate what our town should do with respect to housing is unreasonable and wrong given our demographics. One may wonder. What happens if “WE”, the electorate just say no?
SCHOLARSHIPS Granby Drummer annual scholarship Citizens for a Better Granby, Inc., publishers of the Granby Drummer will award a $1,500 college scholarship to a graduating high school senior. To qualify, a student must be a Granby resident and be pursuing a career in communications or journalism. Scholarship applications are available from the guidance department at Granby Memorial High School.
The completed scholarship application must be returned to the guidance office no later than May 1, 2022. Winner will be announced at the Granby Memorial High School awards ceremony. For questions, contact the Granby Drummer at 860-653-9222 or email editor@granbydrummer.org
Granby Men’s Golf League Scholarship The Granby Men’s Golf League has established a scholarship fund for a high school senior from Granby who is an athlete or intends to pursue a career in an athletic related field. The student must be entering his or her first year of college, university, or technical/vocational school as a full-time student.
Up to two scholarships of $500. Will be awarded. Applications may be made online or mailed. Applications can be accessed on the league website at GMGL Scholarship | Granby Men’s Golf (granbymensgolfleague.com). The deadline to submit applications is May 15.
Community Scholarship Association of Granby The Community Scholarship Association of Granby (CSAG) has been awarding deserving graduating high school students with scholarships since 1958. Along with the David A. Schupp, Jr. Memorial Scholarship established in 1992, CSAG has awarded over $650,000 in scholarships to nearly 400 collegebound Granby Memorial seniors, making a significant impact on their young lives. CSAG has been performing this service while managing contributions of all kinds, but particularly funds from a Holcomb Family Endowment and annual fundraising in conjunction with The Granby Road Race. Applicants must be Granby residents who are soon-to-be high school graduates accepted at an institution of higher learning approved by the selection committee. The David A. Schupp, Jr. Memorial Scholarship will be specifically awarded to a student pursuing a STEM major.
Additional scholarships take into consideration given need, initiative, character, responsibility and higher than average involvement in the local Granby community. With the always rising costs of a college education, CSAG asks former scholarship recipients, as well as the Granby community, to consider making tax-deductible contributions to CSAG so that the organization can award more scholarships and provide more substantial awards. Contributions should be made out to CSAG and mailed to Steve Schock, Treasurer, 19 Moosehorn Road, West Granby, CT 06090. Scholarship applications are available online through Naviance, at the College and Career Center or through your guidance counselor. Completed applications should be submitted to Mrs. Caruso in the GMHS counseling office on or before May 1.
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS FEBRUARY 2, 2022 Present Board Members: Kristina Gilton, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Whitney Sanzo, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, and Tess Bajek and Jacob Scotto (Student Reps). Sarah Thrall called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. and thanked the administrative team for attending this evening for a review of the testing data.
Superintendent’s Announcements
A question was raised at the last Board Meeting regarding Open Choice student participation in winter athletics and the answer is 14 of 27 students are participating in winter athletics.
Assistant Superintendent’s Report
Jennifer Parsons updated on mid-year assessments and as a reminder said when principals created School Improvement Plans in the fall, under the first goal they were designed to get back to pre-pandemic levels. Most of the data presented will be in percentages of reaching the proficiency levels or higher. All tests are universal screeners and progress monitors as we work toward summative assessments this year. The district is assessing if students are reaching the 50th percentile and making sure these results align as students transition between test assessments. Parsons said quarantines continue to be a factor as well as a disruption. Principal Colleen Bava presented Kelly Lane Primary School data, stating students have grown across the board from 9 up to 20 percentage points and she is seeing consistent growth across grade levels and hoping to hit 100 percent at the end of the year. Kelly Lane is working with TAs to target skills students need to progress throughout the year. Bava reviewed areas for additional growth in 1st and 2nd grade math as well as individualized goal setting and next steps with students. Rosemarie Weber inquired if the STAR test is much different than DIBELS and why there is greater growth in STAR. Bava said student growth is similar and the tests are aligning. Whitney Sanzo inquired what indicates the predictor. Parsons stated that STAR is a universal screening tool, and it correlates students’ scores to national percentiles. STAR is also used as a predictor for how students will do on SBAC. Parsons presented student achievement data for Wells Road Intermediate School stating 3rd graders do not have a previous spring SBAC score as they did not take it the prior year. However, 3rd grade grew from 57 percent to 63
percent proficiency and are on track for spring. In 4th and 5th grades, literacy proficiency was maintained over the summer to where they ended in the spring and continued to grow. Principal Pauline Greer stated 3rd grade has come in very strong and are excited to learn. In 5th grade, to help improve literacy proficiency, longer, stronger books being offered are more complex for readers and the level of comprehension is a challenge. The good news is that students are reaching these levels. Greer reviewed areas for growth such as working with math coaches and the new Illustrative Math Program. It is hoped by the end of the year growth will be seen. Thrall inquired about teacher feedback on Illustrative Math. Greer said teachers are very excited about it and conversations about math are very strong. Parsons added that teachers were meant to pilot for the first half of the year and asked if they can continue to use the resource. Peling inquired if scores are broken out by subgroups. Parsons replied that scores are broken down to individual students, not necessarily by subgroup. Monica Logan inquired if scores are communicated to parents. This is done during conferences for parents but shared with students as quickly as possible. Sarah Thrall inquired what is being done about the slip in numeracy scores over the summer and Donna Nolan echoed that perhaps an enrichment packet can be given over the summer so as not to see a slide in the fall. Addressing middle school student achievement, Parsons said that although there are achievement gaps from previous years, students are grasping what is currently being taught. Eigth grade scored 71 percent proficiency for the winter; 6th grade literacy has a minor decline; 7th/8th grades maintained in spring and fall and will see continued growth in the winter; and 6th grade exhibits trends seen in 4th and 5th graders. Principal Taylor Wrye shared students are doing a great job transitioning with the new schedule. Overall 7th and 8th grades have improved, and teachers are working collaboratively on subjects to ensure consistency across all grade levels. He reviewed areas for growth including the 6th grade was hit hard by COVID as there were students out 10+ days for quarantines in addition to the transition from one school to another. He also informed the board the middle school is shifting to Readers’ and Writers’ Workshop this year for 6th grade, which hopefully will make students more active in reading. Even though there is an improvement in math, there is a long way to go. Gilton inquiring about math, asked if there is a
more realistic goal the middle school is hoping to reach. Parsons stated the middle school is moving in the right direction and will keep striving for 80-90 percent proficiency. Weber inquired if there is any vertical alignment in 9th grade to identify 8th grade learning gaps. Parsons said there will be on-the-spot remediation. Thrall inquired if there is a math learning center at the middle school as in the high school and Parsons stated there is a math tutor at the middle school to assist students, plus 25 minutes per day where students can see their teachers for support. Parsons pointed out that the high school chart looks a little different for student achievement due to the transition into the PSAT/SAT assessments. There is a good alignment with 9th graders comparing previous years’ SBAC scores, in that students maintained and grew on the fall PSAT. Tenth grade scores are not quite maintaining, and the district is diving into the reasons why. The data can be questioned due to shifts from the remote environment. Success in 11th grade grew 7 percent in literacy and 13 percent in numeracy. Principal Mike Dunn stated PSAT testing is taken seriously and there is an alignment with 8th and 9th grades for an opportunity to look at PSAT scores. He stated he’s pleased with the growth from SBAC into PSAT. This year there is a lot more work with students, as well as individualized students linking to college resources. Dunn stated each department has set a goal for working with students. There are still areas of growth. Several students in 10th grade made significant growth but still did not reach the benchmark. David Peling inquired if there is anything the board can do to achieve these goals. Dunn said the board’s attention to student achievement is important. There are many challenges being faced, so keeping the goal in mind that all students should succeed as well as be active, supports such items as technology and coaches. Jacob Scotto said the College Board has released a statement that in 2024 the SAT will have a different format and shorter sections. He inquired how this will change the scores for current 9th and 10th graders and are there any curriculum changes to allow for this adjustment. Dr. Jordan Grossman said this just came out a few weeks ago regarding preparing for online testing this spring and the district will adjust. Concepts and skills will be the same; however, the tools and what students are being asked to do will be the same. Grossman thanked the administrative team commenting that this team is not only leading through a student achievement lens but also leading during and in the middle of a pandemic lens. The district is doing its best and the eye is always on the prize, which is children. He commended teachers and administrators for the fact that there has been growth in our students.
Parsons also gave the board an Equity Team update. She shared that the team met last Wednesday and co-facilitated with Partners for Educational Leadership on developing knowledge of equity work and experience that can be brought back and shared. Also discussed was perspectives on Black History Month and how heritage is honored throughout the year. All schools will acknowledge Black History Month.
New Business
FY23 Quality and Diversity Fund Budget Grossman presented the FY23 Quality and Diversity (Q&D) Budget to the board. He explained what it is and what it is used for—Open Choice students, magnet school tuition and support for various other enrichment activities for GPS students. He also reviewed the BOE Goal for the Q&D Fund as well as the guiding principles. Some of the expenses in the Q&D Fund were reviewed, such as magnet and vocational school tuition. Magnet school and out-of-district student enrollment was reviewed. In FY23, 33 students are projected to attend magnet schools and 33 students are projected to attend technical, vocational and agriscience schools. Grossman stated we are on budget based on our projection; however, we may need to work hard to get our targeted amount of kindergarten students.
Board Standing Committee Reports
C u r r i c u l u m / P o l i c y / Te c h n o l o g y / Communication Peling stated this subcommittee met this evening to discuss the Assistant Superintendent’s Report including graduation requirements; midyear assessments; math progression, Granby Equity Team; SEL partnership with FVHD; QPR training with high school staff; review of software budget; summer school planning; and professional development. He also had a curriculum update and rolling out next steps. The lengthy discussion on graduation requirements and shift to humanities/math/ stem was abled. Policies also had to be tabled until the next meeting.
Executive Session/Non-Meeting
A motion was made to enter into an Executive Session to discuss a student safety issue. Thrall invited Grossman and Parsons into the Executive Session. Respectfully submitted, Donna Nolan Board Secretary
FEBRUARY 16, 2022 Board Members Present: Kristina Gilton, Monica Logan, Donna Nolan, David Peling, Whitney Sanzo, Sarah Thrall (via Zoom), Rosemarie Weber, and Tess Bajek and Jacob Scotto (Student Reps). Dr. Jordan Grossman welcomed State
BOE highlights cont’d. on. p. 7
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
BOE highlights cont’d. from p. 6 Senators John Kissel and Kevin Witkos and State Representative Mark Anderson who will discuss legislative issues with the Board. Congratulations to Senior Class President Maeve Dingley, for receiving a Congressional Citation from the office of United States Representative John Larson for her service and dedication. Town of Granby Strategic Plan Discussion Town Manager Erica Robertson and First Selectman Mark Fiorentino discussed the town’s strategic plan process with the board. Fiorentino said he is aware that the BOE has developed a strategic plan of its own and would like the BOE to participate in the town’s strategic plan/strategic goals. He would like to develop a set of goals for all stakeholder groups and asked for one or two goals from the BOE. This document would help to guide the town’s decisions, especially on budgeting, on how resources are allocated. Fiorentino added that it is valuable to have regular discussions on how boards can work together to coordinate efforts. The process is not perfect; however, he expects there will be much learning along the way. The BOE should focus on how the BOS can assist the BOE. Once proposals are gathered, workshops will be held with Q &A and discussions. Draft goals (between 10-15 goals) will be adopted and circulated to all boards and commissions. Once fully adopted, the plan will be distributed town wide. Proposed goals should be submitted to Fiorentino and Robertson by May 1. Robertson stated she has been in Granby five months and is happy with the relationship she has formed with the Board of Education. She asked the board, when writing its goals, to consider what the BOE can do to assist with goals relating to students and learning. These goals can extend to town departments such as Parks and Recreation and Youth Services. Guest Legislators Kissel, Witkos and Anderson discussed legislative issues. Kissel stated it is so nice to hear from young people as it reaffirms optimism for the future. He said he spoke to Thrall last week and knows Granby is prepared for this transition.
Kissel commented that it is an election year so it will be a good year for funding and tax cuts. He sees good policies in place with a spending cap and bonding cap and sees no cuts coming to towns. Additionally, he mentioned the Universal PreK program which may be fully funded by the state. Witkos shared the deadline for bill submission has passed and most committees are figuring out what to pass. Last year’s bill to provide education grants, it is before the Education Committee. It would provide education grants, and there could be a public hearing and a change to the first student grant (magnet, voag, tech) into one pot, which may change formulas if the legislature takes it up. Anderson shared that he supports discretionary unmasking and he voted for parental choice. He noticed there were only nine construction grants approved in the state this year and Granby is one of them. He stated he looked at pending legislation and Senate Bill 47 looks interesting with a possible increase in special education funding, which can have a big effect on Granby’s budget if it passes. Witkos added that HVAC systems can now be stand-alone projects for school districts. Grossman is concerned that Granby is struggling because teachers are leaving for towns that pay more money. He said it isn’t easy being a teacher right now; however, mitigation strategies are starting to go away making it easier for teachers and students. Grossman thanked Anderson for the news about Granby’s construction grant, saying this is something the BOE and town worked on together. Regarding the special education Excess Cost Grant, Granby budgets 72 percent but he would be remiss if he didn’t ask for 100 percent. Grossman also said he will follow the funding on HVAC systems. Peling inquired if virtual learning will occur in the fall of 2022. Kissel replied that in-person learning is better for teachers and students. The mask policy is very hindering for younger students for learning as well as socially. He feels we should strive to maintain classrooms and he hopes we have turned a corner and are on our way out of this pandemic.
BOE highlights cont’d. on. p. 8
Page 7
All About the Buzz…
Hive you been hankering for a night out with friends? Looking to show off your queen bee costume skills? Does trivia sweeten the honey jar? The 17th (not quite) Annual Gran-Bee flies into view on Friday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m. in the GMHS Auditorium. With famed Granby teacher James Witten as the emcee, this free community event is a great family evening to cheer on teams from civic organizations and our The last Gran-Bee was in 2019. Submitted photo schools, and busy bees who just prizes for trivia mastery and for creative love trivia! costumes. But we couldn’t pollinate Registration for teams is open until this event without our sponsors, many April 15. All teams have three worker of which return year after year. The bees competing to win the coveted Grand Farmington Valley YMCA and Fredo Bee Award and the Yellow Jacket Crown Landscaping are clearly the bees’ knees for best costume. Our Award winners as $1000 Swarm Sponsors. We have the each receive a 6-month membership to support of many Honey Bee Sponsors the FV YMCA and Crown winners get to at the $500 level: Granby Racial Recdo their best Winnie-the-Pooh imitation onciliation; Hayes-Huling and Carmon with jars of local honey! All participants Funeral Home; Lost Acres Orchard; receive a fun goodie bag complete with MeadowBrook of Granby; Northwest a Lost Acres cookie. Gather your swarm Community Bank; Tim’s Automotive; to compete and register at West Side Oil; Windsor Federal Bank; granbyeducationfoundation.org/register and Zen Restaurant Group. Our HoneyOur audience doesn’t need to walk comb Sponsor ($250), Avon Plumbing, away empty handed. Our silent auction rounds out our sweet local businesses. will feature themed baskets and a week To learn more about sponsorship, visit of summer camp at the FV YMCA. All https://www.granbyeducationfoundation. proceeds from the auction and our sponorg/sponsor. sors will directly benefit our community Bee sure to mark your calendar for and schools. Friday, April 22, and buzz by the Bee for As the major fundraiser for the Granby laughter, trivia, and community. Education Foundation, the Gran-Bee rewards knowledge and creativity with
The Forsythia’s Endurance
Throughout the long winter months, I’ve waited for spring and for my beloved forsythia to blossom again. With its branches weighed down with snow, the return of the forsythia’s beauty seemed far away. Now, with the warming of the April sun, once again the forsythia cascades with yellow beauty near the road. And, I think, is that not how life is—we, too, must wait with patience and hope for better things to come. Like the forsythia, we must learn to endure. —Bernadette R. Gentry
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
Safe Grad Committee seeks volunteers, donations By Kate Roy After a two-year hiatus, Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation (GPSG) is bringing back the traditional all-night, substance-free party to celebrate Granby’s graduating seniors. GPSG, an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization that organizes a substancefree Grad Night celebration for Granby Memorial High School (GMHS) graduates, is seeking volunteers to help with the event. The committee is working on party plans for the 2022 graduates and
BOE Highlights cont’d. from p. 7
Logan inquired about Senate Bill 47 related to special education funding, specifically, if any the legislators support funding for social/ emotional support for students who may have been impacted by the pandemic. Witkos stated this is one focus of the legislature at this time and that many bills have to do with mental health for students not only K-12 but also for higher level learning. Kissel shared that Senate Bill #1 has many provisions regarding mental health; however, it is difficult to find highly trained and qualified personnel. The pandemic put a lot of pressure on school children for a variety of reasons so putting more resources into the system would be great, and funding should be adequate for these resources. Anderson agrees with the senators that the pandemic has put a strain on mental health and a counselor available for students would be very valuable. Grossman requested that legislators stay for the next discussion regarding Granby’s Stronger Together Plan.
Assistant Superintendent’s Report
Jennifer Parsons provided an update on the Stronger Together Plan. A Reopening Taskforce began work on the plan in May 2020 when members came together and created the plan. After last year’s success with a total of 106
needs assistance to ensure our seniors are properly recognized. The event can’t take place without volunteers. The event is typically chaperoned by underclassmen parents, not the senior parents, so it is especially important for new volunteers to step up each year. Help is needed each year with food, room set up, decorations, chaperoning and other tasks. Volunteers are needed both in planning and preparation for the event, and at the party itself. The committee holds meetings the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.,
through May (except during school vacations). Meetings are held in the media center at GMHS. To keep up to date on committee happenings, including upcoming fundraising events, follow the Facebook page found at facebook.com/ granbyctsafegrad/ Donations of any amount are also welcome. GPSG has long relied on generous donations from the community, as well as the support of the Granby Community Fund. To make a donation, please send checks payable to “Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation” to Granby Parents for
a Safe Graduation, Attn: Treasurer, PO Box 81, Granby, CT 06035. Interested in sending a flock of pink plastic flamingos to perch on a friend’s front yard? A flock will be placed in their yard for a few days for a $25 donation. Contact Sara Scotto at scottofamily@ me.com for details Anyone interested in volunteering can contact GPSG Chair Coreen Thompson at coreenlt@gmail.com Please support our graduating seniors this year so GPSG can send them off in style.
cases, the Taskforce reconvened last summer and reposted a plan in June. The plan evolved around mitigation strategies and one of the key strategies has been masking. Granby will be required to follow the Executive Order and follow the DPH and FVHD for recommendations if the Executive Order expires and acknowledges going to a mask-optional scenario. With masks not being recommended or mandated, Granby will go to a mask optional setting. The district will continue to encourage handwashing, sanitizing and attention to ventilation systems. Additionally, new options are screening and testing with at home COVID tests available on an as-needed basis. Parsons also mentioned the partnership with FVHD to facilitate vaccination clinics to achieve the best possible vaccination rate for staff and students. Grossman shared that the Governor held a press conference and recommended that legislators end the mask mandate on Feb. 28, and with no Executive Order and support from the DPH and FVHD, Granby public schools will go mask-optional on Feb. 28, recognizing some people will wear masks and others will not.
is consideration around a retention bonus. Grossman stated there is nothing in the contract, but he will contact her to discuss this. She also inquired if consideration will be given to whether students are vaccinated or not regarding mask wearing. Grossman stated masks are optional regardless of vaccination status. Nicholas D’Amato, 3 Rickwood Lane, said he is happy to hear masks will be optional on the 28th but is sorry it took so long. He shared a Cease-and-Desist Notice he had for the board regarding mask wearing and potential mandates for vaccines in the future. He stated mitigation for COVID should not violate constitutional rights. He also shared his submission of a FOIA request for the district’s limited liability policy and also how the two ESSER grant installments were spent. Tim Ruwet of North Granby stated one of the major reasons he moved here was for the school system and is looking forward to his three children attending Granby schools. He is hopeful that masks are gone on March 1 and told the board they are not making a blind decision; there is a very logical reason to avoid masks from here on out. He asked the board to give the power back to the parents for their children. Mike Guglielmone of North Granby stated he has noticed a change in his student’s appetite for attending school due to having to always wear
masks. He also shared his 5-year-old has never known a “normal day of school”. He appreciates the efforts taken to have in-person learning and that it was very hard for his family during remote learning. Dana Lowes Hobson, Round Hill Road, commented she is concerned about the special activities that take away from core education in town especially with math scores for 5th grade at Wells Road being very low. She expressed concern about what Granby is doing to address core learning issues for reading, writing and mathematics and said she is not seeing the extra time to support mathematics. She would appreciate elementary levels spending more time on core education subjects. Jennifer Anderson, Greenwoods Road, applauds the mask option as it has been a hard two years. Going forward, she inquired that if the vaccine becomes an issue, if natural immunity can also be addressed in the future. Oleg Ivanov, North Granby Road, said he has a very strong opinion against masking. At the last graduation students wore masks outside which was silly. He felt masks should have been optional since September. He appreciates the time given to him by Grossman and to be heard and he looks forward to students removing their masks soon.
