Granby Drummer | July/August 2020 by Granby Drummer

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Volume L, No. 10 • July/August 2020

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Making history, every day

What a month it’s been. What a time we are living in. While the Drummer is showcasing its 50 years of history, we are creating new history every day. How will future residents view these times? Let’s all seek awareness, stay safe, become even better neighbors and continue to support our local community. And, enjoy summer! Community Conversations. The Granby community has responded to the national conversation on racial injustice with a number of opportunities to engage, as covered here in the Drummer. The town, under the leadership of First Selectman Scott own Kuhnly, sponsored an online meeting for an all “open dialogue so our community can have alk their voices heard.” by Jim Lofink Over 130 residents participated on June 11 “to share their stories, experiences, thoughts and ideas.” Kuhnly reported it was very healthy discussion with some very worthwhile suggestions, and it was unfortunate that after 1 hour and 26 minutes, the Zoom meeting had to end with a ‘bot’ attack (google ‘zoombombing’). As public meetings by law have to be open to any and all who wish to attend, this is a liability of the online format. He plans to continue these inclusive conversations

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with face-to-face meetings, in compliance with social distancing guidelines. Watch for them to be posted at granby-ct.gov COVID re-opening plans continue. Re-opening teams have been working on specific plans for the schools and town buildings and services, as well as individual department plans. See Granby.k12.ct.us/ news or Granby-ct.gov, respectively, for up-to-date news. With Phase 2 just starting as I write this, these plans will continue to evolve. The Board of Selectmen appointed Dave Watkins, a Granby native and retired Chief of Police, as the volunteer Long Term Recovery Coordinator. Watkins and a committee of 11 other residents will be working to identify unmet needs, and then help seek resources to address them. Thanks to all those helping with this planning for their service. Taxes are due July 1, or pay within 90 days with 3 percent interest. A reminder that the Board of Selectmen adopted the Governor’s “Low Interest Rate Program” executive order granting all taxpayers an additional 90 days (until Oct. 1) to make payments subject to only a 3 percent annual interest fee, versus the standard 18 percent rate for late payments. This is open to all Granby taxpayers, individuals and businesses. There is no requirement of proof of “significant economic impacts by COVID-19” or other

Town Hall Talk

cont’d. on p. 5

Preparing for when the other shoe drops … By Michael B. Guarco, Jr. Chair, Board of Finance Life has been very different—if not surreal—for all of us through this initial pass of the pandemic. It locked us down in our homes to varying degrees, is impacting our family incomes just as erratically with some making more not working than when they were working, while others have seen their income reduced or totally dried up. It’s been a hell of a ride and we are not necessarily through it yet. This fall and winter we can anticipate enduring a second wave of the virus joining the echoing effects of this first round and compounding the effect on how we live and work. Next year may bring a sense of déjà vu—a feeling that we are living through more of the same surreal experience while waiting for life to return to normal. Government at all levels, including public sector unions,

needs to be sensitive to the economic stress and collateral damage brought on by the pandemic and ensuing shutdowns. As the nation prepared for the spread of the pandemic and state-level lockdowns were put in place, the Board of Finance chose to hold the current year’s mill rate flat for the upcoming fiscal year as well, even as costs crept up by 1.83 percent. The consensus was that at this moment in time, a zero percent change in the tax rate was appropriate given the uncertainty in both the lives and incomes of our townspeople. The real impact of the shutdowns on the overall town budget has yet to manifest itself and will do so to a greater degree in FY21, which begins on July 1, and in the following fiscal year. While the municipal and school business offices will close current FY20 books that reflect an improved financial strength, what we encounter through the upcoming fiscal

Pandemic’s impact on Granby

cont’d. on p. 11

Residents of Granby and their friends and neighbors from nearby towns gathered in Granby center in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Photo by Amy Geigner

Granby gathers in a show of support for Black Lives Matter By Sarah Merrill The June 3 “protest” in Granby center began as one resident’s heartfelt desire to manifest support for the black community. The original idea, a humble gathering of friends and like-minded community members, quickly burgeoned into an impassioned assemblage of over 400 people. Social media certainly has its downfalls, but one of its obvious advantages is spreading the word. Thus, the message spread like wildfire that there would be a “peaceful gathering in support of the Black Lives Matter movement” in the center of Granby at 5 p.m. And despite a few instances of miscommunication and negativity, the overriding emotion that built around town was enthusiasm. It became clear that a significant portion of Granby’s population had a desire to gather in order to speak out against systemic racism and communicate a desire for change. Residents of Granby and their friends and neighbors from nearby towns— everyone dutifully wearing their masks—lined Routes. 10 and 202, Route. 20 and Hartford Avenue, fanning out from Granby center, carrying their homemade signs. While the mood at the beginning was quiet and somewhat tentative, as the crowd grew, so too did the energy. The signs carried a variety of messages. A great many read simply Black Lives

Matter, in support of the movement of the same name. Other messages included, “Acknowledge your white privilege,” “Silence is violence,” “Police history is racist history” and “Hate does not make America great.” A number of individuals penned signs to communicate their outrage regarding George Floyd’s death. A variety of chants were picked up and repeated by the crowd. As rush hour traffic moved through the center, the great majority of cars and trucks honked in support, feeding the positive energy. Attendees describe a number of very special moments, such as a black Fed-Ex driver who got out of his van to yell his thanks to the crowd. As captured in a wonderful collection of photographs by local photographer Amy Geigner, the crowd included many families with children of all ages. Geigner, who grew up in Granby, says she was “happily surprised” to see how large the gathering became, and she says that she found at times she became fairly emotional. When the crowd began to disperse, there was an impromptu gathering of speakers in front of the gazebo. About 50 people gathered to listen to four young black men share their thoughts. They had been spontaneously convened by Granby Bearcats football coach Jamaieke King, who says, “I felt it was very important that our voices be heard.” He was right—it was very important.

Black Lives Matter cont’d. on p. 9

Photo by Peter Dinella

Page 2 The Granby Drummer

MAY 18, 2020

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES

Present via Zoom: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, John D. Ward, Town Manager

Minutes

On A Motion by Sally King, seconded by Mark Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of May 4 with the correction by Neumann of section VIII, to read: Selectman Neumann, Republican Town Committee member not chairman, as stated in the minutes.

Unfinished or tabled business

July/August 2020

Consideration of RFP for broker services for Kearns School The administration wants to proceed with issuing an RFP for a real estate broker for the purposes of selling the F.M. Kearns Primary School, located at 5 Canton Road. A draft contract was presented to the board. It was reaffirmed that general practice is if a broker finds a willing and able buyer, their commission is earned even if the seller decides not to go forward with the sale. In addition, whether town-voter approval should be added to the RFP was mentioned. John Ward noted that by town charter, any sale of the town property has to be approved by a citizen vote not just a vote by the Board of Selectmen or the Board of Finance at a Town Meeting. It was recommended to add “potential sale is subject to town voter approval.” If there are simple changes that don’t change the intent of the RFP, Ward can make those changes. On a motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to reaffirm their approval to issue an RFP for a real estate broker for 5 Canton Road.

Business

Resignations and appointments to be considered Vacancies: Conservation Commission (1). Kuhnly stated if anyone would like to serve on a board or commission, they should contact Christine Chinni of the Democratic Town Committee, Mark Fiorentino of the Republican Town Committee, or the Town Manager’s Office. Consideration of Connecticut Department of Transportation Award Grant This is the second year of a two-year grant from the Connecticut Department of Transportation, which is a grant we have received since FY2006-07, and requires some matching from the town. The grant funding is combined with municipal dollars to employ a full-time Senior Van Driver. The grant application for Fiscal Years 2020-22 was approved at the BOS meeting on April 15, 2019 to be submitted to the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation. The grant amount for FY2020-22 is for $28,641 and requires a 50 percent match that is already factored into the Senior Center budget. On A Motion By King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the State of Connecticut Department of Transportation grant award of $28,641. As in the past, a Board of Finance appropriation will be requested. Consideration of transfers to suspense This is an annual agenda item. It is a list of accounts that the Collector of Revenue deems to be uncollectable after years of attempts to collect them. This year, the Tax Collector is recommending $29,589.40 be transferred to the suspense book. Taxes due on the list remain collectible if the parties can be found. This otherwise

identifies for the books that these funds cannot be collected. On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the transfer of the May 11, 2020 uncollected tax list of $29,589.40 to the suspense book. Consideration of Pomeroy Brace Foundation Grant Award The Friends of the Cossitt Library successfully applied for and obtained a grant award from Pomeroy Brace Foundation in the amount of $28,000 to be spent on a Pre-Development Studies Project for the Cossitt Library building. This does not require any matching funds from the town. However, the project will increase the expenditure line item in the Capital Equipment/Improvement Fund that was not budgeted in the Fiscal-Year -2019-20-adopted budget. The grant check to the Friends of Cossitt Library issued by the Hartford Foundation will also increase the Miscellaneous Revenue line item in the Capital Equipment/Improvement Fund by the amount of $28,000. This is basically an accounting issuing showing the money coming in and going out. On a motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve increases of Miscellaneous Revenue and the Cossitt Library PreDevelopment Studies Project line items in the Capital Equipment/Improvement Fund budget by $28,000 and forwards this request to the Board of Finance for approval. Consideration of establishment of a Long-Term Recovery Committee The Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) and the Governor’s Office have requested that the town create a Long-Term

Recovery Committee to assist Granby in the recovery from the impact of COVID-19. It has been the experience of FEMA that these longterm committees are very useful. The goals of this committee are to assess and identify the needs of the community and to recommend solutions for funding, assistance, and how much and how often. The format will then be folded into the town’s emergency plan for future disasters. The committee would consist of nine members and shall be appointed by the Board of Selectmen. Each member will represent a different interest: clergy, business owner, restaurant owner, social services, attorney, medical field, etc. The town manager will be taking suggestions of interested individuals and will return the appointments to the Board of Selectmen. A Long-Term Recovery Coordinator is also sought to chair the committee and be the liaison to the Region 3 DEMHS Long Term Coordinator. Those working with this committee will be Town Manager Ward, Emergency Management Director Eric Vincent, interim Town Planner Dominic Caruso, and Town Planner Abigail Kenyon when she returns. The biggest challenge will be keeping the scope focused because it is almost open-ended. It was noted that this committee will not replace the CERT Team and the Long-Term Recovery Committee Coordinator is a volunteer position, as are all members of the committee. On a side note, the Ward thanked the CERT TEAM for helping Sandra Yost, Senior Center Director, in delivering food to inbound seniors during this crisis. Neumann agreed this is a worthwhile committee and an action that is needed to address the COVID-19 pandemic. If it becomes more than a temporary committee, it could possibly be part of the charter and brought up for discussion during the next Charter Revision. Ward indicated this is a temporary committee for a minimum of six months or most likely one year. After that time, it could become permanent or establish protocols/guidelines to merge into the Town Emergency Manual. The committee may also disband. At this point, the town is just reacting to a directive. On A Motion by Kuhnly, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to create the Long-Term Recovery Committee with the charge as presented.

Town Manager Reports

Budget Operations–April 2020 Ward reviewed the budget operations for April indicating Local Departmental Revenues to be at 133 percent. Tax collection is at 102 percent and Auto Supplements are 50 percent higher than expected. Building permits have doubled the projected budgeted amount totaling 205 percent and Inland Wetland permits are double the budgeted amount as well, totaling 239 percent. General Fund Revenues are at 101 percent. Fringe Benefits are something to monitor as it is at 96 percent and we still have May and June to pay for. Emergency Management is almost over budget. We are hoping for at least three-quarters of the money to be returned. Total General Fund Expenses are at 84 percent. COVID-19 Expenses Ward presented a rundown of the current COVID-19 expenses. The town expenses and Board of Education expenses to date are approximately $77,000. Reimbursement requests for these are being submitted to FEMA through the state. FEMA pays 75 percent of the allowable cost. There is no time frame for payment.

BOS

cont’d. on p. 3

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A humanitarian organization providing emergency assistance, disaster relief and education

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 3

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES

BOS cont’d. from p. 2

Ward will provide regular updates. Kuhnly reported there is a change in the Phase 1 openings this week. Salons will not be opening as originally stated and will now open on June 1. The state is asking Granby to bypass zoning regulations in regard to restaurants wanting to use parking lots and roads to set up tables. This will be challenging for the Health District. Phase 2 will begin in late June or early July. Phase 3 will be in August or September, which will be geared toward some of the larger spectator gatherings. It is evolving on a daily basis.

First Selectman Reports

Kuhnly thanked all town staff and departments for taking care of town services, its citizens and all they do in this crazy world that we are living in right now. He also read a letter from Jim Hall, on behalf of the American Legion, announcing the cancellation of the Memorial Day Parade and events. The Legion will continue the tradition of placing flags in the main cemetery and the nine outlying cemeteries and do so in a safe manner.

Adjournment

On A Motion by King, seconded by Kuhnly, the board voted (5-0-0) to adjourn the meeting.

JUNE 1, 2020 Present via Zoom: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, and John D. Ward, Town Manager First Selectman Kuhnly read a statement indicating the Town of Granby wants to start a conversation and will be hosting a forum to discuss racial issues as they impact the town. The idea is to start a conversation to generate ideas to start inclusion for all, and to learn with open minds and open hearts. Information of when and where will be posted on the town website.

Public Session

Kelly Ann Moffa, 20 Copper Hill Road, addressed the board with a suggestion. She believes there is a potential for Granby to join the Sustainable Connecticut program. She has been an intern with the program and is now working for the Capitol Region and Granby is in her region. She indicated this is a great program and it would be easy for Granby to be certified as a sustainable town. Kuhnly asked her to send some information to the Town Manager about the program and how to get involved. Moffa briefly reviewed the program stating there are nine categories within the certification with two levels of certification, bronze and silver.

Minutes

On A Motion by Selectman King, seconded by Selectman Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of May 18. Consideration of Establishment of Long-Term Recovery Committee The purpose of this committee is to help the town prepare for future disasters. It has been the experience of FEMA that such committees are helpful. The committee will come up with a list of needs of the town and a plan to address those needs. Town Manager Ward has prepared a list of proposed appointees. Of those appointees, he has appointed David Watkins, former Granby Chief of Police as the coordinator of the committee. He is an excellent choice with very impressive service to the town. A list of names and

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the category each member would be representing was mentioned. The makeup of the committee is requested to consist of a broad spectrum of citizens from the community. It is intended that the committee may reach out to other citizens in each category for input and suggestions. It was noted that the ninth proposed appointee had been selected after the memo was written. The appointee selected is Ginny Wutka, a business owner in town. The Ex-Officio Members are: B. Scott Kuhnly, First Selectman; John Ward, Town Manager; Jordan Grossman, Superintendent of Schools Proposed Motion One: The Board of Selectmen hereby appoints David Watkins as Granby’s Long-Term Recovery Coordinator. Proposed Motion Two: The Board of Selectmen hereby appoints the following individuals to Granby’s Long-Term Recovery Committee: Philip Main, Sandra Yost, Lori Blackburn, Eric Vincent, Walter Mission, Clark Pfaff, and Sandy Flagg. Proposed Motion Three: John Ward and Jordan Grossman are appointed ex officio to the committee. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the proposed three motions.

Business

Consideration of Proposals for Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit Program One application has been received from Foxfield F.A.R.M (For a Recovery Mission). This is to subsidize program costs of the six-week training course offered to U.S. Veterans and First Responders with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). King and Ohannessian both commented they think this is a great program and that it targets the right people. On A Motion by Ohannessian, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the application received at the public hearing and forward for submission to the Department of Revenue Services. Consideration of Solid Waste Fund Appropriation for Transfer Station Ward reported Kirk Severance is recommending some maintenance be done to improve the Town’s Transfer Station. The gates are showing their age and should be replaced. He has a quote for sliding gates in the amount of $6,000. Trees have grown to the entire top of the transfer station and should be cut down. They do not have the equipment to do this in a timely fashion. Estimated cost for the removal of trees is $5,000. It is time to grind out the brush again this year. Estimated cost to do this is $7,000. None of these were budgeted in the fiscal year 201920 adopted budget. An appropriation from the Solid Waste Fund balance in the amount of $18,000 to fund these projects is requested. On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to authorize an appropriation of $18,000 from the Solid Waste Fund Balance to fund three Transfer Station projects and forward this request to the Board of Finance to approve. Consideration of Capital Equipment Loan The fiscal year 2019-20 Town Budget includes approval for the loan purchase of buses, maintenance equipment, and technology equipment as recommended

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by the Board of Education for small capital purchases. The municipal capital plan for Fiscal Year 2019-20 includes a purchase of a conventional cab truck. In addition to the usual small capital five-year loan agreement, the town is asking for the approval of: A two-year loan program through the Q and D fund for the Board of Education’s one-to-one computing program to purchase Chrome Books for students in the amount of $83,578 at a rate of 2.20 percent A three-year loan program to replace five copiers in Town Hall offices in the amount of $16,000 at a rate of 2.30 percent With a lease program, the town is able to spread purchase costs over several years. The Board of Finance recommends this practice. Liberty Bank offers an interest rate of 2.25 percent for a five-year loan agreement. Because of the long-term relationship the town has with the bank, Liberty Bank is recommended. Ohannessian was unclear what the $543,120 was for. The breakdown for that amount was given: Town truck, $171,407; Technology equipment, $250,652; and Maintenance equipment, $121,061. It was explained that the purchase has already been made with general fund dollars. We are now refinancing that amount to pay back the general fund for this fiscal year. Resolution Whereas, the Town of Granby has entered or is entering into Equipment Lease/Purchase Agreements (“Promissory Note”) and Loan Agreements in an amount up to $543,120 for five years, $83,578 for two years and $16,000 for three years, with Liberty Bank; Now Therefore Be It Resolved, that these Agreements are hereby approved, and that the action of the official of the Town of Granby in signing these Agreements on behalf of it be, and is hereby, ratified, confirmed, and approved; and Be It Further Resolved, that the Town Manager of the Town of Granby, be, and is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to sign on its behalf the Agreements and any addenda, schedules, notes, UCC financing statements, or other instruments issued under the provisions of the Agreement, and any other instruments or documents which may be necessary or expedient in connection with agreements upon or in fulfillment of the provisions of the Agreements. On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to adopt the resolution above.

Town Manager Reports

Ward reported Granby Public Library has started a Curbside Pickup Program. Residents may call and order items they wish to borrow. They will be gathered and ready for pick up in the lobby from noon to 3 p.m. Hours may be expanded at a later date. Director McCue reported on-line services have quadrupled in the last few months. In partnership with the Farmington Valley Health District and Priority Urgent Care of Unionville, the town will sponsor free drive-through COVID-19 testing in the parking lot in front of the Senior Center on June 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Anyone interested in getting tested is encouraged to call and be evaluated before June 8. The phone number is 860-470-7710. Phase 1 for re-opening began May 20. Seven restaurants in Granby have filed for permits for outdoor seating. Phase 2 is the next target date scheduled for June 17.

Restaurants may open indoors, gyms, movie theaters, museums and public libraries may also open. Youth sports may begin and social gatherings of up to 50 people may be allowed. Phase 3 is targeted for July 20 with more openings and gatherings of up to 100 people being allowed Everyone eligible to vote in the Aug. 11 primary will be sent an absentee ballot application in the mail by the Secretary of State. By Executive Order 7QQ, all voters may vote by Absentee Ballot if there is not a federally approved and widely accepted vaccine available at the time. The polls will be open for the Aug. 11 primary. The Registrar of Voters has a safety program in place.

Bond Projects Update

Bridges The firm WMC has been chosen as the design engineer for the Griffin and Hungary Road bridges. The State has begun the engineering design work for Moosehorn Bridge and construction will likely be 2022 or 2023. Donahue and Simsbury Road bridges will likely begin construction in 2022 or 2023. School Projects Middle School Roof: Northeast Collaborative Architects was chosen to perform architectural services. Preliminary paperwork has been filed with the Department of Administrative Services for the school construction grant. Project will go out to bid soon. Building #1 Staircase and Science Classroom: Northeast Collaborative Architects was chosen to perform architectural services. Technical drawings and specifications were shared with the School Project Building Committee on April 23. The grant application is scheduled to be submitted on June 10. Both committees have been very busy. They are hoping for construction to begin next year. The High School Roof replacement timeline is dictated by the Department of Administrative Services. This grant will be considered in November 2021. MIRA Ward also gave an update on MIRA. They were not able to get the funds to update the facility. It looks as though the waste will be shipped out-of-state, most likely to Ohio or Pennsylvania. There has been no official notice as of yet. It is not likely the state will be coming up with the 3 to 5 million dollars to update the facility. Our contract will be good until 2027. We have until next year to opt out if we choose. Ward filed an RFP for alternatives and has received one response. He is still evaluating that. Selectman Ballard inquired if there have been any updates with Agbotics. Ward reported he has requested a written plan from them. We need something more solid to work with. Kuhnly would like to see them come back for a question and answer session.

First Selectman Reports

Kuhnly re-read the statement he read at the beginning of the meeting. He also reminded people of the town sponsored COVID-19 testing on June 8. More information can be found on the town website.

Adjournment

On A Motion by King, seconded by Ballard, the board voted (5-0-0) to adjourn the meeting. Respectfully submitted, John D. Ward, Town Manager

PA R K P CE

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Page 4 The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor

editorials, commentary & letters to the editor Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial staff and publisher. Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer.

