Granby Drummer | July/August 2021

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Volume LI, No. 10 • July/August 2021

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Bears, politics and bridges all on the summer agenda

office, and unaffiliated or minor party Summer is here! Fourth of July, strawcandidates can also apply to be on the berries, swimming, summer camps, ballot. Granby runs on volunteerism— vacation and, dare I say it, travel! Alsee how to participate in the other ready our Granby social and recreational postings in this issue. organizations are holding their typical Granby demographics are shifting. seasonal face-to-face get-togethers. I Did you know the Granby political now see actual smiles, not just smiling landscape has changed with registered eyes, when visitDemocrats (2,433) now outnumbering ing our grocery and registered Republicans (2,414)? Unaffilihardware stores.

It own ated voters still outnumber either major has been a long road all through the pandem- party, but why did the tipping point come now? One thing we do know: the number ic—now let’s enjoy alk summer! I know the of Granby homes sold were up over 30

by Jim Lofink Drummer staff will, percent during the pandemic versus the previous three-year average. Do you as we do not publish wonder about who left, who moved in, an August issue. Here are my predicand how Granby’s demographics are tions for what we might be facing by the evolving? Maybe by fall we will know time the next Drummer is published in more. Meanwhile, welcome to Granby, September: newcomers! Hope you all enjoy it here Granby bears will have to find their as much as we have. own food. Since before the pandemic Infrastructure improvements will began, it was known that a few individube visible—in ways both positive and als in Granby were intentionally feeding negative. Over the summer, road overbears and creating dangerous conditions lays should be completed on several both for the bears, and for nearby Granby major town roads (Barn Door Hills Rd, residents. Now, the Granby Board of SeBushy Hill Rd, Canton Street Extension, lectmen (BOS) have agreed to create an Case Street and Edgerton ordinance against intentional Road). Hungary Rd and feeding of bears to address the Griffin Rd will undergo escalating public safety issues. BOS to create an While the proposed ordinance ordinance against some temporary road closures for long-planned-for still has several legal process intentional bridge repairs. And, while steps to go through, including feeding of bears the new roundabout at the a public hearing, it is likely former “Five Corners” is that by the time the next Drumfully functional, the State mer is published that the issue plans to start construction work on the will turn from enacting legislation to Town Center intersections in early fall, enforcing the law (aka ‘the will of the the start of a multi-season project to expeople’). Will offenders voluntarily repand turning lanes and increase driving frain from the soon-to-be-illegal action, safety. A long-term benefit, but expect or will town officials have to enforce the some short-term pain. law through imposing fines and taking Will the former Kearns School be in other legal action against these residents? new hands. With the retention of a sales If you would like a bear-resistant trash agent and a post-pandemic economy container, put your name on the waiting looming, at least one potential buyer list at DPW (860-653-8960). has expressed interest. While a lot could Town Management will be undergochange over the summer, the likelihood ing change. Granby is actively seeking of a sale should increase as the economy applicants for the position of Town rebounds. Call me an optimist, I just hope Manager, with interim, and former, Town the property once again becomes an asset Manager Bill Smith hoping to have his contributing meaningfully to our quality next successor in place by the end of the of life here in Granby. summer.

I hope you enjoy your summer, your For sure, by the next issue our local property and your neighbors. Be mindful political parties will have determined— of the ever-increasing bear population in though the July caucus process—their our rural-residential town, and support candidates for November’s municipal your local businesses and especially our elections. This includes the entire BOS, awesome local growers. Food, flowers, which is elected every two years, as fruits and more abound in Granby; live well as many other boards and commiswell and prosper! sions. Both parties are actively seeking —Jim Lofink residents interested in serving in public

T H T

Solar Eclipse The moon blocked part of the sun in a sunrise solar eclipse on June 10 in North Granby.

The phenomenon appeared as a “ring of fire” to some observers in Canada and Northern Europe. On the East Coast of North America, it appeared more like a crescent moon—or a smile. Granby Land Trust member Jim Watso arose early in the morning and captured the spectacular sight in the sky over the GLT’s Mary Edwards Mountain Property.

End of an Era for GMHS Field Hockey

By Deneika Janski

Seventeen years, 272 wins, 12 State Championship appearances, Seven Class S State Titles.

Impressive numbers but numbers don’t tell the whole story. Numbers don’t show the hours spent planning, practicing, and starting over when the plan needs a reboot. Numbers don’t show the time away from home and work. Luckily, these numbers do show time spent with family—as volunteers, colleagues, coaches, and mentors—for the Wickman sisters, Jody Bascetta and Sandy Wickman Mason.

The sisters and Granby Field Hockey go back a long way. Their mom, Jerry, started the Granby Memorial Middle School program. Both sisters played at GMHS for Dot Johnson—Jody was a sophomore when the Bears won the first Field Hockey State Championship in Connecticut in 1973, and Sandy was a junior when Granby won its third title five years later. Later, Bascetta served as an assistant coach under Johnson.

In 2002, when Johnson, also the GMHS athletic director, hung up her whistle, her first thought to carry on Granby’s winning tradition was former player, Sandy Wickman Mason. Mason agreed, with one stipulation— “I’m not doing it unless Jody’s doing it.”

The Granby Field Hockey dynasty was primed to continue; the sisters led

Sandy Wickman Mason and Jody Bascetta retire, but their legacy reaches far beyond Granby.

Photo courtesy of Kathleen Olchowski

Granby to seven more championships over the next 17 years.

More important is the impact they had on their players over the years. “Even after you graduated from Granby Field Hockey, you still belonged. You’d always belong,” says Abby Bascetta, who played for her mom and aunt. “They were my biggest supporters and my toughest critics,” she says.“They always pushed me to be the absolute best player, teammate, and leader I could be.”

Twenty-six of their players went on to play collegiate field hockey. They kept a connection with their high school

End of an era cont’d. on p. 3

Read the Drummer online at GranbyDrummer.com Photo by Matthew McWhirter

Page 2 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2021

GRANBY BOARD OF SELECTMEN MINUTES MAY 17, 2021 PUBLIC HEARING The public hearing was called to order at 6:45 p.m.

Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, Town Manager William F. Smith, Jr. Kuhnly stated the purpose was for the Neighborhood Assistance Act Program and the submission of proposals. He asked the Vice Chairman to read the Legal Notice.

King read the legal notice as published in the Hartford Courant.

Sandra Yost, Director of Human Services, noted she is the liaison for the Neighborhood Assistant Act Program for the Town of Granby. This year, one application was received from the Foxfield F.A.R.M. Corporation in support of its equine program for the military.

Mr. Regan of Foxfield F.A.R.M. noted this is the third year they have applied for the tax credit through this program, and it has been very helpful to businesses and corporations. Northwest Community Bank has been very supportive of their request and decided to donate $1,000 to their program. Due to the tax act credit, they have been able to donate $8,500 as they would receive $1,500 in a tax credit.