Public Comment
Michelle Courser, West Granby, inquired about the retention of teachers and if there
Business Manager’s Report
Anna Robbins presented the January statement of accounts stating five months of school are complete and things are starting to wind down. This month’s forecast is $104K positive, which is $49K lower than last month. Overall special education expenditures are projected to be over-budget from last month by $134K. The special education forecast is negatively affected by the elimination of the Rideshare Program run by CREC due to driver shortages and fuel prices. This has contributed to increased loss; however, the district is looking for collaborative transportation efforts where available and CREC has been cooperative in pulling this together. Regular education at $210K is better by $86K. The positive forecast has been driven by savings in regular education through consolidating bus routes. The Q & D Fund balance is favorable due to carryover of a favorable fund balance from previous years. Revenue to the town is better than budgeted.
Windsor Federal
FY23 Budget Update
Grossman provided an update to the board on the FY23 Budget saying the BOF met and established budget guidelines. The BOE guideline is 3.78 percent. The Plus One Budget was 4.26 percent. He will work with the administrative team and present the budget at the March 2 BOE meeting.
Graduation Date
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The Granby Board of Education approved Thursday, June 9, as the high school graduation ceremony date, with a rain date of Friday, June 10 (held indoors if it rains).
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Weber: the subcommittee met to discuss the January Statement of Accounts; Indoor Air Quality Report for each of the schools with favorable feedback and some areas to be looked into; bus contract that will be presented to the board on March 2; fuel bid update; and a building committee update including upcoming meetings with the State Department prior to bid. Donna Nolan, Board Secretary
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Page 9
Feb. 21: A busy off-season day at
Holcomb Farm
Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS
Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS
A couple of months ago, Farmer O’Grady talked about all the work that has to be done in the winter months on a big farm such as Holcomb Farm in West Granby. These photos capture the Farm on a single day, Feb. 21, which happened to be a 50+ degree day, so the crew could work without the usual layers of cold weather protection typical for mid-winter.
Emma’s chickens couldn’t believe their fortune to be able to spend the afternoon sunning in their yard. They were talking up a storm, with no social distancing.
The parking lot will soon be cleared of the many piles of wood chips donated by the Asplundh arborists when they cleared power lines during the winter. The material will be used to mulch present and future perennials all over the Farm.
Story and photos by Shirley Murtha
Hot peppers hung for drying maintained a little holiday spirit in the barn.
Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY
Bags of winter veggies being prepared for sale.
The biggest job of the day was replacing the plastic covering of one of the hot houses. David Spatcher and Justin Avery did a fabulous job. Raising the side for ventilation worked perfectly.
Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY
Dr. Matthew Lepowsky GENERAL DENTISTRY
Farmer Joe returned to the barn from checking out the property on the big tractor. “Way too muddy out there,” he proclaimed!
Dr. Jason Raney
From l., David Spatcher, Michelle Dingivan, Hanna Malzenski and Melody Smith harvested spinach to be washed and weighed for packaging.
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
GMHS girls basketball team makes history – TWICE! By Charlene Bordonaro The 2021-2022 Granby Memorial High School girls basketball season was pretty spectacular. It began long before the first official practice in late November, as the team of 19 began weight and agility training in July 2021 and played in a pre-season league to sharpen skills. Alongside the physical training, the girls spent bonding time together, including a successful annual golf tournament, team dinners and time setting goals for the season. The team is managed by head coach Mike D’Angelo, assisted by Katie Fijolek and Ray Matthews. The varsity team included seniors Kayla Davis, Maeve Dingley, Katie Murach, Savannah Rijkse and Elizabeth Squier; juniors Alayla Bolduc, Kenzie Garceau and Fem Jansen; sophomores Madeleine Bennett, Alyssa Bordonaro, Clare Heinze and Zoe Kelly. Rijkse, Jansen and Bordonaro received All-Conference honors. The coaching staff focuses on development of relationships and trust, followed by basketball skill development. High school basketball is enhanced by Granby recreational and travel programs for
younger players. A basketball camp is run by the high school team and coaches during the April school break and for two weeks in the summer. Camps teach player skills, while providing a fun atmosphere. The Lady Bears started the winter season with two games over two nights in the Farmington Valley Tip-off Tournament sponsored by Simsbury High School. Canton, Avon and Granby participated. COVID cases on the rise in late December disrupted the schedule. Players, coaches and parents relished each game, fearing it could be the last, but thankfully the regular season continued uninterrupted. The team’s motto is #ALLIN. Anyone who has watched a game could see this in action. The girls believe in each other and the coaches and have each others’ backs. There were two weeks in the season when weather and/or COVID necessitated four games each week. At the end of those weeks, you could see the girls’ energy wane, but they dug deep and found a way to pick each other up. The team finished the regular North-
STUDENT PAGE
Lost Boy Visits East Granby Middle School By Hansika Lenkala Imagine being a 10-year-old trekking through 1,000 miles of desert without your friends, family or supplies. You don’t know what the future holds for you, whether that may be crossing the crocodile-infested Gobi River or having to avoid being caught in the middle of gunfire. Abraham Deng, one of 20,000 “Lost Boys,” escaped war-torn South Sudan in hopes for a better future. On March 4 Deng came to East Granby Middle School to share his experience of leaving South Sudan to come to the United States and what he is doing to support his motherland. After arriving in the U.S., he had his first American food—pizza. “When I ate pizza, I noticed it was very different from food back home; it had a sort of elasticity.” Like the pizza, Deng observed another type of flexibility that America had—freedom of religion. During this time, South Sudan was part of a larger country called Sudan. It was occupied by Muslims in the north
and Christians in the south. From this, religious tension occurred and a war broke out. But, in the United States, Deng realized that people of different races, cultures, and religions could peacefully coexist. “It was so amazing,” he remarked. “People were living, working together and helping people that were different from them.” Through this, Deng felt motivated to support his and other tribes, and started the organization, South Sudan AntiTribalism Movement (S.S.A.T.M.). The goal of this foundation is to foster relationships between tribes. In addition, it wants to build wells and schools. “This organization is supposed to give a fresh start to Christians and Muslims, and is meant to form forgiveness between the two groups.” Throughout his speech, Deng emphasized the importance of community, faith and believing in yourself. To conclude this inspirational story, here is a quote: “The only impossible journey is the one you never begin” (Tony Robbins).
Maya Angelou By Hansika Lenkala Maya Angelou once said: “ A bird doesn’t sing because it has an answer; it sings because it has a song”. Like a bird who never clipped its wings, Angelou soared above the clouds to become a rainbow in many people’s lives. Through her poems and speeches, she uplifted an entire generation and her legacy continues on. Maya Angelou As a poet, author and civil rights activist, Angelou went through a journey in which she had to overcome tremendous adversity. At the age of eight, she thought her voice had killed her mother’s boyfriend, so she stopped
speaking until she was 13 years old. In addition, while growing up in Stamps, Arkansas, Angelou faced racism. As a result, she thought that being black made her “dirty or unclean”. This led her to fight for racial equality. She became friends with Malcolm X, aided Martin Luther King Jr. in starting the Poor People’s March, and wrote about prejudice in her poetry. Angelou achieved a lot in life and was an inspiration to people like Oprah, Rihanna and Beyoncé. Everyone can learn how to create change from the woman who never tried to be normal, and showcased how amazing she was. Like a bird whose wings were never clipped, Birds can’t clip their own wings….. Maya Angelou passed away in 2014
Back, from l.: Coach D’Angelo, Madeleine Bennett, Savannah Rijkse, Katie Murach, Zoe Kelly, Femke Jansen, Clare Heinze, Coach Katie Fijolek and Coach Ray Matthews; Front, from l.: Maeve Dingley, Elizabeth Squier, Alyssa Bordonaro, Alayla Bolduc, Kayla Davis and Kenzie Garceau. On Feb. 24, the Granby Girls’ Basketball team won the NCCC Tournament Championship by topping Canton 52-44.
west Central Connecticut Conference season 16-4 and 12-1. During this time, the team made Granby history, not once, but twice! First, after two overtimes, the Lady Bears came out on top 36-34 in a home game with Somers, securing regular season first place in the conference for the first time! After a well-deserved celebration, the team quickly turned its attention to the goal of winning the conference championship. Granby enjoyed home court advantage throughout the NCCC conference tournament though the road ahead included tough opponents Suffield, Bolton and Canton. Granby beat Suffield 46-34, and Bolton 36-23. Prior to this season, Granby had not won a game against Canton for nine years, but on February 24, it made history again by beating them 52-44! Rijkse was named Tournament MVP and Davis was named to the All-tournament Team.
Thanks to a snow day, the girls had an extra day of rest prior to returning to practice to prepare for a run at the state championship. The girls were seeded number nine in Class M, and hosted Capital Prep, winning 59-28 over an unfortunately understaffed visiting team. On March 4, the Lady Bears traveled over 70 miles south to New Fairfield, where, unfortunately, they came up short, ending their post season to a very strong home team, 48-18. There were tears on the court and in the stands in that gym that night, yet there was acknowledgement of the accomplishments achieved by the Granby girls. What the scoreboard didn’t show, during the season, was the incredible defense that kept the team in every game, even when the shots weren’t falling. Congratulations, Lady Bears, for a great season!
Valley Pre-School artists create ice sculpture
Pre-school students created a sculpture out of ice and other materials they brought from home. Submitted photo
During the last week of January, Valley Pre-School students brought back a beloved tradition—the return of ice sculptures. At home, students created their own structures made of ice and other materials and brought them to school to create a class sculpture. On a very chilly January morning, parents and siblings gathered to watch the students and teachers construct an ice sculpture from their work. Looking closer at the students’ molds, you can see sticks, pinecones, Legos, food, matchbox cars and several other items that kids enjoyed using in their decorating. Some students experimented with adding food coloring, which made for a fun effect as it melted into other students’ molds. Hot water and spray bottles were used to help the molds become a structure, bonded together.
This tradition is symbolic of the learning that takes place at Valley Preschool. While students were learning about solids and liquids in the classroom, they were creating these molds at home. Parents were encouraged to allow this to be a learning experience for students—letting them decide what goes in, what it may look like when it freezes, and what they learn from the outcome. Students paid attention to the shape of their mold, how fast it froze, and, when it was time to bring it to school, how the ice would come out of the mold. This hands-on learning and inquiry-based instruction are values are easily found at Valley Preschool. The spirit of community and collaboration was seen all over the faces of students, parents, and teachers as the sculpture came to life—even in frigid temperatures!
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PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION MEETING HIGHLIGHTS FEBRUARY 8, 2022 Present: Margaret Chapple, Jonathan Boardman, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, and Brennan Sheahan. Also present: alternates, Paula Johnson (via Zoom) and Matthew Peters; Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon Seating of Alternates Peters was seated. Public Session A letter was received from a resident stating their disappointment regarding the removal of trees on Canton Road near the Stop & Shop. Receive applications and schedule public hearing Application seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations Section 8.16.10 Outdoor Dining. File Z-1-22. The above application is scheduled for public hearing on March 8. Discuss Strategic Plan and Commission Goals The commission discussed the Strategic Plan as requested by the Board of Selectmen. Members reviewed the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) as a starting point to determine if any of its tasks or goals could be pulled into the Strategic Plan. The commission noted a section of the POCD pertains to Granby Center. It was determined a focus on the Center may be appropriate given the planned improvements by the Department of Transportation. This could include issues such as housing, accessibility/ walkability and mixed uses. The commission also discussed the Economic Development and Neighborhood and Commercial Transition Zones, noting updates to these regulations may be needed. The home occupation regulation was also noted as requiring updates. Given changes due to COVID and more people working from home, there may be a need to revise the regulation to ensure it reflects these changes. Abigail Kenyon will summarize these ideas for the next meeting for further discussion. Discuss possible changes to the Accessory Apartment Zoning Regulation As discussed at the commission’s Jan. 25 meeting, Public Act 21-29 establishes a provision that allows the construction of accessory apartments on all lots with a single-family home unless a municipality chooses to opt out by Jan. 1, 2023. In any town where the accessory apartment regulation conflicts with the new state requirement and who do not opt out by Jan. 1, 2023, the state provision will override any conflicting local requirement. The commission agreed it may be
best to opt out of the state provision but take the opportunity to revise the current accessory apartment regulation. Kenyon presented the proposed changes. Under the proposed regulation, accessory apartments that are attached to a single-family home would be allowed as-of-right while detached apartments would still require Special Permit approval. She noted for attached apartments, a provision was added stating no additional entrances shall be located on any wall plane facing any street. All other criteria from the current regulation remain the same. The commission agreed with this new condition but noted if the unit can’t be designed to have a side entrance, it should come before them for Special Permit approval. The commission discussed the size of the apartment allowed, noting in some cases it may be appropriate to allow apartments larger than 1,200 square feet. They also stated there should be a provision in the regulation for exterior lights. As for detached apartments, the commission decided as these would still require Special Permit approval, the 2-acre minimum lot size required for a detached unit could be removed. The commission also discussed in detail the requirement that the property owner live on the premises. It was decided this language should be revised. Kenyon will present a revised regulation at the commission’s next meeting. Staff Report and Correspondence Kenyon reported work on the Affordable Housing Plan continues. It is expected a draft will be made available to the public for comment by March 10.
FEBRUARY 22, 2022 SPECIAL MEETING Present: Mark Lockwood, Margaret Chapple, Jonathan Boardman, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, and Brennan Sheahan. Also present: Alternates, Paula Johnson and Matthew Peters; Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon Seating of Alternates Johnson was seated for Christine Chinni. Public Session Robert Flanigan, 24 Woodcliff Drive, asked when the Affordable Housing Plan would be reviewed by the commission. Receive Applications and set Public Hearings Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.29.1.3 for a groundmount solar array for property located at 121 Day Street, R50 Zone. File Z-2-22.
Application seeking a Special Permit under Zoning Regulations Section 8.1.3.3 for a barn in excess of 600 square feet within 100 feet of the street line for property located at 100 East Street, R30 Zone. File Z-3-22. The above applications are scheduled for public hearing on March 8. Discuss Strategic Plan and Commission Goals At the commission’s previous meeting the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) was reviewed to determine if any items within the POCD could serve as a foundation for the commission goals for the Strategic Plan. Both Granby Center and changes to the ED, T1, and Home Occupation Regulations were discussed. Based on the preliminary discussion, the commission reviewed several possible goals. This first goal is “Pursue the enhancement of Granby Center through both streetscape and landscape improvements, additional residential opportunities, beautification of existing buildings, increased connectivity, and the promotion of a mix of uses” and the second goal is “Promote additional commercial and industrial opportunities where appropriate and in a manner that fulfills Granby’s Ten-Year Vision.” The commission also discussed goals surrounding transportation issues. A possible goal is “Develop and implement policies and practices that ensure streets are safe for all users.” The commission decided to discuss these three goals further at the next meeting. Abigail Kenyon will review the POCD and add relevant items to each goal for the commission’s consideration. Discuss Possible Changes to the Accessory Apartment Zoning Regulation In response to the discussion at the commission’s last meeting, A. Kenyon made several changes to the regulation. Changes include the following: only one unit shall be rented, and the other unit shall be occupied by the property owner; a provision was added that if an apartment is over 1,200 square feet, then Special Permit approval is needed; any proposed exterior lighting shall be shown on a plan for review and approval; and if an entrance shall face a street, then Special Permit approval is required. It was noted a definition for accessory apartment was also added to Section 1.4. The commission reviewed the proposed changes and noted the following: it should be clear a detached apartment requires Special Permit approval; an attached accessory apartment can be no more than 40 percent of the gross floor area of the home instead of 30 percent; review the architectural criteria used when evaluating a Special Permit for an accessory apartment and revise this requirement; add reference to Section 8.2 Special Permit criteria; and clarify in the definition that an accessory apartment can be either attached or detached. Kenyon will revise the regulation and will present it at the commission’s March meeting.
Discuss Reduced Parking Requirements Kenyon stated that Public Act 21-29 states zoning regulations shall not require more than one parking space for each studio or one-bedroom dwelling unit or more than two parking spaces for each dwelling unit with two or more bedrooms unless the municipality opts out. The current Zoning Regulations require 1.5 spaces for a onebedroom unit and two spaces for two or more bedrooms. To comply with the Public Act, the regulations would have to be amended, otherwise the commission can vote to opt out. The commission discussed the parking regulations, stating parking is needed in many developments due to the lack of transportation options in Granby. Therefore, it is the commission’s opinion it should keep the current regulation and vote to opt out. The commission will vote to opt out at a future meeting. Discuss Recreational Cannabis Moratorium and Next Steps Kenyon stated under the recreational cannabis legislation that went into effect July 1, 2021, a town may prohibit a cannabis establishment, establish restrictions regarding the hours and signage, or establish restrictions on the proximity of such establishments to schools or churches. Unless regulations are adopted or the use is prohibited, cannabis establishments must be approved in the same way similar uses would be approved. Therefore, if a retail establishment is allowed by right in a particular zone, so would a retail cannabis establishment. Based on population, Granby could have one micro-cultivator and one retail cannabis establishment. In August 2021, the commission voted to enact a moratorium on cannabis establishments. The moratorium expires at the end of August 2022. The commission discussed the legislation and current moratorium. It was decided to hold a public session on the topic to get input from the public as to whether the use should be prohibited or allowed. The public session will be held at the commission’s meeting on April 12. The meeting will be in the Senior Center. It was noted that due to the room set-up it will be an in-person only meeting with no Zoom option. The commission requested that Kenyon get input from the Development Commission prior to the April meeting. Staff Report and Correspondences Kenyon reported the Affordable Housing Plan Committee finished its draft plan and it is now posted online for review. There will be an opportunity for public comment at the end of March. The committee plans to send the draft to the Board of Selectmen in April. She also noted work on the duplexes at Murtha’s Way continues. Respectfully submitted, Cindy Pendleton, Recording Secretary
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Out of Town Bus tour to visit local historic sites April 30
The Farmington Valley CT Heritage Network (farmingtonvalleyctheritage. org), formerly Historic Sites of Connecticut’s Farmington Valley, will hold its first bus tour in three years. This long-awaited event on Saturday, April 30, explores “Lively Lore and Legends: Fact or Fiction?”, focusing on the towns of Barkhamsted, Granby and Simsbury. The comfortable bus ride visits multiple historic sites, with expert commentary at each site and along the way. Between tour stops, enjoy a furnished box lunch (choices available) at Simsbury’s Ellsworth Center. Admission is $45 per person and includes the bus tour, lunch, and a pre-tour lecture on The Saga of New-Gate Prison on Thursday, April 28 at 7 p.m. Tour seats are limited—reservations are required for the bus. However, walk-ins are welcome for the pre-tour lecture. Email Nancy. anstey@comcast.net or call 860-6805298 by April 19 to reserve your spot, hear payment options, and submit your lunch choice. The pre-tour lecture (The Saga of NewGate Prison) will be presented by Morgan Bengel, site manager for Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine, on Thursday, April 28 at 7 p.m. at the Ellsworth Center, Simsbury Historical Society (800 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury. Bengel will discuss the first chartered copper mine and first state prison, including the legendary escape stories of the 1700s. The lecture is open to the public; admission is $5 per person for those not joining the April 30 bus tour. After learning about Old New-Gate, participants will be primed to hear other historic tales of the Farmington Valley and see where (and if) they happened.