Republican Town Committee Encourages Setting an Example for Others to Follow

We are at a crucial revolutionary moment in history following the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd, among countless others. It is a rare and pivotal moment that presents an opportunity for sweeping and indelible transformation across our town and the nation to finally and boldly acknowledge that Black Lives Matter. This is an opportunity that will not be lost. The Granby DTC is committed more than ever to work and advance real, structural change to combat 400 years of systemic racism. One of the primary methods we are working to initiate this change is by engaging local government and faith leaders to immediately open lines of communication with the community to listen to the concerns of our black and brown neighbors, and find a way to provide an enduring clear and direct place where issues and concerns may be immediately communicated, addressed and then resolved. Local government and other town and state leaders must be fully engaged and committed to this process as we work to find genuine long-term solutions. Fundamental change must occur at the local level to truly take shape and we are committed to finding ways to make that essential fundamental change happen. As a predominantly white town, it is incumbent upon us to make a strong and concerted effort to listen to our neighbors of color and ensure they are given the same equality and respect that some have taken for granted for too long. We cannot prioritize one life over another because of the color of their skin. We will act not only against racism but as anti-racists, call out racism as we see it and find and provide opportunities within our town to educate against it. The Granby DTC is not and will not be silent during this time and will work to move forward to affect changes to bring about and support the equity and freedoms that should have been there all along. Approved unanimously by the Granby Democratic Town Committee, June 7, 2020 Fran Armentano, Dominica Benyi, Fran Brady, Matthew Brady, Daniel Chapple, Margaret Chapple, Chris Chinni, Vickie Dirienzo, Lynn Guelzow, Brian Hickey, Tannia Hotchkiss, Bill Kennedy, Sally King, Audrey Lambert, Robert Lesko, Celia Lofink, Jim Lofink, Monica Logan, Erik Lohr, Heather Lombardo, Saverio Mancini, Stephanie McGuire, Thomas McGuire, Fred Moffa, Len Murray, Dave Roberts, Ellen Thomson, Amanda Webster, Brandon Webster and Deborah Zanella

As great as Granby is, together, we can make it better. Together, we can help to end racism and injustice. Together, we can help to ensure that our town is a place where everyone feels safe, valued and heard. A place where we consciously work to understand and respect each other. A place where we recognize our ability, and responsibility, to act with openness, kindness and compassion. Together, we can make a real, meaningful change by focusing on a few simple things. Please join us in: • Connecting with fellow Granby residents. Go out of your way to get to know someone new. • Taking the time to actually listen to the concerns and ideas of others. Focus on understanding and respecting other viewpoints, even when you disagree. • Remembering that understanding, respect, openness, kindness and compassion are not partisan principles. • Getting, and staying, involved. In the coming weeks, there will be increased opportunities to participate in discussions, forums and working groups. Take advantage of them. In short, let’s do what we do in Granby: set an example that others can follow. Sincerely, John Adams, Mark Anderson, Florence Bischoff, Jim Caldwell, Beth Cherbino, Nancy Colton, Gary Ellrod, Mark Fiorentino, Mike Guarco, Diane Hernsdorf, Roger Hernsdorf, Kevin Hobson, Lowell Johnson, Paula Johnson, B. Scott Kuhnly, Lynn Lochhead, Mark Lockwood, J. Ward Mathis, Mark Migliaccio, Melissa Migliaccio, Jane Miller, Steven Muller, Mark Neumann, Eric Myers, Josephine O’Leary, Liam O’Leary, David Peling, Kelly Rome, Brennan Sheahan, William Simanski, Sarah Thrall, David Tolli, James Tsaptsinos, Jessica Tsaptsinos, Rosemarie Weber, Paul Willis, Alfred Wilke and Mary Zlotnick.

FIND US

Democratic Town Committee Statement in Support of Social Justice and Call for Action

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

KEEP US IN THE LOOP 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.

Support GCF I learned about the Granby Community Fund from a co-worker who was a member and resided in Granby as I did. After attending a meeting and hearing about the work and commitment of the members to raise funds for community organizations in one annual campaign, I became a member! The Granby Community Fund is one of the few community funds remaining in the state and as we are now into our 60th year and heading into unsettling times, we, as a community, need to make sure that the Granby Community Fund continues and grows with its yearly grants to organizations which provide services for Granby, West Granby and North Granby residents. Ellen Shilkret, Assistant Treasurer and Director At Large

Letters

cont’d. on p. 5

GRANBY FOOD BANK The Food Bank reopened on June 23!

We currently need: Canned tuna/chicken meats Taco meal kits, salsa Salad dressings and condiments Cookies, crackers, popcorn Boxed cereals Dish soap, laundry soap Paper towels, toilet paper

A volunteer, non-profit publication established in 1970. The Granby Drummer (ISSN 1547-1497) is published monthly except January and August by Citizens for a Better Granby at 11 North Granby Road, Granby, CT 06035. It’s delivered free of charge to all Granby households and businesses. Out-of-town subscriptions are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Granby, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE GRANBY DRUMMER P.O. Box 165 Granby, CT 06035-0165 Copyright ©2020 Citizens for a Better Granby, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization all rights reserved. CBG Board Kathy Norris, President David Tolli, Vice President Roger Hayes, Treasurer Becky Mikus, Secretary Flo Bischoff, Carol Bressor, Karen Cleary, Sam Mikus, Lew Noble Staff Rita Isaacson, Managing Editor Chris Levandowski, Copy Editor Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Mindy Borrego, Carolyn Carter, Nancy Dudenhofer, Karen Cleary, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley Reporters & Contributors Lori Blackburn, Jennifer Benson, AnnMarie Cox, Marisa DeLuca, Mark Fiorentino, Bernadette Gentry, Mike Guarco, Jay Harder, Carol Laun, Jim Lofink, Joanne Mayornick, Amy McCue, Shirley Murtha John R. Nieb, Camden Robertson, Lisa Salazar, Pam Sherrer, Jessica Tsaptsinos, Faith Tyldsley, Kristine Vincent,

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

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

Town of Granby Meeting Calendar Check Town of Granby website or call Town Manager’s office to verify date and time, and get information on how to participate on Zoom. Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Mondays, July 6, July 20, August 3, August 17

Board of Education, No meetings until September Inland Wetlands & Watercourses, 7 p.m., Wednesdays, July 8, August 12

@GranbyDrummer

The Granby Drummer

Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages

Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Mondays, July 27, August 24

Social Media www.facebook.com/Granby-Drummer

July/August 2020

Development Commission, No meetings until further notice.

Subscriptions & Delivery Sam & Becky Mikus

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

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 5 Op-Ed

Can we talk about race? By Ken Mouning

Like religion and politics, race has become a taboo subject that people don’t want to talk about. But we need to talk about it! Over the past few weeks, many of my White friends and co-workers have been reaching out to me with compassion in their heart asking me two basic questions: What can I do? and How can I help? Many of them have been touched by recent racially charged incidents such as the death of Ahmaud Arbery, the 25-year-old Black man from Georgia who was killed while jogging. Then came Amy Cooper the White woman in Central Park who called the police on Christian Cooper, a Black man who was lawfully watching birds, while she illegally unleashed her dog. She told the police that he was threatening her life. Fortunately, the video that Christian was taking told the truth. Then came George Floyd, the man who was suspected of committing a $20 forgery crime, who died after a police officer put his knee on his throat for 8 minutes and 46 seconds…he couldn’t breath, and then he died!

Letters cont’d. from p. 4 Lila Innes remembered My fondest memory of Lila Innes is hearing her unforgettable laugh echoing through Cossitt Library. No library silence there! Among the many ways she encouraged a love of reading in children was allowing them to sign out their own books, in the time before computers—even though my five-year old Susan used three lines to print her name. And when Karen borrowed a book on how to make a doll house out of boxes and scraps (and made one), Lila happily exhibited it in the library for weeks. Some years ago, I gave a history talk to the Civic Club and was asked to join. I said no, because I don’t like to cook and didn’t want to bake for meetings. Lila immediately offered to bake when it was my turn and she did so, right through to Christmas 2019. Lila was my neighbor and our family remembers hearing their donkey bray loudly, sounding like a rusty gate. She also had extra kittens. I sent the kids over to choose a kitten and they came home with two—of course we kept both of them. Lila Innes was one of Granby’s treasures and she will be long-remembered. I’d love to hear her laugh again. Carol Laun

My responses to my friends and co-workers have been pretty straight forward: Invest some time and energy in getting self-educated by reading books and watching documentaries that tell the other side of the story. Quite honestly, much of what we learned in American History class in middle and high school was a one-sided story. A friend of mine starting reading the book Waking Up White by Debby Irving where he found this quote, “Education is learning what you didn’t even know you didn’t know.” (Daniel J. Boorstin) That’s a powerful statement on ignorance—education helps to remove ignorance from your life. After you start to learn a little, invest some time and energy in having some open and honest conversations with some people of color, whether one on one or in a small group. Notice I said “some” conversations. I probably should have suggested “many” conversations, but “one” conversation is definitely not enough! We all have stories to share. Have a heart to listen with empathy to get a better understanding of what it is like to live as a Black person in America. Through the telling of stories, we can learn from each other and develop relationships that will enrich our lives and impact generations to come to think and act differently than we have in the past.

Town Hall Talk

If you SEE something, if you HEAR something, you must SAY something. Having a White person become an ally to people of color is what it is going to take to make change possible. You need to be able to hold yourself and others accountable for the words they say, the actions they take, the laws they legislate, the judgements they implement. Wrong is wrong, no matter the color of your skin. But if you don’t speak out against it, the problem will continue. A few weeks ago, we had a dynamic open and honest conversation on race in Salmon Brook Park. It was intended to be a “Lunch and Learn” session, but interestingly no one brought their lunch—we all gathered together (with appropriate social distancing) to just talk about race. Whether you join us at the next gathering or start your own conversations, be courageous and keep the conversation going. I believe that’s what it takes to impact change on race relations in America. Ken Mouning and his family have been Granby residents since 2004. He is a Director at UBS Realty Investors, LLC in Hartford. He is a current board member of the Granby Rovers Soccer Club and GMHS Athletic Booster Club. He has also served as a member of the Granby Board of Education Equity Taskforce and is a former member of the Granby Education Foundation board.

Dr. Rick Kirschbaum GENERAL DENTISTRY IMPLANTS

Dr. Vince Steniger GENERAL DENTISTRY

cont’d from p. 1

requirements. For those who want to pay in-person at Town Hall, check the town website first for up-to-date instructions. Property developments. The former Maplewood Farm (170 North Granby Road), unused for the past two years, finally sold to Coward Farms of Southwick, a family-owned plant nursery and Christmas tree farm. Today the former dairy barn was being demolished, so we shall find out what they have planned, soon. The 130-unit apartment complex across from Floydville Road, known as The Grand at Ridgewood, was sold by Upstream Properties for $33 million to a real estate joint venture. Construction on the approved 50 single-family homes there has not yet begun. Detailed maps for Station 280, the approved 235-unit apartment project at 280 Salmon Brook Street, have also been submitted to the town, but no construction timetable has been set. On the town-owned former Kearns school, no public offers have been made as of this writing, and a commercial broker is still being sought. Other News: In addition to the round-

about construction, in July the town will start re-surfacing (paving) of town roads including Acorn, Heather, Nestor, Lost Acres, Harvey, Donahue, Elizabeth and Crest. Watch for road detours and closures, especially bikers. The library has started curbside pickup for books, and reports that online rentals more than doubled in the past two months. Parks and Rec is rolling out revised summer programs, as are Senior and Youth Services. Capital (bonded) projects, including bridges and school projects, are still in the engineering and design phases, no major construction appears to be planned for this summer. This summer is finally upon us. As schoolage kids have been home for months, this is a different transition than usual for young families. With re-opening, we are venturing out a bit more. Cautiously. The new normal is not normal yet. In time, we will find out what that is. Meanwhile, let’s continue to strive to keep Granby the Pride of the Valley. Enjoy summer! —Jim Lofink

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Page 6 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES MAY 12, 2020

Present: Mark Lockwood (Chair), Jonathan Boardman, Margaret Chapple, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers, Brennan Sheahan. Also present was Dominick Caruso, acting on behalf of the Director of Community Development. Per Executive Order, this meeting shall be held remotely; commission members who speak shall introduce themselves each time they speak; members of the public who wish to speak shall introduce themselves and state their address.

Action on the minutes of April 28

On A Motion by C. Chinni seconded by E. Lukingbeal, the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve the minutes of April 28. Commission discussion regarding seasonal outdoor dining. Zoning Section 8.16 et al. M. Lockwood opened discussion. The Governor’s office has announced a temporary reopening phase for restaurants effective May 20 permitting outdoor dining with new criteria. In support of assisting Granby restaurants, without causing them any additional burden, he asked the commission members if current Zoning Regulation, Section 8.16 would require temporary modifications. Lockwood asked Chapple to share her insights with the anticipated Governor’s Executive Order. Chapple said the Executive Order, which would expedite Municipal Zoning Amendments, should soon be issued by the governor. She shared it is expected that it will expedite modifications to municipal laws, ordinances, and regulations to ensure greater flexibility for local governments to respond to COVID-19, Section 8-3b. She said a draft document will cover areas of modification for permitting and the approval processes for outdoor activities; expedite municipal review of outdoor dining; parking; application process; approval and regulated conditions; appeal process and authority of the Zoning Enforcement Officer and more. During the meeting, Lockwood received notification and announced the governor’s Executive Order JJ had just been released. Lockwood displayed the Executive Order JJ for members and the public to briefly scan. Lockwood stated that members should read the Executive Order in detail independently. Chinni added from perusing it, the Executive Order appears to cover the topics members were planning on discussing that evening. D. Caruso commented that he would discuss this with the Zoning Enforcement Officer and keep the commission updated. B. Sheahan expressed a deep concern over the Executive Order, he believes it does not go far enough to support restaurants. Lockwood stated that the commission cannot overrule an Executive Order.

Lockwood stated the next scheduled commission meeting is May 26, however, should the need arise for a Special Meeting beforehand, that could be arranged. It was noted members of the public had a desire to speak. On A Motion by Chinni seconded by Lukingbeal the commission voted (7-0-0) to reopen the Public Session.

Public Session

Paula Johnson, 289 Simsbury Road, West Granby is encouraged by the Executive Order noting it is a good start. Scott Riley, Cambridge Brew House, added outdoor dining is a good thing, that he has multiple concerns—from losing money to keeping the public safe. Jamie Chan and Kristin Garcia, doing business at 10 Hartford Ave, raised specific questions about outdoor seating/dining. M. Higby, Freshies Café, was concerned with the time it would take to get approval. Chinni noted that the commission cannot do more than what the governor’s order permits. Caruso recommended that restaurants can give a narrative and sketch out their proposed outdoor dining plan and turn it into the town office for review. The Development Department is creating guidelines to provide to the restaurant owners. Lockwood noted the commission does not have control over the Fire Marshal or Farmington Valley Health District. He stressed the commission wants to support restaurants quickly, efficiently and for the safety of all, adding the commission will not add roadblocks to the process. It is assumed the Executive Order does not include wineries or breweries. The Public Session closed.

Commissioner Reports and Correspondence

After reviewing the Governor’s new Executive Order, Lockwood will work with Caruso should there be a need for a Special Meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission, noting there is flexibility to do so. On A Motion by Chinni and seconded by Chapple, the commission voted (7-0-0) to adjourn the meeting.

MAY 26, 2020

Present: Mark Lockwood (Chair), Jonathan Boardman, Paula Johnson, Eric Lukingbeal (arriving late), Eric Myers, Brennan Sheahan. Also present Interim Town Planner Dominick Caruso. Per Executive Order this meeting shall be held remotely; commission members who speak shall introduce themselves each time they speak; members of the public who wish to speak shall introduce themselves and state their address. Seating of alternates, if applicable.

P. Johnson was seated for C. Chinni M. Lockwood confirmed a quorum and asked the commission to add an item to the agenda— Receive an Application and Set Public Hearing (item 5.b) for property located at 80R Donahue Road for a 1,320 sq ft residential-use garage. On A Motion by Johnson, seconded by E. Myers, the commission voted (5-0-0) to add item 5.b under section Receive Applications and Set Public Hearings for property located at 80R Donahue Road.

Action on the minutes of May 12

On A Motion by Myers seconded by J. Boardman, the commission voted (4-0-1) to approve the minutes of May 12, with one correction: governor’s Executive Order JJ should read governor’s Executive Order MM. P. Johnson abstained.

Public Hearing

Re-subdivision application of Jeffrey and Cheryl Bliss proposing one additional building lot at 103 Petersen Road in an R-50 zone. File P-2-20. D. Caruso shared background information of this application. The application is to re-subdivide a 2.6 acre lot with 420’ frontage on the west side of Petersen Road in a R50 (Rural Residential) Zone. A single-family home occupies the 2.6 acres lot. The proposal would create two lots. The existing home will remain on 103 Petersen Road, which will become a 1.45 acre lot with 210’ frontage. The second home will become a 1.15 acre lot with 210’ of frontage. Both lots conform to zoning. This is the third application to re-subdivide this lot. The two former approvals (2011 and 2015) were never filed with the Town Clerk and are therefore null and void. Per FVHD, retesting of the soil is not necessary; the septic system is approved as in the last two applications. He noted the only remaining issue is the dedication of Open Space per Section 3.1.3. Prior to the filing of the final mylar(s) the applicant shall either submit the Fee in Lieu of Open Space to the Town or file a document, suitable to the commission that requires the payment of the Fee in Lieu of Open Space at such time the lot is sold. The Fee in Lieu of Open Space is $4,242. Applicant, Cheryl Bliss, 103 Petersen Road, addressed the commission. She stated the 2011 and 2015 deals fell through. She has a new buyer. Answering commission questions, Bliss stated she will file the mylar(s) this time and that there have been no other changes affecting this application. Bliss formally requested to be allowed to utilize the “fee in lieu of open space dedication” procedure (Section 3.1.3.15 of the Subdivision Regulations) to satisfy the open space requirements.

The hearing was opened for Public Comment. There was none. Caruso commented he is okay with this application and reiterated that the applicant will need to file a mylar(s). Answering a question, Bliss stated, as directed by a prior commission approval, a shed had been removed. Lockwood declared that the Public Hearing will remain open and be continued to the next meeting of June 23, 2020. Receive applications and set public hearings Special Permit and Site Plan application of Borghesi Building and Engineering Co. proposing a bank with drive-thru facilities at 12 East Granby Road in a CC Zone. File Z-12-20. There were initial comments made about windows, parking and retention pond. The application is set for Public Hearing on June 23. Application seeking a Special Permit for property located at 80R Donahue Road for a proposed 1,320 sqft garage. File Z-13-20. Caruso noted this is a simple application for a residential-use garage storing 4-5 vehicles. The application is set for Public Hearing on June 23. Consideration of the above application, where the commission has concluded the public hearing. The Public Hearing remains open for the 103 Petersen re-subdivision application.

Staff Report and Correspondence

Lockwood asked Caruso to update the commission with the new temporary outdoor dining measures. Caruso noted a form with guidelines was developed and sent to restaurants before the May 20 deadline. Six (Han Asian, @ the Barn, Verdura Tapas, La Figata, Freshies and Cambridge Brew Pub) outdoor dining permits have been approved by the town and the FVHD. Restaurants are required to erect a wall or fence, plantings, some type of barrier. Boardman had a concern with Han and Verdura outdoor seating arrangements occupying sidewalk space making handicap access unattainable. Caruso will look into those concerns.

Commissioner Reports and Correspondence

Lockwood noted the next meeting is June 23. He appreciates the commission’s flexibility if called upon to include another meeting prior to that should the need arise. On A Motion by Johnson seconded by Boardman the commission voted (6-0-0) to adjourn the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

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Granby Education Foundation inspires art and compassion The world changed abruptly in March, upending the education system in a few short days. The Granby Education Foundation (GEF) responded with initiatives designed to bring smiles and relief during a turbulent time. Staying Home, Staying Creative To uplift students missing school and raise the community’s spirit, the GEF created the Staying Home, Staying Creative social media project, focusing attention on the artistic and musical talents of Granby students. Art pieces from chalk art and paper hearts to Impressionist-inspired paintings and videos of musical performances were submitted over the last 10 weeks. The artists’ submissions and the community reaction have been heartfelt. All artwork can be seen on the GEF’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Graduation Signs The loss of the traditional graduation ceremony and activities for the Class of 2020 was an unfortunate consequence of the coronavirus crisis experienced nationwide. To make this time more special for our seniors, the GEF printed signs for each graduate with their senior picture and name. The signs were a surprise and set up along the GMHS driveway when the seniors picked up their caps and gowns. They were also displayed for public viewing at the municipal complex and high school. Seniors took their signs home after the

display. The graduates and their parents showed their appreciation in comments on social media: “My senior thought it was cool and every parent I know has cried. Thank you!” and “As a 2020 senior I’d like to thank you! I’ve been really sad about the whole graduation situation and when I pulled in yesterday to receive my cap and gown, I was shocked to see this surprise.” The photos can be viewed and downloaded at classof2020.granbyeducationfoundation.org Tribute Program for Educators Teachers have risen to the challenge of distance learning, spending countless hours researching resources, talking to families, and modifying their lesson plans. To honor these heroes without capes, please consider a donation of any size to the GEF Education Tribute program, honoring a teacher, community member, administrator, coach or counselor who positively impacts Granby students. All honorees will be recognized on GEF’s social media, website and annual report as well as in The Granby Drummer. Details can be found on our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages. The Granby Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that continues to thrive, thanks to generous donations from the public. Donations can be made at our website or send to Granby Education Foundation, P.O. Box 351, Granby, CT 06035. Working together, the GEF will continue to enrich our community with quality arts and education programming for Granby residents of all ages. Graduation signs displayed along GMHS driveway.