There was no other public comment. There were no questions from the board.

On A Motion by Ohannessian, seconded by Neumann, the board voted to close the Public Hearing at 6:52 p.m.

MAY 17, 2021 The Regular Meeting of the Board of Selectmen was called to order by First Selectman B. Scott Kuhnly at 7 p.m.

Present: B. Scott Kuhnly, Glenn Ballard, Sally King, Mark Neumann, Edward Ohannessian, William F. Smith Jr., Town Manager; and John Bell, Student Liaison. Also present: Kimi Cheng, Director of Finance

Public Session

Ballard requested the public be allowed to speak during the board’s discussion on feeding of wildlife.

Kuhnly noted the public will be allowed to speak after the Board of Selectmen.

Valerie Eastwood, 10 Haven Drive, who spoke at the last board meeting, provided an update on her dog Murphy who was attacked by a bear. He has had multiple surgeries since the last meeting and so far, she has $12,000 in veterinarian bills. Two real estate lawyers have informed her she would need to disclose the incident to any prospective buyers.

Thomas Bunz, 234 Mountain Road, is in support of an ordinance banning the feeding of wildlife. He noted there is more than one problem feeder in the community and the bears have become too habituated to people. He feels the situation needs to be handled as quickly and safely as possible.

Meg Bunz, 234 Mountain Road, noted her neighbor feeds the bears and they cannot go outside any time of day and when they do, they need to carry bear whistles and horns. She is in favor of an ordinance against the feeding of bears and believes the ACO and the police need more tools to handle the situation.

Joe Rubin, 7 Schoolhouse Road, believes it is time

to put some rules in place to prevent people from endangering the safety of others. He feels it is time to do this before there is a serious tragedy.

Elizabeth Hardersen, 41 Twilight Drive, provided the board with a petition in favor of an ordinance. The petition has been circulating since 2019 and has been signed by 438 individuals. She shared some stories that individuals have told her, including one of a woman who feeds feral cats and attracts coyotes and bears. Hardersen believes it is time for an ordinance.

Audrey Lampert, 120 Loomis Street, believes everyone should be in agreement that humans have habituated the bears. It’s not good for Granby and it’s not good for the bears. She feels a feeding ordinance should be put in place to protect people, pets and bears.

Jeff Milne, 220 Mountain Road, lives very close to the individual who feeds the bears, and the issue is getting worse. He believes this is bad for the environment as well as the animals. He noted it is also a health and safety risk. He believes a car accident is inevitable on Mountain Road. The bears also bring down the real estate value of a home. He supports using the blight ordinance against those who feed bears and he supports Granby adopting an ordinance as soon as possible.

Sarah Ryan, 15 Halwood Drive, believes the ordinance should be across the board against the feeding of all wildlife not just bears. They recently had a bear follow them while walking their dog, a few days later a neighbor’s chickens were attacked and there was a recent sighting of a bobcat. She would like the town to look at the trash barrels that are used by residents.

Kristin Flynt, Morningside Drive, voiced support for an ordinance and hopes the Board of Selectmen

acts quickly. It makes sense for the safety of people, animals and pets.

Peter Bryanton, 5 Sullivan Drive, believes it is time to adopt a feeding ban as the issue has gotten out of hand.

Jason Norton, 116 Quarry Road, is in full support of banning feeding wildlife, but would like something in place to protect individuals who actively trap animals for recreation and fur bearing. He would like to make sure there isn’t something in place that bars people from doing this. He is in support of preventing people from feeding just to get animals in their yard.

Katharine Dalton, 18 Halwood Drive, noted she doesn’t let her child walk to the bus and she thanked the board for taking this ordinance seriously.

Kuhnly closed public session at 7:27 p.m. and thanked everyone for their comments. Under “Tabled Business” the Board and the Town Manager will speak and the public will then be able to speak again.

On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to re-order the agenda and place Item H after Selectmen Reports.

On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the Board voted (5-0-0) to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 3.

Unfinished Or Tabled Business

Further Discussion on Feeding of Wildlife (Bears)

Kuhnly noted the Selectmen have a copy of Simsbury’s ordinance prohibiting the intentional feeding of wildlife, as well as a draft of an ordinance previously created by the Town that was never discussed. The draft notes a $50 fine can be levied but CGS741 notes a maximum fine of an ordinance is $250.

Smith believes an ordinance will help prevent the abuses of intentional feeding reported in the Public Session but won’t stop the bears. The ordinance is similar to the town blight ordinance, but he believes a $50 fine is too modest and a fine should be applied for every offense.

Neumann is in favor of taking action regarding an ordinance against feeding bears. In addition, he also believes it is a state issue and its help is needed to make this truly effective. By joining neighboring towns in creating an ordinance, the state will realize there is an issue.

King noted it is time for a bear ordinance and Simsbury’s ordinance is a little more comprehensive.

Ohannessian pointed out this is a very specific issue involving two or three individuals and the State has no regulation against the feeding of bears. He is concerned an ordinance would have unintended consequences and questioned whether a specific house or street can be targeted. He questioned the tolerance for enforcing an ordinance and whether the town file a lawsuit after the fines are put in place. He does agree with looking at it as a blight issue.

Ballard believes intentional and unintentional feeding should be treated separately. He would like to determine if an ordinance against intentional feeding is necessary or if the town can take someone to court.

He would like to prevent unintentional feeding before it happens with measures such as subsidizing bear barrels; require secure dumpsters; track and measure the effectiveness of ordinances; get data from DEEP; inquire what can be done about intentional feeders.

First Selectman Kuhnly noted that common sense cannot be regulated and banning of bird feeders may not result in much of a change. He feels there needs to be something in place that targets the intentional feeding of bears. There are too many bears and the state needs to control the population. He would like to look at the ordinance regarding blight as an avenue to dealing with this issue.

Kirk Severance, Director of Public Works, noted DPW has sold all but four of the bear barrels and the price has gone up. A regular trash barrel costs between $50 and $60, while the bear barrels cost approximately $280. The cost of a bear barrel would be the difference between the two.

Ohannessian noted if an ordinance is passed, he would like to have a sunset provision that would allow the town to take an individual to court quickly.

Whatever is put in place needs to work for those people that this issue directly affects.

Smith will consult with the town attorney before the next meeting. The public was given the opportunity to address the board after the discussion.

BOS Minutes cont’d. on p. 3

July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 3

BOS Minutes cont’d. from p 2

Milne agrees with a fine for violating the ordinance as well as including the Town Attorney fees and enforcement costs.

Lampert noted the issue we are trying to address is the habituation of bears. She noted a state bear hunt reduces the bear population and changes behavior overall. She believes the data of whether ordinances work is available.