Tour goers will board the bus on Saturday, April 30 at 9:15 a.m. at the Iron Horse Boulevard Commuter Parking Lot behind Drake Hill Mall in Simsbury. The bus will depart promptly at 9:30 a.m. At the first stop, Paul Hart of the Barkhamsted Historical Society will offer a compelling look at the Barkhamsted Lighthouse. Also at Barkhamsted, against the backdrop of the beautiful Saville Dam, historian and former teacher Mike Day will discuss the story of the building of Saville Dam and the impact of the Barkhamsted Reservoir on the residents of the flooded area. From Barkhamsted, the bus will head to the Salmon Brook Historical Society in Granby. SBHS archivist and curator Martha Korostynski, board member Bill Ross, and South Congregational Church senior minister and master storyteller, Denny Moon will relay stories about a Granby Haunting, crime in Granby including the Loomis Store break-ins and a chicken thief compared to Jean Valjean from Les Miserables, a first-hand account of the 1955 flood, a secret service bicycle in the SBHS collection, and the tale of two-gun toting constables. Lastly, tour goers will arrive at Simsbury Historical Society, where the first order will be to enjoy a relaxing and companionable lunch in the Ellsworth Center, or on the grounds, if the weather permits. After lunch, SHS board member Joe Buda will show participants the Native American wigwam on the property, built entirely from natural products from the forest as used by inhabitants of the early Northeast cultures. After a captivating and colorful day, tour goers will be returned to their cars.
April 2022
Healthy Soil lecture A free Earth Day event, Healthy Soil, will be held Sunday, April 24, at 2 p.m. in the Barney Carriage House at Forest Park, Springfield, Mass. Learn how to increase the life of your soil and prep your garden for spring planting. Featured speaker will be Anne Willard, a graduate of the Neag School of Education at UConn with a concentration in agricultural science and education. Soil testing will be available to attendees for a $2 donation. Please arrive 10 minutes early to submit your soil samples for testing. Masks are required. The lecture is presented by Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Association and is free of charge. Space is limited so please register online at wmmga.org or call 413-596-3686.
McLean opens a Little Lending Library McLean opened the first Little Lending Library on the Life Plan community campus in early January. Conveniently located in the parking circle in front of the McLean Health Center, the lending library will contain a continually rotating supply of memory care books and resources for community members to borrow.
Ann Pavano stocks The Little Lending Library on the McLean campus, 75 Great Pond Road in Simsbury. Photo submitted
“We’ve noticed an increase in demand for easily accessible memory care resources,” says Ann Pavano, McLean campus liaison and memory care volunteer coordinator. “And with the help of the Alzheimer’s Association, we are so pleased to be able to offer a wide variety of books and other materials on related topics to help support those living with dementia and their caregivers on our campus and in our community.” The library structure, the second on the McLean campus, was built by Allen R. Wilcox, the husband of a former McLean Home Care certified nursing assistant and a family member of a longtime McLean resident. The Little Lending Library is accessible 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Visitors are encouraged to browse and borrow the books and resources, specifically on memory care and related topics, and return the book to the library when finished so others have the opportunity to enjoy. For more information on the Little Lending Library at McLean or other memory care resources, please visit McLeanInspiredLiving.org or call 860-658-3700.
Aquarion seeks nominations for Environmental Champion Awards The Aquarion Environmental Champion Awards recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations across Connecticut dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability. Winners in the Adult, Non-Profit Organization, and Business categories will have the opportunity to select an environmental non-profit to receive a $5,000 grant. The winner of the Student
category (grades 9-12) will receive a $1,000 award. The deadline for submissions is May 6, and winners will be announced on June 4 at an awards ceremony to be held at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. Details and the nomination form for the 2022 Aquarion Environmental Champion Awards are available at aquarionwater. com/awards
Aquarion offers rain barrels Aquarion Water Company will be offering upcycled rain barrels for sale as part of the company’s ongoing water conservation efforts. For only $75, Aquarian’s Connecticut customers can purchase a high-quality, 60-gallon upcycled rain barrel designed to fit under a downspout and catch rainwater running off the roof. Whenever it rains, the barrels can collect and store water for use in a garden. It takes just one quarter-inch of rainfall on an average roof to fill the barrel and provide water to use during dry periods, even when restrictions are imposed on water usage. Using rain barrels can help conserve water and reduce water bills.
Key features of the 60-gallon foodgrade upcycled rain barrel include a brass spigot and removable intake screen (keeps insects and debris from entering). Overflow water is directed away from the foundation and connects to drip irrigation, soaker or garden hoses. The terra cotta color prevents light transmission and inhibits algae growth. There are screw off tops for easy cleaning. Customers can order barrels online at aquarionwater.com/rainbarrels Orders must be received by May 6. Barrels will be available for pickup on Saturday, May 21 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in Simsbury at the commuter lot on Jim Gallagher Way / Iron Horse Blvd, near the bus shelter.
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April 2022
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In Town Focus Library Book Sale will move to July
The Friends of Granby Public Library (FOGPL) Used Book Sale traditionally held in late September will be held in July this year, from July 29-31 at Holcomb Farm. The change is due to scheduling events, such as weddings, in the Holcomb Farm facility during the month of September. With this change in date for the sale, the collection of donated items will arrive much earlier than in years past. The Friends of Granby Public Library Board is finalizing the details and will provide the collection dates, times and locations in the next month’s Drummer. Subscribe to our Facebook page, Friends of Granby Public Library, to contact us and see what is happening with the FOGPL.
Community Garden
If you love to garden, but don’t have a garden spot at home, then the Granby Community Garden might be just the place for you. The community garden is chemical-free with many gardeners now using no-till methods to grow a wide variety of vegetables and flowers. Whether you are seasoned grower or a beginner, you will find a friendly community that loves to share their enjoyment of gardening with each other as well as ideas and growing methods. Consider applying for a 20’ x 20’ plot at the Granby Community Garden on Hungary Road, for yourself or to share with a friend. To learn more and to apply, visit PlanetEandMe.com and click on the Granby Community Garden tab.
Art exhibition
Granby Artists Association artist Alexander Anisimov hosts an art exhibition to benefit women and children of Ukraine, March 30 to April 30 at 2 Park Place Art Gallery in Granby Center. Free to public.
Legion Pancake Breakfast
The American Legion will hold its famous pancake breakfast on Saturday, April 9, from 6 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Post Hall, 244 North Granby Road. The date coincides with the opening of fishing season. The breakfast features genuine fancy-grade Vermont maple syrup along with choice bacon and special pancakes, orange juice and coffee. No reservations necessary; all are welcome. Proceeds will fund the Post #182 American Legion Scholarship Award, given annually to a deserving Granby Memorial High School student.
Football Fundraiser
Come to La Figata on June 27, 3–9 p.m., for autographs, photos, raffles, book signings, beverages and food, and to meet and talk with sports legends. Proceeds from the Keep the Drive Alive fundraiser tickets and raffles benefit the CT Falcons and CT River Valley Northmen semi-pro football teams. Tickets are $10. Join Joe D’Ambrosio, sports broadcasting legend, who will emcee the event. Other guests will include Cowboys legend Jim Jeffcoat, boxing icon Connecticut’s Iceman John Scully, Boxing Hall of Fame writer Jack Hirsch, social media giant Philly Sports Guy, NY Yankees author Dr. Paul Semendinger and NE Patriots commentator Keith Engle.
The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.
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Men’s Breakfast
The next Granby Men’s Breakfast is Friday, April 8, and is in-person. You will be served breakfast. The speaker will be Mindy Gould, second female Marine helicopter pilot in the military, presenting her life and career. The speaker begins promptly at 9:30 a.m. Men of any age interested in joining the Granby Men’s Breakfast should send their contact information to gmensbkfst@gmail.com to be added to the invitation list. Every participant MUST be a current member of the Granby Senior Center, AND pre-register. Registration for both is simple and easy once you have logged in. To create a Login, go to: schedulesplus.com/granby/kiosk/. Select “Membership.” After you have registered with the Center, your card will be available at the breakfast, where you pay the $2. There is a limit of 50 participants; a counter shows up when you register. A waiting list will be created if needed.
Women’s Breakfasts
On Wednesday, April 6, the Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will welcome George G. Ducharme, Ph.D., who will talk on Native American Women, their past and impact on our lives today. The Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will have as its May 4 guest speaker, Granby Land Trust member David Emery who will present a program entitled The Wonder of Dismal Brook. The Granby Women’s Breakfast Group will have Susan Ranstead as its June 1 guest speaker. Ranstead will present a program entitled Imagine a Wildflower Farm in Granby to Enjoy. Breakfasts will start at 8:30 a.m. and the programs will begin at 9 a.m. These programs will be at the Granby Senior Center, reservations are required and are made through the Senior Center website or by calling 860-844-5352. Cost $4. If you have questions, please call Corinne Dickerson at 860-653-9891.
Annual Puzzle Fundraiser continues in 2022 By Ken Kuhl The Friends of Cossitt Library Annual Puzzle Sale is slated for Saturday, April 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This popular event will be held on the rear patio of the Granby Public Library. Should the weather be inclement, the rain date is the following Saturday, April 16. Most puzzles will be priced between $2 and $5 and there are even a few new ones included. Puzzles with as few as 100 pieces and many with 1,000 are often to be found. Each year Granby practices the best of the modern recycling movement. Donated items are given to a local non-
profit that resells them to a grateful new customer who in most cases re-donates it back to a non-profit like The Friends of Cossitt for next year’s sale. Small town life is truly a wonderful thing!
Puzzle lovers shopped at 2021 annual sale. Submitted photo
by e-mail:
editor@granbydrummer.org
Lost Acres Fire Dept. Auxiliary
AnnualS
Salmon Brook Historical Society Events
Research Library in the Preservation Barn is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment by calling 860-653-9713. Research fee $25 per hour. Museum Store (Enders House) is open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Items for sale can be viewed on the SBHS website at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety. com Merchandise available includes books, maps, mugs, notecards, jigsaw puzzle and many more Granby items. Farmington Valley CT Heritage Network has scheduled a bus tour for Saturday, April 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Named “Lively Lore and Legends: Fact or Fiction?”, the bus tour will travel to the towns of Barkhamsted, Granby and Simsbury. Included with the tour is a pre-tour lecture on Thursday, April 28, goodie bag for the bus and lunch. Cost is $45 per person. Checks should be made out to SBHS and mailed to Historic Sites, PO Box 1491, Avon CT 06001. Call or email Nancy Anstey at 860-680-5298 or nancy.anstey@comcast.net with questions and/or to reserve a seat on the bus.
Spring Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, May 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Society’s grounds. Please contact Dave at 860-653-3965 for vendor information. Flea Market donations to the Society will be accepted at the Preservation Barn on Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a..m to noon starting April 5 through May 12. Summer House Tours are expected to return this year starting Sunday, June 5. Fall Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Society’s grounds. Membership in the Salmon Brook Historical Society offers many benefits including free tours, newsletters, annual dinner in April, Christmas house tour and wassail party in December and the opportunity to learn and help preserve Granby history. The society welcomes everyone. You do not need to be a Granby native, own an old house or be old. However, you do need to care about the history of Granby. Visit our website or stop by the museum on Thursdays between 9 a.m. and noon for an application.
Rummage
&
Bake Sale Sat. May 7
Please co and su me out p Lost Ac port our res Fire Dept Auxilia ry!
9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Early bird entrance fee $10. beginning at 9 a.m.
Center Firehouse Rt. 10, Granby Accepting donations Mon. & Wed. nights starting April 6 - May 2 • 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. For more info call 860-653-3071
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April 2022
Parks & Recreation Director of Parks and Recreation: Kristine Vincent, CPRP Recreation Supervisor: Daphne Shinder Program Supervisor: Terri Ziemnicki Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: GranbyRec.com Summer Camp Registration is now open. Day Camp, Mission Adventure and a plethora of summer sports, enrichment, fitness and wellness camps for children of all ages just announced. Visit GranbyRec.com SPECIAL EVENT
Junk in your Trunk Community Tag Sale: Saturday, May 14, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Join us
for our first–ever Junk in your Trunk Community Tag Sale, a lot full of cars with folks selling unwanted treasures. Shoppers browse and buy with the convenience of it all being in one spot. To sell, register online. Each parking space is $25. Register for one or more. To shop, just show up at Salmon Brook Park, admission is free. The event is in the open air but please follow local health guidelines in place at time of the event. It’s best to bring some cash, as some sellers may not have a way to accept cards. An outside company will pick up any items that didn’t sell that you would like to donate. TODDLER AND PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS
Basketball Skyhawks Hoopster Tots, ages 3 and 4: Saturdays, April 2–May 21, 11–11:55 a.m. for age 3; 12–12:55 p.m. for age 4, at SBP Basketball Court. We play a variety of fun games to develop balance, movement and other motor skills. The program introduces fundamental basketball skills and team concepts to participants as well as promoting listening and following instructions. The class is very active, engaging and fun. Adjustable hoops and appropriately sized basketballs are used to always provide just the right amount of challenge. Cost $99. Soccer Shots Mini-Toddlers, age 2: Sundays, April 10–May 22, 8:15–8:45 a.m. at Salmon Brook Park. Soccer Shots Mini is a high-energy weekly program introducing young children to fundamental soccer principles such as using your feet, dribbling and the basic rules of the game. Through fun games, songs and positive reinforcement, children will begin to experience the joy of playing soccer and being active. Each child will receive a Soccer Shots jersey. No equipment is necessary. All COVID guidelines will be followed. Cost $90. Super Soccer Shots Classic Program,
ages 3–5. Sundays, April 10–May 22, 9–9:45 a.m. or 10–10:45 a.m. Soccer Shots Classic utilizes creative and imaginative games to focus on basic soccer skills like dribbling, passing and shooting. We also highlight a positive character trait each session such as respect, teamwork and appreciation. All COVID guidelines will be followed. Soccer balls are provided during this 6-week program. Cost $105. JumpBunch Little Jumpers, 18 months to 3 years: Tuesdays, April 5–May 31, 3:30–4 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. JumpBunch classes are 30 minutes of structured fun. Classes open and close with obstacle courses and creatively scripted songs using ribbon wands, stretch bands, scarves, rhythm sticks, bubbles and maracas. After our opening activities— classes feature a different sport or fitness activity each week, with little or no “sit and wait” time and children will have the chance to touch and experience each sport with their own piece of equipment each class. Sports may include lacrosse, paddle sports, field hockey, t-ball, basketball, soccer, football, track and field, golf, etc. Caregiver must remain with their child. Visit JumpBunch.com to find out more about this popular program. Cost $139
Jump Bunch Big Jumpers, ages 3–5:
Tuesdays, April 5–May 31, 4:15–5 p.m. at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room. JumpBunch classes are 45 minutes of structured fun. Each class includes warm-ups, floor exercises, the sport/activity of the week, stretching and then
cool down. A different sport or fitness activity is introduced each week, with little or no “sit and wait” time. Children will have the chance to touch and experience each sport with their own piece of equipment for each class. Classes also include use of creatively scripted songs to open and close class that include ribbon wands, rhythm sticks, stretch bands, maracas, and scarves. Sports may include lacrosse, paddle sports, field hockey, t-ball, basketball, soccer, football, etc. Please wear athletic clothes, sneakers and a mask and bring a water bottle. Cost $155. APRIL VACATION PROGRAMS
Tennis Lessons: Monday/Tuesday/ Wednesday, April 11–13. Ages 6–9 from 10–10:55 a.m. and ages 9–16 from 11–11:50 a.m. at SBP tennis court. These tennis lessons are geared to the beginner and intermediate youth player. Instructed by Kevin Imbt, GMHS tennis team coach. Participants should bring an appropriately sized racquet, lots of water, towel and sneakers. Friday will be used to make up cancelled lessons due to heavy rain, etc. Cost $30. Granby Bears Youth Basketball Clinic,
grades K–8: Wednesday/Thursday/Friday, April 13–15. 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at SBP basketball court. Led by the Granby Memorial Girls Varsity Basketball Coach, Mike D’Angelo, join us for some fun in this co-ed skills clinic outdoors at Salmon Brook Park. D’Angelo and his coaching staff and players will work with the kids on ball handling, passing, shooting and incorporate skills games. It is a great way to spend time with friends during spring break and get some outdoor exercise. Each participant should bring their own basketball and water bottle. Cost $60.
Granby Bears Spike Volleyball Camp,
grades 6–8: Monday–Thursday, April 11–14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at SBP volleyball court. Join Coach Cindy for something to do over the break, enjoy the spring weather while playing and learning all the skills of volleyball outside. Groups will be made by skill level. Both individual and small group instruction will be provided. Players will learn and refine their volleyball skills: passing, setting, hitting and serving. Each day will be packed full of fun and fast-paced drills, games, activities, and prizes. Cost $110. Chess Camp with Chess Wizards , ages 6–12: Monday–Friday, April 11–15, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. or 9 am–3 p.m. (half or full day option), at SBP Gathering Room. Team chess games, puzzles, skill-building, and team and individual physical games are just some of the ways we integrate the whole person into our camp activities. A sample day might include exploration of a technical chess concept, fun group challenges which hone specific chess thinking patterns, a healthy snack, a minitournament, capture-the-flag and blob tag. Or creating and designing your own chess piece to be used in a practice game with your new friends. After all, it’s camp— we want to make memories that students will carry with them through the upcoming school year and beyond. We include all the materials necessary for your child to participate, but full day kids should bring a lunch. Cost: $259 half day / $392 full day. Food Explorers Camp , grades 3–6: Monday, April 11, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. at Holcomb Farm Kitchen. Join Food Explorers for a Pastry Bootcamp! You’ll learn how to make mix, roll and cut your own pastry to create two delicious recipes: pop-tarts and mini pies! Each child will make their own individual portions, all recipes are nut free but do contain dairy and/or eggs. Cost $59. YOUTH PROGRAMS Granby Parks and Recreation Department has on-going after school programs. Your child can join any time. Programs include Rock Wall Climbing, Volleyball, Spirit Club, Hip Hop, Irish Step Dancing, Yoga, Food Explorers, Fashion and Modeling, Tennis Lessons and PE Games and Activities. Intro to Wrestling , grades 4–8: Wednesdays, April 6–May 25, 3:30–5 p.m. at Granby Memorial High gymnasium. Explore the fundamentals of Folkstyle wrestling with Certified
High School wrestling coach, Officer Joe Adams from the Granby Police Dept. This 8-week program will teach basic stance, footwork, game sense and camaraderie. Team and individual development will be a primary focus. This is a great start to learning what wrestling is all about, and great preparation to play at the next level, including at the high school! If your child plays other sports, this will also enhance balance, body control, agility and mental strength with the other sports they play. Participants should wear shorts and a t-shirt. Socks are ok, but wrestling shoes are preferred. Head gear is also recommended. Please no jeans, snaps, buttons or jewelry. Granby Recreation is excited to offer this new program. Cost $65.