Graduation signs displayed at municipal complex. Submitted photos

Preserving Granby’s pandemic memories By Carol Laun The coronavirus has ushered in a unique opportunity for Granby residents—preserving memory of the COVID-19 pandemic experience for future generations. The Salmon Brook Historical Society and the Granby Public Library are working together to gather stories about how the pandemic has affected life. How is your family coping with the “stay at home” scene for work and school? What are your thoughts on what the future will be? What do you miss and how do you pass the time? How has Granby changed? Do you look at life differently now—how so? What is

better as a result of the lockdown? Your photos, letters, essays, drawings or recordings will become a part of Granby history. We encourage children to draw pictures or write stories about the changes in their lives. The generations that follow us will read our words and see through our eyes how it was to live through the 2020 Pandemic when they visit the historical society archives. Please send your material to Salmon Brook Historical Society at P.O. Box 840, Granby, CT 06035 or email to claun9713@gmail.com For more information or if you have any questions, call the Granby Public Library, 860-844-5275.

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Page 8 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION MINUTES MAY 6, 2020 Board Members present via Zoom: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino, Melissa Migliaccio, David Peling, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, and Dwaritha Ramesh and Jack DeGray (Student Representatives). Absent: Brandon Webster

Superintendent’s announcements

This week we are celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week. Students and families have truly honored them by creating videos and signs. Additionally, today is National Nurses’ Day and last week we celebrated National Principals’ Day. As announced by the governor yesterday, schools will not return for the remainder of this school year. It remains to be seen what will happen with summer school and the beginning of the school year in the fall. If students are struggling with school or social/ emotional needs, please contact your principal and teachers. School social workers, psychologists and social workers are all available to help you as well. Mr. Dunn will be speaking to the BOE regarding graduation and end-of-year activities for the high school. Our hearts truly go out to our high school seniors. There was nothing to communicate on specific plans relative to graduation and end-of-year activities until yesterday, because it was our hope that we would be back in school. Regarding summer school, there will be guidance going out from the state. The state has been in contact with local organization running camps to ensure that we are aligned. Families will receive information regarding this. We have been communicating with the Hartland Superintendent and Open Choice Office on a regular basis to make sure our families from out of town are up-to-date. The district is working with the public health department to find a safe way for students to pick up personal items left at school. Parents will be hear directly from school principals with plans to enable students picking up personal belongings left in lockers. A reopening committee will be formed to establish how to best reopen schools in the fall. Waiting for guidance from the state on what opening in the fall should look like. The committee will be led by Central Office administrators, a BOE member, as well as medical, parent, student, and union representation. We are continuing our relationship with the Farmington Health District on a program entitled Resiliency Grows Here. This is a program sponsored through the Farmington Valley Health District that will be instituted in grades K-5 in the fall to assist with the social and emotional wellbeing of students. It will be open to grades 6-12 in the following year. The district is offering additional technology workshops for families. Workshops were held at the middle school and will be available for elementary and high school families as well. Further communication will be coming from the schools. I am happy to report that the GEF Program, Stay Home, Stay Creative, is very successful. Thank you to parents and students who are sending pictures and videos to post. Thank you to McKenna Ryan who performed a song from the musical Mamma Mia! this week to start off staff appreciation week. Unfortunately, students worked hard on this musical and were not able to perform it. Interviews for the Assistant Superintendent position

have been completed and a final candidate has been selected. The candidate will join me at the May 20 meeting to meet the board and the community. Migliaccio thanked Superintendent Grossman, stating that these are interesting times to be a new superintendent and that he has led the district very ably during these times. The communications as a parent and a board member have been excellent. Thank you for your and your team’s work. Mark Fiorentino inquired about the meals program and if it was still getting good usage. Grossman said yes, the numbers have been very consistent week to week.

Student Representative Reports

Jack DeGray spoke about SAT exams; however, his audio was not clear. Junior planning was held last week and this week. Students spoke to counselors about what they will need to do to prepare for the college application process. Fiorentino inquired if the guidance counselor meetings will be held via Zoom or teleconference. Jack stated it will either be a Google Classroom or Zoom meeting but can also be via e-mail. Dwaritha Ramesh stated although she is disappointed about a regular senior year, she is making the best of the situation and trying to think ahead. She said that distance learning is going very smoothly and going even more smoothly as time goes on. It has become a new normal. AP classes are ramping up and AP exams will be held next week with different versions of the exam. Middle school student, Sydney Henry (grade 7), informed the board that distance learning is very good. There are many positive things happening. For example, Ms. Bryanton holds a virtual art club classroom where students can post art, drawings and photos. Additionally, many teachers hold Google Meets every week even just to say hi and check in with peers and teachers. Ms. Buckley held a review Google Meet for an upcoming quiz. It has been a great way to connect with peers and teachers. Overall, distance learning has been great and is getting easier every week. She stated she is enjoying it. Migliaccio inquired how many hours a day does she do work? Sydney stated she starts around 8 a.m. and ends around 10-11 a.m. and attends meetings in the afternoon. Middle school student, Chase Alexander (grade 8), stated district learning has posed some unique challenges for students but the biggest surprise is how smooth the transition has been. He misses his friends and the social interaction. Teachers are trying ways to stimulate that environment by using Google Meet quite frequently with unique games and conversations. Mr. Hershon also held a lunch hour to discuss topics. Since spring break ended, a feedback day was instituted where no new material is assigned on that day. This has allowed students to get work done or improve upon previous assignments. He stated distance learning has been a positive experience and is surprised how he is still able to learn while appreciating and enjoying it as well as interacting with teachers and students. Migliaccio inquired about extracurricular activities and if he has found any way to compensate for missing those. Chase stated there will be an attempt to hold a Bridges Meeting next week. Sarah Thrall asked the students how they get themselves motivated. Sydney stated she gets up early and that distance learning has flexibility. She just enjoys learning but Google Meets motivates her to keep going because of her enthusiasm to share. She tries to finish her work in the morning so she will have time in the afternoon. Chase stated he has the

same thought process to do his work in the morning. Dwaritha stated that motivation definitely has been tough but she is still doing all of her work. She does not get up at 8 a.m. as she is most productive later in the day/evening starting her work around 10-11 a.m. Jack stated he likes to do this work when he wakes up so that he can enjoy the rest of the day.

Interim Assistant Superintendent’s Report on Grading

Marian Hourigan, interim assistant superintendent, provided an update on grading for elementary and middle school students. She said district and school leadership teams have come together to adjust grading procedures to best reflect the changes in delivery of instruction. For elementary students, the third trimester report card will look different this year. There will be two sections: one section will indicate the standards taught in numeracy, reading, writing and science and the second section will contain comments related to students’ participation, areas of strength and areas for continued growth. Grading practices at the middle school will continue as they were prior to distance learning; however, teachers are relaxing some deadlines when posting grades or forgiving some missing work, when appropriate. Grades are intended to provide evidence of student progress and help to identify students needing more support or a new challenge. Grading at the high school using the Connecticut State Department of Education guidance to districts to use a Pass/Fail system as a basis for student grades during distance learning. It was decided that the high school will provide the option to receive a Pass/Fail for fourth quarter courses or receive traditional letter grades on a percourse basis. Both AP and UConn ECE programs have confirmed they will accept Pass/Fail. Students need to communicate their preference to their school counselor by the end of the first week in June.

Minutes

A motion was made by Thrall and seconded by Weber that the Granby Board of Education adopt the consent agenda. This motion passed unanimously.

New Business Special Education Update on Distance Learning

Aimee Martin, director of pupil personnel services, provided an update on distance learning for special education students. Things are humming along in special education. The last day of school was March 13 and during that first week materials were gathered thinking school would only be out for two weeks. This being teacher appreciation week Martin stated that Granby has the best special education staff in the state. She said there was not a lot of time to plan. IEPs had to be met. By the next week the teachers and support staff were engaging with families. They have been online face to face with students since then. It was stressful for everyone that this will continue to the end of the year. It is exhausting. A lot of parents

are sitting with their children while they are getting their direct services. A child who has a disability may have services all day long. It can be a long day for some of our kids. Teachers slowed down some assignments, which was helpful. She stated she meets with administration and special ed staff at each school once a week to talk about any issues. Martin stated teachers go into Google Classrooms and try to modify appropriately for each child. It has been an amazing transition and she is very proud of the people doing the work. We have kept all of our teaching assistants and provided a lot of training and technology for them. They go into Google Classrooms and engage with students as well as coordinate with teachers. Distance PPTs have just started where teachers and support staff will need to attend. The teachers and staff are using everything from the state to follow the IEP to best of their ability. It’s not perfect but Martin is not concerned that special education has not kept up with general education. Thrall commented that some of her friends have told her that the special education department has been phenomenal, especially their teachers. She inquired if Martin was seeing anything in particular needed for special education department. Martin said more time is needed for collaboration with general education peers. More time and conversation should be dedicated to what works for special education students vs. general education and how to prevent overwhelming kids who are getting those services and doing all of the classroom work. Jenny Emery thanked Martin for raising the issue of teaching assistants. There are places where we can be penny wise and pound foolish. All teachers and teaching assistants are working and it is great to hear how they are engaging with students.

High School Graduation and End-of-Year Activities

Michael Dunn, GMHS principal, provided an update on graduation and end-of-year activities for high school students. Dunn said that as parent of a senior himself, he knows how this has impacted our students. There is a lot of disappointment going through the community given the governor’s decision yesterday. Dunn reviewed the process as follows: There have been regularly scheduled graduation meetings and those have not stopped; The Graduation 2020 Committee consists of administrators, Class of 2020 officers, staff advisors, office staff, and two parents of seniors and this group has been meeting since March; A survey was recently sent to the entire class to solicit preferences; Administration has been in regular communication with the Farmington Valley, NCCC and DRG B high schools to share ideas; Exploring various vendors and resources to facilitate a virtual event; and Administration has maintained regular communication with the State of Connecticut and the Farmington Valley Health District regarding best options. The following were reviewed: Option A: Traditional graduation on June 16. (This option does not meet the governor’s Executive Order.) Option B: Restricted traditional graduation with

BOE minutes cont’d. on p. 9

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July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 9

More than 400 people turned out in Granby Center for the June 3 event supporting Black Lives Matter. Photos by Amy Geigner

Gathering to support Black lives Several people in attendance have said that listening to these men share their candid thoughts on how Granby can do better was the highlight of the evening. In addition to King, the speakers included Noah Greer and the brothers Ben and David Eke, who all grew up in Granby, attended school here and are now in college. The young men each shared their thoughts on how our homogenous town can move forward from here, such as educating ourselves through reading and listening; holding others accountable for acts of racism and hate speech—even when subtle—and learning and teaching our children the “real” history of America, which is seldom taught in schools. King, who lives in Windsor and has coached in Granby since 2017, says, “I love Granby and the families that I’ve gotten to know through coaching football. But I wasn’t sure what a protest in this town would look like. I found it was a very good showing, with a lot of support and passion.” King feels the most important thing that white people can do right now is to reach out to the black people in their communities and have conversations.

cont’d. from p. 1

“Really listen to people who don’t look like you,” he says. “And implore your friends and family members to be more empathetic and open minded.” Greer, who attends the University of Connecticut (and whose mother is the principal at Wells Road Intermediate School) says, “I’ll be honest. I was kind of shocked to learn that this protest was happening in Granby at all. But I’m really glad that the movement made it all the way out here. The racism in Granby is not obvious but unfortunately, it is prevalent.” Asked what Granby can do now, Greer says, “We need people first to educate themselves and then to learn to think before they speak.” As far as long-term but achievable goals, Greer cites affordable housing as one of the most important changes Granby could make. Granby resident Dan Bodman, who attended with his wife and two daughters, said it was “a no-brainer that Granby should march to support the black community.” As to why Bodman wanted to be there, he says, “As a white member of this insulated community, I was there to support and show solidarity for my black friends, and any other black members

of the community who may be experiencing injustice.” Bodman feels hopeful that we can build on the momentum created by the gathering. “We can’t get complacent now. I don’t want people to walk away from this and say, ‘O.K., I went to a protest. I’ve done my part.’ We all need to continue by getting educated. It wasn’t until I started doing my own research over the past few weeks that I’ve realized just how much I still have to learn.” Shelley and Mark Douglas also attended the gathering with their four children, ages 2 to 15. Mark, who is black, was initially hesitant to attend, unsure about what to expect. But Shelley says that they were “pleasantly surprised at how many people seem to actually care about the movement. We hope this is the first of many steps that need to take place, here in Granby and around the nation.” One of the most heartening elements

of the gathering was the large showing of young people, both high school students and college students. They brought a wonderful energy and a real sense of hope. Maya Douglas, a Granby High School freshman, says that she’d like to see the school system put more focus on equality and on teaching the history of race issues in our country. She feels that kids need explicit learning at an early age, with the understanding that it’s not as easy to educate people who already have racial bias. Maya concludes, “I honestly think the protest was an amazing opportunity to come together as a community. Granby is not a very diverse town and I have experienced racism growing up here. But at that event I saw our community gathering as one, everyone standing together. It was an experience that I will never forget.”

BOE minutes cont’d. from p. 8 limited guests and use of the field in collaboration with Police Department to enforce guidelines set by the Executive Order and public health officials. (This option does not meet the governor’s Executive Order.) Option C: Virtual ceremony with drive-through diploma to be broadcast on June 16. A video will definitely be created for the graduating class even if there is a traditional or restricted traditional graduation. Option D: Delayed graduation. There was interest in a delayed event but there is no guarantee of all students participating. Dunn said he will communicate to the senior class as soon as possible. Most high schools are considering some combination of a virtual ceremony. There are several other end-of-year events such as award ceremonies, etc. He stated even if we go with a virtual or drive-through celebration, students would need their caps and gowns and would need to come to school to pick up those items. There may also be an opportunity for a graduation photo. He added that there might be a possibility to work with parent groups for a summer send-off or delayed safe graduation event. Migliaccio commented that we do not know what the governor is going to allow or not allow at this point. Fiorentino thanked Dunn and the entire team, saying he knows it is quadruple the work and is grateful to everyone doing the work. Nothing would mean more to the kids than maximizing what we can do for them. Emery stated a lot of people are asking to contribute to the celebration for seniors. She inquired what is the right advice to give people who want to help. Grossman said any recommendations about graduation can be sent to either Dunn or his office. The goal is to go as long as we can without making a final decision. We are keeping vendors and contractors in place until the last possible minute. Dunn stated Granby has a wonderfully generous community and parents. Grossman also informed the board that 8th grade promotion is being discussed and worked on as well.

Board Standing Committee Reports Curriculum/Policy/Technology/ Communication

The assistant superintendent gave her report. Central Services has been extremely busy. An announcement regarding summer school will be made on May 15—awaiting that announcement from the governor. There has been a lot of work on report cards and grading. Teacher of the Year has been chosen and will be announced at the end of the year. The professional

development day on May 26 will focus on distance learning and professional development around that. A distance learning survey has been sent to teachers. Equity team meetings were held in April. Also discussed summer school programming to include intensive reading and math tutorials for students. Fiorentino inquired when the board will see the guidance plan. Thrall stated the subcommittee had a first look at it this evening and will have it as an agenda item in June. It may potentially go to the full board later in the fall following some sort of board retreat.

Condo nest? Northern flicker making a nest cavity at Holcomb Farm. Photo by Merle Yoder

Executive Session/Non-Meeting

A motion was made by Migliaccio and seconded by Weber to enter into an Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter. This motion passed unanimously. Respectfully submitted, Rosemarie Weber, Board Secretary

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Girl Scouts keep kids creative “Our project is important because it provides kids with something to do during these hard times. Our craft kits will be something fun that kids can look forward to doing, especially with some summer camps and fun activities being canceled,” said Sydney. As part of the project, several of the scouts did some fundraising by making hand-made dog toys and selling cookies to purchase materials to include in the kits. “We know many parents are working from home and summer camps are limited so we would like to provide fun crafts for kids to enjoy. It’s a nice accomplishment to create something for yourself or share it as a gift to someone,” said Lindsey. These scouts are working toward their Girl Scout Silver Award, which is the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette (6–8th grade) can achieve. The award involves identifying a community issue that you care about, putting a plan into action and making it sustainable. “We don’t want kids to be bored at home. Our craft kits give them something to do while social distancing,” says Allison. For more information and to register, please visit the Granby Public Library Program Calendar at granBack, from l.: Lindsey Puglise and Annie Baldwin; by-ct.gov/library front: Sydney Henry and Allison Davis. Submitted photo

Girl Scout Cadettes is offering a way to keep kids happy, engaged and creative this summer. The idea came to the cadettes during quarantine as school, athletics and all other in-person activities were halted. The scouts worked in two teams—virtually—to devise a plan to help spread joy to other kids. They decided to make grab-and-go craft kits that will be distributed through the Granby Public Library. New crafts will be available each week and will include materials plus written instructions. Video instructions will be posted on YouTube so others around the globe can follow along too. Some examples of kits include: soap making, slime, fairy house building, a Star Wars craft, a pom-pom craft, origami, friendship bracelets, and more!

July/August 2020

Dave Roberts elected to Lions position

Members of Hartford and Litchfield Counties’ 53 Lions Clubs International clubs, which are the world’s largest service organization, recently elected West Granby resident Dave Roberts to be the next Second Vice District Governor. This begins a threeyear transition that puts Roberts on the path to become the Council Chair of all State Dave Roberts of Connecticut Lions in July 2023. In addition to being extremely active in Lions at the state level, Roberts serves as president of the local Barkhamsted Lions Club, board member of both the Lions Low Vision Center and Facilitating Access to Coordinated Transportation, committee member of United Nations Association, president of the Barkhamsted Senior Center, and Town

of Granby Conservation Commissioner. He has received the Connecticut Lions’ two highest recognitions: Knight of the Blind and Ambassador of Sight. “My family has lived in Connecticut since 1629 and for over 13 generations we have called this area home,” said Roberts. “Since I retired in 2017, my goal has been to give back to our local community to make life better not only for my spouse and six kids, but for all who call this area home.” Roberts also serves as a Guiding Lion for West Hartford Lumbini Lions Club and the Northwestern Connecticut Cyber Lions Club and is a co-advisor of the Northwest Connecticut Cyber Leo club of area youth who aspire to perform community service. This past March, Roberts was awarded the Lions Clubs International Presidential Leadership Medal for his exemplary service. Since 1917, Lions Clubs International has provided inspiring leadership and service opportunities and today has over 1.4 million men and women members worldwide.

Mary Fay endorsed as GOP Congressional candidate She is smart, articulate, hardworking and On May 20, at the first-ever Republican has wide appeal. She is just what the first virtual convention, Mary Fay earned the congressional district needs.” nomination to run for U.S. Congress in Another Fay supporter, Chris Healy, Connecticut’s first district, challenging former Connecticut GOP chairman said, John Larson. Fay garnered 59 percent of “Mary is a true leader. She is not the 153 Republican delegates afraid to take on tough challenges to win the nomination of her and has proven herself in both party. Currently she is serving the business world and political her second term on the West arena. I’m looking forward to this Hartford Town Council, exciting run.” “I’m extremely thrilled, honFay said the details of her camored and humbled to be able paign, leadership and operations to represent all people in the will be announced soon. “Now first district of Connecticut in the planning and work begins the United States Congress” and I will be laser focused on the said Fay. “There is so much people in every town and every to do to help residents finally community in the first district,” emerge from two successive Mary Fay Fay said. “I’m looking forward recessions. It is time to bring to getting out there and hearing from about a robust economy, bring back jobs constituents. It’s time the first district and improve education so that everyone had a representative who will go after gets an opportunity to succeed. We’ve the gridlock in Washington and make got to grow and expand the middle class sure Connecticut’s first district, as well as and provide rewards for hard working the entire state, benefits from the federal people.” government to reverse the declining trend Fay was nominated by State Senator of our once prosperous state.” and former Lt. Governor candidate, Joe For more information, Fay can be Markley. “I met Mary when she was reached at maryfay4congress@gmail.com campaigning for the state house” said Markley, “I was immediately impressed.

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July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 11

HEALTH NOTES

By the

Farmington Valley VNA

Second half of 2020—what now?