Eric Meyers, 22 Barn Door Hills Road, noted regulations are being put in place for the actions of a few and that doesn’t work. He believes a state ordinance to ban bear feeding that is controlled by the state would be more effective than going with a town-by-town ordinance.

Rubin is in favor of putting something in place.

Doing nothing lets offenders know their behavior is acceptable. He doubts we would be able to get something passed on the State level.

Hardersen noted Hartland used a zoning law that was able to put the bear baiter out of business and he is no longer in town.

Eastwood pointed out her family has been harmed financially and their property value has decreased. She agrees with an ordinance limiting the time when bird feeders can be out and asked the board to consider an ordinance as a public safety issue.

Ryan noted Northampton has had a wildlife feeding ordinance since 2012 that allows for bird feeding and has specific language within the ordinance which is different from Simsbury’s. In addition, it provides people time to correct their behavior before the fines are imposed. She thought it might be a good reference and they may have some data since it’s been place for a while.

T. Bunz believes action needs to be taken when there is a significant issue. There hasn’t been a clear solution presented that would do a better job than an ordinance. It is time to do something.

M. Bunz noted her children are afraid to go outside of their own home. She would like to see both sides work together.

Consideration of Proposals for Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act Tax Credit On A Motion by Ohannessian, seconded by King, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the application received at the Public Hearing held earlier this evening.

Consideration of Approval for Alcohol at Park House for a Private Party The Town Manager reported the Director of Recreation and Leisure Services has received a request to hold a 70th family birthday party at the Park House and the regulation requires a motion and vote from the board to approve the use of alcohol at the park on July 16.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the Board voted (5-0-0) to approve the use of the Park House for hosting an event at the Park House on July 16, and the dispensing of alcohol at this event as identified.

Consideration of Capital Equipment Loan

Smith noted each year the budget includes funds for capital equipment purchases and lease purchases of equipment. Inquiries are made to various banks when a loan is needed. Liberty Bank offered an interest rate of 2.6 percent for a four-and one-half-year loan agreement and Westfield Bank offered an interest rate of 1.75 percent for the same time period.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve the motion as written.

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 $683,000 for four and one-half years

and $91,000 for two years with the Westfield 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, loans and security agreement, UCC financing statements, disbursement authorization, 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.

Consideration of Connecticut Department of Transportation Grant Award

Smith explained the Department of Transportation provides the town with a grant for senior transportation and the grant requires a 50 percent match, which is provided in the current budget for Senior Van Services.

The grant has been awarded since FY2006-07 and is $28,641 for each year, matched by 50 percent from the current budget.

On A Motion by Neumann, seconded by King, the board voted to approve the State of CT Department of Transportation Grant Award for $28,641.

Consideration of Transfer to Suspense

Each year the town requests the transfer of certain unattainable tax money to Suspense for accounting purposes. After making several attempts to procure the money, most of which is motor vehicle tax from individuals who have moved out of state, the total amount reported by the Tax Collector is moved to Suspense.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted (5-0-0) to transfer $26,677.87 from the suspense pending list to the Suspense Tax Book.

Consideration of Election Grants Budget Amendment

The town received monies from the state for additional expenses related to the election that were not budgeted in FY2020-21.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Ohannessian, the board voted (5-0-0) to approve increases of the following accounts in the General Fund Budget: Miscellaneous Revenue by $11,670; Payroll Temp/PT - Town Clerk Operations by $4,670; Elections - Town Clerk Operations by $2,465.37; Postage - Town Clerk Operations by $1,000; Payroll-Temp/ PT in Election Services by $2,800; and Polling Place Activity - Election Services by $734.63; and forwards this request to the Board of Finance to approve.

Town Manager Reports

Smith reported there are no issues of concern and tax collections are steady. Cheng noted the town received the last 50 percent of the ECS (Education Cost Sharing) money in April.

Selectmen Reports

Ballard inquired about an update on Goman + York regarding Kearns. Smith noted he had a quick conversation with them and there is an interested party. More information will be available at a later date.

Ballard also asked if there was an update regarding the search for a new Town Manager. Smith noted Kerry Kielbasa was provided with a draft of the information regarding the search process.

On A Motion by King, seconded by Neumann, the board voted (5-0-0) to ratify the GMEA contract,

Respectfully submitted, William F. Smith Jr. Town Manager

End of an era

cont’d. from p. 1

coaches. Liza Ruggiero, GMHS ’09, is one of those players. She went on to play for Tufts University and says, “When [Tufts] won the National Championship during my senior year, I texted Sandy.

In fact, I think she was one of the first people I texted. As a person who had impacted my development in so many positive ways, I was so excited to share this moment with her.”

Former players talk about Wickman Mason’s and Bascetta’s in-depth knowledge of the sport and their competitive nature; but the repeating theme is their conviction that team building is paramount to success on and off the field. “I think one reason they were so successful was because they really valued building a team environment that felt like a family...drama was not tolerated,” says alumni Alana King, GMHS ‘20.

Parents recognized the sisters’ impact on their daughters as players and people. They had “high expectations for everyone…[they] worked together to motivate their players to achieve their goals,” says Kathleen Olchowski whose two daughters played for GMHS, graduating in 2016 and 2020. “They made every player feel like an important part of the team, with an important role to play.”

King also remembers how serious and competitive the sisters were. “They knew the importance of conditioning,” she says. Not many athletes truly enjoy conditioning, but she remembers that

“while conditioning wasn’t always a fun part of practice, our fitness level was what made the difference in those close tournament games.”

Parents and players recognize the impact Wickman Mason and Bascetta had on their lives outside sport. “What Sandy and Jody taught the players will go well beyond the hockey field and influence these young women for a lifetime,” says Olchowski. “They can’t know how big of an impact they had on so many girls’ lives,” adds King, Daughter/niece Abby summarizes it best: “You didn’t just leave Granby Field Hockey a better player, you left a better person.”

Wickman Mason and Bascetta encouraged their girls to be their best. “Sandy’s high standards and commitment to excellence communicated to us - especially as young female athletes - that we were capable of pushing ourselves to greater heights than we may have initially expected. We learned about the value of working towards a goal greater than ourselves and... learned about the importance of leading with integrity.” shared Ruggiero.

There is no greater lesson and no greater testament to these coaches than that. While they may have lost some on the pitch, in the game of life, coaches Sandy Wickman Mason and Jody Bascetta are undefeated in preparing their players for life. And for that, Granby should be thankful and proud.

Page 4 The Granby Drummer

Drumbeat Letters to the Editor Bear Wars

FIND US

Once again, I am weighing in on the bear situation in Granby. Wild animals are interested in three things: food, sex, and self-preservation. The most important of these is food. Please don’t feed the bears or racoons. You are endangering them and us. There is ample food for them all in the wild, otherwise they would not be here.