After School Outdoor Floor Hockey:
Grades 3–5 on Thursdays, April 7–May 26 from 3:45–4:45 p.m. Grades 6–8 will meet on Tuesdays, April 5–May 24 from 3–4 p.m. At SBP Basketball Court. Join some outdoor fun on Thursday afternoons for 8 weeks playing floor hockey on the basketball courts at Salmon Brook Park. Each week different teams will be formed and games will be played. All equipment will be provided. Participants should dress for the weather. Sneakers should also be worn. No experience is required. Cost $50. Granby Bears Spring Volleyball, grades 6–8: Thursdays, April 7–May 26, 4–5 p.m. at SBP. Join Coach Cindy for some volleyball fun in the spring. Because of a big success this summer we are taking the spring program outside on our grass courts at Salmon Brook Park. Enjoy your spring weather while playing and learning all the skills of volleyball outside. Whether learning to play for the first time or for those looking to have some extra reps, the spring program will move the young athletes toward their goals. Groups will be made by skill level. Both individual and small group instruction will be provided. Players will learn and refine their volleyball skills: Passing, setting, hitting, and serving. Each week will be packed full of fun and fast–paced drills, games, activities, and prizes. Cost $110. Food Explorers, Kids Make Dinner, grades 2–5: Tuesdays, April 5–May 10, 4:30– 5:30 p.m. at Holcomb Farm Kitchen. Join Food Explorers for our weekly dinner club! Each week you’ll make your own dinner and learn all about food and cooking. You’ll be making Bruschetta Orzo Salad, Four-Fold Quesadillas, Muffin Tin Pizzas and Veggie Tot Nachos. Each child will make their own portion. All recipes are nut free, but may contain dairy and eggs. Cost $85. Food Explorers, Kids Baking, grades 2–5: Tuesdays, April 5–May 10, 6–7 PM at Holcomb Farm Kitchen. Join Food Explorers to bake some spring themed treats: Strawberry Shortcake Parfaits, Fruity Crumbles, No-Bake Fruit Tarts and Cheesecake Trifles. Each child will make their own portion. All recipes are nut free, but may contain dairy and eggs. Cost $85. ADULT PROGRAMS
Sunflower Wreath: Saturday, April 9, 1–3 p.m. at SBP Gathering Room. Create a beautiful eye-catching Sunflower Wreath! Using colored burlap and a wire form you will fold and secure the “petals” to make a picture-perfect flower that never required watering. All supplies will be provided. Wreath is approximately 20” wide. Cost $45. Pickleball: Outdoor Springtime:
Wednesdays, April 27–June 1, 5:30–7 p.m. or 7–8:30 p.m. at SBP tennis courts. Do you want to learn the game of Pickleball? Or do you already know how to play and looking for a place to play this fun game with your friends and meet new people? Join us for this 6–week summer program on Wednesday evenings at SBP on the tennis courts (also lined for pickleball). Equipment will be provided or you are welcome to bring your own racquet. Please wear sneakers and bring your own water bottle. Nancy Geaglone, GMHS PE Instructor, will be teaching the 5:30 p.m. session and Kim Chamberlain, Enfield PE Instructor will be teaching the 7 p.m. session. They will be teaching the game/rules to any interested beginners and will set up tourneys if the advanced players would like. This lifelong activity is gaining a lot of popularity and fun for
all ages! Cost $65.
Adult Rec Basketball: Mondays and Thursdays, 7–9 p.m. at Granby High Community Gym. Join Granby Rec for our very popular men’s free play basketball program, with pickup games. Cost $75 season pass or $5 drop in residents, $10 drop-in non-residents. Yoga for Strength: Monday or Friday, 8–9 a.m. at SBP Gathering Room. Develop strength and flexibility with this more challenging dynamic flow, integrating movement and breath with sun salutations, twists, back bends and core strengthening with an emphasis on proper alignment. Combine this with the cultivation of inner peace and the mindfulness of breath awareness. Modifications always offered. Listening to your body always encouraged. Instructor is Laura Fetzer/Seger. Cost $100 per session/$15 drop-in fee. Gentle Flow Yoga: Saturdays, 10–11 a.m. at SBP Gathering Room. Join Rachel Little for an easy-to-follow yoga practice that will leave you feeling great. Combining deep breathing with basic yoga poses to build strength and flexibility, to energize the body and to improve posture and confidence. Modifications are offered as building blocks or to accommodate past injury. After warming the major muscle groups, deeper poses and stretches are offered, using support when appropriate. Cost $100 per session/$15 drop-in fee. American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED: Sunday,
April 24, 2–4 p.m. at SBP Gathering Room. This course will prepare you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children and infants and meets OSHA/workplace requirements. This is a blended learning course including an online portion and an instructor-led classroom skill session. The online portion must be completed prior to attending class. Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a digital certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years. Cost $100. Pawsitive Steps Dog Training: Beginner classes Friday, 10–11 a.m.; Monday, 6:30–7:30 p.m.; Tuesday, 6:30–7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 4–5 p.m. Intermediate classes Thursday, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Classes held at SBP Gathering Room. New sessions begin every six weeks. Join wellknown certified dog trainer Kim Michalewicz for this great introductory seven-week course to learn how to effectively communicate with your best friend. Time will be spent learning to socialize your dogs to a variety of situations. Learn about normal canine behavior and how to problem solve to help your dog fit into our human world. Appropriate household behavior, handler attention, basic obedience and coming when called will be covered. Open to all dogs. There is no prerequisite for the beginner class. For the intermediate class, please speak with Kim prior to registering. Please contact Kim with any questions. 860-614-6625 or kim_michalewicz@ hotmail.com Cost $170. BUS TRIPS
Boston Red Sox vs Milwaukee Brewers at Fenway: Friday, July 29. We are lucky to
have seats in right field boxes #87 and #88 for this game (under the retired numbers in right field). Our deluxe motorcoach will leave the Granby Town Hall parking lot at 3:15 p.m. for the 7:10 p.m. game start time. Cost $139. World Famous Bronx Zoo: Monday, Aug. 22. An exciting trip to the world-famous Bronx Zoo, with award-winning, cutting-edge exhibits featuring over 4,000 animals. There is no other zoo in the world that offers the diversity, superb viewing, and world-renowned expertise that assures a rewarding experience and the knowledge that visitors can make a difference in the world around them. Whether you’re nose-to-nose with Western Lowland Gorillas in their famous Congo Gorilla Forest, spotting Snow Leopards in their naturalistic Himalayan Highlands Habitat, or experiencing almost an acre of an indoor Asian
Parks & Rec. cont’d. on. p. 15
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Serendipity Bird of paradise By Patricia Odiorne After retiring, my mom and dad settled in Florida to escape the winter cold. Of my parents, my mother had always seemed to be less robust. However, it was my father who succumbed to acute leukemia in October 1998. Before he passed, he had made it clear that he wished his body to be cremated, and so we honored his wishes as we planned his memorial service. The service was scheduled on a Saturday 12 days after his passing so that the choir in which he sang for so many years could be present and participate. I wanted to honor my father with a bouquet at his memorial service. It was clear in my mind that I wanted bird of paradise flowers as the focal point of the bouquet. These beautiful orange flowers with blue tongues truly resemble birds. They grow abundantly in Florida, and my dad had often said how much he admired them during our strolls together. I felt they would aptly represent our time together, as well as my father’s love of birds and all living things. I called a florist to order this special
bouquet that incorporated bird of paradise flowers. I was surprised and very disappointed when the florist denied my request with a rather emphatic “No!” before suggesting another arrangement. Perhaps I should have insisted or phoned another florist, but my grief seemed to sap my desire to fight him on this. I pushed down my disappointment and simply agreed to the bouquet that he suggested. On the morning of the memorial service, I arrived early to arrange the family photo display. I looked up when I heard someone approaching and was stunned and delighted to see a florist carrying a whole bouquet of bird of paradise flowers! The bouquet had been sent by a friend who wasn’t able to attend the service, so I couldn’t thank her right away. However, when I returned home, I called her and said, “You know, the bird of paradise bouquet that you sent was such a blessing to me. I placed it right on the altar in honor of my dad. I’m curious, though. What inspired you to choose bird of paradise flowers?” She replied that all she did was request
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“something tropical”. After I explained the significance of birds of paradise to her, we both marveled at the extraordinary coincidence. That small miracle was like a secret hug that comforted me in the middle of a time of great sadness. Each February on the Sunday nearest my dad’s birthday, I place a bouquet with a bird of paradise flower as its centerpiece on the altar at my church. That gives me the opportunity to share the story once again. Have you had an extraordinary coinci-
dence like this? If you are interested in sharing your story and having it appear in this column, please send an email to OneVoiceLifted@gmail.com You can contribute anonymously if you wish and can either write your own story or we will arrange for you to share it with us orally; we will write it in your words and publish it after your approval. There is a thought-provoking beauty in these stories. In sharing them perhaps we will find power in the realization that they happen more often than one person may think.
This monthly column is inspired by the members of Pilgrim Covenant Church
Men’s Breakfast gatherings are back The Granby Men’s Breakfast group held its first in-person gathering in two years in March with 30 in attendance. The speaker was Mike Campbell from the Mark Twain House, relating fun facts about the historic museum. Photo by Nat Kennedy
Parks & Rec. cont’d. from p. 14 rain forest, you’re always within roaring distance of the world’s most amazing wildlife. In the end, you’ll know that your admission fees went to a conservation organization that has more expert researchers in the field than any other. The Total Experience Deluxe package includes zoo shuttles, Wild Asia Monorail, Bug Carousel Children’s Zoo, the New 4-D Theater, and the Congo Gorilla Forest. Cost $76.
New York City: Saturday, July 11. These days in the city on your own are to enjoy the Big Apple—see Chinatown, Little Italy, Central Park, a museum, the zoo, a Broadway show or shop— use your imagination. The usual drop-off points in NYC are The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Plaza Hotel and Rockefeller Center. Cost $48.
WHY NOT WHY NOT WHY NOT NOT WHY GO WITH GO WITH GO WITH WITH GO THE BEST THE BEST THE BEST BEST THE Realtor © c: 860.214.6400 l o: 860.677.4661 l Tim.Kronk@raveis.com l TimKronk.raveis.com
January 2022 January 2022 January 2022 January 2022 2022 January Top Producing Associate Top Producing Associate Top Producing Associate Recent Sales Top Producing Producing Associate Top Associate An Open and Affirming Church
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Join us for in-person Sunday Worship Services @ 10 a.m.
You may also join us remotely on FaceBook Live or firstchurchgranby.org. Service is also recorded for later viewing. • • •
April 3, at First Church, 10 am 120 E. West. Hill Road Barkhamsted 12 Cedar Ridge Road East Granby April 10, Palm Sunday, Joint service at South Church, 10 am 120 E. West. Hill Road Barkhamsted 12 Cedar Ridge Road East Granby April 17, Easter Sunday 120E. E.West. West.Hill HillRoad Road Barkhamsted Cedar Ridge Road East Granby 120 E. West. Hill Road Barkhamsted 1212 Cedar Ridge Road East Granby Barkhamsted 12 Cedar Ridge Road East Granby 120 E. West. Hill Road120 Barkhamsted 12 Cedar Ridge Road East Granby ➢ 6:30 am joint Sunrise Service at High Meadow ➢ 10:00 am at First Church • April 24, Joint service at South Church, 10 am Please check our website for the latest Covid protocols.
Upcoming Events:
Complimentary Grab ‘n Go Snack Packs, Fridays, 3 - 4 pm. Granby Food Bank Collection, Sat., April 2, 9:30 - 11 a.m. Healing Day Labyrinth, Sat., April 2, Drop-in hours 9:30 am - 2:30 pm Maundy Thursday, April 14, 7pm, at South Church 219 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035 Telephone: (860) 653-4537 www.firstchurchgranby.org
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
EXTRA! EXTRA! Read all about it! By Todd Vibert The Neighborhood News was a weekly Granby newspaper, which ran from 1939 to 1943. It was produced by two children, Buddy Pendleton and Mary Teale. Buddy, age 6, was the editor, and Mary, age 6, the assistant editor, although sometimes her older sister, Christine, age 11, would fill in for her. Buddy was the son of Dr. Ernest Pendleton and Mary and Christine were daughters of Revered Arthur Teale, pastor of South Congregational Church. The first edition was published on May 27, 1939. The mimeographed sheet of paper was delivered to 17 homes. Eventually, the weekly newspaper would reach 125 town residents, mostly delivered to those who lived near the center. The typical edition was one page, but occasionally reached two if it was a heavy news cycle. In each edition, the children included a joke to keep things lighthearted. One humorous example includes: “A Father asked his son if he needed help with his lessons. “Aw, no Dad,” replied the boy, “I might as well get it wrong by myself.”
Much of the news Buddy and Mary shared was where Granby residents were traveling for business or vacation and who was visiting neighborhood homes:
“Dale Deming is spending the weekend with his Grandmother Mrs. Goddard.” “Mrs. G. Hayes and Mrs. E.R. Pendleton spent two days in Westfield at the Centennial of the Westfield Teachers’ College. There are many graduates of this college living in Granby.” “Mr. Brunelle has gone to Chicago for business.” “Mr. and Mrs. Loomis and Bruce went Friday on a trip to the west.” “Peter Avery and his mother and father went to Glouster. Peter saw a great big tuna fish.”
Occasionally, Mary Teale would write about her father’s occupation:
“Today in West Hartford, Daddy is going to marry Miss Charlotte Graves and Mr. David Ashton. Last summer he married Mr. Ashton’s brother William; they are living in Spring Glen.”
Alternatively, there may be baby announcement or recipes—but there was almost always an animal story such as: “Fred Kendall’s dog has caught nine woodchucks this year.” “Jimmie Holcombe’s dog, Timmie, was hit by an auto and had to spend the Fourth in the Dog Hospital.”
For four years, the hometown newspaper was distributed around the center of town. To pay the cost of the paper, ads were run in the paper from businesses such as The Salmon Brook Country Club, Beman Hardware Store, and The Granby Soda Shop. The weekly newspaper also got national attention when news outlets such as The News-Herald, The Amarillo Globe-Times, and The Scrantonian, mentioned the young editors. Following their education in Granby, Buddy, Mary and Christine all went on to university. Buddy attended Boston University and was the editor of the Boston University Yearbook in 1951. After graduating, he worked for the Bank of Boston for 38 years, retiring as vice-president. He was married for 43 years and had two children. Buddy died on July 17, 2012, at the age of 83 in Melrose, Mass. Mary Teale went to King College to study liberal arts and there met her future husband, Carson Hatfield. They were married for 71 years. They raised three children in Ohio. In 1974, they moved to Quebec, Canada where she was very involved with the youth ministry of the United Church, eventually being honored with an honorary doctorate from the
United Theological Church in Montreal in 1997. Mary died on Oct. 8, 2021 at the age of 90. Christine Teale earned her B.A. at Syracuse University, where she met her husband, Robert Howes. They had six children and her husband served as a pastor at the South Congregational Church in Kennebunkport, Maine for over 30 years. Christine continued to write, focusing on poetry and lyrics for many composers. Later, she taught English at the University of New England. Christine died three months after Mary, on Jan. 26, 2021 at the age of 94. Those three young editors went from running their own town paper to leading long, successful lives. To learn more about Buddy Pendleton or Mary and Christine Teale or read some of the news from The Neighborhood News, come join the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713, or go online at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com
Write-up from Hartford Times, 1939, exact date not known.
Courtesy of the Salmon Brook Historical Society archives
Clip from an early edition of The Neighborhood News.
News from the Granby Chamber Membership
Featured Member The Granby Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the hiring of Leisa Ritchie as its new Administrator. She replaces John French, who served six years in the part-time position before leaving at the end of February. Leisa brings a wealth of experience in marketing, sales, communications and graphic design. She currently runs a “virtual assistant” company – LMR Assist – that offers clients support in social media marketing, project management and office support among other services. Her clients are a diverse array of businesses ranging from a nutrition coach and massage therapist to a sign company and a campground consulting group. “From years of working in sales and marketing for small business owners and even owning a small print shop myself, I’ve had the opportunity to see and experience the demands placed on small business owners every day,” says Leisa. “You wear many hats and spend long hours trying to catch up on what has to be done outside of your primary role, just to keep the business running smoothly. I’ve come to understand the business of being in business and how much time it takes to do it well. That’s why I founded my virtual assistant company.” A native of East Hartford, CT, Leisa attended East Catholic High School and earned a B.A. degree from Central Connecticut. For 10 years she and her mother owned a sign company – Rich Signs and Designs – where she developed many of her marketing and design skills. That background earned Leisa positions with XL Color Inc. of Bloomfield, CT, CLEAResult of Springfield, MA and Pattison Sign Group of Knoxville, TN, doing National sales from her home office. Leisa is also a registered Reiki Master who performs energy healing sessions that help people to balance their mind, reduce stress and emotional pain. She is involved with the Rotary Club and BNI networking group among her community activities. In 2013 Leisa moved from Rocky Hill to her current residence in West Suffield, where she was married last September to Marshall Fox. The animal-loving couple live with two dogs, two cats, three chickens and a silver cockatiel bird – one of three “rescue” pets. As the Chamber of Commerce Administrator, Leisa will work to grow membership, maintain the Chamber website and social media platforms, coordinate Chamber events and help with the ongoing merger with the Simsbury Chamber of Commerce. The combined organization will officially commence operations on June 1, 2022. The Granby Chamber is located at 2 Park Place in Granby, where Leisa will maintain regular office hours on Wednesday and Friday from 10am-12noon (other hours upon appointment).
Are you interested in becoming a Member or would like more information on volunteer opportunities? Contact Leisa Ritchie at gcoc@granbycoc.org or call 860-466-0590. Your investment in the Granby Chamber of Commerce is an investment in your business and in our community. Membership Benefits include: Credibility Visibility & Recognition Information & Resources Leadership Advocacy Marketing & Sponsorship Access to Membership Savings To learn more about membership benefits visit our website at www.granbycoc.org/membership
Upcoming Events April 1
First Friday Cambridge House Brew Pub
April 12
Lunch & Learn: “Travel Trends, Do’s & Don’ts” - Bob Marx, Landmark Tours & Cruises La Figata
April TBD
Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet La Notte Waterside Grille
June 13
Golf Tournament Hop Meadow Country Club
July
Chamber Raffle
Sept. 22-24
Celebrate Granby Salmon Brook Park
The Chamber Board of Directors meet on the second Thursday of the month at The Barn in Granby.
Granby Chamber of Commerce | www.granbycoc.org | 860.653.5085
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Page 17
GMHS 2022 basketball Tournament Highlights Photographers captured these moments from GMHS boys and girls tournament games in late February and early March.
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
Tips to help train for the Granby Road Race By Rob Olson and Katie Lauder Piccirillo As warm weather approaches, many look to get outside and start running. Having a goal in mind is one way to hold yourself accountable and stay consistent with your training. The Granby Race is May 7 this year. Whether you are a veteran runner or have never done a road race, today is a great time to sign upat ghymca.org/granbyroadrace New this year is a kid’s fun race as well as t-shirts for all runners who register by April 25. We hope to provide you with some tips for your training season. Runners who encounter injuries typically do so as a result of overtraining or poor technique. A simple rule to help prevent overtraining is to not increase your run volume (time or distance) by more than 10 percent each week. Following a structured plan can help here as well. If it is written by a knowledgeable coach, it will have appropriate volume increases and decreases built in. The Farmington Valley YMCA has a coach available to help with training. When it comes to running technique, evidence suggests runners who run quietly get injured the least. How can you make your running steps quieter? It takes the whole body. Try this thought process while running.
O’Brien
Head—up! Often, we look down when we are tired. Keeping your gaze straight ahead dictates what the rest of the body should do—go forward! Shoulders—relaxed! Often, we hold stress in our shoulders and upper trapezius, hiking them up to our ears subconsciously. This robs us of efficiency and creates increased tension in our body which does not help with quiet running steps. Hands also relaxed! Same as shoulders. Keep your hands nice and loose. Your swing should be minimal, with a slight forward and back motion. Hips—forward! Put another way, keep your butt tucked under your shoulders, don’t let it slide back or stick out as you get tired. Think about trying to “run tall.” If you are as tall as possible, your hips will be forward. A good hip position will set your legs up for a successful running stride. Legs—pull! Running should be executed by pulling with your hamstrings, bringing your ankle close to your butt. By beginning the running step with a “pull”, you are setting your foot up to land quietly and lightly underneath you. Avoid shuffling forward with your feet coming only inches off of the ground. Feet—fast! Efficient running form has a high cadence. Typically, 170-180 steps per minute! In order to accomplish this,
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think about having as little contact time with the ground as possible. As soon as the foot touches the ground, pull it right back up using the hamstring. The quick contact time with the ground will make for a quieter step. Try going through this checklist when you first start out and several times throughout your run. When you finish, evaluate if the checklist helped with your goal of a good running form. It’s so easy for poor technique to creep in, especially if you are a newer runner! With the growing body of research showing that exercise, specifically exer-
cise done outside in nature, can improve mood, energy levels, and all sorts of health metrics, running is a great choice for exercise. Try using these strategies to get started with your running journey or to improve your current trajectory. If you are having trouble sticking to a plan or progressing toward your goals, remember there are lots of resources to help you. Feel free to reach out to either of us for help (granbyroadrace@ghymca. org), and most of all, don’t give up! Success in running is measured in months and years, not days or weeks.