As we walk tentatively into the summer months, we are faced with the great desire to go back to normal as well as hesitation to trust that all is well. Cautious optimism seems to be the healthiest way to move forward, always with an eye and ear to new developments. Looking at our health habits, eating style, perhaps working on taking off weight gained while in quarantine, socializing, and exercising more, is all good for us both physically and psychologically. Masks, hand sanitizers and antiseptic wipes Continuing to wear masks is to everyone’s advantage. Masks prevent airborne particle transmission. Whether to prevent COVID-19, a common cold or any other respiratory illness, it is a sound practice for now and into the fall months as well. Using hand sanitizer or washing hands stands as an age-old practice that should now be ingrained in our habits. After coming out of a store or appointment, and sometimes during the outing as well, hand washing provides extra protection. Wiping down the grocery cart handle, your car door handle and steering wheel, and surfaces within your home and work with antiseptic are also good standard practices to keep up. It is easy to adopt these practices, and even if no virus is present, it can certainly do no harm and can only help. Eating out, eating in, eating well Many of us adopted different eating styles in the last few months. For some, it was take-out with the associated additional calories, salt and fat. For

Pandemic’s impact on Granby year will be negatively affected in numerous ways. The impacts the shutdowns had on family and business incomes that impacted their ability to pay taxes for July, and again for January will emerge. We can expect to deal with new and unforeseen costs for government, and in particular schools, to reopen. Given the impact on the state budget and its deficit issues, we may be back to seeing municipal aid for schools and roads cut further than the gradual path it has been on in favor of diverting more to the cities and the narrowing of the state deficit . FY21 may be a difficult year with pressures from various sources. That will be offset by the fact that Granby is fiscally well positioned to manage this challenge, and in preparation for what may well be another very challenging year in FY22. While the economy is slowly but steadily reopening, it is not necessarily the case that business revenue and personal income goes back to what they were as if the pandemic never occurred. Some payrolls may rebound quickly and automatically, but the fact remains that some 40 million unemployment claims were filed over the past few months, and not everyone will be called back to work. Unemployment stands over 14 percent now, and even with gradual recovery, that’s one in six out of work, with other people earning less than they had been. For businesses, every day they are closed it is that much more likely they will not be able to reopen. With no revenue and many operating costs still being incurred, with rules about opening at half capacity when they need much closer to full capacity to break even, with the specter of

others, it meant a new interest in home cooking and baking. Now is the time to adopt healthy eating as a lifestyle. Fresh fruits and vegetables are in season, so utilize farm stands and your garden for the freshest produce around. While meat was in short supply, it is now, for the most part, fully stocked. Lean beef, pork and chicken are great on the grill. Healthy eating helps our immune system. Much of our eating was anxietyinduced. Now as we venture out into grocery stores and markets and shop in a more familiar way, not rushed to get out of the store or apprehensive that every surface is contaminated, we can also get back to eating healthier. When eating out, we are still socially separated; know it is all to everyone’s best interest. Be kind to your wait staff who are working with masks and gloves. Most of all, think about healthy food choices. Also, think about the amount of alcohol consumed. Again, our anxiety may have caused an increase in drinking, medication, or tobacco use. Start walking back to pre-pandemic patterns, and if that difficult for you, seek help. Social life, what’s that? Start slowly. Have a distanced picnic with neighbors, a cookout or family celebration with everyone bringing their own utensils and plates, perhaps carefully sharing desserts or a dish. For those who are health compromised and still need to distance, include them with Facetime, Zoom, or a simple phone call. But keep in touch and talk to people. As churches and some athletic facilities be-

gin to open, put your name on the list to attend. If not physically able to be there, watch remotely. Being isolated is emotionally draining, even when it seems like you are okay. We are social beings by nature, and sharing conversation and events give us a general sense of wellbeing so crucial to mental health and in turn strengthens our immune system. According to a new study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, older adults were more likely to experience COVID-19-based loneliness and to experience psychiatric symptoms including anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms. Making sure the older individual is engaging in regular conversations with friends and family and even strangers can prevent loneliness and the sense that no one is willing to hear their pain. As for those suffering from boredom, reading, listening to music, solving puzzles, cooking and baking, physical exercise (even the most minimal) and other leisure activities can also be helpful. Don’t assume everyone is fine, be the one who checks in. Looking ahead As we look ahead, think about what a second wave of the virus might mean. Don’t hoard toilet paper or other personal and cleaning products, but do

keep spares on hand. Frozen and canned foods, canned meats, and other nonperishables are all good to have regardless of what occurs. Restock your medicine cabinet and refresh your first aid kit. Think about what you had to obtain in March, and make sure you have everything on hand now. Knowing you are prepared provides security. Did you miss medical appointments over the past few months? Make them now. Dental work and cleanings, routine physicals and blood work, the trip to the dermatologist for that odd skin spot, and that colonoscopy—get them done. One fallout of the quarantine may be health issues that were ignored or missed. Get on schedule as soon as possible so you don’t have health issues that could be prevented. As we head into the fall flu vaccine time, schedule yours. Preventing typical seasonal flu is extremely important if there is a possibility COVID-19 returns and there may or may not be a vaccine to help us fight it. And if you haven’t yet, get that haircut, manicure or pedicure—looking good helps in feeling good. By Nancy Scheetz, APRN, Executive Director, Farmington Valley Visiting Nurse Association

Acting Principal named for Kelly Lane Primary School On June 10, Dr. Jordan Grossman advised Granby parents that Mrs. Sue Henneberry has been appointed to serve as the Acting Principal for Kelly Lane Primary School during the months of July and August. Currently, Henneberry serves as the Principal for Granby Memorial Middle School and is retiring effective June 30. She is a valued member of the Granby Public Schools’ Administrative Team and Grossman is pleased that she has agreed to stay on to lead Kelly Lane Primary School as the search for a new principal continues. As Granby transitions to a new building principal it is critical that someone who is familiar with the school reopening plans guide Kelly Lane Primary School. Henneberry will begin her new role as Acting Principal on July 1.

cont’d. from p. 1

reduced foot traffic when they can’t keep the doors open in the long run at under 85-90 percent capacity—far too many will not be around to reopen—or will reopen only to close within months. Not a pretty picture. What impacts personal incomes and business revenues ends up impacting state, federal and even local tax collections, and the ability to pay. It is our sensitivity to that sense of the ability and the allied willingness to pay that carry significant weight as we put thought into the following fiscal year. Much of the above leads me to conclude that the people of Granby will have greater difficulty with family finances this year and next than they have seen since the hard times of 89–90 if not the Great Recession starting in 08-09. Given the level of misery we see now and most likely will still be seeing months if not a year from now, this is a shot across the bow that the boards should be contemplating a fairly flat budget overall again next year, the intent being to hold the mill rate flat for FY22 as well. I believe that is a reasoned response given the current environment, and with what we can anticipate over these next few months. Given that wages and benefits comprise about 75 percent of the budgets, those contracts coming up for negotiation need to fit the bill as well, as they drive the operating budgets. I’d venture that it is better to be still employed with benefits than joining the one in six who aren’t. As the other shoe drops and the long-term impact of the shutdowns unfolds, this position will be the appropriate response to meeting the upcoming challenges.

“There’s no peace without justice, there’s no justice without love.” — Anonymous

South Church: Faith = Hope Enacted Join us some Sunday to discover how living faithfully can make a world of difference. We are an Open and Affirming Community. All are welcome! Worship Service at 9:30 a.m. Streamed until we can reopen. 242 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT / (860) 653-7289 / www.southchurchgranby.org

Page 12 The Granby Drummer

Out of Town

July/August 2020

In Town Focus Women’s Breakfast

Scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 9, with Manchester Community College instructor David Garnes whose topic will be 1939—Hollywood’s Greatest Year. This should be an entertaining event not to be missed. Breakfast will be held as long as the Senior Center has opened for group gatherings and with proper protocols in place. Start time 8:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 9 a.m. Newcomers are welcome, and should ask for Corinne Dickerson when arriving. Cost $4. Questions, call Corinne at 860-653-9891.

New England Air Museum News Following a successful outdoor-only opening on Memorial Day weekend, the New England Air Museum reopened all indoor and outdoor exhibit spaces in June. The museum will be open seven days a week, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. All three exhibit hangars are open. Public programs and activities will take place in socially distanced style. While the museum’s indoor spaces will be open, the wide-open hangar doors will make everyone feel as though they are still outdoors in the fresh air. “With 90,000 square feet of aircraft hangars and wide-open hangar doors, there really is no better place to go for safe, socially distanced fun,” says the museum’s executive director Debbie Reed. Prior to the Memorial Day reopening, the entire museum was cleaned and sanitized, and the shortened daily

hours leave the staff time for cleaning at the beginning and end of each day. To ensure the health and safety of the museum’s visitors, staff and volunteers, the museum will follow all COVID-19 rules issued by Governor Ned Lamont and the Reopen Connecticut panel. “The great thing about this museum,” says Reed, “is that everyone can have a great experience, see incredible aircraft, learn and have fun all without the need to touch anything.” The outdoor space will remain open with 10 aircraft, and visitors can see another 50 aircraft indoors, plus dozens of engines and exhibits on various aspects of aviation history. Admission is $16 for adults, $10 for children ages 4–14, and free for 3 and under. Throughout 2020, veterans have free admission every day, courtesy of Key Bank.

McLean Meals on Wheels during the pandemic The McLean Meals on Wheels program has continued to accept new clients during the pandemic and has been increasing weekday deliveries in all the towns served. Meals on Wheels delivers a hot and cold meal daily if desired. The cost of the meal is on a sliding scale. The need during the pandemic has been greater since visiting was discouraged and arrangements made in the past with family and neighbors were no longer practical. Also, many elderly and medically compromised people were discouraged from going to stores to get groceries. Grocery deliveries were available but difficult to get at times. The Director of the Meals on Wheels program recently received this email: “First, I want to thank you and all of your team for providing prompt and safe delivery of meals to my mom for the last several weeks during the COVID

crisis. The volunteers have been exceptional and have left each delivery in the cooler on the front porch. The quality and variety of food is amazing! The meals were a god-send since we’ve had our hands full while my dad has been quite ill and hospitalized (fortunately, he is COVID-free). Consistently, each meal was nutritious and ample! We so appreciate that my mom can count on this wonderful service. Again, thanks for all you do and the service you provide our community.” There were seven Granby residents who received Meals on Wheels during the period March 1– June 1, 2019, for a total of 301 meal deliveries. For the same period in 2020, there were 13 Granby residents who received 525 meal deliveries. The Meals on Wheels program is supported in part by the Granby Community Fund.

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Mary’s Kitty Korner, Granby’s no-kill cat shelter, is looking for volunteers to help care for its kitties until they find their fur-ever homes. If you love cats and have some time to spare on a weekday morning or evening or on a weekend morning or afternoon, the shelter would love to hear from you. Call 860-379-4141 or visit the website to find out more: maryskittykorner.org

MS Support Group

The Granby Multiple Sclerosis Support Group will resume when the Granby Senior Center reopens. Meetings are at 1 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month. For more information, please contact Meaghan at 860-4282463. The Drummer welcomes announcements of upcoming events sponsored by Granby organizations. Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

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

by e-mail:

editor@granbydrummer.org

Recovering and reopening after COVID-19 The State of Connecticut has continued to make progress in flattening the COVID-19 curve and the Town of Granby has been monitoring information on a daily basis. As the town’s response continues, a Long-Term Recovery Committee and the Granby School Reopen Task Force have been established. These committees will aid in community rebuilding and providing a safe school system. As a reminder, Granby town staff are also here to help. Although the Granby Town Hall and all other municipal buildings are closed to public traffic until further notice, all departments are currently operating and all staff are available by phone and email.

In Memory Of …. McDermott, Scott Jeffrey, 58, February 20 McDermott, Mark E., 62, husband of Theresa Caskie McDermott, April 11 Carroll, Cynthia Jean (Vallee), 71, wife of William F Carroll Jr, April 17. Member of the GMHS Class of 1966. Bowman, Lucille “Lucy” (Geyer), 89, wife of the late Peter E. Bowman, May 17 Monahan, John M., 64, May 26. Latonie, Donna Marie, 69, May 28 Bergquist, Stephanie J. (Ray), 65, wife of the late Robert J. Bergquist, May 29 Yost, Pamela Mary, 70, May 30 Burnham, John Robert, 84, husband of Irene (Villeneuve) Burnham, June 2 Sabens, Gertrude M. “Trudy” “Gert”, 94, wife of the late Charles T. Sabens, June 4 Panke, Edward W., 88, husband of Geraldine (Greco) Panke, June 8

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 13

Browse & Borrow SUMMER READING PROGRAM Granby Public Library patrons of all ages are invited to join in this summer for this very special program. As we all stay close to home this summer, “Good in Granby” will celebrate our community and all things that make Granby great. We are planning story times, adult and children’s programming, Take and Make crafts, and activities for the whole family. This year, due to safety concerns, many of these programs will be presented online. Call the library or visit the website for more information. How the Summer Reading Program works: • Register. Call the library or sign up online at granby-ct.gov/library • Get raffle tickets for prizes. Every time you visit the library from now until Aug. 8, you’ll receive a raffle ticket to enter in our end-of-summer prize give-away. If you attend a library program (in person or virtually), you’ll get another ticket. Completed tickets can be returned when you return your books. Winners will be drawn and ageappropriate prizes purchased from and/ or donated by the local community will be awarded at the end of August. • Enjoy your summer relaxing, refreshing and reading. ADULTS, TEENS, TWEENS AND FAMILIES To register for any program, sign up online. Program participants will receive a confirmation email with the info needed to participate. Questions? Please call 860-844-5275 or email GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov Free library

Granby Public Library System The Granby Public Library will continue its phased reopening plans as public and staff safety guidelines are met and managed. Regardless of the building status, the library will continue to offer services throughout the summer in a variety of ways. Phone/Email Members of the library staff are working on-site and are available to answer your questions by phone (860-844-5275) and email (GranbyLibrary@granbyct.gov) between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday. Online Granby residents are encouraged to use the library’s “third location,” which is open 24/7—the library website (granby-ct.gov/library). There, you can access our digital services any time, including online programs, eBooks and eMagazines, Consumer Reports, Ancestry, and more. New titles are being added to the digital collections weekly, so check back often. Don’t have a library card? Register for your free library card on the library website or by calling the library. In Person with Curbside Library Pickup Library materials are available to borrow. Patrons can now request items online through the catalog or by telephone and arrange a pick-up time to come and get them. Call the library at 860-844-5275 for details. programs are always being added. For the latest information check the library website and be sure to sign up to receive the library eNewsletter. Time For Tie Dye Love: Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (rain date July 18) on the Granby Public Library lawn. This outdoor tie dye fun is for all ages. Register in advance to schedule your time slot and table space, then follow the instructions regarding personal safety, including social distancing guidelines, face coverings, temperature checks and hand sanitizing. We supply all the tie dye supplies, you bring pre-washed cotton items like T-shirts, socks, towels or pillow cases. Let’s get together, at a safe distance, and enjoy creating some colorful, wearable art! Registration required. EFT Tapping Group: Monday, July 13, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Emotional Freedom

Granby loves summer reading

Photo by Holly Johnson at F. H. Cossitt Library, North Granby.

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Technique (EFT) is said to help people overcome anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, traumatic memories, grief, and emotional or physical pain. The process is a powerful procedure used by tens of thousands of practitioners around the world. Certified instructor Cris Jacobs leads a virtual group session. Registration requested. Good Things in Granby Adventure: Sunday, July 19, 6 a.m. through Sunday, July 26, 6 p.m. It’s an all-ages adventure to find and document assorted landmarks, hidden objects, and other interesting things in Granby and neighboring towns. Register to receive your adventure game sheet, then find all the Granby “goodies” and submit your answers by the deadline. Earn a chance to win gift card prizes from local retailers. Take and Make Craft Program: The library’s Crafters Café series for adults and teens moves to curbside pickup. Maker supplies and instructions will be available to those who register. Supplies limited; check the calendar and sign up early. Webinars Granby Public Library and Granby Agricultural Commission are bringing the experts to you. Join us for a series of webinars featuring local farm and garden professionals. Each program in the series speaks to agricultural and environmental topics, and includes an opportunity for Q & A. Granby and the Future of Food in New England: Monday, July 20, 6:30 –7:30 p.m. The industrialized food system is incredibly effective at producing massive amounts of food while keeping food prices low. However, this comes at a cost to the environment, public health and many communities. The global pan-

demic has exposed the fragility of our food supply chains and the inequalities of the current food system. Learn more about sustainable, fair and resilient food systems from Ann Wilhelm, Wilhelm Farm, as she shares the work of Food Solutions New England. Registration requested. Brewing Beer: From the Garden to the Keg: Wednesday, Aug. 12, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Join Kate Bogli, Maple View Farm, as she walks us through the brewing process from field to tank. Learn how to make beer with four main ingredients: water, grain, hops and yeast. Pick up samples from The Brewery at Maple View Farm or your local package store and join the virtual tasting to learn more about flavor profiles like malty, hoppy, crisp and bitter. Registration required. CHILDREN AND FAMILIES While the library buildings are closed, our goal is to connect with the children in our community by holding virtual library events, sharing the resources we find online, and promoting reading through our digital collections. Be sure to check the library’s calendar and Facebook pages to see the latest in our virtual programming and sign up for our eNewsletter to have the latest information sent to your inbox. Take and Make Crafts for Kids: Check our online calendar throughout the months of July and August for the opportunity to register for easy-to-make craft kits that you can take at curbside and make at home. We’ll provide instruction and all materials needed. Curbside for Kids: Parents and kids can stay socially distant and keep reading. Patrons are encouraged to place holds through our catalog (or by phone) and pick up materials at the library. Not sure what to request? Call the library staff for recommendations or just give us enough information to “browse” for you. And don’t forget to check those brown book bags when you pick up at curbside. We’ll be including coloring pages, activity sheets, stickers, bookmarks and special craft kits for little ones all summer long. Reading Logs: Your teachers would love to know what you read over the summer. We have paper Reading Logs available at the library with lots of room to list your favorite titles and authors. 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten: This popular program will still be offered throughout the summer. New to the program? Call the library and we will be happy to get you started. The benefits of reading to your little ones will last a lifetime!

Page 14 The Granby Drummer

Public Works July 4th: There will be no changes to trash service due to the July 4th holiday. Transfer Station closing: The Granby Transfer Station will be closed on Saturday, July 4. Road paving: Each year the town focuses its paving resources on roadways that are in poor condition. This year various road resurfacing methods will be used to improve these roads. While work is in progress, you may experience delays or detours during your travels. The roads scheduled for repair are: Acorn Drive, Heather Lane, Nestor Way, Lost Acres Road, Harvey Drive, Elizabeth Street, Crest Road and Donahue Road. Ashes: Do not put any ashes in your barrel. A single ash can remain “live” (still able to ignite) for up to 96 hours. If a barrel is melted or damaged by ashes, the cost of replacing the barrel will be the responsibility of the resident. Bear barrels: We have a limited number of bear proof barrels available. There is a one-time fee for use of the barrel. If interested, contact Public Works at 860653-8960 Extra trash bags: Paine’s is again accepting purple extra trash bags. Purple

bags are available at Granby Public Works, 52 North Granby Road from 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or from the Transfer Station attendant during Transfer Station hours. Textile recycling: Simple Recycling has restarted the textile collection program and is collecting pink bags. Put pink bags out next to your barrels on your recycling day. Recycling: If you have questions regarding recycling, check out the website (recyclect.com). There you can use the recycling wizard which allows you to ask about a specific item. If you still have questions, call Public Works, 860653-8960. Do not bag your recycling. Plastic bags and plastic film are a major source of contamination for the recycling plant. Plastic bags should never go in your bin. To see how to recycle plastic film, check out plasticfilmrecycling.org DPW updates: For updates on the Transfer Station and other DPW events, check either the Granby website (granbyct.gov) or our Facebook page (Granby CT Department of Public Works).

John F. Mangold II dies at age 93 John Frederic Mangold II, 93, of rose to Group President and managed Granby, passed away on April 3, 2020. the Power Systems, Loomis and Air He was born on January 24, 1927, in La Preheater divisions. John retired when Grange, Il. After graduating from Lyons ABB bought out Combustion EngineerTownship High School, John attended ing but returned when ABB realized he the United States Naval Academy graduating with a B.S. in 1947. John began his U.S. Navy career as commissioned ensign in 1947 and advanced through grades to commander in 1962. He was commanding officer of the nuclear submarine USS Halibut, 1962-1963 and commanding officer of a nuclear training unit, 1963-1967. John was married to Margaret Gore Mangold for 72 years. During his time in the Navy, he and Meg raised their family across the U.S., and eventually settled in Granby, LCDR John F. Mangold II (right) relieves CDR where they remained for 50 years. Warren R. Cobean as commanding officer of John looked forward to the Me- the USS Halibut on Nov. 1, 1962, at Mare morial Day Parade and one year Island. Submitted photo marched with his friends in the “Lawnmower Brigade”—a group of was critical to their management. After guys dressed in coats, ties and boater hats his retirement from ABB he became pushing their lawnmowers. CEO and Chairman of Vetco CorporaJohn served on the boards of the tion, which took the family to California. Granby Land Trust and the Granby TenThey returned to Granby four years later. nis Club. He took a stint running the John leaves his beloved wife, Meg, Men’s Breakfast at the Senior Center his children John F. Mangold, III and and volunteered as a mile-marker timer family of Toronto, Canada, Andrew W. for the Granby Road Race. Mangold and family of San Antonio, During his Navy years, he earned a Tx., and Jennifer L. Mangold and fammaster’s degree in Electrical Engineerily of Granby, eight grandchildren, and ing from the Naval Post Graduate School his loyal four-legged friend Anderson. in Monterey, Calif. He retired in 1967 John will receive his Navy Honors when having reached the rank of Commander. the COVID-19 pandemic is no longer a He joined Combustion Engineering and safety issue.