I have educated myself and fought the bear wars for nearly 20 years. They are smart and adapt to change and challenges. They have become more bold, less fearful, and more ingenious. If I hadn’t witnessed a bear standing on top of my deck railing and jumping five feet to my bird feeder pole, I wouldn’t have believed it possible. The 15-foot, three-inch iron pipe in four feet of concrete resisted the attack. Greasing the pole didn’t work, they wiped it off and climbed the pole. I beat them by attaching spike strips to my deck railing and feeder pole.

Pepper spray from Beman’s Hardware Store proved to be 100 percent effective as a deterrent. I’ve had some “huffy” encounters with bears and sprayed them to send the message that kind of behavior was not acceptable. It sent them fleeing and also prevented their return. I do not work outside without it.

I fed the racoons to keep them off my deck and out of my gardens before I realized my error. Now I have a motion sensor sprinkler—100 percent effective—and an electric fence, also 100 percent effective.

Keep your garbage in the basement, garage or shed until collection day. If bears are still a menace, douse it with ammonia or another strong offensive odor. Bears have the most sensitive noses in the animal kingdom—it’s their weakness. Use it!

Remember bears are wild animals, not “Teddy Bears” and will defend themselves and their young if threatened.

Do not approach a bear, especially a sow with cubs. When hiking or working alone in the yard talk or sing to let them know you’re there so you won’t surprise them. Turn your back and slowly walk away to let a bear know you are not a threat.

Bad bear encounters are never because bears are behaving badly, but because people are behaving badly. I’ve seen videos of curious bears approaching people and people trying to kick them and being aggressive towards them. You are on their turf, act accordingly, or they will defend themselves as I would.

I have had bears come up on my deck and touch my leg with their nose with no aggression or adverse reaction. I had pepper spray in my hand but didn’t have to use it. I understood as they did, it was just curiosity, and they went on their way.

The reports of those who claim to be attacked by bears are false. If you were truly attacked by a bear, you would be dead. They are curious or responding to

July/August 2021

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.

your bad behavior. Please prove yourself smarter than them, educate yourself, be smart and live peaceably with our wild and precious neighbors. Please accept an ordinance prohibiting the feeding of bears or other wildlife and punish those who defy it.

Phil LaPointe

Granby PD appreciated We would like to take this special opportunity to thank our Granby Police Force for the times we have needed them, called 911 and they came. We have been in Granby 33 years and are looking back at falls off ladders, children choking and a baby being born in the dining room among other emergencies and are thankful they have been prompt, professional and shown their dedication to the people here. We are very lucky to have them.

Carol and Herb Hulbert

Thanks from McLean We are very thankful to the Granby Community Fund and the residents of Granby for their support of the McLean Meals on Wheels program. The Granby Community Fund solicits donations from Granby residents to then give as grants to local non-profits that serve residents of the Town of Granby.

During the past 14 months, many nonprofit organizations have been unable to fundraise and many grants were either not available or greatly reduced. Thank you to the Granby Community Fund members who communicated with the non-profits, met virtually throughout the pandemic, and continued to recognize the difficulties imposed on organizations and residents.

The Granby Community Fund notified all of its member organizations this week that they were able to award grants to all of their member agencies while ac-

knowledging that donations were down this past year. Most of the grants were nearly at the same level as in 2020. These grants were sorely needed inasmuch as many of the organizations help those who were impacted the most by the pandemic.

At McLean, the Meals on Wheels program has continued to take new clients during the pandemic and has been increasing weekday deliveries in all the towns served. 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. Many elderly and medically compromised people were unable to enter the grocery store, but still needed low cost, healthy meals. We are immensely thankful to the Granby Community Fund and their consideration of our Meals on Wheels grant request each year.

David J. Bordonaro, President, McLean

Letters

cont’d. on p. 5

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, if needed.

Board of Selectmen, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 6, and Mondays, July 19, August 2, August 16 Board of Finance, 7:30 p.m., Mondays, July 26, August 23 Board of Education: none

Republican Town Committee caucus, 7 p.m., Thursday, July 22, Granby Senior Center Community Room

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CORRECTION Eric Truntz was newly appointed to Adams and Knight, not promoted as the headline stated in the June issue.

Amanda Lindberg, Special Pages Andrea Leshinskie, Photo Editor Dave Tolli, Photo Editor Mindy Borrego, Carol Bressor, Carolyn Carter, Karen Cleary, Nancy Dudenhofer, Patricia Kovaleski, Eileen Longhi, Lew Noble, Donna Schedinger, Faith Tyldsley

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GRANBY FOOD BANK

Planning & Zoning: none Democratic Town Committe meeting, 6 p.m. potluck, 6:30 p.m. meeting, Thursday, July 22, Holcomb Farm

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CORRECTIONS

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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 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 5

REGISTRARS: Sept. 14 primary, maybe

The Republican and Democratic Town Committees will meet in July to nominate candidates to stand for office in the Nov. 2 municipal election.

The Republican caucus is scheduled for Thursday, July 22 at 7 p.m. in the Granby Senior Center Community Room. The regular Democratic Town Committee meeting called for the purpose of endorsing candidates will be Thursday, July 22, with a potluck at 6 p.m., and the meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Holcomb Farm.

The municipal ballot will have openings for 10 different boards and offices, with over 30 candidates expected to run, including Board of Selectmen and Board of Education seats. Following the major parties’ caucuses, if any positions have a contested party nomination, the candidate(s) not chosen have the option to petition for a primary. Candidates with enough eligible signatures by Wednesday, Aug. 11 at 4 p.m. can primary for their party’s nomination on Tuesday, Sept. 14.

Political party affiliation is often confusing to new voters. In Connecticut, only registered members of a political party can participate in primaries. There is no waiting period to join a party if you are unaffiliated, or to become unaffiliated if you are a member of a party. However, there is a three-month waiting period to switch political parties. This is tracked by the state’s computerized voter registration system.

Membership in a political party is free and carries no obligations. All voters can vote for any candidate they choose, regardless of party affiliation, during elections. The next primary may be held on Tuesday, Sept. 14, so Monday, June 14, was the deadline to switch political

Letters

parties to participate. You can choose to be a member of any existing political party, but only five parties are currently tracked in Granby. Totals as of June 14 are: 2,433 Democrats, 4 Greens, 123 Independents, 17 Libertarians, 2,414 Republicans and 3,119 Unaffiliated.