Support the Granby Land Trust and preserve our natural heritage
What’s your favorite thing about living in Granby? If you said, “the rural feel,” “the access to nature,” or “the farms and open space,” then we hope you will consider joining the Granby Land Trust (GLT). A family membership starts at just $30 a year and provides you with invitations to things like moonlight hikes, guest speakers on nature and the environment, the Opening Night of our annual Art Show, our annual meeting/celebration, and other special events. We’ll also sign you up for our quarterly e-newsletter, and we’ll send you a GLT euro decal, which you can affix to your car, laptop, water bottle or any other place you want to show your support for local land preservation. More importantly, it provides us with the support we need to maintain the properties we own and to strategically acquire new properties to help protect our natural resources, preserve wildlife habitat, conserve farmland, and preserve our rural landscape. Founded in 1972, the GLT is responsible for the preservation of nearly 3,000 acres of land in town, as well as the maintenance of trails on a number
of those properties. These include: the 210-acre Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve on Loomis Street, the 200-acre Mary Edwards Mountain Property on Mountain Road, the 33-acre Western Barndoor Hill Preserve on Barndoor Hills Road, the 150-acre Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve on Silver Street, the 115-acre Godard Preserve on Donahue Road, the 300+-acre Katan-Ensor and Old Messenger Road Preserves on Strong Road, the majestic Dewey-Granby Oak on Day Street. For a full list of our properties and an interactive property map, go to granbylandtrust.org and click on Properties. To learn more or to show your support through the purchase of a Family Membership, go to granbylandtrust.org and click on Support Us and donate online; or send your donation to: Granby Land Trust, P.O. Box 23, Granby, CT 06035.
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April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Restore Cossitt: Project Update By Susan Werner The project to rehabilitate and preserve the Cossitt Library building is moving forward. The Friends of Cossitt Library’s application for a Pomeroy-Brace Fund Grant at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving was approved in November 2021. However, due to lost mailings, the Friends received the grant funds in early March. While this delay was unfortunate, we are back on track now. This year’s Water Infiltration Prevention Project, Phase 1 at Cossitt encompasses exterior work to repair and restore the areas on the north and east sides of the building’s upper story. The dual goals are to prevent further leaks/damage to the building and make the repairs with materials and finishes that support the historic nature of the building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Library Projects Committee, which includes the Director of Library Services, the Director of Public Works, the Library Board Chair, and representatives from the Friends, will oversee the project. Architectural Preservation Studio and Brad Schide of the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation will advise
the committee throughout the process. Funds to pay for the project come from The Friends, generous donors, and the Town of Granby. Using information from Architectural Preservation Studio’s Condition Assessment Report and 2021 Construction Documents paid for by the Friends and a previous Pomeroy-Brace Fund Grant, the team will draft a Request for Proposals (RFP) and publish it on the Town’s website and in other public media. This document describes the project and invites interested firms with experience working on historical buildings to respond. After a walk-through with representatives from interested firms, the committee will review the applicant’s proposals and conduct interviews. Once a firm is engaged, the actual work can begin — overseen by the Town’s Department of Public Works. As the Friends move into successive phases of the Restore Cossitt project, it will continue to need your help. Qualifying for some grants, such as federal or state historical grants for which Cossitt qualifies, requires raising
matching monies so that funders approve grant applications. When these grants are awarded, the Friends must have monies in hand to complete the project and then the funder reimburses the Friends after the project is finished. The Friends hope to apply for such grants for the 2023 work in addition to money from a PomeroyBrace Fund grant. These additional funds can enable us to complete capital projects at Cossitt more quickly. Friends fundraising and grant monies can then be used for other urgent needs within the Granby Library System. If Cossitt Library is part of your life today or has been in the past — please help us preserve this unique building for all of us to enjoy in the future. Visit the Cossitt and Granby Public Libraries where you can complete a Friends Membership Form, purchase a Restore Cossitt button, sticker, or car magnet, and donate to the Restore Cossitt project. Questions about the Restore Cossitt project? Contact us at friendsofcossittlibrary@gmail.com
Free Dementia Book Giveaway “Dancing With Granddad”
Page 19
TOOTH TALK by MichaelUngerleider D.M.D
Attention MOMs Does your child suffer from Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB)? Does your child exhibit any of the following symptoms? Lips-apart constantly, mouth breathing, Irritability, frequent headaches, dark circles under the eyes, chronic allergies, daytime drowsiness, restless sleep, bedwetting, nightmares, snoring, crooked teeth, ADD/ADHD, arrested growth, aggressive behavior, swollen adenoids and tonsils, low grades in math and spelling? If your child is between ages 3-12 years old and you spot any of the above symptoms, your child may be a victim of an undersized oral cavity. In other words, their jaws may not be developing properly to allow healthy breathing patterns. Researchers and Health care providers have recently discovered that the underlying cause of many of the conditions that children are medicated for, in regard to behavior problems are actually the result of inadequate sleep, caused by SDB-induced oxygen deprivation. A new all-natural oral appliance delivered by dentists addresses the root causes of SBD by reshaping the child’s oral cavity and airway to optimize airflow and promote proper nasal breathing during sleep. It will also straighten teeth and can actually prevent the need for braces in most cases. The Myobrace System has been specifically designed to promote proper growth and development of the oral cavity, the jaw and the upper palate. As these areas develop more fully, the child’s airway widens and expands, allowing every child the opportunity to breathe nasally. As they do, many of the symptoms of SDB simply disappear. When kids can breathe properly, they can begin to learn, grow, and blossom into their true genetic potential. Call our office to find out if your child can be helped. (860) 653-3220. At the Granby Dental Center, we offer “Smile Vision,” which allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with whiter, straighter teeth! Are you curious? Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION! The doctors and staff of the Granby Dental Center invite you to see all of the new and exciting advances in modern dentistry at our office. Computerized Dental Radiography allows us to lower radiation doses to our patients by 50-90%! At the Granby Dental Center, we even offer CEREC, an amazing new technology that allows us to fabricate porcelain crowns in just one visit! This revolutionary CAD CAM unit allows us to preserve more natural tooth structure and restore the tooth to 100% of its original strength! We were the first office in Granby to offer Cone Beam CT technology, allowing us to see 3-D images instantly. This aids in diagnosis and planning for Implants. If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us, or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com
Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/GranbyDentalCenter Scan the QR code below for more about our practice:
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Page 20
The Granby Drummer
Please visit granby-ct.gov/senior-services or check the Center Life Newsletter for a complete listing of health services, support groups, clubs, and ongoing activities. All persons entering the building must be members and scan in with their new membership card. If you haven’t received a new card, you will be given one upon your return to the center. 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 to register. LIFETIME LEARNING ACADEMY
Inside Alcatraz: Wednesday, April 6, 1 p.m. Presenter, Joe Ouellette. The Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary was a maximumsecurity federal prison on Alcatraz Island, which operated from 1934 until 1963 and housed the nation’s most notorious and dangerous criminals. Meet those on the guest list and take a look around at this interesting bit of history. We’ll explore the genesis of the institution, its famous guests, the accommodations and the players, the routine, the food, and the odds of an escape. Great photos too. Register by March 30. Cost $5. The Revelation of John: Wednesdays, April 13-May 25, 10 a.m. Presenter, Skip Mission. This seven-week class will explain the future events described in the Bible book of Revelation, Chapters 4-19 including the Rapture, the judgments of the seven-year Tribulation, the Antichrist, the Mark of the Beast (666), Armageddon and Christ’s return. Register by April 7. Free. How is Granby’s Baptist Cemetery Connected to the First Amendment? Wednesday, April 20, 1 p.m. Presenter, Skip Mission. This historical presentation takes us from the Great Awakening’s effect on Granby in 1740, to Connecticut, to Virginia and ultimately to the First Amendment of the Constitution. Register by April 13. Free. Smithsonian Series, Aerial America: Mondays, April 4 - 18, 1 p.m. via Zoom. Take off on a thrilling flight across America. This epic series offers rare glimpses of our nation’s most treasured landmarks, all seen from breathtaking heights. From busy cityscapes to quiet landscapes, we capture the history and the pageantry of our amazing country, which is as diverse as the people who occupy it. Sign up for one or for all. Pre-registration required. April 4, Yellowstone; April 11, Man Made Marvels; April 18, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Free MUSIC AND ARTS
Music Jam: April 13 and 27, 11:30 a.m.
SPECIAL EVENTS The Golden Age of Hollywood Through Fashion: Wednesday, April 13, 1 p.m. Presenter, Karen Antonowicz. Fashion on the silver screen during the 30s, 40s and 50s was not only glamorous, but influential. In the depression era, folks could attend movies to forget their current circumstances. The 1950s movies continued to show elegant fashions that were inspiring to audiences of that period, but the advent of television caused fashion to be split between the silver screen and the smaller TV in America’s homes. Join us as we travel through these fascinating decades and enjoy a glimpse of glamour of that golden age. Register by April 6. Cost $5. Tulip Time Dinner: Wednesday, April 20 at 5 p.m. Sponsored by Home Helpers of the Farmington Valley. Let’s celebrate spring starting with a dinner of chicken spaghetti bake, vegetables and dessert. We are excited to have Double Trouble returning to entertain us. Register by April 13. Cost $10. to 1 p.m. This is an informal gathering for those who love music and play an instrument. Pre-registration required. Free. Stamping: Thursday, April 21, 9:30 a.m. Instructor, Sharon Holness. Enjoy making several beautiful cards for all occasions. Registration required. Cost $5. HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Ask the Attorney: First Wednesday of the month, by appointment. Specializing in Elder Law. Please call 860-844-5352 to set appointment. Alzheimer’s Support: Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease can be overwhelming. Contact the Alzheimer’s Association for assistance at 800-272-3900. Chair Massage with Bev Harris: Tuesdays, April 5 and 19 by appointment. 15-minute massage is $10. Call 860-8445352 to register. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Thursdays at Noon. A group for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Join others, like yourself, to share friendship, ideas and tips on being a parent again. Free. Foot Care Clinic with Pedi-Care: Monday, April 18, and Friday, April 22, by appointment. A specially trained nurse will assess feet and lower extremities, trim, file and clean nails. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Cost $35 (not covered by insurance). Free Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Checks: Every Thursday 11 a.m. –12:30 p.m., by appointment. Courtesy of the Farmington Valley Visiting Nurses Association. Held in the Senior Center Community Room. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Hearing Screenings with Hearing Care Centers: Friday, April 1, by appointment only. Have your hearing checked by a professional audiologist. They will also clean and assess your hearing aids. Call to register. Free.
Crafting Group: Mondays, 10 to 12 p.m. Set Back: Tuesdays 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Cribbage: Fridays 1 to 3 p.m., Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Women’s Breakfast: Wednesday, April 6, 8:30 a.m. Presenter, George Ducharme. Native American Women: Their Past and Impact on our Lives Today. To register call 860-844-5352. Cost $4. Men’s Breakfast: Friday, April 8, 8:30 a.m. Mindy Gould presents Life and Career of a Retired Marine Helicopter Pilot. To register call 860-844-5352. Cost $2. Exercise Classes: New sessions will start in May. Spring Hike to Dismal Brook Wildlife Preserve: Tuesday, April 12, 10:30 a.m. Two to three miles on well-maintained trails. There are two healthy but short up-hills. Register online or by calling 860-8445352.
April 2022
TRIPS
Senior Van Service and Excursions: The Granby Senior Van provides rides for adults 60 and over. Annual donation is $10. Vehicles are accessible and lift equipped. Rides are provided for medical and personal care appointments, grocery shopping and in-town errands. Please call the office at 860-844-5350 one week in advance for scheduling. Christmas Tree Shop/Trader Joe’s, Manchester: Monday, April 11, 9:30 a.m. Cost $5 RJ Julia Booksellers, Madison: Monday, April 18, 9:15 a.m. Calling all book lovers...we will be heading to one of the state’s most famous book sellers, RJ Julia. You will have time to browse the shelves of all the latest bestsellers, classics and more. Relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the opportunity to enrapt yourself in a good book. Lunch on your own at Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale. Cost $10 Crepe’s Tea House, Southwick: Friday, April 22 at 11:15 a.m. Cost $5 New Britain Museum of American Art: Friday, April 29, 9:15 a.m. The New Britain Museum of American Art offers over 8,300 works of art including colonial portraiture, the Hudson River School, American Impressionism and the Ash Can School as well as many others. Lunch on your own at Staropolska, featuring Polish cuisine. Cost $15.
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April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Page 21
Browse & Borrow ADULTS AND TEENS
Passport to Connecticut Libraries:
April 1 – 30. Libraries across Connecticut are encouraging people of all ages to discover the power of their library card. Pick up a Library Passport at either the Main Branch or Cossitt Branch and visit at least five participating libraries in Connecticut to be eligible to win a $150 gift card for adults or a $100 gift card for children. Enjoy traveling to libraries in other towns, receive a small gift and browse their collection. Turn in your Passport by May 6 to enter the drawing. For more details and a full list of participating libraries, ask your local librarian. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library and Friends of Cossitt Library.
Celebrate National Library Week with the Granby Libraries and Four Dads Pub: April 3 – 9. Having a library card gives access to books, movies, music and—great food and drink at Four Dads Pub. Simply show your library card during National Library Week and receive 10 percent off your food order. Check out the menu at fourdadspub.com
Food Labels Decoded: Organic, Natural and GMO Foods: Wednesday, April 6, 6:30 –
7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Organic and natural labels appear everywhere and seem to beckon us with promises of improved health, but are they better for you than “regular” food products? Are they worth the additional expense? Nutrition consultant Anna Kazmierczak, MS, MBA, will help separate fact from fiction. This is the final presentation in the series Food Labels Decoded. Register online. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library. Photo Workflow Organizing: Thursday, April 7, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. Sort and arrange your photos and folders using Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad and Apple Mac laptops. Professional photographer and technology educator Andy Mars guides participants with step-by-step instruction. Register online, space is limited. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library.
Landscape as Canvas: Earth Art:
Monday, April 11, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. In the 1960s and 70s, artists like Robert Smithson, Nancy Holt and Ana Mendietta began the practice of making art using materials from the natural world. Learn more about the inspiration for the movement from Jane Oneail, art educator, and get insight into the works of several leading artists, including Andy Goldsworthy. Register online. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library and Granby Land Trust. Upcycling: 1 + 1 = New: Thursday, April 21, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Main Branch. Find ways to upcycle the clothes in your closet in this fun presentation and discussion with Sandy Salazar. Learn to transform clothing that no longer inspires you. Salazar is a practicing sustainable clothing shopper and enjoys transforming consignment shop finds into fashionable new outfits. She will also share clever ways to transform and repurpose old wedding dresses. Register online. Cossitt Seed Library: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3 – 8 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. The Cossitt Seed Library opened to the public in March and continues to offer fruit, vegetable, herb and flower seeds to gardeners this spring. Stop by for your free seed packets and be sure to check out library resources to help you plan and grow your garden. Help us expand our Seed Library when you learn to harvest seeds at future programs presented by Master Gardeners and local horticulturists.
Monday Funday for Teens and Tweens:
Monday, April 4, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Main Branch. It’s spring and we’re sprouting off about a couple of cute craft projects for ages 10 to 18. Just add water and sunshine, then watch as your egg-head grows a head of green hair! Register online; space is limited. Sponsored by Friends of the Library. Emotional Freedom Technique: Monday, April 4, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. EFT, also known as Tapping, is used by thousands of practitioners around the world to improve mental and physical health. Life coach Cris Jacobs will describe what benefits it may offer you. Handouts are available. Register online. Writers Group: Tuesdays, April 12 and 26, 5 – 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Adult fiction writers looking
GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM granby-ct.gov/library 860-844-5275 GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov
Main Branch Hours 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. Winter Sunday hours have ended Cossitt Branch Hours 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 programs, sign up for the library’s monthly eNewsletter in person, on the website, or by phone. to take the next step with their work are invited to attend bi-monthly workshops led by local writers. Exchange ideas and sharpen your skill set with creative writing prompts, character development exercises, and helpful critique responses. Register online. Time for Chess: Thursday, April 21, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Main Branch. Do you enjoy the game of chess? Players of all skill levels are encouraged to register online for friendly matches held on the fourth Thursday of the month. Drop-ins are also welcome and will be accommodated as time and space allow. Register online.
New Page Turners Book Club:
Wednesday, April 20, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Main Branch. Page Turners will enjoy quarterly themes to inspire a range of reading—the first theme being Best-Sellers from Another Day. Leading the Page Turners book discussion is veteran discussion leader Beth Morrill who led our popular Around the World book discussions. The first title selected is Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin. Baldwin was an essayist, playwright, novelist and a voice of the American civil rights movement. This novel was published in 1955. Copies are available at the library, online and through curbside pickup. Registration is recommended, but not required. Sci-Fi Book Club: Wednesday, April 27, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Main Branch. The title selected for this month is Recursion by Blake Crouch. Leading the conversation will be veteran discussion leader, Doug Soucier. Copies of the book will be available for checkout both in the library and online. Registration is recommended, but not required. FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Wildlife on Wheels, A Visit from the Forest Park Zoo: Tuesday, April 12, 11 - 11:45
a.m. at Main Branch. The Zoo in Forest Park is bringing its traveling show to the library during school vacation week. Visiting ambassador animals could include tortoises, a bearded dragon, a cockatoo or even a giant cockroach! Best for age 6 and older. Space is strictly limited. Advance registration is a must. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.
Kids @ Cossitt: Create a Garden:
Thursday, April 14, 3-4 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. For ages 4 and up. Love to dig in the dirt? Come help us create a special garden at Cossitt—we’ll provide the seeds, dirt, pots and tools, you choose the flower seeds you would like to grow and plant them in the soil. Then decorate a marker with your name and a drawing of your chosen flower to put in the garden. Watch your flower grow each time you visit the library. Sponsored by the Friends of Cossitt Library. Creature Creations: Saturday, April 23, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Main Branch. For ages 8-12. Come with your imagination ready to recycle old stuffed animals and create something completely new and original. With a little creativity, some glue and some thread, you can reassemble the arms, legs, heads and tails of many different toys to craft something uniquely yours. Ugly or beautiful, monstrous or adorable—with unlimited combinations, you’ll leave with a special new friend that will create an impression. Registration is required. Sponsored by the FOGPL. Family Yoga: Saturday, April 30, 9 - 9:45 a.m. at Main Branch. For ages 5 and up. Time to unwind and relax. Instructor Aubrey Schulz guides us through some basic poses. Please bring a towel or yoga mat. Registration required
in advance. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library. Take and Make Crafts: Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Main Branch Children’s Room. Calling all crafty kids, ages 3 and over. Stop by the Children’s Room and select a craft kit from our Craft Box to take home and complete. No registration or reservation needed. An assortment of crafts for all levels of ability will be available. One craft kit per child, please. All materials and instruction will be provided. First come, first served. Supplies are limited. Craft kits and activity sheets are also available in the Children’s Room at Cossitt Library during regular open hours. Some crafts may contain small pieces that could be a choking hazard to children age 3 and under. Sponsored by FOGPL. STORY TIMES
Good Morning Tuesday! and Good Morning Wednesday! Story Times with
Miss Joan: Tuesdays, 10:30 – 11 a.m. and Wednesdays, 10:30 – 11 a.m. at Main Branch. Miss Joan invites her preschool friends and their caregivers to sing, do a fingerplay and share a story together. Choose which day fits better in your schedule—Miss Joan offers the same program twice each week. No registration needed. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library. (No April 12) Bedtime Stories with Miss Heather: Tuesdays, 6 – 6:30 p.m. at Cossitt Branch. New day, starting April 5. Miss Heather welcomes children ages 4-7 with their caregivers for story time—pajamas encouraged. We’ll read stories and sing songs together. Each child will also receive a craft to complete at home. No registration needed. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt. Story Time On Your Time: All April at Main Branch. Too busy to attend a scheduled Story Time program? Stop by or call the library and request a
Story Time Bag for you and your baby or toddler. Each Bag contains board books, a washable toy and pages of suggested finger plays, songs and nursery rhymes to enjoy together. Keep each bag for up to one month, then return it and check out another. Each bag is unique. Place a hold in our online catalog or by calling 860-844-5275 NEW AND ONGOING LIBRARY SERVICES
Personal Service: Need help choosing books or other library materials for yourself or your family? The library’s resourceful staff are always available to help. Stop in or call for assistance in selecting your next favorite title: 860-844-5275 for adults and teens, 860-844-5285 for children. Learning at Your Library: Did you know that the library offers people free access to several online learning databases, ready to help people gain new professional skills, creative abilities, and job-seeking tips? Check out the library website’s “Online Learning” page to access LinkedIn Learning, CreativeBug, JobNow, and the Computer Skills Center to see what you can learn next. Libby: Use this app to check out up to 10 titles at a time, and read or listen to best-sellers, old favorites, and new releases—all with the click of a button. With titles that can be read on nearly any device (including your kindle!), there is something for everyone. This “digital bookshelf” allows you to place holds on popular titles and download the books people are talking about as easily as pulling out your Granby Library card. Hoopla: Granby Library patrons are able to access the hoopla digital catalog, more than 900,000 titles of eBooks, eAudio books, music albums, TV series, and more. Download the free app and log in with your GPL library card. Every patron can borrow up to four titles a month with no holds, and no waiting. Take advantage of these free digital checkouts in addition to the items you can borrow through Overdrive/Libby Use your Granby Library Card anywhere you are! Museum Passes: Granby Library Patrons can borrow museum passes that will provide visitors with free or reduced rates for dozens of museums across Connecticut and Massachusetts. Check the library website or call for more details. 1000 books before kindergarten
It’s never too early to start reading to your child. The popular program is an easy and fun way to spend time reading together. We provide everything you need. We would love to help you get started—ask for information at the Children’s Desk or call: 860-844-5275 (main desk) or 860844-5285 for Miss Joan, the Children’s Librarian.