July/August 2020

Youth Service Bureau The Youth Service Bureau provides counseling services, conducts psycho-educational groups for youth and their families, and develops and coordinates prevention and resiliency programs for youth within the community. For information, contact AnneMarie H. Cox, Youth Service Bureau Coordinator at 860-844-5355 or email her at AHCox@granby-ct.gov

Summer Programs at the YSB Art Contest “Impressions”—Granby and the Pandemic The contest is open to Granby residents in the following categories: Junior participants, in grades 4 to 6; Intermediate participants in grades 7 to 9; Advanced participants in grades 10 to 12; 2020 grads; and members of the Granby Senior Center. More information about requirements and prizes available at granbyyouthservicebureau. com Who’s dating who? July 13–17, 4–6 p.m. at Holcomb Farm. This group is open to boys and girls ages 12–14 interested in doing some hiking and playing outside at the farm, then heading in for snack and discussions exploring relationships from friendships to dating. Participants will have some fun and learn about what makes a relationship healthy and when a relationship becomes abusive. Visit granbyyouthservicebureau.com for registration information. Friendship Circle July 20–24 at Holcomb Farm This group for girls ages 9–12 combines outside play and games with guided discussion about friendships, self-image, and society’s expectations of girls and women. For registration information and times, visit granbyyouthservicebureau.com Reading about Race This Zoom-based discussion group is for teens and adults. Beginning with the

book, So you want to talk about race, we will meet weekly to talk about what we learn from the minority authors we explore. Register at granbyyouthservicebureau.com Summer Documentary Film Series The Granby Youth Service Bureau offers a limited number of “seats” to online screenings of three acclaimed IndieFlix documentaries. The first, Angst, will be available for viewing between June 27 and July 3. Those who register to view it will be sent a link they can use to access the screening. Angst looks at anxiety, and the impact it has on today’s society. The second film is Like and will be available between July 25 and Aug. 1. Like looks at the impact of social media and its addictive impact on lives. The final film is The Upstanders, and takes a look at bullying today. This last film will be available for viewing Aug. 22 to 28. Each person registered to view the film will be invited to take part in a panel discussion via a Zoom meeting link. Pending approval from our moderator for the discussions, they are scheduled for 7 p.m. the Thursday of the viewing week for each film. Links to the panel discussion will be sent to each person who registers to view the film. Please check the website for registration forms for the films. You may sign up for one or all of the films. Registration is first-come, first-served as we only have 80 seats available for each film.

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July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 15

What’s for Supper? Gazpacho! By Pamela Scherrer This recipe is from my friend Carolyn. I was looking to make something that would take advantage of our heading into the farm-fresh veggie season. I had never made this before but it was fairly easy and was very refreshing and flavorful. I ate it as a soup and then used some on top of a turkey burger too, which my husband and father enjoyed very much. The only adjustment I made was to use a cubanelle pepper instead of a jalapeno. Ingredients 4 large fresh tomatoes, diced ½ English cucumber, peeled and finely diced ½ cup finely diced red pepper ¼ cup minced green onion 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground cumin Pinch dried oregano Pinch cayenne pepper Ground black pepper, to taste 1 pint cherry tomatoes ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

1 lime, juiced 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro *optional: sour cream and avocado Directions Combine diced tomatoes, cucumber, b ell pepper, green onion, jalapeno, and garlic in a large bowl. Stir in salt, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper and black pepper. Place cherry tomatoes, olive oil, lime juice, balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce in a blender. Puree until smooth. Pour mixture though a strainer into the tomato-cucumber mix; stir to combine. Now place 1/3 of the mix in the bowl back into the blender and puree until smooth again. Return to remaining tomato-cucumber mix without straining this time. Stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours minimum. To serve, season with salt and black pepper to taste and top with sour cream, diced avocado and cilantro as desired. Buon Appetito!

Fred Marshall Colton, Granby tobacco farmer By Todd Vibert The other day, as I was walking through the Granby Cemetery, a gravestone caught my eye, that had AVERY written on the top and COLTON beneath it, specifically, Fred M. Colton. Across the street, I could see the Town Hall Complex and the Public Library, where 100 years ago, it would have been farm fields. As I learned through my research of Fred M. Colton, we have him to thank for that transformation. Fred Marshall Colton was born in Granby in 1867. His early education started in Granby and continued at the Wilbraham Academy. He attended Yale to study business for his bachelor’s degree and briefly worked as a commission agent in the fruit industry after school. When time and money permitted, he came back to Granby and bought land to farm, soon holding several acres for a dairy and tobacco farm. Colton became one of the leading to-

Fred Marshall Colton

bacco farmers in the Farmington Valley. The tobacco barn at the Salmon Brook Historical Society is one Colton built in 1914. The land behind the society and the Lost Acres Fire department were tobacco fields he farmed in the early 20th century. Colton employed many Granby residents, providing employment during the Great Depression. He was a good employer, described by his grandson, Peter Avery, who wrote, “Fairness and friendliness characterized his relationship with his employees.” When Colton died in 1939, the pallbearers at his funeral were his employees. Colton was also heavily involved in public service: participating in Granby as a member of the finance board, president of the water utilities and a member of the South Congregational Church. At the state level, he represented Granby as a house member in 1909 and served as a state senator in 1913 and 1935. He passed on his passion for service to his daughters, Mildred and Carolyn. It was his daughters who gave land to the town to create the Town Municipal Complex as well as the Memorial School, now known as Granby Memorial High School. The Salmon Brook Historical Society is grateful for the Colton sisters’ generosity for also donating the Abijah Rowe House and Tobacco Barn. Wa n t t o l e a r n m o r e about Fred M. Colton and his daughters, Mildred and Carolyn? Join the Salmon Brook Historical Society as we celebrate our 75 Anniversary, at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com or call at 860-653-9713.

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www.facebook.com/First-Congregational-Church-of-Granby

Sunday Worship Services hosted by South Church - July, First Church – August; 9:30 am livestream; also recorded. www.facebook.com/FirstAndSouthGranbyUCC Granby Food Bank Donations July 4, August 1. Join us for community outreach opportunites: cheer and thank-you activities, mask making. An open and affirming church. “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

Page 16 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

Social Services Director: Sandra Yost Office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4: 00 p.m. Telephone: 860-844-5351 The focus of the Social Service Department is to coordinate existing federal, state, regional and local services, to increase community awareness of these services and to develop new programs to meet the needs of Granby residents. For more information about any of the following programs please call the office. COVID-19 Related Hardship Various assistance programs have been implemented to assist citizens affected by the pandemic. Should you have a need, contact the office for a screening and assistance with applying. Granby Local Assistance Program Granby residents facing financial hardship may access funds once within a 12-month period. The gross household income cannot exceed 60 percent of State Median Income, unless extenuating circumstances can be documented. Elderly (65+) or Disabled Renters Rebate The Social Services office will take applications for the Renters Rebate program from July 1 through Oct. 1,

2020. Maximum income guidelines are: $37,000 for a single individual; $45,100 for a married couple. Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2019. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible. Contact the Social Services office at 860-844-5350 for an appointment. If unsure that you would qualify, call the office and we can prescreen over the phone. Renters Requirements (not comprehensive): • Must have rented in Granby, Conn. during 2019 and currently reside in Connecticut • Provide proof of rent paid in 2019 (rent receipts from landlord or cancelled checks) • Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2019 for electricity, gas, water and fuel • Bring in proof of income: for example, Form SSA 1099, pensions, etc. Prescription Discount Card Presented by the Town of Granby, this card helps residents save money on prescription medications any time a prescription is not covered by insurance. There is no cost to participants and not all medications are covered.

The CT Alert service allows you to sign up to get emergency alerts on your mobile phone, work phone, in text messages, email, home phone and more. The system will be used to notify residents about imminent threats to health and safety. Public safety officials may send alerts about life threatening emergencies. To sign up for CT Alert go to ct.gov/ctalert

Ray makes my day UPS driver Ray Haack is the highlight of the day for every dog in Granby. He’s a hero for lots of humans too! Thank you, Ray. Photo by Lisa Holm

The Pandemic It came so suddenly—the closing of colleges, schools, houses of worship, and libraries, hairdressers and bank lobbies. Everything that was a normal part of daily living was no more. I was frightened as we were told to “Stay home. Stay safe.” I worried how long it would last, and where I could get face masks. Sadly, early on, a dear friend of the family died of complications from the virus. My son got my groceries and prescriptions. I received and made phone calls and wrote letters to keep in touch with family and friends. I watched the daily Mass on television and reread books on my bookshelves. I was grateful for the mail carrier and the paper carrier who kept me connected to the outside world. I became used to seeing Amazon, FedEx and UPS trucks going up and down my street. In the midst of this agitation, I ventured out to walk up and down the driveway for exercise. My first day out I saw a beautiful purple crocus with a yellow center. Then, right along with Easter, came a deep purple hyacinth. Each day from my window, I watched the tiny yellow flowers of the forsythia emerge. Their beauty was exceptional this year and seemed to last three full weeks instead of the usual two. The robins and other songbirds returned. The chipmunks and squirrels frolicked in the yard. More flowers blossomed adding pink and white colors to the garden. The trees, too, blossomed and leafed out with green beauty, and despite all the fears of the virus, Nature offered her comforting presence, and I was thankful. —By Bernadette Gentry

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 17

Waypoints By Mark Fiorentino

Fexting (Fishing + Texting) Volume One: The Bluegill Tournament Author’s note: Sometimes, when you have friends like mine, the stories write themselves. What follows is a series of actual texts between a group of my closest fishing buddies. I have edited the texts only when necessary to make them suitable for family audiences or to make them intelligible. I have also added the occasional commentary. Dorman: “First annual Granby bluegill/ pumpkinseed tournament!!!!! Here’s the rules. First rule: Fishing starts Sunday to Sunday. Second rule: Must submit two pictures. One full body picture with the fish. Second just fish and ruler. Third rule: Anyone in the family can submit the photo. Family entry fee five dollars. Side prize Fish of the week. Photo entry voted on by all must be caught by one of the family members. And also must have a short story. Let me know if you are in for this week’s species.” Note: Dorman has the least amount of time fishing with me. None of the other guys would have been dumb enough to challenge me to a contest that involves bluegills and pumpkinseeds, especially with money on the line. Put it this way: if there was a professional panfish tournament circuit, I’d be well sponsored. I was the first to respond: Me: “Are we talking total number of fish? I could literally catch hundreds of bluegills and pumpkinseeds if I set out to do it. You want to receive hundreds of photos of me with fish?” Dorman: “Biggest.” Dave: “I’m interested, but will be severely handicapped considering I’ll

be [fishing] in saltwater for the next 5/7 days.” Me: “Boo hoo.” Dave: “[I] could lock up all prizes with one trip to secret pond X, but it may still be Covid restricted. I’ll check tonight. And no... quantity doesn’t count.” John: “I’m in. I’m going to secret pond XXX.” Note: This is a reference to the legend that, a few years back, someone had filmed scenes for a pornographic movie at a local pond. For the record, I have never fished that pond. Ken: “I’m in.” Me: “We’re going to need much more precise rules. Do we start at midnight this Sunday? End at 11:59 p.m. on the 7th? How do we verify when [the] fish was caught? Who will judge and issue rulings on disputes?” Dorman: “Midnight Saturday.” Me: “To be clear, one minute after 11:59pm, the 30th?” Dorman: “Any of you[r] other friends or soccer player[s] want to work at stop & shop….?” Note: Who knows what Dorman was talking about? He’s like the absentminded professor. He never noticed that the text was clearly sent to the wrong group, and none of us pointed it out. I then sent a series of pictures of fish I caught in the Farmington River on the Friday before the contest started. There was a rainbow trout, a smallmouth bass and a largemouth bass. Dave: “…I don’t see any qualifying catches.” Me: “Contest hasn’t started. If all goes

A red breast sunfish. Photo by Mark Fiorentino

well, I’ll have set the bar by mid-morning Sunday.” Dave: “Lake X and a few frisky crawlers is all [I’ll] need. It’s a lock.”

Ken: (on May 30, with a picture of a nice largemouth bass): “[Location deleted] was hot today. Out there 2 ½ hrs. 22 bass, 3 pickerel. Largest bass 1.9 [lbs].

Fexting cont’d. on p. 18

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Page 18 The Granby Drummer

Fexting cont’d. from p. 17

Rest were average.” Dave: (also on May 30, with a picture of fluke): “First keeper of the year.” Me: (3:34 p.m. June 1, with a picture of a bluegill): “8.25 [inches] is the mark to beat.” Dorman: “[Expletive] that’s nice. May be game over. John: “LOL. Didn’t think you would throw in the towel so quickly there Dorman.” Dorman: “Just a ploy to get Mark off the water.” Me: (a few minutes later): “This one is a shade bigger. 8.3 is the new mark.” Me: (7:09 p.m.): “I’m calling this one 8.4.” John: “You have to come in for dinner now….”

Dave: “I’ll be at Pond X for the next few nights. I like my chances against those respectable entries. Not sure if I’ve got the ‘fro beat though... I’m not getting my hair cut until my man bun comes in.” Note: The “fro” reference is to my unkempt appearance. I have not cut my hair or shaved since kids were sent home from school because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Dave: (evening, June 2) “Hitting the Farmington tonight with the fly rod – I’m told it’s hot right at dusk.” John: “Where?” Dave: “I’m going to start at [location deleted] and walk upstream (I think). Not sure – going to try to tuck in out of the wind somewhere.” Me: “Good! No bluegills in that stretch. Btw: I was looking again at the pictures I sent yesterday. I was reading the ruler wrong. The largest one I’ve caught so far is just shy of 8.75. You boys got work to do.” Dave: “I might need to file an extension – trout tonight, bass tomorrow.” Me: (afternoon of June 3, with pictures of a very big bluegill) “9.0 is the new mark.” Dave: “Insurmountable?” Dorman: “Monster. At the half way point Mark F is in the lead and Ken looks like he may have the fish of the week. With Dave a close second for fish of the week on the first keeper. John and Dorman no fish on the board yet.”

The winning bluegill.

Me: “What? The fish of the week doesn’t need to be a bluegill?” Dorman: (a few minutes later): “Wait a minute, was Ken’s fish caught on Saturday or Sunday that might move Dave into the lead for [fish of] the week.” Dorman (a few more minutes later): “Same with Dave’s first keeper that looks like a Saturday fish. That leaves Mark Fiorentino with both prizes.” John: “Has anyone been out fishing besides MF?” Me: “Dave and Ken have. I fished with both. I suspect Dorman has fished every day, but will claim that he’s been busy….” Dorman: “The money is for the species bluegill and fish the week can be anything.” Me: “I told you the rules were ambiguous.” Dorman: “I mailed out the official rules it’s a 30-page document should be at your house anytime you might want to proofread it. Typical lawyer.” Me (with a picture of me holding the “monster” bluegill): “Doesn’t matter. How you gonna’ beat this as fish of the week. It’s bigger than my head, even with all the extra hair.” Dorman: “[You do] have a very small head.” Dave: “[Expletive] Dorman and his rules! I thought my Saturday fish was grandfathered! Now you’ve gone and done it – I’m going to have to beat Mark F at his own game. Pond X, here I come. And Mark is such a giver, he even offered up a hot tip for weeding out mere 8 inchers. All I need is this storm to hold off for just a little while….” John: “Grandfathered – why? You’re funny.” Dave: “Just because, that’s why.” Me (with a picture of me in my new fishing hat): “My new ‘Shelta’ hat.”

All photos by Mark Fiorentino

July/August 2020 John: “Hey little buddy….” Dave: “[Don’t go out in public] – they’ll think the Unabomber broke out.” Me (afternoon, June 6, with a picture of a red breast sunfish): “Bonus points for the relatively elusive red breasted sunfish?” John: “Fish of the week?” Dorman (June 7, 7:50 a.m.): “Mark Fiorentino destroyed us this week he out fished us all. The money goes to Mark with my vote [for the red breast sunfish as] fish of the week….” Note: No one protested that Dorman was declaring a winner with 16 hours left in the tournament. Me: “Thank you, gentlemen. It’s an honor. Dave has already paid me his $5. The rest of you: pony up….” Ken: “I saw no real competition so I had set $5 aside for you yesterday.” John: “MF, should I make the check payable to you directly, or your favorite charity?” Me: “The ‘Let’s Get Mark A Haircut’ fund would be acceptable.”

Mark’s new hat.

Help Us Prepare a Scavenger Hunt How can you help new people love your town and become part of the community? By sharing your favorite places and telling us where you love to be in Granby. Maybe, you love the gazebo during a summer concert. Or, a quiet corner tucked away from the noise. A park? A restaurant? Send us an email with a picture and a description of your spot. With your input, we can put together a map of all the special places and create a town-wide hunt. Once it’s done, we’ll make it available to anyone who would like a copy. You, too, might discover someplace new!

Do you know where this place is? This favorite place photo was contributed by Robin Zatony from our office. (Hint? You’ll need to take a drive!)

You can count on:

Truth in our Words Humility in our Actions Kindness in our Hearts

While this may not exactly be real estate, we can help you with that, too. Give us a call! We are very happy to answer questions or help you put a plan together. Robin, Melanie, Cyndie, Jill and Roland

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July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 19

Parks & Recreation Kristine Vincent, CPRP: Director of Recreation and Leisure Services Office Hours: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Salmon Brook Park; open 24/7 at GranbyRec.com Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: GranbyRec.com Swimming at Salmon Brook Park Open for lifeguarded swimming every day through August. Monday to Wednesday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 12–4 p.m. Season Pass: $85 for family, $40 for individual Daily Admittance: Adults $5, Youth (2-17) and Seniors $4 Granby Recreation Department will be following the State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Health’s Guidelines for Recreational Areas and Beaches. Patrons are encouraged to maintain social distance and keep six feet of distance between groups, wear a mask when entering, exiting and walking around the facility, and continue with good hygiene practices. The locker rooms will not be open for changing so please come ready to swim. There will be public restrooms open outside the area of the beach. Concession Stand at Salmon Brook Park Open every day for pre-packaged goods including drinks, snacks and ice cream. Same hours as Swimming above. Summer Sunset Family 5K Series Wednesdays, July 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5, 12, 6 p.m. Open to all ages. Two-loop course (5K) in beautiful Salmon Brook Park, the course is mostly grass terrain around the soccer and baseball fields—run your best 5K ever on this mostly flat course with a no pressure, low key event. Park in the Dog Park parking area, races will begin at that end of the Park. Fee: $10 per night/$35 for all 5 races. Pre-Register online. SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS Bears Spike Volleyball Monday–Friday, July 6–10, July 13–17, July 27–31, 9 a.m.–12 noon. For grades 4–9. Join Coach Sprowson, Coach Cindy and the GMHS volleyball team for a week or two, even up to 6 weeks of fun 5 x in 3 the sun! This year we are taking the game outside with new grass courts at Salmon Brook Park. Enjoy your summer while playing and learning all of the skills of volleyball outside.

Whether learning to play for the first time or for those looking to make the high school team, our camps will move the young athletes toward their goals. Both individual and small group instruction will be provided. Players will learn and refine their volleyball skills: passing, setting, hitting, blocking and serving. Each week will be packed full of fun and fast-paced drills, games, activities and prizes. Free shirt included, $115/week. *Advanced play is now available for 2 weeks and available to all grades 9-12 run by Coach Cindy in August. *Grade 9 camper must attend a week prior to attending Week 5 or 6. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact the coach/instructor Dave Sprowson at Davesprows@ hotmail.com Summer Skyhawks Flag Football Monday–Thursday, July 13–16, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Skyhawks Flag Football, held at East Granby Farms, is the perfect program for boys and girls ages 7–12 who want a complete introduction to “America’s Game” or for those who simply want to brush up on their skills in preparation for league play. Campers will learn skills on both sides of football including the core components of passing, catching, and defense using a revised curriculum to encourage social distancing as well as minimizing contact with others— all presented in a fun and positive environment. The week ends with the Skyhawks Sports Super Bowl, giving participants a chance to showcase their skills on the gridiron. This is an active camp so campers should come dressed to play, mouth guard and cleats are highly recommended. A lunch, snack and lots of water are also needed. Fee: $139 Kara Wolters Dream Big Basketball Monday–Thursday, July 20–23, 9 a.m.–12 noon, OR 12:30–3:30 p.m. Our philosophy is simple. Give girls (grades 4–10) a basic understanding of the game of basketball while instilling in them life’s lessons and the qualities and characteristics that will enable them to be successful as young women in today’s world. We strive to create an atmosphere that is educational but at the same time one that embodies a social, friendly and entertaining atmosphere. Camps are held at SBP courts, and offer on-court drills and off court skills to not only make you a better basketball player but help develop confidence, character, and self-esteem. Learn from UConn great and Olympic Gold Medalist Kara Wolters. Fee: $200

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Dodgers Boys and Girls Youth Lacrosse Monday–Thursday, July 27–30, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. All levels welcome for this fun and instructional lacrosse camp with the staff from the highly recognized Dodgers Lacrosse program. For grades 3–8. Learn the fundamentals of the game by participating in motivating and exciting drills. Scrimmage play will be incorporated. Each camper will receive a t-shirt. Players will need a lacrosse stick, mouth guard, arm guards, shoulder pads and cleats. Helmets are also required (can be rented from Sartorious). Goalies will need their own equipment for any goalie training. Held at the high school field. Bring plenty of water and a healthy snack. Starter packages can be found at Sartorious Sports in Avon. Fee: $140, with a $20 sibling discount for each additional family member. Soccer—U.K. International Soccer Monday–Friday, July 27–31 U.K. International Soccer was established in 1990 and since that time we have become recognized for our professionalism and commitment to player development. With coaches from the United Kingdom, Europe and South America, we are recognized for our ability to recruit a dynamic and professional team of international soccer educators. Camp will be held at Salmon Brook Park. For ages 4–6, 9–10:30 a.m., for $115. For ages 7–14, half day camp

(9 a.m.–12 noon) for $155, or full day camp (9 a.m.–3 p.m.) for $255. Tennis Lessons One-week sessions beginning the Monday of each week, mornings. Our youth tennis lessons are geared to the beginner and intermediate youth player, ages 6–16. Summer youth tennis lessons are instructed by Kevin Imbt, GMHS Tennis team Coach. Participants should bring an appropriately sized racquet, lots of water, towel and sneakers. Our lessons are held Monday–Thursday, Fridays will be used to make up cancelled lessons due to heavy rain, etc. Lessons are held at the SBP tennis courts. Don’t wait to register as lessons tend to fill quickly. Fee: $65 Amazing Art Adventures July 6–10, 9 a.m.–12 noon. Explore your creativity and join us at Holcomb Farm for lots of creative fun that results in astonishing art projects. Campers ages 5–12 will use an amazing variety of art techniques including painting, papier mâché, drawing, tie dye, sculptures, recycled projects, collages and more. Please send your campers in clothes that you don’t mind get a bit of paint, glue and more. Your artist will create several amazing masterpieces that will be ready to be put on display in your home. The instructor is Amanda O’Toole, the arts and craft director from the SBP day camp. Fee: $95

Self-Guided Hike along Holcomb Tree Trail There are about 40 mature trees with identification tags along this self-guided route that is approximately two miles long. See how many you can find. There are also about three dozen young trees recently planted along the mowed paths in the fields that are also worth exploring. Walk along the mowed paths (approximately one mile) to view these trees before returning to the parking area. The hike starts and ends at the main campus of the Holcomb Farm at 113 Simsbury Road in West Granby. This hike is best done following the clockwise route described below for optimal viewing of the tree identification tags. For a map of the trail and a corresponding list of its trees, go to holcombfarm.org and, under the “Trails” tab, select “Holcomb Tree Trail.” Directions ° Cross the intersection of Simsbury Road and Day Street South to the trailhead. ° Follow the gravel farm road into the upper farm fields. ° Turn left at “woods trails” sign and follow the mowed path along the perimeter of the potato field, past several of the newly planted trees. ° Enter the woods at the northeast corner of the potato field and turn right onto the Blue Trail at Trail Signpost L ° Continue on the Blue Trail to Trail Signpost Q, then take the Red Trail. ° Continue on the Red Trail to Trail Signpost P. Two special locations of note are a joined pair of large oaks on the right, one is a black oak and the other is a white oak. A little further along on the left is a paper birch with the bear claw marks below the tree identification sign. ° Continue on the Red Trail to sign post O. At signpost O, you can either proceed up hill on the Orange Trail or continue on the Red trail to Trail Signpost M. ° Take the Red Trail back to the southeast field (Please note there is a trail off to the left onto private property). This field is not mowed. ° Walk west along the uphill edge of the southeast field back toward the potato field. ° Follow the mowed path past the pond on your left and turn right to go along southeastern edge of the potato field to find several more marked trees on the eastern tree line. ° You can add a short extra loop along the Red Trail in the “labyrinth” to see more marked trees and take the short path back to the fields.