Voter registration is a public record, and it is easy to confirm your voter registration 24/7. From the Town of Granby website there is a link to the Secretary of the State’s website and the online voter registration lookup tool: dir.ct.gov/sots/LookUp.aspx There is also a link to Online Voter Registration, which is also available 24/7 to enroll, or to make name, party or address changes to an existing voter registration: voterregistration.ct.gov/ OLVR/welcome.do Posted office hours for the Registrars’ office are Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Paper voter registration forms are also available at town halls, libraries, DMV offices and online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots. ct.gov The registrars also offer a free overview (5-15 minutes) on voting for any interested town groups. Please contact the registrars at 860-844-5322 or: lwolfe@granby-ct.gov or ssmith@ granby-ct.gov to arrange this.

Absentee Ballots are handled through the Town Clerk’s office and voters must submit an application to receive an absentee ballot. For primaries and general November elections, send in your application for an absentee ballot at least one month before the election or primary and mail your completed ballot immediately after you receive it!

The application is available through the Town Clerk or online at the Secretary of State’s website: sots.ct.gov

cont’d. from p. 4

Cultured meat I recently learned an Israeli company, Future Meat Technologies, has slashed production costs for cultured meat and hopes to bring it to the United States in the next year and a half. For those who don’t know, cultured meat is grown from cells, without slaughter. It’s better for the environment, public health and animal welfare.

Future Meat Technologies can make a quarter pound of cultivated chicken for a little less than $4. This is down from $7.50 just a few months ago. “We will launch a product in the US market

in the next 18 months that will have a commercially viable price,” company CEO Rom Kshuk told the Financial Times, suggesting this will be under $2.

Despite the progress, more research is necessary to help launch the culturedmeat industry. For instance, according to the Good Food Institute, there is a significant knowledge gap when it comes to creating whole-cut meats.

That’s why we need federal funding for cellular-agriculture development. I hope forward-thinking legislators will support it.

Jon Hochschartner

OpEd

Connecticut’s “Jabba the Hutt” administration

by Susan Patricelli Regan On May 11, the CT Mirror published an article by Mark Pazniokas entitled, “House extends emergency powers— but with added oversight” (ctmirror. org/2021/05/11/house-extends-emergency-powers-but-with-added-oversight/).

While a majority of “Demoncrats” in both the House and Senate create and manipulate bills and budgets and the Capitol remains closed to the public, the same body of unilateral capacity extended Governor Lamont’s Executive emergency powers until July 20, albeit with some nominal oversight.

The question is “why” because according to the information shared by the Governor’s office and media reports, we are in good shape with the COVID-19 issue. It’s just another control factor that can limit Connecticut citizens’ and businesses’ fiscal status and quality of life.

What will happen in the fall? If there is a hint of a new COVID variant and a third vaccine shot requirement from the CDC or any one of the Federal Health Department experts, it will probably incur an extension of Governor Lamont’s executive gavel ability.

Are you as a hard working taxpayer

from any party willing to continue to deal with this “Jabba the Hutt” government culture? Those of you in the senior sector are challenged with fixed incomes; small business owners are at the mercy of commercial limitations and lack of qualified employees; the working poor struggle to pay rents, and our children have incurred mental health issues from insufficient educational exposure. All are suffering from the rate hikes of Eversource. The Y generation is very vocal when it comes to what they are facing as their “inherited financial fiasco future” as a result of the current long term national and state budget commitments.

Once again, it is your right and responsibility to give careful consideration to upcoming 2022 legislative and gubernatorial elections and which candidates would speak on behalf of the people, govern with truth and transparency and improve the economic health and wealth of our Connecticut residents.

Susan Patricelli Regan is a gubernatorial candidate in the 2022 Connecticut Republican primary. She is the host of CT Valley Views, and founder of the Sylvia Davis Fine Arts Scholarship.

Commentary pieces express the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of the Drummer.

Registrars Calendar Review

Absentee Ballot Applications are being collected now by the Town Clerk for those who know they will be away from home on Sept. 14 and/or Nov. 2.

The form is available at Town Hall or on the web at sots.ct.gov Thursday, July 22: Republican Party Caucus held at 7 p.m. in the Senior Center Community Room.

Thursday, July 22: Democratic Party Nominating Meeting held at 6:30 p.m. at Holcomb Farm.

Wednesday, July 28: Deadline for the Town Committees to file their Certificate of Endorsement with the Town Clerk.

Wednesday, Aug. 11: Deadline for submitting the requisite number of eligible signatures to contest nominations and force a primary election. The Registrars will hold Special Office Hours from 1 to 4 p.m. to receive primary petitions from those seeking a

party nomination but were not chosen at the caucus.

Tuesday, Sept. 14 is the potential State primary date, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., if needed.

Pollworkers will be needed for the municipal election on Nov. 2, and possibly for a Sept. 14 municipal primary. The Registrar’s office is compiling an email list of poll workers.

Poll workers can be volunteers or paid, must be at least 16 years old and must complete poll worker training to serve.

Hours are available to fit your schedule.

If you would like to be added to the list, or if you did not receive the poll worker information e-letter, please email the registrars at: lwolfe@granby-ct.gov or ssmith@granby-ct.gov Questions? Please contact the Registrars, Laura Wolfe and Sonja Smith, at 860-844-5322 or lwolfe@ granby-ct.gov or ssmith@granby-ct.gov

Page 6 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2021

GRANBY BOARD OF EDUCATION REPORTS MAY 5, 2021 Present: Mark Fiorentino via Zoom, Melissa Migliaccio, David Peling, Sarah Thrall, Rosemarie Weber, and Jacob Scotto via Zoom and Student Representative Jack DeGray

Superintendent’s Announcements

Word was received from the State Department of Education that remote learning will not be mandated in the 2021-2022 school year. All families have been notified.

The district wellness program, Ball Parks of America Walking Challenge through Anthem, has been a success, attracting 165 participants. The program runs throughout May.

New Business

Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Parsons provided an update on K-12 math progression.

The current Eureka math program is up for review this year, and is not meeting the standards for instruction. A review of last year’s data showed that overall the district trended at 62 percent with students scoring in the proficient range (and from 57 to 70 percent in the SAT).

The current model shows that 95 to 99 percent of students stay on the grade level track and 1 to 5 percent accelerate through and track one year ahead.

Research was conducted for the best model moving forward. Math coach Dawn Olsen spoke with 13 districts, finding that most districts begin an accelerated pathway in grade 6 or 7. A majority of the districts have 25 to 40 percent of students taking algebra in ninth grade. Parsons stated no other district uses Eureka math.

Parsons noted that Granby needs to realign middle school math progression, utilize the Illustrative Math program in Grades 6 to 8 starting next school year, and continue standards to forward curriculum developments and resource exploration. This model also will have all students completing algebra by the end of ninth grade.

Students who are ready can accelerate in grade 6 and study three standards over two years. The Curriculum subcommittee looked seriously at the Illustrative Math program. All materials are available online, are highly rated, and grounded in best practices with certified trainers provided.