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Page 22
The Granby Drummer
SPOTLIGHT ON
GRANBY ARTISTS
Insight into the creative process Tracy Marlor
Tracy at work using her pottery wheel.
Medium: Pottery Member of Granby Artists since: 2010. I have learned and grown as an artist by sharing knowledge with such an incredibly talented pool of local artists. Membership in other artist organizations: I am also a member of Expressions Pottery Workshop in East Granby where 55 local potters share a cooperative space honing their skills.
What made you choose your primary medium? I have had my hands in clay on and off for over 40 years! My adventure began back in high school when I took pottery as an elective and was intrigued by the potter’s wheel—once I sat at that wheel I was hooked. Working with clay honestly just captured my interest, the diversity of what you can make and how the pieces can be finished is infinite. Exploring the opportunities this medium presents has been an integral part of my life ever since and I have barely scratched the surface. I grew up gardening with my mother and continue to work in the garden to this day. I find that working with my hands and the organic nature of clay has many similarities to working in the garden. My love of the outdoors shows up frequently in my work Taking inspiration from as I integrate the garden, floral motifs impressions of adorn one of Tracy’s nature often in mugs. Submitted photos the form of leaves, shells, birds, and sea creatures into my pieces. Nature’s rich palette of colors from the blues of the sky and
ocean, the deep colors of summer flowers and the rich autumn hues are reproduced in the glazes that adorn my pieces. What is the most exciting aspect of being an artist? With the medium of clay, I can make almost anything. Although I am primarily a utilitarian potter—making pieces that can be used in everyday life—I love that I can create pieces for the sheer purpose of bringing joy to others. Everything from jewelry, holiday ornaments, piggy banks, lamps, lanterns, vases, sculpture—the possibilities are endless. Sharing my pottery and seeing others enjoy the pieces inspires me to continue expanding my skills and trying new things. Do you have any specific goals for your art in the next few years? I hope to make time in the next few years to explore making pieces that are more artistic in nature and entering local competitions. This will take me outside of my comfort zone and help me to continue to grow as an artist. Along these lines I will look to the beauty of Granby for inspiration. Any other comments you want readers to know about you. I genuinely appreciate the warm support of the Granby community and from those who reach out to me for gifts for important events in their lives. Granby is a special place and I feel very fortunate to be able to call this beautiful town my home.
Katherine Tolve
Katherine at work in her studio. Submitted photos
Email: Katherinetolve@gmail.com Instagram: @progressivepatterns Website: progressive-patterns.com Member of Granby Artists since: 2018 Shortly after moving to Granby I met my very first neighbor who was coincidentally the president of GAA. A few short months later, in the fall of 2018, I had my portfolio review and became an official member. What made you choose your primary medium? Do you work in other mediums?
April 2022
Mixedmedia work titled: “Burning while the World is Turning.”
“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one.” No one ever mentions the last part of this saying. When attending art school over 10 years ago I had a difficult time deciding on a major. Painting, photography, glass and sculpture were all equally exciting to me. Inevitably I chose to major in my first love, painting. Throughout the years my interests in other mediums have hijacked their way into my artworks and I inescapably embraced my identity as a mixed-media artist. I find inspiration in combining unlikely materials such as cross stitch, buttons, string, encaustic, resin and beads. My work varies in size and subject matter, but they all share a common thread of unique color, texture and exploration. Does Granby have an influence on your art? Absolutely! Living in Granby has provided me endless inspiration. I have devoted entire body of work to natureinspired images and have often felt the urge to create pieces that express my connection to the natural world. What is your most exciting aspect of being an artist? Connecting with other artists and creatives. My friends are very interesting, unique, and inspiring individuals. Do you have any specific goals for your art in the next few years? Make my work more accessible through exhibitions, social media platforms, and a new and improved website. Do you take art classes, workshops and or do you teach your craft? A self-described experimental painter, I have developed a vast knowledge of fine art mediums and techniques allowing me to teach a variety of classes for children and adults, I currently offer homeschool art classes and private art lessons from my Silkey Road art studio. I travel the state teaching workshops at libraries and other venues and I occasionally make teaching appearances at the Granby Senior Center. Are you a member of other art organizations? If so, which? Over the years I have collaborated with many local nonprofit organizations including the Greater Hartford Arts Council, Manchester Arts Association, and Windsor Art Center.
Artist Spotlight cont’d. on p. 23
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Page 23
NOT WANTED A campaign to raise awareness of and control invasive plants sponsored by Granby’s Conservation Commission
What’s been done, what to do, where to get plants IPAs on the Move Despite some difficult winter weather, Invasive Plant Activists made massive progress freeing a series of mighty sycamores and smaller native trees and shrubs at Holcomb Farm in recent months. Twelve volunteers brought favorite tools and high energy to the task on Feb. 12 (see photo) in the area between the horse corral and Simsbury Road. There is more to be done there, including preserving the wildlife corridor among the trees. Granby’s next Invasive Action is April 9. For more information, visit GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly.com Now is the Right Time Some of Granby’s worst invasive plants are very visible and vulnerable in April and May. For biennials and those that start from seed, roots are young and their grip on the earth is not as firm as in later months. For vines and shrubs, spring is the time to cut them to the ground before they flower and set seeds that help them multiply. Details on these plants can be found at GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly. com Search for CT’s Invasive Plant Management Calendar, an excellent month-by-month resource from the CT Invasive Plant Working Group, in onepage and 50-page versions. Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) An insidious little biennial, garlic mustard’s 3000+ seeds per plant allow
it to rapidly carpet an area in green. Pull young plants carefully from the roots before they flower. Get the whole family involved, and try to pull every last plant, and plan to do it again next year, and the next, as seeds live in the soil for several years. Asiatic Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) This vine is most visible as a mature strangler, climbing and covering trees 30 feet high or more, and requires loppers and saws. But the seeds distributed by birds, and those from the unfortunate holiday wreaths still in use, sprout all across the land and are easily pulled up by the roots when they are just twigs. Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) Digging up mature knotweed is tough, and risky because of the potential to distribute root particles, which easily reestablish. Spring is a great time to do the first of three annual cuttings, after knotweed has leafed out but before they flower. Repeat twice before early September and plan to do it for two more years to gradually exhaust the roots. It works! Check out the Nix the Knotweed campaign in southeast CT towns. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) A relatively recent invader to our area, mugwort’s proliferation has vaulted it to crisis status. Individual plants and small
Artist Spotlight cont’d. from p. 22 Any other comments you want readers to know about you. I am currently preparing for an exhibition at the Phelps Hathaway House in
Suffield titled “It’s the Little Things in Life” with an opening reception on May 7, 1 to 4 p.m.
This hardy group of volunteers freed a series of sycamores and smaller trees and shrubs at Holcomb Farm. From left, Mary Humason, Robert Humason, David Desiderato, Kathy Agresta, Melody Smith, Nick Thoms, Nicole Cloutier, Josh Anderson, Jim Watso, Cathy Watso. Not pictured: Valerie Raggio. Photo by Lee Barba
clusters can be carefully pulled, getting all the roots while they are young and tender. Larger clusters need to be “solarized:” completely cover with plastic sheeting, well weighed down, for several
months to cook the plants and their roots. Prepare to plant native alternatives after peeling back the plastic in late summer or early fall.
In Memory Of … Lamphier, Edwin P., III, 74, Jan. 18 Oliver, Lydia A. (Duprey), 94, wife of the late Leo Edward Oliver, Feb. 5 Stewart, Scott A., 55, husband of Kimberly Stewart, Feb. 14 Mele, Edward John, 55, husband of Kristine (Dellaselva) Mele, Feb. 27 Justo, Gilbert “Gil” Francisco, 90, husband of the late Gloria Marie (Mundell) Justo, March 1
Skenteridou, Anthoussa, 81, wife of the late Theodoros Skenteridis, March 1 Lawry, William “Bill” Robert, 79, husband of Virginia (Oatley) Lawry, March 3 Joy, William “Bill” S., 96, husband of Patricia Joy, March 10 Guarco, Eileen Kelly, 87, wife of Michael Bruno Guarco, Sr., March 14
Vendor opportunities for Granby Celebrates Juneteenth By Ken Mouning Granby Racial Reconciliation is offering businesses, organizations and community members an opportunity to host a booth at Granby Celebrates Juneteenth on Saturday, June 18. The arts festival will be held at Salmon Brook Park from 3 to 8:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for participating organi-
zations to share their products and/or services with the community. Space is limited and registration ends May 31. A $50 donation is requested for each vendor. Vendors will need to supply their own tent, table and chairs. For additional information and to reserve a booth, visit GranbyRacialReconciliation.com/juneteenth
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
Equine vet loves the camaraderie of Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital By Shirley Murtha When deciding where to sign on to a practice, Dr. Marjorie (MJ) Bruce chose the Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital in 2019 because of its reputation of having top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment and treatments that are hard to find at smallersized local veterinaries. She was impressed with the fact that the large animal team has
Dr. MJ Bruce makes sure she has all the supplies she needs for her first call of the day. Photo by Shirley Murtha
the benefit of a full laboratory, knowledgeable receptionists and dedicated technicians. It didn’t hurt that the practice is relatively near her family in Bedford, Mass., and she has several college friends nearby from her days attending the University of Connecticut. Bruce didn’t come to her choice without having had a pretty full background of education and work experience, but it was really inevitable that she would end up in horse-related employment. “I always wanted to be a veterinarian. I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to work with animals,” she notes. During her freshman undergraduate year, she decided to pursue another career that would allow her to have more time with her own horses. Ultimately she realized that she wanted to be more involved with the equine community and she went back to school for veterinary medicine. Let’s see how Bruce arrived here in Granby. At Bedford High School she played soccer, but mostly rode horses. She worked at her barn on weekends and after school, and competed in eventing throughout her high school years and into some of her college ones. She started at UConn in 2005 as an animal science major, but switched to chemical engineering, thinking that career
would provide her more time with her horses. In 2009 she graduated from UConn and started work as an environmental engineer. She worked as a consultant in Massachusetts, and then moved to an engineering job in Colorado for two years. Once she got to Colorado, she realized how much she missed her horses and being outside. She was accepted into Colorado State University’s veterinary program in 2013. She completed the five-year program in 2018, getting her MBA and DVM at the same time. She did her medicine and surgery internship at Rhinebeck Equine in Rhinebeck, N.Y., where she says she “was incredibly well-trained.” After that, she was hired at Salmon Brook, where she is “happy to continue to practice gold standard medicine. “I made the right choice in SBVH because it has an excellent clientele who will do what is right for their horses, and because the clinic itself has a feeling of camaraderie and family that I haven’t experienced anywhere else,” Bruce notes. She also appreciates the support system that the practice offers, which is critical in a time when there are fewer and fewer veterinarians going into equine practice and when 50 percent of them leave the field within
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their first five years. It is critical that vets be allowed to increase their value by adding skill sets beyond their college courses. For example, SBVH recently supported Bruce in further training to learn animal chiropractic, which required her flying to Kansas for a week each of the past five months. She just completed the course and is excited to be able to offer this new modality to her patients “to keep them going strong for years to come.” When asked what she likes best about being an equine vet, and what she finds most challenging, Bruce offered the following. Not surprisingly, she likes best the close relationships she has developed with her clients and their horses. “It is so rewarding to help a horse and see my patient go on to lead a healthy and happy life.” Her biggest surprise was discovering that despite her grueling internship year, she hadn’t “seen it all” by any means! She notes that she learns something new almost every day. The most challenging aspect of the job is being on call 24/7. She is happy to provide the service for her clients’ animals, but the on-call can take a toll. She is thankful that she shares the calls with the other equine vets, Doctors Weber and Wilson. Bruce’s dedication is certainly noticed by her clients, such as Linda Swedo, who is “very grateful Dr. Bruce chose to join the Salmon Brook family of veterinarians. She is the kindest person and an amazing, dedicated, compassionate and caring doctor. Her total commitment to giving her expert care and advice is so very much appreciated.” We have a feeling that there are many others who feel the same way.
Granby resident appointed to UN board Dave Roberts, a resident of West Granby, has been appointed by the National Grange Patrons of Husbandry President Betsy Huber, to represent the Grange on the United Nations Council of Organizations. This is Roberts’ second appointment to this organization as he also serves as the Lions Clubs International representative on this organization, serves on the executive committee and is chairing the 75th An- Dave Roberts niversary celebration this year. Upon learning of his newest appointment, Roberts said, “I am humbled to now hold two appointments to the United Nations Council of Organizations. My family has belonged to the National Grange since 1908 and my daughter is a fifth generation Grange member.” Roberts is very active in the National Grange organization serving as president of Riverton Grange, vice president of Mountain Laurel Pomona Grange, and Connecticut State Grange Program Director. He joined Riverton Grange at the invitation of his grandmother, the late State Representative Dorothy F. Roberts, in 1976 and has been a member ever since. He was recently appointed to two other positions: chair of the Legislative Committee for Mountain Laurel Pomona, one of three regional Granges in the State of Connecticut; and treasurer of New England Lecturers Conference. The National PTA Reflections program encourages students of all ages and abilities to explore and be involved in the arts.
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
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Cindy’s garden built Higley Garden Cart By Brooke Star Cindy and Richard Dixon would be your average couple were it not for their passions for gardening, nature, community, and animals—they have four rescue cats and a rescue dog. Cindy was always passionate about gardening but was too busy raising three daughters and teaching fitness classes to pursue her gardening hobby for any length of time. Richard, her husband, works full time as a mechanical engineer. After teaching fitness from 1999-2015, Cindy’s Achilles tendons finally said it was time to stop. After having one Achilles surgery in 2014, she required a tendon transplant in 2018. Finding herself with three grown daughters and a lot of time, she took the opportunity to reinvent her life. Richard built a greenhouse in the backyard, using upcycled wood from the old playscape and donations from people. The old rings from the playscape? They are now for hanging baskets. Richard also built a sugar shack complete with an evaporator where he makes his own maple syrup. In 2015, they started a roadside cart for the local community and people just kept coming. The cart is stocked with cut flowers and hanging baskets. Cindy also makes jars with flowers and gift baskets that can be ordered via Facebook Messenger or by dropping a note at the cart. Other items
from their greenhouse or sugar shack are jams, jellies, all kinds of vegetables, maple syrups, apple cider, grape juice, herbs, and fruits, and more. No chemicals or pesticides are used in any of their products. The cart is run on an honor system for payments, and they take cash, checks or Venmo. The process starts in January when Cindy starts planting 3,000-4,000 seedlings in the greenhouse, which are transplanted to baskets in March when the vegetables and herbs are started. By the end of April the roadside cart opens. Vegetables are ready in June and July. The jams and jellies, made from fruits grown on the property, contain no pectin. In August, cider from their apple trees, as well as brandied peaches from the peach trees, and juices appear on the cart. Meanwhile, Richard starts tapping trees for maple syrup in February. It takes 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup. He makes several flavors, including bourbon and cinnamon-vanilla, which are available from the end of August through the end of September. They even make their own vanilla extract. When you drop by, Cindy may be there with a welcoming smile, ready for some warm conversation. The cart is open from April 23 to Oct. 30 this year and is located at 139 Higley Road. For seasonal updates, visit facebook.com/13higleyRd
The Higley Garden Cart will open April 23 this year.
Richard’s maple syrup will be ready in the fall.
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Richard and Cindy Dixon on a summer hike.
Cindy in her greenhouse.
An array of flowers, fruits, vegetables, jams, cider and other homegrown and homemade products fill the cart. Submitted photos
East Granby Library Events Author Talk with Peter Floyd Sorenson Tuesday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. Join us for an author talk with Peter Floyd Sorenson, on his book Hazard Powder, the Powder Hollow Explosion of 1913. This event will be in-person at the East Granby Public Library, main conference room, but also be available via Zoom. Register at egpl.org or call 860-653-3002. Knitting and Crochet Circle Friday April 8 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Do you knit or crochet and are looking for a small group to work on your project with? Bring your own project and join us on the second Friday of the month to enjoy your craft with friends! You can sign up at egpl.org or call 860-653-3002.
Fetch! Me A Story Monday, April 11 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Register online at egpl.com under the children’s programs for your 20 -minute time slot. A registered therapy dog and handler, trained in the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.)® program, will visit the East Granby Public Library to meet individually with young readers. Author Talk with Megan Collins Monday, April 18 at 6:30 p.m. Join us for an author talk with Megan Collins, as she discusses her new book, The Family Plot. This event will be in person at the East Granby Public Library, and presented via Zoom. Register online at egpl.org or call 860-653-3002.