Page 20 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

From Jamaica to Granby

Our tireless correspondent, Shirley Murtha, paid a visit to the Farm in June, and met our newest employees. A couple of fine young men have joined the work team at Holcomb Farm from their homes in Jamaica. Oniel Ashmeade and Kim Gayle have taken advantage of the H2A program instituted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Homeland Security to receive temporary visas allowing them to do farm work in this country. There were many farms to choose from; why did they pick Granby? Ashmeade said that Holcomb’s use of organic procedures was the big draw for him. When he returns to his farm in Jamaica, he plans to use the practices he is learning here this summer. Gayle has come to this region for the past two years, working at a farm in Granville. Familiarity with the area was a significant factor in his choice. Unfortunately, the current COVID-19 virus situation means that there aren’t many things the men can do in their time off. Ashmeade says he’s pretty wiped out at the end of a long day anyway. Gayle says he’s starting to take hikes on the property. The men will be here until December. Be sure to say hello when you are picking up your CSA distribution or purchasing some of the rewards of their labor at the Farm Store.

Oniel Ashmeade (l.) and Kim Gayle finish loading the melon seedlings on the flatbed for planting. Photo by Shirley Murtha

These freshly turned soils of Holcomb Farm under the May sky in West Granby have been cultivated for some 150 years: a reminder of our resilience in the face of adversity. Photo by Susan Canavan

This greenhouse at Holcomb Farm is full of promise for the growing season. Photo by Brittany Gauthier

Tree Trail growing, and open to all The Friends of Holcomb Farm Stewardship committee and volunteers have been maintaining trails and planting trees as our Tree Trail, launched in 2019, really begins to take shape. In addition to planting new trees, they have been freeing older trees, like apple trees, that were almost lost to overgrowth and invasives. In all, they have marked nearly 80 trees with identification tags. We had hoped to offer a guided Grand Opening of the tree trail at our Annual Membership Meeting of the Friends of Holcomb Farm in June. Alas, good risk management practices mean that community gatherings of this sort need to await the scientific and medical breakthroughs that are sure to come. So, for now, we encourage all of you to enjoy the trails at Holcomb Farm in your own socially Walter Ford (r) and Eric Lukingbeal (l) distanced and responsible ways. demonstrate proper social distancing as they To that end, we have put together plant a Sweet Gum on the Holcomb Farm Tree a guided Tree Trail hike, see page Trail. Photo by Susan Canavan 19. Discover some trees—new and old—and breath the fresh air. Know that just as the fields and woods of Holcomb Farm have been through many more challenging times than any of us will ever know in our (relatively) short lives, we all will emerge from the current challenge, stronger than ever.

An old-growth apple tree’s blooms show how grateful it is to have been freed from overgrowth and promise fresh fruit to come. Photo by Eric Lukingbeal

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Evidence of a caring community member found along the Holcomb Farm trails. Photo by Eric Lukingbeal

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 21

Victory Farming in Granby This spring, the greenhouses full of seedlings and the freshly turned soil of the Salmon Brook flood plains at Holcomb Farm are providing a sense of normalcy in these unsettled times. Just as people turned to growing their own victory gardens in times of war, our community is counting on Granby’s own farm, under the stewardship of the Friends of Holcomb Farm—along with the whole local farming community—to fill tables with fresh produce. This urge to connect with the soil and nourish our souls is happening throughout the country. “The victory garden movement began during World War I and reemerged during WWII. It called on Americans to grow food in whatever spaces they could — rooftops, fire escapes, empty lots, backyards. It maintained that there was nothing more valuable than selfsufficiency, than working a little land, no

matter how small, and harvesting your own eggplant and tomatoes.” (NYT; Food Supply Anxiety Brings Back Victory Gardens, March 25, 2020). There have been several farming victories at Holcomb Farm already this spring. The winter larder of potatoes, carrots and beets enabled our customers to stock their shelves with local produce in March; the annual Mothers’ Day plant sale allowed many community members to bring some seedlings home for their own victory gardens; our summer CSA shares sold out early; and a special fundraising outreach on #GivingTuesdayNow increased our ability to provide the food we grow to people in need through our Fresh Access program. If you missed out on joining our CSA, you can always partake of the retail farm store offerings, which will include our own produce as well as offerings from the larger ag community. The store is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Please observe social distancing and wear a face covering while at the farm. Helping feed neighbors in need If you are looking for ways to contribute to others during these trying times, your donations to Fresh Access are always welcome, and go directly to providing the food we grow to people in need right here in Granby and throughout the greater Hartford region. This pandemic has caused unprecedented need, and we are working to help as much as possible. To learn more or make a donation, go to holcombfarm.org/freshaccess Editor’s Note: If you’d like to know more about the Victory Gardens that helped to feed the world, here’s a link to a great History.com article. (history. A poster from the Minneapolis Defense Council urged com/news/americas-paplanting victory gardens. Courtesy of Minnesota Historical triotic-victory-gardens) Society/Getty Images

GMHS HALO Award Nominations

Granby Memorial High School Performing Arts announced nominations for the HALO Awards that took place June 25 via Zoom. All nominations are for the fall production of James and the Giant Peach. We are hoping to revive Mamma Mia! as soon as possible. Thank you again for all the community support. Best Scenic Design and/or Execution James Accetura, Jackson Allemanis, Pearce Boit, Ty de los Delosreyes, Safiya Fahrudenn, Maddie Green, Alec Jedmanov, Arin Mikalonis, Autumn Munsell, Elena Speliopules, Lauran Thompson Best Costume Design/Execution Skye Truntz and Lauran Thompson Best Scenic Design and/or Execution James Accetura, Jackson Allemanis, Pearce Boit, Ty de los Delosreyes, Safiya Fahrudenn, Maddie Green, Alec Jedmanov, Arin Mikalonis, Autumn Munsell, Elena Speliopules, Lauran Thompson Best Special Effects Prior Waskan Best Original Program Cover Design or Artwork Kevin J. Harnois Best Female Standout Performance in an Ensemble Production Hayden Mueller as Miss Spider

Animal Talk

John Violette, DVM

The Inuits’ sled dogs During these coronavirus times I have been exploring YouTube for documentaries on polar Eskimo culture. This has led to a little reading on the subject as well. The Eskimo people, more properly known as Inuit, have for centuries survived year-round in the most inhospitable environment in the world. They were nomads who had to constantly travel to survive as hunters. The documentary footage from the 1920s through 1960s is amazing, showing walrus hunting from skin kayaks and seal hunting through holes in the ice as well as interesting family life. This is cultural anthropology information that has been preserved and shows how these happy people lived and survived. What I find fascinating is that this culture could not have survived without dogs. The dogsled was the principal means of transportation in the Arctic. In this way groups of families could follow the game to the hunting grounds. In the early days when wood was not available, the sleds were made out of caribou antlers and whalebone lashed together with sinew. The dogs were lashed to the sled in a fan shape using sealskin lines and harnesses. The dog’s teeth would be filed smooth to prevent them from chewing the sealskin lines, harnesses and sleds. They would be fed large chunks of meat and wolf it down rapidly without chewing. The dogs were also very important for hunting polar bears. Not only did the bears provide an excellent source

of meat but three pairs of trousers could be cut from one skin. All the men wore white polar bear pants with the long warm fur. There are fascinating descriptions of the whole team of dogs hunting bears at night with the dogs swarming the snarling beasts until the hunters could get their spears into the bear. The dogs then calmed down with a strange suddenness and waited for the warm meat of their enemy. Seals are the most important game for the Inuit people. The blubber is used for the soapstone lamps to heat and illuminate the winter houses. The meat is most delicious. Seal skins are sewn into waterproof kamiks (boots) by the women. The kayak is a sealskin boat and the kayakman wears watertight garments of sealskin. In the winter when the waters freeze the kayaks cannot be used to hunt seals. This is when the hunter must take advantage of the need for the seals to come to their blowholes to breathe. These holes are quite small and difficult to find. The dogs can sniff out the holes and help the master locate the seals. Once the seals are harpooned the dogs are useful to haul the seals from the water and to drag their heavy quarry home. An Inuit’s dog team is his pride and joy. In summer they carry packs and heavy loads on treks. The dogs appear very happy in their natural environment, which is still true today. They take great care of their puppies and do their best to feed and care for them.

Drumrolls Becker College is proud to announce that Nakiska Vaughan, of Granby, has been named to the Alpha Chi honor society at Becker College. Vaughan is pursuing a degree in veterinary science, pre-veterinary concentration. Vaughan was also named to the dean’s list for the spring semester. Griffin Barrows, of Granby, graduated cum laude from Becker College in May, and was presented with the Outstanding Senior Award at the ceremony. Barrows received a B.A. in interactive media design, game design concentration. Barrows was also named to the dean’s list for the spring semester.

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Page 22 The Granby Drummer

Historic Footnotes Carol Laun

Archivist, Salmon Brook Historical Society

4th of July in Granby A hundred years ago, Granby had the reputation of having the best 4th of July in the Farmington Valley. The town was also famous (or infamous) for the noise and mayhem produced by the “boys” of Granby. Old newspaper clippings provide a look into Granby’s 4th of July celebrations through the years. In the early 1800s, over 200 people would gather “under a pleasant bower” to hear music, speeches and to drink multiple patriotic and political toasts, as well as toasts to old Granby and its beautiful women. In 1845, the Whig of New England reported on the “intention of the boys of Granby to celebrate the anniversary of American independence. Every preparation was made to render this celebration as interesting as possible. A committee of arrangements, a Marshall and toastmaster were appointed. About half past two in the morning, the boys began to fire cannons. They continued to fire fireworks until sundown, when they dispersed.” After the attack on Fort Sumter in 1861, Granby held a July 4th flag raising, heard fiery speeches and listened to the Granby Brass Band play patriotic

tunes. On July 4, 1868, a solemn ceremony was held to dedicate the new Civil War Soldier’s Monument. People gathered on the Green for a rifle salute and prayers. Then they walked to Stony Hill Grove (present Town Hall area) for music, speeches and a hearty supper. The 1893 celebration included a baseball game, running races and the sale of ice cream. The Canton Dramatic Society put on a play in Cossitt Library Hall in the evening. The Farmington Valley Herald reported in 1894, “The Fourth started in early, and the night racket closed at two o’clock, which is a decided improvement on former years. A bell on wheels and a bass drum were an addition to the usual variety of instruments of torture.” The paper reported many family picnics in 1913, the largest gathering at the Green home in Bushy Hill (the stone house on Rte. 20). Horse races and a baseball game were held at the Fairground (also on Route. 20 opposite the present parking lot for Salmon Brook Park). In the evening, there were fireworks at the church. In 1914, there was a brief article saying there were “no fatalities” in Granby and a big dance was held in West Granby, with about 50 couples. However, in 1915, the boys were busy. “Gilbert Smith has his best carriage on top of earth again and it will be ready to use when repairs have been made to it. Boys ran the carriage down the

A carriage hanging from the second-floor porch of the old Loomis Store in 1938.

July/August 2020

July 4, 1868, Dedication of the Granby Civil War Monument. ‘Feeder’ July 4 and Mr. Smith said he would never get it out of there.” (The Feeder was a canal carrying water from Salmon Brook to the Forsyth Mill Pond, now Old Mill Pond Village). “Boys, probably not the same ones, took it out and except that the dashboard was broken and one wheel was swollen until it had burst a tire, the family vehicle is as good as ever.” Granby again made the news in 1916. “It was the one town where there was more noise than common on the 4th of July. The young men of the town seem to have broken loose on that occasion and they kept the church bells in Granby, North Granby and West Granby, ringing for two hours, and they also seemed to keep the noise up most of the night. In Granby Center, they were determined to keep the electric lights on the street off, but they did not succeed as the ropes were finally tied in such a manner that they could not get at them. However, they do not seem to have done any damage.” World War I put a stop to the noise and pranks. Perhaps these young men were in the Army hearing real cannons. After the War, beginning in 1919 and well into the 1920s, Granby celebrated the Fourth with a carnival, and people came from miles around. The big Green and the wide Salmon Brook Street provided parking for over 300 automobiles. The carnival was set up near the Library, South Congregational Church and the Community House. There was a midway with amusements, ice cream, candy, ice cold soda and hot dogs. Rival teams from North Granby and Granby played baseball. This was followed by an entertainment and a delicious meal in the Community House. In the evening, after the fireworks, the Tuxedo Orchestra from Hartford played for dancing until midnight. The 1922 carnival featured a baseball game between married and single men. Then the crowd was entertained with a vaudeville show, supper, fireworks and dancing. All money raised at these

carnivals was used to pay off the Community Building debt. By 1923, the carnivals were scaled back and in 1926, the boys were back; “The Fourth of July was observed in the usual manner in Granby, with the boys reminding everyone what the holiday was, with the firing of the cannon and the general firing of fireworks.” “Rousing Fourth Arouses Ire of Some Citizens” was a headline in the 1938 Farmington Valley Herald. “It was a rousing Fourth of July celebration in Granby, the young men of the community let all the inhabitants know that the spirit of youth still believes in noting Independence Day with more than the perfunctory use of fireworks and the family picnic. And the sad part is, that some are unable to ‘take it’ in spite of the fact that boys are only boys after the manner of their fathers.” “This community long noted for its noisy welcome to the Fourth of July, was a little startled to learn that one indignant resident, not only threatened to shoot at the celebrators who had deposited a small outhouse on his property for a second time that night, but did actually fire his gun. While the shot was not aimed at the boys, it might have accidently hit someone. Other citizens, suspicious of what might happen to moveable property such as lawn chairs, settees and signs, made them secure before the sun went down.” “The old noisy cannon of a few years back was replaced with a large milk can containing carbide ignited by a fuse. The small cannon presented some years ago when the old one mysteriously disappeared, apparently did not meet the requirements of a real noise maker. Well, the milk can did the trick.” “Monday morning, E. H. Shattuck of

Historic Footnotes

cont’d. on p. 23

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 23

Historic Footnotes

cont’d. from p. 22

the Loomis Bros. Co. found he was in the wagon business, with one hung over the second story porch railing. It was removed late Tuesday when Charles Allshouse with rope and tackle lowered it to terra firma.” “For the most part, citizens take the celebration and the pranks in the spirit intended. To do otherwise only baits the boys on to more tricks. This is the only community in the Valley where the Fourth is so noisily welcomed, like the old days.” In 1987, I asked the late Stanley Forsyth about this escapade. He said it was Harold Cotton who fired the .22 in the air, because the boys (including Stanley) were pushing the outhouse into Cotton’s yard and Harold and his son Henry were pushing back. I also have asked many Granby men about the mystery cannon, but it still seems to be a well-kept secret.

A Fourth of July celebration in front of the original South Congregational Church. Photos courtesy of Salmon Brook Historical Society

In 1946, fifteen veterans were deputized to patrol in Granby on the Fourth. However, the boys managed to deposit an automobile on a prominent Salmon Brook Street lawn and also set the church bells pealing when everyone was asleep. Older residents said the celebration was nothing compared to when they were younger. “Safe, sane and sad,” said one man. A gal’s festival was planned for 1949, with a bonfire at midnight July 3rd. On the 4th, a tennis tournament was held on the Green and local organizations supplied food booths. In the evening, a dance with a live orchestra, was held in the new Granby School auditorium. The wild “boys” of Granby were now adults organizing a quiet, sane holiday and probably not telling their sons about Granby’s reputation and their youthful exploits.

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Page 24 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

NOT WANTED

Newly commissioned

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

Zachary Ziemnicki, a 2016 graduate of GMHS, recently graduated from the University of New Haven with a degree in National Security and Criminal Justice minor. Ziemnicki also completed ROTC and on May 18 was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant Officer in the United States Army. His specialty is Air Defense. Photo by Terri Ziemnicki

Summer action and resources This column has profiled an Invasive Plant of the Month since last October, providing season-specific information about seven damaging invasive plants that proliferate in town. This month covers summer strategies for gaining control over invasive plants and describes some key resources.

Strategies

Pull by the roots Removing invasive plants by pulling them up by the roots is a great control method, especially if the plants are discarded so there is no chance of re-rooting. Purple loosestrife, garlic mustard, young Japanese bittersweet, young multiflora rose, Japanese barberry, mugwort and young autumn olive can be controlled this way before they establish permanent residency. Stop the flowers Flowering plants, even established shrubs, weaken over time when they are prevented from flowering. Multiflora roses that grew in the field paths at Holcomb Farm have disappeared as a result of frequent mowing by volunteers over several years. Where invasive plant concentrations are too dense, such as Japanese barberry, it is a step forward to cut them at the base before they are able to flower and set seeds. Weed-whack garlic mustard, Japanese knotweed and mugwort several times a year to prevent them from flowering; dispose of the cuttings so that they do not re-root. Cut ... and return Shrubs and trees strangled by Japanese bittersweet and multiflora rose can be saved by cutting the invasives as close to the ground as possible. Over a year’s time, most of the cut vines above will rot and fall or can be pulled down. But

Drumrolls

Rachel Domanico, of Granby, graduated magna cum laude in May from Salisbury University with a B.S. in information systems with a minor in accounting. She was a scholar-athlete on the Salisbury field hockey team and participated in two NCAA Division III Final Four appearances.

because cutting stimulates vigorous new growth, it’s necessary to repeat cutting at least annually. Mature plants that cannot be dug up are good candidates for careful cut-and-paint use of liquid herbicides. Take the long view It’s easy to get discouraged when tackling invasive plants—their vigor and resilience are keys to their success. It may be unrealistic to expect to eradicate an entire invasive plant population in a year. But we can restore the natural beneficial balance that prevailed before humans introduced invasives by returning to the effort repeatedly over time, using proven strategies and lots of elbow grease.

Superman saves the day Employees at the Granby Stop & Shop were treated—two at a time—to an ice cream social in the store’s break room recently. Manager Angel Cruz, in the Superman costume, is pictured with a store employee, Dusty. Cruz thanked the employees for all their hard work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Rosia Kennedy

Resources

CT Invasive Plant Working Group is the state’s central information hub. CIPWG’s Meet the Plants list includes information about growth habits, state law status, and links to many resources for each plant. The group sponsors events, offers speakers, and maintains a listserv (cipwg.uconn.edu). The Connecticut Forest and Park Association offers a vast array of information about the state’s forests and lands, and strategies to maintain them. This page includes a focus on invasive plants and alternatives: (ctwoodlands.org/land-conservation/ property-management-and-forestry) Eat the Invaders promotes ways to benefit from invasive species—plants and animals. It includes recipes and information about their nutritional value. (eattheinvaders.org/) For more information on invasive plants in Granby, see a new site coming online in July. (granbyinvasiveplants. weebly.com)

Mark J. Migliaccio Attorney at Law

Alex Domanico, of Granby, graduated summa cum laude in May from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a bachelor of business administration in operations and information management. His honors thesis, The Digital Movement in the Healthcare Industry, was featured on the Isenberg School of Management News page.