Peling inquired what the plans are for K through 5. Parsons stated the district would be able to do some cross training to try out some of the Illustrative Math program. Fiorentino inquired if the new model has any measurable impact on student achievement goals. Parsons replied that the current model of pushing students into content does not give them time to absorb and show proficiency. She is hopeful every student

will be supported along the way with a stronger foundation and higher mastery level. Migliaccio understands the open source concept of Illustrative Math but inquired why is the program free if it is such a great resource. Parson said it is supported by a variety of foundations and has been picked up by three different publishing companies in terms of creating manuals, etc. The core content is completely free, though there will be a fee if we decide to package in a certain way.

Student Representative Report

Jack DeGray noted that the boys’ tennis team is currently six wins, two losses; and the girls’ tennis team is currently four wins and four losses.

The boys’ lacrosse team is two wins, five losses; girls’ lacrosse is two wins, three losses, baseball is two wins, seven losses and the softball team is undefeated at 11 wins, only allowing six runs this year.

Congratulations went to Sean Dowd who won the Avon invitation golf tournament and is ranked sixth amongst golfers at public schools.

Old Business

School improvement Plan Update: Granby Memorial High School After updating the many-faceted high school improvement plan, Michael Dunn, GMHS principal, stated that the goal is to take time to integrate what was learned from this year and include the best practices, strategies and resources while promoting individualized practice through Khan Academy and AP Boot Camp.

New Business

Proposed GMHS News Studio Parsons and high school teacher Nicholas Gaeta presented a proposal for a GMHS News Studio. The district would like to work with interested middle and high school students in starting a news club. The projected overall cost is a little over $100,000. Thrall inquired what would be needed to align the middle school. Parsons replied that additional equipment is included in the proposal to transition to the middle school.

It would also mean looking at the technology curriculum. Some equipment could be purchased through a capital expense.

Healthy Food Certification Approval A motion was made by Migliaccio and seconded

by Weber that the Granby Board of Education certify that all food items offered for sale to students under its jurisdiction and not exempted from the Connecticut Nutrition Standards published by the Connecticut Department of Education, will comply with the Connecticut Nutrition Standards during the period of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022. This certification

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shall include all food offered for sale to students separately from reimbursable meals at all times and from all sources including, but not limited to, school stores, vending machines, school cafeterias, culinary programs, and any fundraising activities on school premises sponsored by the school or by non-school organizations and groups. The motion passed unanimously.

Healthy Food Certification – Exemption of Food and Beverages A motion was made by Migliaccio and seconded by Peling, that the Granby Board of Education allow the sale to students of food items that do not meet the Connecticut Nutrition Standards and beverages not listed in Section 10-221q of the Connecticut General Statues provided that the following conditions are met: 1) the sale is in connection with an event occurring after the end of the regular school days or on the weekend; 2) the sale is at the location of the event; and 3) the food and beverage items are not sold from a vending machine or school store. An “event” involves more than a regularly scheduled practice, meeting or extracurricular activity. For example, soccer games, school plays and interscholastic debates are events for soccer practices, play rehearsals and debate team meetings are not. The “regular school day” is the period from midnight to 30 minutes after the end of the official school day. “Location” means where the event is being held. This motion passed unanimously.

Superintendent’s Annual Report

Presenting his annual report for the 2020-2021 school year, Grossman said he is amazed and humbled by the work done this past year by the Granby school community. Granby is one of the only towns where schools opened for full, in-person learning this year.

Thrall thanked Grossman and stated it is beyond remarkable the work that was accomplished this year.

MAY 19, 2021 Present: Jenny Emery, Mark Fiorentino (via Zoom), Sarah Thrall (via Zoom), Rosemarie Weber, Brandon Webster, and Jacob Scotto (via Zoom) and Jack DeGray (Student Representative) Absent Board Members: Melissa Migliaccio and David Peling

Superintendent’s Announcements

We are monitoring Kindergarten enrollment very closely. There are 119 students registered and we are awaiting the Open Choice enrollment.

The district will receive funds from the America Cares Grant of $516,901 with $102,380 devoted to student learning recovery for the next two years. Grant applications will be sent to us next week.

The collaborative effort of food services with the Granby/East Granby Public Schools continues to run smoothly. Conversations are going well with providing breakfasts and lunches next year which will be free for another year.

Emery inquired if the influx of students, other than Kindergarten, across the grade levels can be determined. Grossman stated that we are

closely in line with our projections.

CABE Student Leadership Awards

The board recognized middle school students, Sydney Henry and Otto Gotberg, Grade 8, and high school students, Jacob Scotto, Grade 11, and Jack DeGray, Grade 12, as this year’s recipients of the CABE Student Leadership Awards.

Schools in the Spotlight

Shannon Branda, Resource Teacher and Student Council Advisor, and students Annie Baldwin, Natalie D’Amato and Lily Heitman told the board about the work done this year by the Student Council at Granby Memorial Middle School.

The students said that they joined Student Council to make a difference in the school and in the community and shared what was accomplished this year, including a book drive, food drive and toy drive. Student Council also organized PJ Day raising $1,700 for the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

Assistant Superintendent’s Report

Jennifer Parsons said that planning is full speed ahead for summer and fall opportunities.

Some COVID restrictions are becoming more optional; however, the CDC guideline is that masks are still required in school buildings. The FVHD successfully launched its vaccination clinics for 12 to 16-year-olds.

Emery asked for an update on the News Studio. Grossman said the GEF met on Monday evening and we should hear in the next few days if they will grant the project. Webster inquired about insight from the FVHD on a new plan for fall. Parsons said no other information has been received.

Business Manager’s Report

Anna Robbins presented the April 2021 statement of accounts and stated after the receipt of grant funds, the general fund forecast is better than the budgeted $66K. Special education is over-budget by $16K. Regular education is positive at $82K, which is better than the previous month by $52K. The balance in Q and D is better than budgeted by $99K with the savings due to limited extracurricular activities and reduced enrollment in the Asnuntuck and VoAg programs due to the pandemic. For FY21, the overall projection for revenue is good long after the budget was adopted, and it is nothing short of astonishing that the year is ending this way. In response to Weber’s question about enrollment in the Asnuntuck program, high school principal Michael Dunn noted it was reduced due to the pandemic.

Old Business

School Improvement Plan Update: Middle School Taylor Wrye, principal, presented an update to the School Improvement Plan for Granby Memorial Middle School and the middle school schedule for 2021-2022 school year.

The GMMS master schedule for the 2021-2022 school year was discussed. Survey results from teachers, parents, students and administration

BOE Report

cont’d. on p. 7

July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 7

Dreaming of a wildflower meadow

By Shirley Murtha Having driven by the empty townowned field across the street from Maple View Farm for 24 years, Susan Ranstead often thought how beautiful it would be if this field were filled with flowers. This year, she decided to take action to see if it would be possible. It seemed just the perfect time with the town opening up after COVID took away so much joy in the past 14 months. The project could bring the community together, perhaps draw in visitors who would then shop and eat here, and certainly be of great benefit to pollinating insects.