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The Granby Drummer
Waypoints By Mark Fiorentino
(More) Shared Memories and (More) Lessons Learned Author’s note: This is the second in a two-part series in which I look back on fishing with my kids. My aim: compare my memories with theirs to see how far apart our recollections are. I also wanted to compare lessons I hoped to teach them with what they actually learned. In February, I wrote about an interview with my daughter Ellie. I asked her questions on six topics: first fishing experience; largest fish; next bucket list fish; most fun; lessons learned; lessons taught. This month, I sat down with my son Gage and asked him the same questions. Gage is twenty-three years old and is working on a master’s degree in sports administration at the University of Louisville. He caught his first fish when he was around three. First Fishing Experience Mark: Where was the first place you fished? Gage: Utah, Duck Creek, Aspen Mirror Lake. Mark: How old were you? Gage: Five or six. Mark: What do you remember about it? Gage: I think it was the first time I had the attention span to actually focus on fishing. I was with you and Cowpa (his grandpa). We used worms and a bobber and caught a whole stringer full of trout. We cleaned them back at our cabin, wrapped them in tinfoil with butter and spices and steamed them on the grill. I remember how the
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bones just fell out of the meat. Mark: Do you like fish cooked that way? Gage: As a kid, yes. Today, I’d say there are probably better ways to cook trout. I’d pan sear it in butter with maybe some thyme, garlic and rosemary. I’m also saving a recipe I found in one of your outdoor magazines for the next time we go trout fishing. It’s for a dish almost like trout stew. My take: I smiled as Gage talked about these memories. This isn’t actually the first time Gage fished, but I understand why he remembers it. We had great times fishing with Cowpa before he passed away, and that day at Aspen Mirror Lake was epic. I’m sure Cowpa’s presence is part of the reason Gage’s memories of those times are so vivid and lasting, and I’m grateful for the influence he has had on who Gage has become as a man. But Gage’s answers
Gage and Mark with a stringer of trout. Swains Creek, Utah, circa 2005. Submitted photos
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made me smile for two other reasons. First, it’s telling that his memories include how we cooked the fish and what he would do differently today. As an adult, he loves to cook. He especially likes trying new things and challenging himself with new recipes. I also smiled (and tried to keep my voice from cracking) when he said he has been saving a recipe for “the next time we go trout fishing together.” We’ve fished less and less as Gage has grown into a man and begun his career, and it warms my heart that fishing with me is something he at least occasionally still thinks about. Largest Fish Mark: What is the biggest fish you have caught so far? Gage: The salmon hanging over the door in my room. We caught it when we were fishing in Vancouver. Mark: What do you remember about that fish? Gage: Nothing specific, really. I was only eight or nine, and we caught so many fish that trip. I do remember that the salmon were so thick in the water column and so aggressive that we couldn’t get the bait down past them when we tried to fish for halibut. Mark: How big was it? Gage: Fifteen pounds? Seventeen maybe? Mark: You really think it was that big? Gage: I’m not sure. I know, as salmon go, this one wasn’t a particularly big one, but for a kid my size, it was huge. My take: This is another trip, that like Gage, I remember fondly. But I remember more of the details, especially of his fish. At one point, about two minutes into the fight he said: “Um, Dad. A little help here. I’m going to need you to take over. I’m not strong enough to land him.” As much as I was tempted to help him, I said: “Yes, you are strong enough. Besides, you have to do it yourself or it doesn’t count.” If you are thinking that’s a strange thing to tell an eight-year-old kid who has hooked into the biggest fish of his life, you’d be right. I took a big risk making him do it himself. But he buckled down and landed the fish. It was probably closer to twelve pounds, though. Next Fish on the Bucket List Mark: What is the next fish on your bucket list? Gage: Oooh. That’s a good question. I’d say fly fishing for steelhead somewhere on the West Coast. Maybe Washington or Oregon.
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Gage with his biggest fish to date.
Mark: Why the West Coast? Gage: I think it’s the only place you can catch steelhead. Plus, I’d like to see that part of the country. Mark: Would it surprise that some of the best steelhead fishing in the world occurs in New York? Gage: Really? Where? Mark: In the Salmon River, near Pulaski. I’ll send you an article about it. Maybe it’s a trip we can do together. Gage: Sure, though I’d like to do the West Coast too. Mark: Why is this on your bucket list? Gage: It’s three things, really. First, it’s the location. I would have to go somewhere I haven’t been before. Second, it’s the fish. Steelhead are supposed to be terrific fighters. But mostly, it’s about fly fishing. I prefer it to other types of fishing, especially
April 2022
On the Farmington River. Gage fly fished. Mark caught fish.
if I’m going to make a trip out of it. Mark: Why do you prefer fly fishing? Gage: It makes me feel more connected to nature. It’s hard to explain, but there’s something about standing for an hour in a river, letting it flow past you. It’s therapeutic. Fly fishing is also challenging, and the challenge is what I like best. You have to be actively engaged: constantly observing, casting, changing flies. You know that if you’re going to catch a fish, you’re really going to have to earn it. And yet the reward is in the effort and the process, not necessarily in the catching of fish. Mark: So, you’re saying if you went fly fishing ninety-nine times and never caught a fish, you’d still go back for the hundredth time? Gage: Yes. Catching fish is a bonus, not the goal. My take: Here is where I lost the kid. When people ask me if I fly fish, I usually answer by saying: “No. I actually like to catch fish.” I mean, come on. You can enjoy nature without all the failure. But, to each his own. Most Fun Mark: What’s the most fun you’ve had fishing? Gage: Floating down the Snake River in Montana. It had everything we’ve talked about: fly fishing, iconic native cutthroat trout, and lots of beautiful country we’ve never seen before. Mark: Do you remember any specific fish? Gage: The biggest fish was the last one of the day. I caught it right before we had to get off the river. It was a very big cutthroat. The guide saw it holding in a pool of deep water just off the bank. He held the boat steady with both oars as he coached me where to cast the fly so that it would land upstream of the trout and sweep over its head. It took me like ten minutes of casting to get it right, but the fish finally took it. Mark: Did I catch any fish that day? Gage: Yes, with your Zebco reel. You caught fewer than me, but that’s because you let me stay in the front of the boat where the guide could focus on providing me with all of the best casting angles. Even so, you caught the only brown trout. My take: Father-son relationships can be hard at times. Partly because we expect our sons to inherit and exhibit our good traits and avoid our faults. We can be both simultaneously proud and disappointed when we see ourselves in our sons. Fishing, I think, has helped Gage and I with this, as evidenced by the fact that he recognized the value of being in the front of the boat and was willing and able to express gratitude for the opportunity. That was not the case four years ago when we took the trip, and at the time I was frustrated with him and myself. I am not very good at expressing gratitude, especially to the ones I love the most, and I struggled with the notion that I wasn’t teaching him any better. But our
Waypoints cont’d. on p. 27
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Page 27
Bright Spot Therapy Dogs have their day at Starbucks
The Bright Spot Therapy Dog team: from l., Karyn Cordner and Rambler, Sally King and Willie, and Paula Johnson and Deja
By Shirley Murtha The Bright Spot Therapy dogs were the center of attention at Starbucks coffee shop’s Coffee with Canines in Granby center on Feb. 28 from 2 to 4 in the afternoon. The dogs’ owners frequently stop at the coffee shop after their weekly sessions with the dogs at Bradley International Airport, and the folks at Starbucks thought it would be fun to invite the dogs in so people could get to meet them and learn a bit about what therapy dogs do. In addition to being present at the airport, where they calm nerves and help travelers to relax a bit while waiting for their flights, the dogs also visit Kelly Lane and Wells Road schools, where the children might read to them and learn dog-handling tips. They also visit the high school to calm nerves during exam times.
One parent recently said, “My son had a really bad day; he wished the dogs were there.” The afternoon time slot meant that a lot of highschoolers at Starbucks’ were pleasantly surprised to find the familiar furry trio greeting them. The staff at Starbucks was really into this special meet and greet day. They prepared special coffees for the humans (Starbarks and Wiggle Butt) and offered their delicious brownie treats. Visitors who had dogs and children at home were offered dog treats for their “fur children” and coloring kits for their human children. The Bright Spot dogs at Starbucks and their owners were Deja, Willie and Rambler; their owners, respectively, are Paula Johnson and Sally King of Granby, and Karyn Cordner of Simsbury. Deja and Willie are Australian Shepherds and Rambler is a German Shepherd. Deja is 10 years old; Willie and Rambler are each 4 years old. King and Cordner have been doing the airport gig since November 2017; Johnson joined them a year later. To find out more about Bright Spot and what training is involved in becoming a therapy dog, visit bright-spot.org
Dog biscuits, human treats and kids coloring sets awaited visitors.
The dogs are identified by their bright blue vests. Photos by Shirley Murtha
Waypoints cont’d. from p. 26 experience gave us the opportunity to talk about it, and today we’re better off for it. Plus, we caught fish in beautiful country we’ve never seen before. Lessons Learned: Gage Mark: What’s the most valuable lesson I’ve taught you? Gage: In fishing, or in life? Mark: Start with fishing. Gage: You taught me to use fishing as a conduit to enjoy other things, like spending time together. Mark: How did I teach you that? Gage: I learned by watching. By seeing the joy you’ve brought people and the memories you’ve created with family, friends and even guides. You had as much fun talking to our Snake River guide as you did fishing. I bet he still remembers you and your Zebco. And hell, you gave Cowpa one of the best last days of his life, when he knew he was dying of cancer. Mark: And in life? Gage: When I was young, too young to appreciate it, you told me: “Whenever you walk into a room, you can’t control whether you’re the smartest or most experienced person, but you can make sure that you are the most prepared.” Mark: I do remember telling you that. It’s actually helped you? Gage: Absolutely. Mark: Give me an example. Gage: Football. I knew I was never going to be the biggest, fastest or most gifted player. I made myself into a football player by being the most prepared. I studied film; watched every play. So, when I was on the field, I knew what the other team was going to do before they did it. And now it’s helping me in my career. Working in the Cardinal Athletic Fund, I’m always around people more experienced than me, but I work hard to prepare as much as I can before meetings and events.
The Starbucks staff got to pose with the dogs before the crowd arrived.
Recently, the head of our department called to ask me to do a project for him. On short notice, he needed a spreadsheet ranking the top fifty colleges based on their success in recruiting football players. At the time he called, he didn’t know my name. He knows it now. It took me 25 minutes to prepare the spreadsheet, but I spent two days doing extra research so I could provide him background information, analysis and answers to questions I anticipated he would have. My take: This is what every father wants to hear. Advice that was heard, remembered and useful. And, more importantly, a son who is willing to tell you so. Lessons Learned: Mark Mark: What is one thing you hope I’ve learned from you? Gage: That it’s beneficial to have a growth mindset. You have a fixed mindset. Practice having a more growth mindset. Be more willing to look at new things, and at old things from new angles. And honestly, I think you are doing that more, in part because I’ve challenged you to do so. My take: A while ago, my wife Kristal bought the entire family copies of the book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. The main premise of the book (which, to Kristal’s chagrin I have not read, but I’m sure Gage has) is: “People with a fixed mindset—those who believe that abilities are fixed—are less likely to flourish than those with a growth mindset—those who believe that abilities can be developed.” At my age, I don’t know how much flourishing I have left, but I do have the opportunity to help others flourish—we all do. Perhaps, at some level, that is what Gage is hoping I have learned: not to actually practice growth mindset for my own benefit, but to support him and others in their efforts to do so. I can do that. I’ll start with the next time we go fishing and break out the fly rod I never use.
A staff member wore a special skirt for the occasion.
One of many photo ops in which the dogs participated.
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The Granby Drummer
Everything you ever wanted to know about the Oak
Granby’s
Oak
From The Archives
Historic Footnotes by the late Carol Laun Compiled by Faith Tyldsley Carol Laun wrote many articles about the iconic Granby Oak, also referred to as the Granby-Dewey Oak. Three of her columns, spanning several decades, combine to commemorate Arbor Day, celebrated on April 29. In 1997, Granby Land Trust purchased the Granby-Dewey Oak property and has maintained the ancient oak since then. In an interview in March of 2022, Land Trust President Rick Orluk said that the Land Trust takes great pride in stewarding the oak. The property is mowed regularly and daffodils have been liberally planted to beautify the area. Rick especially commends Brian Watkins, owner of Arborworks, a professional tree care company, for voluntarily helping to maintain the tree. In 2021, the Arbor Day foundation sponsored a nationwide vote asking people to select America’s National Tree. From 21 candidate trees, the winner was the Oak, with Redwood, Maple, Dogwood and Pine as runners-up — arborday.org
History of the Oak
The Granby Oak was a seedling long before the white man came to these shores. Only the Indians and the plentiful wildlife saw it grow. The tree was mature by the time the settlers pushed inland to Windsor, to Simsbury and finally to Salmon Brook Settlement. The forests were cleared and the land was farmed. But the gnarled Oak escaped the woodman’s axe. The struggling band of farmers in Salmon Brook survived. The Indians were pushed west. The settlement grew and prospered. England reluctantly gave birth to a new nation and the Oak was already more than 200 years old. The Oak stood as silent observer of events. Granby became a separate town. There was a war in 1812. There were fires, floods, droughts, panics, depressions and some prosperity. The people of Granby were born, lived their lives and died. Only the land and the huge old tree stayed the same. The war with Mexico in 1846 did not disturb Granby’s tranquility. Then came the bloody and terrible Civil War. The Oak saw the young men of Granby march off to battle — many did not return. The tree on Day Street was 300 years old when our
April 2022
brash young nation celebrated its Centennial. Then came the automobile, World War I, electricity, telephones, radio, World War II — change was rapid now. But the Oak remained constant. The dirt roads in Granby were paved. The farms started to disappear as suburbia reached out. The world had gone from man on horseback to man on the moon in the space of a lifetime. The ancient tree lives to a different and more primitive tempo: the changeless rotation of the seasons; the miraculous rebirth every spring; the sun, the rain, the wind in all the different guises Nature can provide; the continuity of life! 1976 — America is 200 years old! The Granby Oak is twice that. Its branches are heavy with age and touch the ground. But it is alive and healthy and can live another 200 years with proper care. The Granby Oak — look at it, photograph it, sketch it, admire it and proudly show it to visitors. But do not climb it or damage it in any way. The protection and preservation of this magnificent tree can be our gift to future generations.
Much has been written recently about the ancient oak tree on Day Street. It was growing around 1500, long before there was a Granby or a Day Street. The land it is on has been in the possession of the Dewey family since 1734 when Isaac Dewey ventured into the frontier wilderness of the Salmon Brook district of Simsbury. He purchased 30 acres on Bushy Hill. Eight generations of Deweys farmed the land and added another 100 acres. When the old homestead was sold in 1976, the family kept about 2 acres, including the Oak. It is now owned by Leroy Dewey of Somers (at 90, the Patriarch of the Dewey family) and his brother Leslie, a Simsbury flower grower. The tree stands partly on Dewey soil and partly on Granby right of way. The Oak has had a special place in Granby’s hearts for a long time. In 1958 the women of South Congregational Church, led by the late Christine Loomis Case, commissioned New York artist George L. Hollrock to make an oil painting of the old White Oak for the Parish House. Hollrock gave an original ink sketch of the tree to Mrs. Case, which was later given to the Salmon Brook Historical Society. For a number of years, Mary Edwards and her mother, the late Helen Bunce Edwards, quietly cared for the tree. In 1968, with maintenance costs increasing, a grant from the Holcomb Fund and money from the Sow and Reap Garden Club—both from South Church—paid for spraying and pruning. Sow and Reap assumed this responsibility for the next 11 years. In 1975 the Town of Granby started using the Oak as a symbol in the town’s seal. A year later, when the Dewey farm was sold, they considered selling the tree. The Granby Conservation Commission and the Granby Land Trust started a fund drive. However, the family decided not to sell. The oak was too important to them. When the Sow and Reap Garden Club felt that they could not continue full responsibility for the tree as spraying and
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Editors Note: Those protecting the tree had no way of knowing that almost 500 years in, the invention of GPS would be the old Oak’s undoing. Box trucks directed by GPS to use Day Street as a shorter route from Rt. 189 to Rt. 20 and beyond, damaged the lowest limb that overhung the road. Although it was cabled, it finally succumbed to the damage. The “Halloween Blizzard” of 2011 and a 19- to 20-inch accumulation of heavy, wet snow felled more branches, further changing the tree’s profile. Unfazed, the old tree settled into its roots and survived, remaining the symbol of the history and enduring strength of Granby.
by Carol Laun —Granby Drummer, March 1976
ROBERT CARTER
maintenance costs had increased, the Conservation Commission was asked to help. Money to maintain the tree was raised privately in 1980 with over $300 donated by the Civic Club, Sow and Reap and two individuals. Since then the spraying program has been in the Conservation Commission budget. This year the tree was cut from the budget and the result was the establishment at the Simsbury Bank and Trust of an Oak Account to accept contributions, which the bank generously offered to match up to $500. The fund will be administered by a committee with representatives from the Selectmen, Conservation Commission, Granby Land Trust and Historical Society. A deluge of advice has been offered about the Oak, and few of the experts seem to agree. Should the road be moved or will road work damage the roots? Should the surrounding area be cleared or left natural? Should the poison ivy be removed? Should the tree receive deep or surface fertilizer or none? Should the limbs be cabled or not? (They cannot be lifted, only supported.) Should trucks over a certain height be banned from Day Street? A yearly spraying program is necessary for gypsy moths, canker worms and a fungus disease that withers the leaves. Proof that spray used is not a broad-spectrum poison is the reported nest of wild honeybees in the tree after many years of spraying. Perhaps the best advice was given by UConn Cooperative Extension foresters who said, “Don’t over-care for the tree and possibly kill it with kindness.” All things living are mortal and as we all try to achieve a kind of immortality with our children — so it is with the Oak. About five years ago an acorn from the Granby Oak was planted and is thriving. It will be moved to the grounds of the Historical Society in 1986 to celebrate Granby’s centennial.
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April 2022
The Granby Drummer
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Ways to Reduce Daily Stress Tips from the Farmington Valley VNA
As well as appearing on the Granby Town Seal, the Oak is seen on several items in the Salmon Brook Historical Society’s gift shop.
Which Granby Oak? Mention the Granby Oak and most people immediately picture the reaching branches of the ancient oak on Day Street. The Granby-Dewey Oak is estimated to be nearly 500 years old and is a symbol of the town. However, there are four other commemorative oaks in Granby. The Constitution Oak In 1902, a Constitutional Convention was held in Hartford. The delegates from the 168 towns (there are now 169) drafted a new state constitution, which was overwhelmingly defeated at the polls. Someone thought a souvenir of the convention would be appropriate and suggested little oak trees. A request was made to the United States Department of Agriculture and 168 tiny pin oak trees were presented to the delegates to be planted in their towns. The delegate from Granby was Theodore Mills Maltbie, a prominent Hartford attorney. He was a replacement for his friend and neighbor, Judge William Cullen Case. Case, who represented Granby in the General Assembly in 1881 and 1884, was unanimously elected a member of the Constitutional Convention in 1900, but he died before it assembled. At that time, the Granby Green was not cared for except just prior to Memorial Day, when James N. Loomis sent men and horses to mow and rake the grass. Therefore, it was felt the Constitutional seedling would be safer and more likely to survive on private property. The tree was entrusted to the widow and children of William C. Case, who planted it in the east yard of their home at 4 East Granby Road. In 1927, the state librarian, George S. Godard from North Granby, wrote a letter to all the state newspapers asking for a report on what happened to the oaks. Godard heard from 105 towns that had received the tree in 1902. “Twenty-two towns had no report of such a tree,” said Godard’s final report. A West Hartford man, Allen B. Cook, spent three years (1935-38) searching for the Constitutional Oaks. He found 110 alive and 36 dead. He could not find the other 22 and was not even sure they were ever planted. Cook wrote a 200-page report of his search. The state historian of the Daughters of the American Revolution located and
photographed 54 of the trees in 1953. Mrs. Charles G. Harvey and her daughter, Althea, did this as a DAR scrapbook project. In 1957, the Constitution Oak in Granby was marked with a suitable plaque by the Granby Civic Club, in a ceremony attended by Judge Theodore G. Case, who had helped his mother plant the tree when he was a boy. Following this tradition, seedlings from descendants of the legendary Charter Oak were given to the 84 delegates to the 1965 Constitutional Convention. However, Granby did not have a delegate at that convention. Two Offspring of the Charter Oak In 1968, Granby did receive “a very small grandson of the original Charter Oak.” It was planted in the center of the circle in front of the town hall to commemorate United Nations Day. The program was sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, and the tree was a gift from the city of Hartford. The Charter Oak, a white oak tree that grew in Hartford, was the traditional hiding place of the Connecticut royal charter. It was spirited away and hidden in the tree when Governor Edmund Andros demanded it in 1687. To celebrate the nation’s bicentennial in 1976, the Granby Conservation Commission requested another seedling descended from the Charter Oak. It was planted in the small park in the center of West Granby. The Civic Club funded the landscaping in the park. The tree was dedicated to Tudor Holcomb, who helped plant the seedling. Tudor Holcomb was a generous benefactor to Granby, and one of his many gifts to the town was the small park. Granby Oak II The newest oak in town was planted on Arbor Day 1986 to celebrate Granby’s Bicentennial. It was grown from an acorn from the old Granby Oak on Day Street and transplanted on the grounds of the Salmon Brook Historical Society—Granby Oak II. The new Preservation Barn is being built next to Granby Oak II, which is carefully protected from the construction. All of these oaks, ranging from mini to mighty, are thriving. These trees, whatever their size, reach back into the past and provide continuity into the future. by Carol Laun —Granby Drummer, Sept. 2006
Do you handle stress as well as you used to? With so many world events weighing on us, and our own family, work, and personal issues, it is no wonder that we often find ourselves overwhelmed. Chronic stress, especially when combined with poor eating and sleeping habits and lack of exercise, increases the chances of many illnesses. Just knowing we are under stress can create more anxiety. But rather than spiral out, let’s look at some ways to help ourselves. Our body’s stress responses gets us through hard times. When you sense a threat, your body releases stress hormones to give you energy for the “fight or flight” response. If you get stressed out frequently, or if small daily items create anxiety, the stress response can become constant and cause chronic inflammation, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia as well as other inflammatory conditions. Healthy habits make us more resilient. The best way to cope with stress is to get at least seven hours of sleep per day, eat a predominantly plant-based diet, exercise regularly, meditate, and stay socially connected. Also, recognizing anxiety when you feel it coming on is a skill. Acknowledging stress is the first step to solving it with on-the-spot relief techniques. Take a brisk walk. A quick 10-minute walk burns off stress hormones, counters muscle tension, and releases the body’s feel-good chemicals. Use laughter. Watch a funny show, read some jokes, think about some fun times in your life. Reduce loud noise. Too much input can be a stress trigger. Remove yourself, turn off the sounds, or wear earplugs. Take a mediation or prayer break. Being mindful of your surroundings and feelings can break a stressful cycle. Thinking of your senses and being grateful for them can cause
an overall relaxation. Do relaxation exercises. Slow your heart rate and lower your stress hormones by doing slow controlled breathing. Take ten prolonged breaths in and out. Use positive self-talk. Being self-critical activates a stress response. When you catch yourself talking negatively to yourself or calling yourself names, ask, “Would I ever say this to a friend”? Be your own best friend. Ask if it’s worth it. Will you remember this incident a year from now, or even next week? Try to give up the frustrations that really do not matter. Watch for toxic triggers. Some people or events can cause us acute anxiety. Have the strength to remove yourself from conversations that are not healthy for you. Count your blessings. When you wake up in the morning, count all you are thankful for before doing anything else. Find three positive things for each negative thought that creeps in your head. Set aside time for hobbies. Creative work calms the mind, as does reading, music, playing games, and watching positive old movies or shows, all provide calm entertainment. Avoid substances. Alcohol, drugs, tobacco and even excessive caffeine can increase stress. Reduce or stop use. Seek professional help if addiction seems to be present. Reach out for help. Ask someone to listen to your fears or concerns. Relieving a burden, either physical or mental, will help reduce stress. You don’t have to go it alone. If life continues to feel overwhelming, do not hesitate to reach out to your health care professional for help. Some anxiety is relieved best by medication and talk counseling. Also, if you feel tightness or pain in your chest, dizziness, or acute head pain, immediately seek medical help.