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July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 25

Granby churches premiere

Round in Common Time By Laura Mazza-Dixon Round in Common Time is a choral piece written this spring to express love, gratitude and support for the essential workers in the coronavirus pandemic. As a Granby musician and poet, I composed the piece as a song/prayer for those risking their lives to help the rest of us survive. It is proving to be a piece that speaks to many people. The idea for the song came from cellist and viola da gambist, Zarina Irkaeva, of Massachusetts, whose husband is a doctor working in Boston hospitals. Her thought was that it would be a song to be sung by the family members and friends of nurses, doctors and others who help those suffering from the virus. The English text is here. Round in Common Time Take all our strength into your hands, our love into your hearts, And go where love is calling you, though we must be apart. Let every prayer surround you, protect you from all harm. Copyright May 6, 2020 by Laura Mazza-Dixon With the help of the music director at South Congregational Church, Mattie Banzhaf, and her husband Walter Banzhaf, an electrical engineer, the notation was entered into a computer program called Sibelius, which made it possible to generate a recording of the piece. The musical scores and computer-generated sound files were then made available to my musical colleagues across New England. The hope was to have Round in Common Time sung a cappella, or with instruments doubling the parts. But because the coronavirus is so easily transmitted when people sing near

Drumrolls Frank Troiano, of Granby, has been named to the Plymouth State University dean’s list for the spring semester. Troiano is a business administration major.

Lovely results from contest

The Granby Senior Center recently held a coloring contest with several members participating. Dorothy Dumond’s drawing (above) won first place. Second place went to Kathryn Lord, with a tie for third place between Elaine Amancio and Shirley Warn. The Granby Commission on Aging judged the pictures and felt it was a very difficult decision as they all were beautiful. Prizes were provided by Anthology of Simsbury.

each other, live performances of choral pieces during the pandemic would be dangerous. For this reason, churches and synagogues, temples and mosques have moved to holding services online. However, several choir directors have expressed interest in using the piece with their church choirs in their online religious services, and with the new technology, those performances have begun to occur. Julie Hagen, music director at First Church, Granby, and her husband, Jordan Hagen, an audio engineer, worked with the members of the combined choirs of First Church and South Congregational Church to collate the recordings that each choir member submitted electronically. With the efforts of all these musicians combined, an online performance became possible. Round in Common Time premiered on a live-streamed Facebook service by the combined choirs of Granby’s two United Church of Christ churches on May 31. The link to that service on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=wrPWFM2gfAA The entire service is a tribute to the role the church plays in our community and our lives, and the Round in Common Time is introduced about 18 minutes into the service. The end of the service is a beautiful tribute to the essential workers in the Greater Granby community, with their photographs. I am hoping to make it possible for it to be sung in more languages as well, If anyone would be interested in helping with the translations, please let me know. If you, or a choir director you know would be interested in having a copy of the score, please contact me at mazzadixon@gmail.com

Jack DiMeo, of Granby, a sophomore majoring in aeronautical engineering/ mechanical engineering, was named a presidential scholar for the spring semester at Clarkson University.

Gorgeous garlic The Garlic Farm’s crops flourish on the Granby Land Trust’s new Wilcox Family Preserve on Simsbury Road in West Granby. The Garlic Farm, located at 76 Simsbury Road, opens for the season on July 10. Please support our local farms. Photo courtesy of Granby Land Trust

Favarh appreciates the Granby Community Fund Favarh, which provides programs and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in and around Granby, is very grateful and appreciative of the funding that we received from the Granby Community Fund during this difficult COVID-19 pandemic. At the direction of the Department of Developmental Services, Favarh closed all of its day congregate settings on March 17. Since then, Favarh’s focus has been to provide the essential care and services to our 49 residential participants and to keep our employees safely working. We view all work currently being done at the agency is essential. During this time, we have not laid off or furloughed employees. Employees who wish to work in essential agency positions have the opportunity to work. In addition, due to Federal Cares and other legislations, and in addition to existing generous paid time off benefits (PTO), we have paid generous FMLA, emergency PTO and sick leave benefits to employees who cannot work due to

COVID-19 related situations. In addition, we are offering Hero Incentives (retention incentives) to all employees who are working. Our goal is to retain employees, ensure they and their families are safe and that Favarh is in a position to be fully staffed when we are able to open all of our programs. All of these new benefits have increased our employee payroll and benefit costs. In addition, we have spent significant effort and money securing PPE supplies for all of our essential employees and specifically residential employees. We expect our increased supplies cost for this effort to be $200,000 to $250,000 through May. At this point, thankfully, all of our residences are COVID-19 free. That in part is due to the support that Granby Community Fund has provided to our organization. The fund has played an important role in our successful efforts to ensure that our residents remain healthy and that we are able to keep our invaluable staff employed. We thank you.

Page 26 The Granby Drummer

Our

Headline news…in the 2010s

Publishing Year! By Chris Levandowski

the Drummer celebrates its 50th year of publication, the world has spun out of control Healthy populations of every country in the world have fallen ill and over 400,000 have died from a unique coronavirus that swept out of China and spread exponentially within weeks. The world went into lockdown, hospitals were overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients. A booming world-wide economy collapsed. As that crisis seemed to abate and allow some return of normalcy, the violent death of a black man at the hands of police officers drove thousands into the streets in protest. What started on a street corner in a mid-western U.S. city quickly spread worldwide and re-opened racial conversations that had lain dormant for too long. Granby responded to the needs of townspeople affected by the pandemic and immediately began to address the racial inequalities within our town. In 1970, Granby was focused on passing a referendum to fund long-needed additions and improvements to the high school. Advocates of the plan and its fi-

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nancing created the Drummer to provide a forum and source of information for future town issues. However, the events unfolding in the rest of the country and the world couldn’t be ignored. The country was still mourning the Rev. Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy. Racial unrest still simmered but it was wartime and the country was consumed with the internally divisive Viet Nam war. In the 50 intervening years, much has changed but much has not. The 2010s will be remembered for historic events, the unprecedented rise of social media, political and cultural changes, COVID-19 and perhaps a long overdue racial reckoning. The Drummer continued to publish Granby news through it all. Fireworks for the 225th Anniversary, a Halloween snowstorm that ground the region to a halt, a forgone-conclusion Selectmens’ race contested by petitioning candidates, and differing opinions on state road projects at Five Points and the center intersections. To top it all off, this 50th year of publishing ends right back where it started—on the dining room tables of the volunteer editors and staff. Of course, it’s

Drumrolls Adam Holden, of East Hartland, a senior majoring in engineering and management, was named a presidential scholar for the spring semester at Clarkson University. Nathan Betsch, of Granby, has been named to the Plymouth State University president’s list for the spring semester. Betsch is a marketing major. Cassandra Miller, of North Granby, graduated from Assumption College in May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology; she was also named to the dean’s list for the spring semester. Lindsay Courser, of North Granby, achieved president’s list status at Nichols College for the spring semester. Luke Jennings, of Granby, was named to the Siena College president’s list for the spring semester. Angela Cappelli, of North Granby, and Bailey Yeager, of Granby, were named to the dean’s list at Siena College for the spring semester. Emma H. Beman, of East Granby, graduated in May from Fairfield University. Bethany Kanter, of North Granby, graduated from the College of William and Mary with a BS degree.

July/August 2020

Endicott College named the following Granby and North Granby students to its dean’s list for the spring semester: Sarah Bennett, marketing; Samuel Kuhnly, marketing communication; Daniel Pierce, sport management; Mackenzie Dowd, mathematics; Lyndsey McNeill, psychology; Erica Presbie, marketing; Michael Spence, nursing; Lauren Wutka, interior design. Michael Atkinson-Woodward, of North Granby, was named to the spring president’s list at Hudson Valley Community College. Ellen Hesketh, of Granby, was named to Ohio University’s spring dean’s list. In May, Bryan McTeague graduated from Northern Vermont University with a degree in sports management. Cooper Fleming, of Granby, and Caroline Miltenberger, of West Granby, were named to the dean’s list at Castleton University for the spring semester. Miltenberger also received Academic All-Conference honors from the Little East Conference as a student athlete for fall 2019.

PAID the community, advertisers, ourGRANBY, printer CT PERMIT NO. 15 and the USPS for their contributions to make it happen. We’ll be back in September. Have a summer filled with family fun andPublished lots ofby fresh Citizens air. for a Better Granby

with computers not Selectric typewriters. The Granby The wonders of advanced internet connectivity have made the publication of the Happy last three issues possible. We thank the all-volunteer staff and contributors, Your hometown volunteer newspaper Thanksgiving! Volume XLII, No. 3 • November 2011

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Town celebrates its 225 years in spectacular fashion

may not have been Chesapeake Bay in 1812, but at the twilight’s last gleaming on October 1 in Salmon Brook Park, the rockets red glare and the bombs bursting in air provided a spectacular conclusion to the day-long celebration of Granby’s 225th anniversary. Everyone in town was concerned when the day started with less than favorable weather, but by the time the ﬁrst of the 30 units of the parade stepped out, the rain had stopped and, other than a bit of a shower in mid-afternoon, held off for the rest of the day, and what a day it was! In addition to a wide variety of food and drink, there were booths representing town organizations and businesses and music and dance performances all day on the stage in the *****************ECRWSS**** band shell. Kids were delighted withPRSRT the carnival rides STD U.S. POSTAGEto all the and magic shows and games. Congratulations Local volunteers who made this day possible PAID and to the public Postal Customer for going above and GRANBY, CTtheir usual works department beyond PERMIT NO. 15 assignments. —by Shirley Murtha

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Fireworks light up the sky over Salmon Brook Park. photo by Mike Ungerleider

Board of Ed reviews 5-year fireworks. Nov. 2011: Granby”s 225th anniversary

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elementary school goalswww.granbydrummer.orgCarl Rosensweig takes FREE over

Volume XLII, No. 4 • December 2011

October storm estimated to cost town $1 million

as Granby’s new police chief

by Elaine Jones

plans wherein students reached out to the greater community through ideas and actions in cultural tolerance, compassion by Jennifer Benson and acceptance. At the October 19 meeting, the reports Carl Rosensweig was sworn in as the continued with the focus on special new Chief of Police of the Granby Police education and CHOICE students from Department on September 30. Former Hartford and Hartland. Director of PuChief David Watkins retired that same pil Personnel Services Aimee Martin day. In his second week on the job, presented the special education segment Rosensweig took time out of his schedule reimbursements loss of or damage and Director for of Curriculum, Teaching for an interview with the Drummer. He to and townLearning property. Diane Dugas gave the affirmed an open policy with the citizens The boarddata. voted to was CHOICE Allunanimously the information of Granby, stating he believes they should approve an appropriation from the genpresented in chart form and can be downknow what is going on, so long as the eral fund from not tothe exceed million loaded school$1site to thefor Board information is not confidential. town cleanup operations. The money of Education tag and then to the agenda Granby’s new chief has a long history will from forcome October 19.the FY2012 Budget with the town of West Hartford. He not – Personal and Property Protection The 2010-2011 year special education only grew up there from the age of ten, (Emergency Management). data revealed how many students were in but he also began his career in law enMembers of the board expressed a Granby schools, the percent of students forcement there and spent 31 years on preference for part of the money to be who participated in athletics, AP classes the West Hartford Police Department. He th spent through local firms and the town and honorsthe programs, alsoofthe and his wife Marie live there, but hope to will provide state withand a list lo- perwho who had could discipline find aGMHS homefield in Granby. Theirhoists son Mike calcentage contractors assistproblems. with A jubilant hockey teams high is the championship trophy after a hardaverage SAT scores in writing, read-fought a senior at M.I.T. theThe work. battle with Milford’s Laurelton Hall on November 19. Mia Olsen tipped in Haley ing and math and CMT/CAPT averages A flyer will be mailed out to inform Rosensweig’s three period to win the game in which Makuch’s shot near theeducation end of the includes second overtime Chief Carl Rosensweig in math, and writing in grades residents of reading the procedures involved in years of college at Embry-Riddle Granby outshot its opponent 27 – 2. It wasAerothe third consecutive title for the Bears. and grade 10 asthe well as in sciencephotonautical the3-8 pick-up, including requirement by Andy University Farber in Daytona Beach. patrolman on the West Hartford police fortrees grades 8 and 10 werebe alsoplaced reported. that and5, brush should While at Embry-Riddle, he earned force. While working as a police officer, Forfeet children enrolled in the five back from the road for CHOICE both an associate’s degree in professional Rosensweig finished his degree at the program, thepickup. data collected was similar town and state aeronautics, got his commercial pilot’s University of Hartford, earning a B.S. in The management company will withdebris additional information on numbers license, became certified as a flight criminal justice. In addition to attending make about three full runs throughout graduating, attending college, taking instructor and taught flying. He interthe Police Academy, which is standard theAP town. By the time this issue of the classes and elected to the Honor rupted his studies to accept a position as paper is published, residents should Society. Rosensweig cont’d. on p. 3 have seen the first of these runs. Where possible, the company will also remove awarded by mid-January so that steel by Michael B. Guarco, Jr. , broken limbs hanging from trees near may be ordered to be available to start Chairman, Board of Finance the street. the project in the spring. It was held up In January the townspeople of Granby for over a year pending state DOT apwill decide whether to225 proceed with a Homecoming SBHS Gravestone Election Photos proval to secure 8 percent reimbursement major bond issue dealing with a number to Granby. sports Project information Pagecases 21, time28-29 Given the required board planning of important and in many and Pages 12 sensitive - 13 32 capital needs that the boards Pages 6 - 7 actions for the capital requestsPage taking feel the town should address. Given the up October and November and most continuing harsh economy, repair/conhe received a call from Richard Maffioby Karen Stanhope likely some of December, it was felt struction/acquisition costs are low, as lini, one of his crew members who had best to take them to the public in JanuCrew leader for the Granby Public are the interest rates we anticipate paying been plowing on Barn Door Hills Road. ary, rather than during the busy weeks Works Department David Shinder knew on money borrowed via bonding. These “He said that a tree had fallen in the road between Thanksgiving and New Year’s that winter storm Alfred would hit the combine to present a situation where, in front of his plow, and another behind Day. Informational meetings will be held Granby area hard. Even so, he did not if we are to proceed, now is the time to him, and he couldn’t get out,” recalls during the first week in January to outline fully anticipate the impact it would do it. Shinder. “So I grabbed my chain saw, the components of the package of capital have—or the ordeal that would start The scope of the capital request will threw it in my truck and headed out to requests, as well as how the debt service with a phone call for help from one of include items such as the Silver Street help him.” This type of situation had hapwill impact the budget and property his crew. bridge replacement, purchase of the pened before, so Shinder was confident taxes over time. The capital program The town crews had been busy pre125+-acre Evonsion farm land along East that he could free the trapped plow. priority advisory committee (CPPAC) is paring for the early nor’easter, getting Street, rebuilding and improvements at However, road after road was blocked working on that now, looking to phase in plows, trucks and other equipment ready. the Salmon Brook Park bath house which with fallen trees and power lines. Shinder the bonding repayment so that the debt However, the storm came in faster than is in great need of repair, additional parktried to navigate from Route 10 to Canservice most likely peaks in FY2016. It is expected, overwhelming leaf-laden trees ing at the Cossitt library, addition of a ton Road via Buttles Road, Spring Glen anticipated that the debt service account with snow. High winds brought down DEP-required wash bay with storage at Drive and three other routes but they will be about $300,000 more annually trees, limbs and power lines. Hours after Public Works, as well as athletic fi eld were all blocked. Finally, he decided that than it is currently, meaning that we will the storm began, the deputy superintenimprovements and replacement of the he would have to cut his way through. need to be spending about 1 percent more dent decided that conditions had grown track at the high school complex. He started clearing trees. He had in taxes than we currently are to fund this too dangerous for the town crews and a The timing of the request is to a large reached Canton Road and was cutting a entire capital bonding package. call went out for them to come in. part driven by the Silver Street bridge tree that was blocking him when another A town meeting will be held on TuesShinder was working on his truck when timetable designed to have the contract day, January 10, with a subsequent Finance cont’d. on p. 3 Rescue cont’d. on p. 7

Updates on the 5-year (2010-2015) elementary school improvement plans were presented to the Board of Education at the October 5 meeting by the three school principals, Kimberly Dessert for Kearns, Dr. Anna Forlenza-Bailey for Wells Road and Bob Gilbert for Kelly Lane. By 2015, the stated goal is “to enable students to demonstrate powerful by Edie Duncan thinking by systemically solving probThethrough Board of Financeand heldsynthesizing a special lems analyzing meeting on November 10 to consider an a information and articulating/defending appropriation request from the Board position.” Measurement is taken by the of Selectmen Achievement to pay for cleanup and Standardized Data District removal limbs, brushCharts and downed DesignedofAssessments. showing trees caused by storm Alfred. According assessments and strategies as well as to Town Manager William Smith, the innovating ideas for school and comestimated cost is $1 million. It is immunity cohesion can be downloaded at perative that the work be accomplished www.granby.k12.ctus/-39kschool; before the ground freezes and/or the connect to the Board of Education and next snowstorm. click on “agenda for October 5.”roads Granby is responsible for local Each speciﬁc for criteria and the school state ishad responsible stateof academic the be percentage sturoads. Thestudies, town will working of with dents reaching thesetogoals this year and the state and FEMA hire an approved action plans for students to reach 100 disaster removal management firm. percentcontractors of goals byare 2015. In addition These expensive and to the town must prepared to payeffecfor academics, eachbeschool presented the done here,efforts but it isimplementing anticipated tivework collaboration that FEMAschool will reimburse theto town for a whole approach various 75 percent the cost (about topics andofactivities, some$750,000), of them inlowering actual local costs to about corporating parent participation. There $250,000. this time, the contribution town does were also At compassionate not know when the federal reimbursement will be received and the estimated costs are just that—estimates. The town is also looking at possible insurance

Field Hockey team wins unprecedented 13 NCCC title

Dec. 2011: Halloween storm costs town $1 million; team wins 13th state A Field timeHockey to spend… title. a time to save…

50th anniversary cont’d. on p. 31

Public Works’ daring rescue Inside: — nine hours to safety

Granby’s Pediatric Dentist!

Dr. Staci Allen

Board Certified Pediatric Specialist

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Handling propane Page 5

Storm recovery help

Page 6

Captain Casavant Page 23

History of the Christmas card Page 25

Handicap Accessible Special Needs Patients Hospital Dentistry

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July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 27

Granby Memorial High School Class of 2020!

Carl Abrahamsen

Theresa Abrahamsen

Allan Allag

Jaleel Alridge

Ariana Arpin

Samuel Attianese

Paul Auckenthaler

Sophie Austin

Nicholas Badorek

Ella Baggott

Naviah Barrow

Alexander Becker

Alessandra Boffi

Jenna Brown

Stephen Bull

Hanna Canfield

Elizabeth Cappelli

Ashley Casavant

Christopher Cerbo

Henry Coleman

Matthew Comer

Theodore Cormier

Abigail Cotsonas

Sarah Cramer

Noah Crockett

Hannah Cronin

Olivia Dâ€™Agata

Henry Daley

Nina Degagne

Jeannette Dessert

Paxton Diaz

Grant Dingley

Dylan Disabella

Mark Dolan

Andrew Durman

Page 28 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

BEST WISHES Safiya Fahrudeen

Connor Fairchild

Noah Fairchild

Felicia Fauteux

Jessica Fetzner

Ellie Fiorentino

Alexandra Flanagan

Melaina Galiasatos

Hayley Gentry-Kowal

Lindsay Gilton

Conrad Ginz

Diana Goldman

Paige Gomez

Samantha Gove

Shane Gove

Anna-Marie Groskritz

Andrew Hazard

Rowan Heinze

Aidan Hennessy

Conor Hennessy

Rachel Hennessy

Quinn Higby

John Hitchiner

Jack Holcomb

Elijah Holt

Kayla Jansen

Mark Jones

Kyle Kadis

Christian Kaluna

Alexander Karadimas

Charles Kendall

Madison Kidd

Alana King

Wyatt Kittelsen

Edward Krystowski

Joseph Krystowski

Erin Kulcsar

Thomas Lachapelle

Seth Lajoie

Ayden Lidestri

Matthew Liguori

Mia Litchfield

Daniel Litin

Michael Lockwood

Katherine Logee

Brandon Longhi

Claire Madsen

Timothy Herbert

Sam Jones

July/August 2020 The Granby Drummer Page 29

CLASS of 2020 Isabelle Martel

Laura Martenson

Dylan Matheos

Shannon McCord

Alexia McKone

Tessa McMillan

Arin Mikalonis

Emily Miller

Alexander Monckton

Serena Morris

Kenya Mouning

Autumn Munsell

Aaron Murdoch

Jacob Newman

Maria Nolan

Samuel Oâ€™Neil

Julia Olchowski

Jaira Paine

Mckenzie Pedersen

Madeline Peling

David Perry

Elsie Phillips

Emelia Provencher

Andrew Quagliaroli

Saravana Rajasekhar

Dwaritha Ramesh

Travis Reid

Henry Rice

Camden Robertson

Bennett Rodriguez

Bailey Rogers

Jocelyn Roman

Jackson Rome

William Roy

Madeline Russell

Zackary Salmonsen

Nicholas Schacher

Cooper Schneider

Samuel Schock

Kathryn Scotto

Keith Seger

Kayla Serafin

Sophia Sessions

Kelly Severance

Anja Sheahan

William Sibble

Emma Simpson

Francis Mikalonis

Catherine

Mydosh

Page 30 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2020

Kaite Simpson

Meghan Smith

Alexander Stelly

David Stewart

Samantha St. Pierre

Joshua St. Pierre

Cullen Swanson

Haley Thibault

Ashley Thompson

Jordan Thompson

Jillian Thrall

Eberly Tirillo

Marc Torres

Benjamin Troian

Olivia Troiano

Isabella Vargas-Blanchard

Natalia Vicencio

Juliette Volpe

Andrew Weber

Justin Whitelock

Morgan Wichmann

Photos courtesy of John Bikowski, Ken Mouning and Lindsay Sessions Austin Wickham

Isabella Williams

Adam Wilson

Joshua Wilson

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Volume XLIV, No. 2 • October 2013

At the May 9 meeting of the Charter Revision Committee, Jim Glenney, Bob Flanigan, Leonard Murray and Gerald Ledger presented petitions signed by 933 voters agreeing with the proposal that an automatic referendum vote on the town’s annual budget is a more democratic process than the current format and would enable more citizens to vote. The group has been gathering names at local business locations during peak hours and plans to continue the effort. Their goal is to overwhelm the board members and ultimately the selectmen with the number of town residents who ﬁnd major problems with the current system. They stress that this is a non-partisan effort. The

signatures must be veriﬁed as those of eligible voters in the town of Granby. The present charter states that the annual budget can be passed at a town meeting if there are at least 230 eligible voters in attendance and two-thirds of those present vote by secret ballot to pass the budget. If there are fewer than 230 voters or if less than two-thirds vote yes, the budget goes to machine vote on the following Monday and absentee ballots would be available. If the machine vote fails to pass the budget, another town meeting is held on the following Monday with another machine vote on the following Monday. That process continues until a budget is passed. The petitioning group claims that the town meeting format followed by a secret

Automatic Referendum cont’d. on p. 4

June 2012: Automatic referendum vote petition gains momentum.