Ranstead’s first step was to consult with Director of Public Works Kirk Severance and First Selectman Scott Kuhnly, who was acting town manager at the time, to see if they thought it was possible to bring residents together to have a “plant-in” day.

The men gave her permission to see if it was feasible, so she formed a committee to work on the various aspects of the possible project.

In order to get final approval from the Board of Selectmen, the group has to have

determined how much parking would be necessary and how it would be accessed.

It must be determined whether inland wetlands permits would be needed. The soil must be tested, and a list of acceptable native plants would be determined with the help of a horticulturist. The committee will also contact other groups who have managed a similar project to get their input. The members of the committee are project manager Melissa Zareck, Jennifer Eustace, Lise Keeney, Lauren Stuck, Leanne Sullivan and Ranstead.

Ranstead has petitioned the BOS to register Granby with Sustainable CT, an organization that will give 100 percent matching funds for every dollar the meadow committee raises. A Facebook page, Granby Meadow Project, has been started to keep the public abreast of progress and to serve as a fund-raising site if approval is granted. Final approval will also lead to the formation of a website.

Contingent upon final approval, Ranstead plans to have a name-the-meadow contest for lower school grades and an art contest for the upper grades. The art contest would serve to select a logo to be used in all public relation efforts, including the possibility of volunteer tee shirts.

A challenging project for sure, but one that would add some beauty and have a positive environmental impact.

From left, Jennifer Eustace, Sue Ranstead and Lise Keeney are seen in the field on Rte. 10/202 that they hope will become a field of flowers. Photo

by Shirley Murtha

Lions Club members clean gazebo

Gazebo cleaning, Paul Keary and Steve Couchon. Photo by Tony Cappelli

Tony Cappelli works on cleaning the Granby Gazebo. Photo by Paul Keary

BOE Report cont’d. from p 6 were used as a guide.

Board members asked several questions about student proficiency and student growth in performance. Webster commented that the board is accustomed to seeing goal action steps, Grossman replied that the baseline data is needed from the middle school and the specific plans.

Fiorentino said he would like the data from last year. Thrall inquired if the high proficiency is at grade level standards or above grade level and, if the latter, how do we reflect on students at grade level. Wrye stated students are achieving grade level standards on SBAC. Weber said this year it is hard to measure anything. Moving forward,

she would like to see measurements for what we are putting in place and if it is effective for our students. Webster commented that the board is accustomed to seeing goal action steps and Grossman replied that baseline data is needed from the middle school as to where we are, where we are going and the specific plans.

Board Standing Committee Reports

Finance/Personnel/Facilities Emery reported this subcommittee met this evening to discuss the statement of accounts; talked about the amendment of the food service contract and reviewed an updated needs assessment in anticipation of a little bit of surplus this year.

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Page 8 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

Flagpole, plaque honoring former Scoutmaster rededicated

By Joan Bierman Ducharme A very special event took place “on the hill” in North Granby on June 12.

Many years ago, a flagpole was erected on what is now known as the Granby Land Trust-Mary Edwards property to honor a beloved Scoutmaster, John R. (Dick) Bierman, who passed away at the very young age of 29 from cancer.

Over the years the flagpole was vandalized twice. About four years ago, Scout Spencer Bolton (for his Eagle project) planned and erected a new strong flagpole that stands on this special site “on the hill.”

The rededication of this flagpole and memorial plaque would not have been possible without the help of many local people: Paul McClain, Richard Leydon, Bill Arnone, Spencer Bolton, Caelum

Janski, Fran Armentano, Bill Simpson, Tom Nystrom, Carl Garrett, Pierce Builders and the Granby Land Trust board members.

Bierman was Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 125 in Granby for four short years. While Scoutmaster he led the troop on many adventures including a camping trip to George’s Island off the coast of Boston. It was the very first scout troop to camp on the island.

Carl Garrett, a former Scout under Scoutmaster Bierman, gave a heartwarming tribute to “Mr. B” and entertained those in attendance with tales of his scouting adventures under Mr. B’s guidance.

Next time you visit the Granby Land Trust property on Mountain Road, turn right at the first clearing and pause a moment at the flagpole and read the plaque: “John R. Bierman, Scoutmaster, Troop 125, 1965-1969 – “A Man Never Stood So Tall As When He Stooped to Help a Boy”.

Joan Bierman Ducharme, Eagle Scout Spencer Bolton, Dennis Bierman on the site of the flagpole on the Granby Land Trust-Mary Edwards property off Mountain Road. At right, the inscribed plaque.

Submitted photos

Mark J. Migliaccio Attorney at Law

Sandy Flagg, chair of the Board of Directors for Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen (left); Dave Roberts, president of the Barkhamsted Lion Club; and Audrey Lampert, member of the Northwestern Connecticut Cyber Lions Club, help distribute 38-pound boxes of food during the 12th and final USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Distribution Event. Submitted photo

Area food distributions during pandemic Granby residents Sandy Flagg, Audrey Lampert and Dave Roberts are passionate community members who want to ensure that no one goes hungry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In March 2020, Town of Barkhamsted First Selectman Don Stein reached out to Dave Roberts as president of the Barkhamsted Lions Club to see if he would like to serve as the Town of Barkhamsted volunteer coordinator during the pandemic to combat food insecurity. Roberts approached area leaders including Sandy Flagg from Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen and Audrey Lampert from the Northwestern Connecticut Cyber Lions Club to see if those organizations would partner with the Barkhamsted Lions Club to distribute 38-pound food boxes. Over the past 14 months, the trio collaborated with over 24 volunteers including members of Riverton Grange #169 and the Barkhamsted Senior Center, to distribute over 45,000 pounds of food/milk to families in Granby, Barkhamsted, New Hartford, Hartland and Winsted during 12 separate events.

“Quite frankly, we were amazed with how much need existed in our community,” said Dave Roberts who also serves as a Granby Conservation Commissioner and Justice of the Peace. “Sandy and Audrey were such great team players, always providing volunteers to meet our needs, and were so much fun to work with on this impactful service project.”

Prior to each event, volunteers would join with Roberts in driving to either Waterbury, Terryville or Colchester to load up their personal vehicles with 75 to 200 food boxes each time and bring them back to distribution sites in either Granby or Barkhamsted. Because the box contents were perishable, the trio and their volunteer network had to work quickly to ensure that nothing was wasted.

“I am passionate about serving the community,” said Lampert. “Dave Roberts shares many of my passions and was such a motivational leader to partner with on this yearlong initiative. Coordinating the logistics for this program was quite the challenge.”