Public Works Household Hazardous Waste: Granby is again working with local towns to host hazardous waste collections this year. The first collection will be Saturday, April 23 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at 10 Monteith Drive, Farmington. For a list of accepted items, please check the Public Works page on the Town of Granby website granby-ct.gov. During 2022, there will be two additional hazardous waste collections held in Simsbury. Shredding event: In conjunction with the Granby Lions Club, a shredding event will be held at the Granby DPW, 52 North Granby Road, on Saturday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to noon. Yard Waste: Yard waste is banned from disposal in your curbside barrels. Grass and leaves are accepted free of charge at the transfer station. Brush is accepted for a fee; the charge is based on the size of the load. If possible, compost yard waste on site. Recycling: If you have questions regarding recycling, check out the website recyclect. com Try the recycling wizard—a tool that allows you to ask about a specific item. If you still have questions, call Public Works (860) 653-8960. Do not bag your recycling: Plastic bags and plastic film are a major source of contamination for the recycling plant. No plastic bags should go in your bin. To see how to recycle plastic film, check out: plasticfilmrecycling.org. Bulky waste: please remember that you cannot dispose of large items in your curbside barrel. This includes items such as rugs, chairs, wood etc. These items can damage the trash truck. Bulky items may be brought to the Granby Transfer Station or you can arrange for a curbside pickup by calling Paine’s, Inc. at 860-844-3000. Fees apply. Like us! Check out the DPW Facebook page: Granby CT Department of Public Works.
ARBOR DAY AND THE ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION In 1872, the first Arbor Day was celebrated in Nebraska. J. Sterling Morton, a resident of Nebraska City, was a tree enthusiast who recognized that the lack of trees, and all their benefits, in tree-bare Nebraska Territory was a serious deficit to the land and its people. When he became secretary of the territory, he was in a position to advocate strongly for the widespread planting of trees and is credited for bringing the holiday into being. Other states gradually added Arbor Day as a legal holiday, and today it is celebrated in all 50 states. In 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation was formed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Arbor Day. Its mission is to inspire people to plant, celebrate and nurture trees. One of its first initiatives was Tree City USA, launched in 1976. The program encourages communities to plant and maintain trees to benefit the environment. Trees reduce energy costs up to 25 percent by shading buildings and protecting them from winter winds, as well as promoting economic value—homes with trees have higher property values. Communities apply to receive recognition: requirements include that the community have both a community Tree Board and a tree ordinance, and that it celebrate Arbor Day. Today there are 3,676 recognized Tree Cities from all 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. Another program aids the U.S. Forest Service in planting trees in America’s national forests in need of reforestation. The Rain Forest Rescue program, formed to save valuable land in South and Central America, helps local communities achieve sustainable agroforestry.
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The Granby Drummer
Support your local farms at the Holiday Market Come see us at the outdoor Lost Acres Vineyard Holiday Market on April 14, from 4 – 7 p.m. This is a wonderful opportunity to liven up your holiday meals and show your support for the farms that dot our landscape, and the hard-working farmers who run those farms. It’s also your last chance to get Holcomb Farm roots and greens before the new season begins. A range of other local farms will be there with us, offering all kinds of breads, cheeses, wines, baked goods, port, beef, lamb, and more for your spring celebrations. Don’t miss out!
Kate Emery art show to benefit Fresh Access Lost Acres Vineyard will feature an exhibition of oil paintings by Kate Emery from April 29 through May 30 and Emery, who has supported the Farm before through her generosity, will donate 50 percent of proceeds to the Friends of Holcomb Farm’s Fresh Access program. Here is a brief description of the show, titled The Land That
Feeds Us: Body, Mind and Soul:
As climate change-fueled drought, wildfires, storms and other environmental challenges threaten the land that nourishes us, this exhibition of original oil paintings by Farmington Valley artist Kate Emery invites you to pause and to consider the myriad ways nature sustains our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Her creations are a reminder of the beauty and importance of both cultivated and wild lands and of all creatures that inhabit them. Bring home art from this show, and you’ll nurture your own spirit while also feeding those in need.
Giving back is part of Emery’s mission as an artist. She says, “All of my art has a greater mission: to uplift nonprofit organization working for the betterment of people and our planet.” The Friends of Holcomb Farm is truly grateful to Emery for her generous support, and to Lost Acres Vineyard for hosting this special exhibition. Lost Acres Vineyard spring hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 12 – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 12 – 5 p.m. We hope to see you there. Celebrate Mom: Plant Sale May 6 and 7 Our annual Plant and Seedling Sale is so popular that we’ve decided to host two of them this year. The first will be on Mother’s Day weekend and feature mainly hardy veggie plants, herbs and flowers. Give your mom a lasting gift that will make her smile all summer long. This sale will be held May 6 and May 7, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at our Farm Store, 111 Simsbury
Road in West Granby. Shop local, make Mom happy, be a hero—all with a quick stop at Holcomb Farm. Get Ready for Summer: Plant Sale Part 2 on May 20 and 21 Part 2 of our annual Plant and Seedling Sale will take place on May 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Here, in addition to some of the veggies, flowers, and herbs we’ll be selling earlier in the month, we will introduce some summer-lovin’ big boys like melons, tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, zucchini, and basil. Whether you’re planning to plant a full veggie garden or a few pots of herbs on the patio, Holcomb Farm is where you’ll want to start. Come see us on May 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at our Farm Store. Sunday Brunch: June 26 Plans are well underway for a familyfriendly summer celebration, a Farm Brunch, on June 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the North Barn at Holcomb Farm. This will be a fundraiser for our Fresh Access program, through which we provide healthy, farm-fresh produce to food-insecure people in Granby and the Greater Hartford area. The past two years we were unable to host our annual Harvest Dinner fundraiser, and we are excited to gather with our farm family again. We will welcome guests from our partner agencies, who can speak to the impact Fresh Access has among those in need. Entertainment will be provided by Hartford-based singer/ songwriter Brandon Serrafino. Mark your calendars and check our website for more details! Bring the whole family for this fun day out in support of a good cause. Farm Store opens June 14! June 14 marks the Opening Day of our Farm Store. Even if you missed your chance to purchase a Summer Share (yes,
April 2022
we sold out early again!), you can enjoy Holcomb Farm’s bounty a la carte, by shopping at our Farm Store. In addition to our own produce, we stock items from other area farms, including honey, eggs, beef, chicken, maple syrup, soaps, and more. Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. We will be open from June 14 through Oct. 29. We look forward to seeing you there! University of St. Joseph students to create documentary on Fresh Access Students and faculty in the digital media program at the University of St. Joseph in West Hartford are creating a documentary film about Holcomb Farm’s Fresh Access program. They are interviewing people who have been involved in the growth of the Fresh Access program since its inception, including First Selectman and former Friends of Holcomb Farm Vice President Mark Fiorentino, Farm Manager Joe O’Grady, and representatives from our partner institutions. We can’t wait to see it. Tree Trail and hiking updates The work at the Tree Trail may have slowed down a bit for winter, but the volunteers are still busy making plans for spring projects. One of these projects is a multiyear effort to produce educational panels for the back of the trail kiosk. These panels will offer information on a variety of topics including botany, birds and seasonal flowers found on the farm trails. The Holcomb Tree Trail would like to thank the Granby Education Foundation for providing grant money to print these weatherproof panels. Look for them this spring. This is just a brief update: lots more is happening, all designed to make sure that this historic property serves the Granby community. Anyone with questions about the Friends Organization, or the Farm itself, is invited to reach out through our website, or by email to info@holcombfarm.org If you’d like to receive emails from us, please sign up on website (click on the “Welcome” tab to submit your info) or contact cathy@ holcombfarm.org and ask her to add your name to our list!
April 2022
The Granby Drummer
Granby resident campaigns for state governor
Page 31
Sponsor an American Flag
Granby Lions Club offers flag dedications By Lion Deborah Klotzman
Left, Susan Patricelli Regan is with Peter Lamaj, a Senate candidate, at the Connecticut Republican Assembly Convention, on Feb. 19. Below, Regan attended the Salisbury RTC Candidate Forum March 1. Submitted photos
About 15 years ago, the Granby Lions Club decided to honor the town’s veterans and/or citizens from Memorial Day through Labor Day, just as neighboring towns were doing. To that end, the Lions sponsored the purchase of American Flags for display throughout Granby center. Interest in this project was high, but funds were needed to purchase the flags, poles, and so forth. The club determined the best way to fund the project was to offer Granby residents the opportunity to sponsor a flag in honor of a loved one. Of the 68 flags displayed, just over half were dedicated. During the ensuing years, Granby Lions have continued this tradition by replacing worn out flags as needed. A recent inventory of flags and supplies determined that it was time to replace everything and start anew. The American Legion Shannon-Shattuck Post 182 assisted in the purchase of the necessary supplies and will properly dispose of the
old flags. This bulk purchase depleted our reserves, so the Granby Lions Club is again offering Granby residents the opportunity to dedicate a new flag in memory of a beloved veteran or private citizen. Donations will go towards covering these expenses now and into the future. For a donation of $100, name(s) may be placed on a flagpole and remain there in perpetuity. The Lions will continue to work with Granby’s Public Works Department to inspect and replenish supplies when warranted. What follows is a listing of the existing dedications for 36 of the town’s flags. Because of the limited number of flags available, multiple dedications of a single flag may be necessary. We ask that you limit your dedication’s wording to “In memory of (name)” or “In honor of (name).” You may include their service branch as well. Donation checks should be payable to Granby Lions and mailed to P.O. Box 191, Granby CT 06035.
CURRENT FLAG DEDICATIONS (Wording From Existing Labels) In Memory Of SPC Richard C. Emmons III – 7/8/88 – 5/31/2011, Enduring Freedom In Honor Of Granby Veterans
Susan Patricelli Regan, 2022 Connecticut Republican gubernatorial candidate, continues to present her campaign platform to groups around Connecticut. On Feb. 16, Regan spoke to the to the Windsor Locks Republican Town Committee, and on Feb. 17 to the New Hartford RTC members. Regan attended the Connecticut Republican Assembly Convention on Feb. 19 in Meriden. She spoke at the CTRA Hartford chapter meeting in Simsbury on Feb. 23. At the request of several members, Hebron RTC Chair Amanda Veneziano invited Regan to their monthly ZOOM meeting on Monday Feb. 28. Regan also attended the Salisbury RTC Candidate Forum on March 1. Salisbury Chairman Tom Morrison assembled a terrific panel of candidates for an evening of positive Republican Energy. Other participants included Dominic Rapini, Peter Lumaj, George Logan, Terrie
Wood, Themis Klarides, Leora Levy and two local candidates. Also attending were members of Sharon, North Canaan and Goshen RTCs. On March 3, Regan attended the opening of the Republican National Committee Outreach Center in New Britain. RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel was the keynote speaker, along with Connecticut GOP Chair Ben Proto, 5th District Congressional Candidate George Logan, New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart and others. The Outreach Center was established to engage the minority communities on Republican values. On March 14, she presented her gubernatorial campaign objectives to the Fairfield County CTRA in Trumbull. March 16 brought her closer to home when Regan addressed the East Granby RTC and then the Winchester RTC on March 17. See susanforct2022.com website for all updates and future campaign activities.
Art award presented
Susan Patricelli Regan, president of the Sylvia Davis Fine Arts Scholarship Foundation, virtually presented its award in the Connecticut Regional Scholastic Art Awards ceremony on Feb. 12. The first year of the charity’s coalition with SAA was mutually successful and plans are in place for the foundation to increase its financial award in 2023. For more information on this 501c3 and the opportunity to donate visit sylviadavisart.org Submitted photo
Ted Lepkowicz Melisa K. Fusick Jim Jones William F. Hart Atty. & Mrs. Philip D. Main Stephen Olivieri Jimmy Morin Rod And Janice Reynolds Ed Zdun Barbara/Robert Merrick Howard W. Gore Beckett, Ani, Harry Cashman Michael F. Fusick Andrew L. Mangold Jeffrey R. Fusick Lt. Col. David E. Hunn, WWII Kenneth McFarland, Vietnam Veteran In Memory Of Seth Holcombe In Honor Of Robert N. Beman
In Honor Of Oliver Ellsworth Robert Purinton & Beverly Purinton In Memory Of Matteo T. Mignone In Honor Of Bill Sproull In Memory Of Tommy Basil – US Navy In Memory Of Rozell Stidd In Memory Of George F. Havens In Honor Of Air Force SSGT Peter S. Goff In Memory Of Navy Firecontrolman 3rd Class William C. Austin Luke Milan, Killed In Action – Afghanistan 2007 In Loving Memory Of Our Father And Grandfather Lt. Commander Edward J. Wilmont William T. Conroy Sr., William T. Conroy Jr., William T. Conroy III Sgt. David J. Spatcher Jr. -- 5/18/217/21/44, WWII, Pacific Theater In Memory Of Ralph J. Stupak, WWII Veteran Elizabeth/John Cavanaugh, East Granby Republican Town Committee
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The Granby Drummer
April 2022
Closer to Home
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Soul Sound Revue will perform at Granby Celebrates Juneteenth on June 18. Submitted photo
Granby Celebrates Juneteenth Saturday June 18 By Ken Mouning, Granby Celebrates Juneteenth Committee Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 18. Granby Racial Reconciliation will host the first Granby Celebrates Juneteenth festival at Salmon Brook Park—an arts festival from 3 to 8:30 p.m., celebrating Granby’s growing diversity. To mark Juneteenth, the newest federal holiday,
the festival will be preceded by educational and community outreach activities. The event will culminate with a concert by Soul Sound Revue performing wellknown hits in the true Motown Tradition. All events are free and open to the public. In the event of rain, the celebration will be held on Sunday, June 19. For more details visit GranbyRacialReconciliation.com/juneteenth
May 2022 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, April 13 at noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message. Email: ads@granbydrummer.org ARTICLES: Monday, April 18 at noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222. Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: April 13-24 Call or email for times. The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222. Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at granbydrummer.org
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Action Carpet 22 Arden Courts 19 Beman’s Hardware 15 25 Berkshire Hathaway - Anam Zafar 7 Berkshire Hathaway - Nancy Reardon Brignole Bush & Lewis 2 C & S Quality Handyman Services 29 Cahill’s Motors 11 Carmon Funeral Home 5 Carter Robert Painting 28 26 Cetera Investors Chiropractic Care of Granby 6 Christopher Bryant 18 D’Agata-Perry Granite & Bronze 31 Edward Jones – Jim Hammel 17 Evans Automotive 12 First Congregational Church 15 Gary’s Mowing 12 24 GEF Gran-Bee Granby Chamber of Commerce 16 Granby Dental Center – Dr. Ungerleider 19 Granby Dental – Dr. Kirschbaum 9, 27 Granby Food Bank 4 Granby Public Works Haz. Waste Day 18 Granby Self Storage 20 GRR Juneteenth 23 Higleyville Coin 6 LAFD Auxiliary Rummage Sale 13 Larry’s Construction 4
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Mark Brady Kitchens Martel Transportation MeadowBrook of Granby Melvin Porter Electrical & Plumbing Morawski Cleaning Neckers Toyland O’Brien Nurserymen Old Farms Landscaping Premier Energy Route 10 Tire Salmon Brook Apartments Sanditz Travel Santa Realty Shaffer Beacon Mechanical Sig’s Plumbing & Pump Small Town Septic South Church State Line Propane/Oil Subseven Sullivan Hardwood Floors Swim Center at Westminster Thomas Sullivan - Morgan Stanley Tim Kronk – William Raveis Realty TJ Bark Mulch Troiano Oil Company Two Park Place ValleyBrook Community Church Westfield Bank Windsor Federal Savings
Drumrolls Samantha Gove has been named a Newman Civic Fellow. The UConn sophomore is double majoring in sociology and human rights with a minor in psychological sciences. The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes and supports community-committed students who are changemakers and public problem-solvers at Campus Compact member institutions. Fellows are nominated by their president or chancellor based on their potential for public leadership.
Home Equity Line of Credit
Financial flexibility for all your big plans.
1.99% APR For the life Prime +0% of the loan
the first * For 3 months
Having a plan is great. Getting a special deal on a Home Equity Line of Credit to help make it happen? That’s better. There’s no annual fee, and no minimum draw required. You’ll have a 10-year draw period (interest-only payments), and a 15-year principal & interest repayment period—all from your regional community bank. Apply online, call 1.800.995.5734, or visit our new bigger and better Granby, CT office at 12 East Granby Road.
*This Home Equity Line of Credit requires monthly payments to be automatically deducted from a Westfield Bank checking account. Account must be opened prior to closing. After the initial 3 month introductory period, the interest rate will be Prime rate as published in the Wall Street Journal, currently 3.50% as of 3/17/22, with an APR of 3.50%. After 3 months, the interest rate will be variable and may increase. The maximum APR is 18%. The minimum interest rate is 3.50% with an APR of 3.50%. Rates are for owner-occupied properties only. Maximum loan-to-value (LTV) is 80%. Processing fee of $99 will apply if line of credit is approved and closed. Borrower-paid appraisal required for loans equal to or greater than $400,000 or for loans less than $400,000 where the bank is unable to determine a value using the standard method. Appraisal costs are $515 for a single family property or $690 for a 2-4 family property. Other closing costs may vary based on the line of credit amount requested. Property insurance is required. Offer may be rescinded at any time. Member
FDIC
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