Record number participate in 41st annual road race

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Athletes cut the ribbon on new hometown volunteer newspaper highYour school sports complex

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by Emily Henselder and Sarah Toth, Volume XLVI, No.GMHS 6 • reporters March 2016

Granby ribbons were cut, symbolizing the official opening of the new athletic www.granbydrummer.com FREE facilities. One captain from each fall After months of work, the new high sports team cut the ribbon, making a school athletic fields are finally comconnection to the student body. plete. On Tuesday, September 17, all of While the opening ceremonies took Granby’s high school students attended place two weeks after students started while delivering quality services on By opening Michaelceremony B. Guarco, the on the new sta- tight playing on the fields, the student body available resources. dium field. Theofgeneral public was also the was Chair, Board Finance very excited about the event. Nearly any given there are thosespirit who invited to join the festivities for the rib- Inevery studentyear, showed their Granby Each year as the spring budget process bon cutting. want spend maroon more onand one thing or anbyto donning gold. Teachers commences, selectmen a the other, Thethe ceremony beganconvene with all of as there are whoGranby would alsojust participated bythose wearing sportThree participants wearing their justcolors. meetingfall of the Boards—EducaOne captain from each fall sports team participated in cutting the ribbon at the as soon seesports taxesteams cut by 10 percent. Fall were thankful uniform and shirts, jogging across the tion, Finance, Selectmen—for anfield Striking the newIathletic F OR of I MMED AT E Dfield EL Icomplex. VERY photo by Peter Dinella that they able to use the newfalls fields an were appropriate balance to dedication from the snack shack to the front of the open discussion on what the next year soon as possible. Theeasy Granby the as boards and is not an task.Board School’s students are thankful to the town exciting events like the Under the Lights stadium. Following was the Chamber of Education considered postponing the looks like from each board’s perspeccomes down to whether we’re getgames taking place on October 18. for providing us with such great facilities, Singers performing the National Anthem. It use thefor ceremony; however tive. This helps the boards get a sense a until goodafter bang our buck. The and look forward to using them all year After speeches, including a spirit filled tingthey decided to allow it for the first day of what one the operating boards areAlan looking numbers and graphs say not just for practice and games, but for from Superintendent Addley, comparison of school. All of Granby Memorial High at, and what the fiscal ramifications and

Flat budget with slight tax increase for FY17

we are. That leads to a discussion about limitations from theNew BOF perspecdoing more—or control Oct.are2013: GMHS sports complexless—to opens up.taxes tive. while maintaining quality municipal In the aftermath of the Great Recesand educational services in a town with A mill comprehensive would sion, the boards have kept the rate relativelynoise strongordinance property values and changes relativelybymodest line with the Board of that Selectmen it to Elaine in Jones highto desirability makesasking it a place enact a comprehensive noise ordinance, both flat incomes and a slack economy. people want to live. At its September 10 meeting, the Plan- where enforceable by thehas police department. The operating boards and administrayear’s debate already opened ning and Zoning Commission received, This Such an ordinance can be created tions have workedand hard at keeping thingsfrom between the boards. Theonly Boards of Sediscussed voted on the report

The Granby

P&Z supports adoption of noise ordinance be enforceable by the police department

improved terrain, if used for recreation of regulations, regulations in other or pleasure. Noise was the paramount towns; Connecticut noise standards and Publ Your hometown factor under discussion. Also considered the resultsvolunteer of a live noisenewspaper demonstration were property rights, values and damusing various vehicles. age; environment impact; utility versus Possible solutions included an outright Photo by Peter Dinella recreational use; No. occasional versus Volume XLVI, 8 • May 2016 ban, establishing a public riding site, www.granbydrummer.com regularFuse; riders in groups; neighborspecial use permits, land use regulations OR IMMEDIAT E DEL IVERY hood complaints; dust, fumes and safety and a sound ordinance. The majority of concerns; unsightly tracks/jumps; public the group concluded that a deﬁnition versus private tracks; mufﬂer options; of parameters and conditions to allow monitoring and enforcement issues; the use of RVs was needed. And, the exceptions to use; the “grandfathering” best option was a comprehensive noise P&Z cont’d. on p. 6 Of the 1

comes to Holcomb Farm ...and the projects that will dominate ourBudget lives for theWinter nextfinally several years

man, lived anby, so it ve in West o much of utions and cation to family to a beautied, in the and Trust, n forever. house on the meadouse. The as a short me, there neighborb’s father d heating mall storeIn 1936, ecided to full-scale working repairing g systems re selling b was old his father

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PAID

AVON, CT PERMIT NO. 466

the Recreational Vehicle Subcommittee created in October of 2012 in response to the controversy involving RV use and the noise they create in residential neighborhoods. The committee recommended that P&Z support the adoption of a noise ordinance and draft a letter

State renews desire for roundabout at Five Corners

by the BOS. The committee included P&Z on memcont’d. p. 7 bers and town residents on both sides of the issue, who met monthly to debate and consider the use and impact of RVs in residential areas. Recreational vehicles were deﬁned as any self-propelled motor vehicle commonly used over un-

CT DOT sets information meetings to discuss major intersection improvements

nal light installation. DOT now notes that a roundabout Almost 10 years ago, the might be a better solution. Town of Granby applied to The state believes that there is the state for a traffic signal for not enough traffic in this area the intersection north of the and that not enough accidents center known as Five Corners. have occurred to qualify for East Street, Notch and Quarry a signal. It wants Granby to Roads Salmon Brook GMHS softballmeet coach Vicki Malone (l.) with membersendorse of her team: Jacobs,to Ellie itsAmanda proposal begin Bourque, Morgan Malone, Emily Martel at the Granby Road Race. Street (Rte. 10/202) at and thisJen Szilgyi a design studySee forstory construction photo by Dave Schupp on p. 15 intersection. It is difficult for of a roundabout. traffic from the side roads to Town Manager Bill Smith Police stepping up enforcement find a break in the north/south suggested that the town apAs the allowing summer fast approaches, the Granby Police Department wants to traffic a safe crossing prove the motor request increase awareness of safe driving practices and help reduce vehicle on col- the of Rte. 10/202 or a turn onto condition that four-way lisions and the injuries suffered from not wearing seatbelts. Please remember stop thethree state road. Some modifithe basic rules of highway safety. signs be installed for at least Buckleattempted Up. cationsAlways have been the interim. He feels that a Obey flattening Posted Speed Trafﬁc Laws. ofLimits Rte. androundabout — a minor may work, but Never Drinkof and Drive. 10/202 just south the interit not ofsomething The Granby Police Department will be steppingisupcertainly the enforcement safety section belt, child and safetythe seat,re-positioning speed and DUI laws starting May to 21 through JuneThe 3. A Defamiliar Granby. highly visible effort will be conducted during the CLICK IT or TICKET CamQuarry Road so that it and of or in high velopment Office and Police paign concentrated in theaarea of North Granby Road (Rte. 189) and Salmon date with Notch Road have common concur Department Brook Street (Rt. 10/202) during this time period, but also throughout the entirewith entrance set back from 10/202. town, as well. Smith’s suggestion. Smith on p. 14 These “fixes” have not solved noted that the town will have the problem. a chance to review and give The DOT approved installinput on the design before any ing a traffic signal a decade construction begins. The board ago, and the town reworked approved the request. the intersection forbusinesses the sigNew eep-deprived teens Lily Cheng’s story

By Shirley Murtha

The Connecticut Department of Granby Rd. to Bank St. Transportation (DOT) will conduct a Property impacts associated with public informational meeting concernthese improvements include nine ing the proposed major intersection partial property acquisitions. improvements on Route 10/US 202 The CT DOT will conduct a public (Salmon Brook St.) at Route 20/189 informational meeting concerning (North Granby Rd./East Granby Rd.) the proposed Intersection improveand at Route 189 (Hartford Ave.) on ments on Route 10/US 202 (Salmon Wednesday March 16, 2016, at 7 Brook St.) at East St. and Notch Rd. p.m. at the Granby Senior Center. on Wednesday March 23, 2016, at The project is identified as Prospec7 p.m. at the Granby Senior Center. tive State Project No. 55-TMP1. The project is identified as ProspecThe purpose of this project is to tive State Project No. 55-TMP2. reduce delays and queue lengths durThe purpose of this project is to ing peak travel periods within Granby address safety concerns that will be center by widening portions of Salmaddressed by the construction of a on Brook Street, North Granby and roundabout. The roundabout will East Granby Roads, and Hartford Ave. eliminate the current crash patterns at Current and former town ofﬁcials gathered to honor Bill Smith’s 35 years of service. for additional auxiliary lanes. In addithis location and will reduce vehicuFrom l.: Jim Oates, Roger Hernsdorf, Diane Neumann Hernsdorf, Smith, John Adams, Bill tion, operational deficiencies will by beShirley larMurtha speeds on Salmon Brook St. The Simanski and Dave Russell. photo addressed by a minor realignment of proposed changes will improve the Town Hallof Meeting Town by Shirley Murtha North Granby Rd. to improve turning intersection NotchRoom Rd. toathonor Quarry Manager William F. Smith’s 35 years capabilities left-turning address operational needs of Priorfor to eastbound, the September 16 Board of Rd.oftoservice. The longest-serving town and through vehicles. vehicles. Selectmen meeting, a group of former larger manager of all the state’s towns, Smith Thisandproject willofﬁcials also improve impacts associated with current town gathered in the Property is currently president of the Connecticut pedestrian accommodations by adthese improvements include three dressing gaps in the existing sidewalk partial property acquisitions. system and by providing new sidewalks along the south side of East

Drumme

Town manager feelingplan the pinch DOT presents for as budget presentation draws near The Granby Five Corners roundabout

with Library, Recreation and Social by Shirley Murtha As with the previous DOT presentation By Shirley Murtha 679 were Services. These meetings will take place on plans to re-design the center intersecTown Manager Bill Smith will present March 7 and 10. They are open to sented at t Principal engineer for the design unit on tions, this meeting was held to inform the budget at the BOS meeting on March the public and will start at 6 p.m. in the did theand police chief public works Organization Small Towns. of the stateofDepartment of Smith Transportagauge theand response to the proposed 7. He reported that it is becoming more Town Hall Meeting Room. director. was notedWilliam as a top-notch employer and tion, Britnell, presented an changes before more time and money is and more difficult as theand years go by to FirstCapital Selectman JohnPurchase Adams read letpraised for his ability appoint Lease informative viewtoofhire the DOT’s plan for on the project. If as itProgram goes forward, meet the Board of Finance guidelineters, allspent favoring this proposal, very qualiﬁed people. Simsbury Bank offeredopportunity thedid lowest rate alleviating the accident situation at the there will be another for and still meet the goals and objectives Charles Eisenberg, lives Smith thankedof allRtes. those10/202, who attended for the Capital Lease Purchase Program Published byatwho Citizens forat a148 Better Granby a non-profit 501(c) intersection East Street town input the 30-percent-complete of ceremony, the Boardnoting of Selectmen to maintain Silverloan Street. Eisenberg noted that his the that Granby runs for 2015-2016. The loan will be and Notch Road. A large turnout of interdesignoverlooks phase. Doherty and he house directly asthesmoothly asand it does because staffing services thatoftown Volume XLIX, No. 6 •staff March 2019 www.granbydrummer.co $627,594 forGranby five years and $179,000 ested residents packed the Senior In 1995, requested many near accidents as cars ap- a traffic the combined efforts of its andCenter residents expect. The BOF wants thehas seen for three years. The board approved the on March 25 to learn about this project. fromor opposite directions elected ofﬁcials. signal a four-way stopwhen at the intersecBOS budget to State comeRepresentative in at a 2.5 percentproached selection oftion theinbank. Silver Street Bill Simanski mentioned Granby’s question, but the request increase, which wouldthat result in a twothe street was two-way. CERT Equipment also supported government is envied by many of his was denied after a study by percent increase in the mill rate, butresident Don Perednia the proposal. colleagues in the House. The board approved accepting the Capitol Region Council aof to meet that guideline there willJr., have In other business, Over the next month the administraSmith reported that The meeting with B. a public inforBy began Michael Guarco, donation of $1,400 from Eversource Governments showed that the to be serious cuts inproposal staff and services.the town has collected 54 percent of the mation hearing on the to keep tions will be refining their respective via the Capitol Region Citizen Corps Chair, Board of Finance traffic volume at the site did A decrease fundingstreet. fromDirecthe statecurrent year’s taxes, which is for in the line with Doherty Road in a one-way budget requests review by theofoperFoundation to cover total cost not meet the level required for coupled with mandates and increases previous years. The police department’s tor of At Community Development Fran its January and February meet- equipment ating boards. By April 1the the boards of and uniforms for Granby a signal orcell four-way. In 2010, campaign against phonewill Armentano explained that Doherty isconsidered a thisaggressiveselectmen in almost allBoard operating costs make ings the of Finance and education submit fiCommunity Emergency Response re-aligned driving the hastown brought in aboutNotch and very narrow street (ranging from 14.5fromuse nearoperating impossible. budget forecasts thewhile nalized requests to the Board Finance Team. addition, the town’s revenue feetSmith to 19 feet wide) out withthat visibility Quarry Roads in theofhopes pointed the has$1,000. Infor administrations aspoor well astown the various itsPerformance consideration. After weighing Regional Incentive Grant has been augmented receipt due its many curves. Because the sides thatbya the signal wasof then pos- the notto re-instated of the cuts in staff of quite thesome revenue picture. January budget requests, andtraffic balancing them over $7,000 fromsible, last year’s state revofand thepieces road are steep, widening itIn is ago, Project but the volume services made several years the Board of Finance set operating budagainst all relevant revenue information enue-sharing payments andRegion $15,600 from not practical. Armentano recommended The Capitol Council of remains considerably under andget he guidelines thinks the town is at theasreflecting pointthe self-funded 4 percent, insurance program. retaining the one-wayofdesignation, available, will prepare Governments in BOF conjunction withinthe the the the minimum standard; factfinal where meeting the the increasing costguideline of specialcannot education Office budget package to take hearof itBOS Policy and on p. 350public isn’tcont’d. even upManagement toto percent continue without drastically and outplacements as well changing as for health has ing for review and comment. After asked of allwhat participating towns to this is required. Britnell town operations. benefits. Offsetting the increase in ex- support public bydo charter is held itshearing, requests for grants to noted thatwhich signals notfund slow Budget Workshop Schedule penditures are an increase in revenues various on the second Monday of April town projects. The boards of the An unknown wo down traffic, in fact they(4/8), have BOS members will meet with town from the state in both the Education Cost selectmen BOF will its effect decision whether Her impromptu of makes the capitol region towns the reverse as on drivers department heads before the workshops falls in Ender’s CivicEducation Club turns GMHS homecoming Dean Marshall reprints Sharing and Special Excess100 modify or send combined budget meettoperiodically to projects speed updiscuss tothe get throughthat the regarding concerns for the upcoming CostPage grants, as well as the beginning as-is to referendum, which would benefit certain constituencies. Page 21package 18Selectman schedule Page 10 yellow lights. budget. First Kuhnly will of a significant decline in annual debt Theagain byBOS charter is tostatistic, be held on the Granby approved this request. The unusual and meet with expense Public Works and Fire, March 2016: Information meetings on intersection service over each of theEdnext Town fourth Monday of April (4/22). Attorney the one that prompts remedial Ohannessian with Administration, Jim three years. LAFD budget requests ......... 6 GMHS Boys Wrestling ........ 16 significant on the revimprovements TheAboard approved action, iscomponent thatthe ofappointment the relatively By Lofink with Budget Also of Capital note is the first and year Debt of what of Richard enue side theofledger – and lately Roberts Halloran and Sageat the fewofcrashes that take place Services, Sally King with Personal andof a should be three or four years Superintend STEAM at Kearns ................ 8 Into the Woods ............... 17 wildattorney. card is what the(12 town Page 23 as town the –intersection in receives three Page 8 Page 30 Property Protection, and Mark Neumann nounced ch slightly greater-than-average growth From Street looking east, the Five-Points intersection is the site of a recommended from the statethere in terms municipal Arlowhis Case, Oct.East2015: Addressing the Five Corners intersection years), iscont’d. an of unusually Town manager on p. 3 revamped distr in the grand list of taxable property island roundabout. Photo by Peter Dinella aid. While what the Governor presented maple suga high number of injuries (13). lev of 1.44 percent before any adjustment mid-February overall fairly flatthe state- the primary Granby, Har This is isprimarily due to by the Board of Assessment Appeals. wide, ittype doesoftake money eachSchool year. H crash that isaway most from com- the ly Lane andhis Susan Combined, these elements have led the towns and it the to the cities. Under familyHe l mon shift there: “T-bone,” in Road In board to target a mill rate change in the his proposal, Granby looses a total of Wells Maple Festi Concept Plan for Roundabout on Route 10 3–5)a.m. andto the4M 2 percent range, which is in line with cont’d. on another p. 2 $352,9095inCorners the first year and p at East Street and Notch Road the modest inflationary trend faced in $278,000 in the second — equivalent to respectively. T high school. D our own households. May 2016: DOT plansFinance for Five Corners unveiled. sets budgetroundabout guidelines cont’d. on p. 7 principal, will the popular prin (Grades 3-6). earlier this sch Photos by Peter Dinella Dunn and Dr. into the hands of people who need it. If Narcan, a life-saving drug used in In a written s I am able to prevent one unnecessary the event of an opioid overdose, can By death in our community I will be gratebe prescribed pharmacists. CRCOG to make improvements in the “Unfortunately by by Shirley Murtha Granby designated to Chl ful,” said Jean Keating, PharmD. Pharmacy is now prescribing and discenter. In March 2016, the DOT held through a redu are meeting able pensing Narcan patrons seeking the On Jan. 15, torepresentatives from InitsConnecticut, first publicpharmacists information In recen andexplaining dispense Narcan after drug. also known as naloxone, of to prescribe the Narcan, Connecticut Department in Granby, its preliminary Priority A completing andlane beingadditions issued a and isTransportation used in the eventpresented of a suspected opioid information ideas fortraining widening, has been Pharmacists dispensing Naroverdose. Opioids include on the current status of prescription the project to certificate. sidewalks. That was followed in March year plan are required to educate the patient pain medications and heroin. reconfigure Granby center. The 90 can2017 with a more detailed presentation view as t March 2019: caregiver receiving the medication “This is agathered great opportunity for pharresidents in the Senior Center or of Honoring t the initial design features. A meeting needs. Th on how to administer the drug in the macists, the most accessible healthcare saw an array of photos, maps and charts DOT Information was held with town officials in the Theyears as Lemon professional, to get thishas lifesaving drug Dr. Barry Walsh • Dr. Peter Markowicz Narcan cont’d. on p. 2 that explained what been planned summer of 2018. expendit meeting on Center to improve the intersection of Routes Since much of the project’s area needs an 10/202, 20 and 189. of potential effect falls within the improvement. PAC uses Project engineer Joe Arsenault gave Granby Center National Register of to help a a history of this project. In 1998, Historic Places, the State Historic impact of the Capital Regional Council of Preservation Office was consulted. to meet th Government (CRCOG did a study of The office determined that the project useful too the Rte. 10/202 corridor as requested would have no adverse effect on the to bring by the town. In 2011-2013, the town historic properties in the area. It was from the requested financial assistance from determined, however, that there are Over th will help DOT meeting on center project cont’d. on p. 2 expendit will decre of the th will grow tracking i Toni Ann’s Silver Jubilee ... 17 Waypoints - Ice Fishing .... 26 Brook ho and the p

Town manager feted for 35 years of service

Board of Finance sets budget guidelines

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Granby Pharmacy now prescribing, dispensing Narcanmeeting on DOT hosts public information center road improvement project

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