The federal government during both the Trump and Biden Administrations funded the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Distribution Program to help combat food insecurity throughout the United States during the pandemic. Each state coordinated with elected officials and local nonprofit leaders, including Lions Clubs International, to handle the distribution logistics to keep the cost of the program manageable.

The program officially ended in May 2021, but many organizations, including Waste Not Want Not at South Church, 242 Salmon Brook Street, Granby, and many area Lions Clubs as well as the Riverton Grange, continue to serve those in need by partnering with local food pantries.

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July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 9

Special Events

Holcomb Farm Fresh Access for Seniors: Thursdays, 11 to 11:45 a.m. at Granby Senior Center. This extraordinarily successful program is back for another season. Enjoy fresh produce graciously donated from the Fresh Access Program through Holcomb Farm. Please bring your reusable bag. Drive-thru only. Must be a senior with paid membership. New membership cards will be given out during your first visit with us and then shown at each subsequent visit. Limit one bag per household. Call to pre-register.

Pie in the Park: Wednesday, July 28, 1 to 2 p.m. at Ahrens Park. Rain Date July 29. Enjoy some great music and blueberry pie. Entertainment provided

by Bill Benson. Bring your own chairs.

Register by July 21. Cost $4.

Stamping Summer Edition: Thursday, July 29, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Instructor Sharyon Holness is returning for this special summer stamping/card making class. Must pre-register by July 12. Cost $5.

Ice Cream Social: Wednesday, Aug. 25, 1 to 2 p.m. at Ahrens Park. Rain Date Aug. 26. Co-sponsored by UNICO and Big Y of Simsbury. Enjoy a novelty ice cream and some socially distanced conversation.

Bring your own chairs. Register by Aug. 18. Cost $4.

Ongoing Programs

You must be a Senior Center member to participate, and pre-registration is required.

Knitting Group: Mondays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

History Class: Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Set Back: Tuesdays, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Music Jam: Every other Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cribbage: Fridays, 1 to 3 p.m.

Kayaking

Bantam River, Litchfield: Tuesday, July 13 at 10 a.m. Guide: Judy Cooper. Bantam River is a small, calm river that flows between a pond at Bantam Lake.

Lots of songbirds, vacated beaver dams, water plants.

A nice quiet place to paddle. You are responsible

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

All in-person classes will be subject to Senior Center membership and pre-registration.

Wearing face masks and social distancing is recommended.

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

Farmington River, Avon: Tuesday, Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. Guide: Judy Cooper. We will put in at the new launch on Old Farms Road, Avon. This is very close to Rte. 10 and across the road from Fisher Meadow Recreation Area. We’ll paddle up river for a few hours and then float back to the car. The water level and flow will determine the mileage. Pre-registration required.

Health and Wellness

Chair Massage: Tuesdays, July 6, 20, Aug. 3, 17 and 31, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Massage therapist Bev Harris offers a 15-minute chair massage for $10.

You must make an appointment and be a Senior Center member. Call 860-844-5352 to register. Masks required.

Blood Pressure/Blood Sugar Clinic with the Farmington Valley VNA: Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Granby Senior Center. By appointment only.

Call 860-844-5350 to register. Masks required.

Support Services

Alzheimer’s Support: Caring for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming.

Contact the Alzheimer’s Association for assistance at 800-272-3900.

Ask the Attorney: The first Wednesday of the month, by appointment at the Granby Senior Center.

Specializing in Elder Law. Please call 860-844-5352 to set up an appointment for a free consultation.

CHOICES Counseling: CHOICES provides information and assistance about Medicare and its drug coverage plans. Call 800-994-9422 to speak with a counselor.

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

Senior Van Service

The Senior Vans operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Out-of-town medical appointments may be made no earlier than 9:30 a.m. and no later than 2 p.m. Call at least one week

in advance when requesting rides for appointments.

Annual van fee is $10. Call 860-844-5350 to schedule a ride or to get more information. Cost $5 per trip.

Shopping Trips

Registration opens July 1 at 9 a.m. for Granby members. Registration for Out-Of-Town members opens July 2 at 9 a.m. You must call 860-844-5352 to register; voice messages and emails will not be accepted for trip reservations. A current membership and van pass is required. We can only accept registration for the person calling. Masks are required on the van.

Windsor Court: Wednesdays, July 7 and Aug. 4, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Windsor Court offers something for everyone. Stores include HomeGoods, Target, The Dollar Tree, Stop and Shop and a variety of restaurants nearby.

The Promenade Shops, Evergreen Walk: Wednesday, July 21, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Evergreen offers something for everyone. Whether it is kitchen stores like Williams Sonoma or Pottery Barn to clothing and shoe stores including New Balance, Eddie Bauer, LL Bean, Talbots and Chicos, you are sure to find something on your shopping list. There are plenty of places to enjoy lunch.

The Shops at Farmington Valley/Walmart: Wednesday, Aug. 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. These wonderful shops in Canton give book lovers, clothes shoppers, and food shoppers the opportunity to find all that they are looking for. Stores include Barnes and Noble, Chico’s, Clarks Shoes, J. Jill, Kohl’s, Talbots, and Shop-Rite. Lunch will be on your own before you head to Walmart.

Day Tripping

Registration opens July 1 at 9 a.m. for Granby members. Registration for Out-Of-Town members opens July 2 at 9 a.m. You must call 860-844-5352 to register; voice messages and emails will not be accepted for trip reservations. A current membership and van pass is required. Only one Day Trip per person per month. We can only accept registration for the person calling. All meals and ice cream are your expense, not included in the trip cost. Masks are required on the van. Cost $10.

Shore Drive, Waterford/New London: Thursday, July 15, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Your shore drive will start in Waterford, with a stop at beautiful Harkness Park.

Spend some time exploring the gardens, walkways, and beach. Next, drive down Pequot Avenue in New London with views of the Sound and the Thames River.

Lunch will be at Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock. Your last stop will be at Salem Valley Farms Ice Cream.

Lunch Lakeside-Lake Waramaug: Tuesday, July 20, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Travel to Warren, with a tour around Lake Waramaug. Lunch will be at the beautiful Hopkins Inn. The last stop will be at Arethusa Farm Dairy in Bantam for ice cream.

Shore Drive, Old Saybrook/Westbrook: Thursday, Aug. 12, 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Enjoy a leisurely ride through Old Saybrook to Bill’s Seafood Restaurant, right on the water in Westbrook for lunch and ice cream. Cash only at Bill’s.

Lunch Lakeside-Lakeview Coventry: Tuesday, Aug. 31, 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Enjoy outdoor dining at the Lakeview Restaurant on Coventry Lake. Choose from sandwiches, pasta, seafood and much more. Last stop is for ice cream at Dairy Cream in Windsor Locks.

Dreaming of Traveling Again?

With an abundance of optimism, the Granby Senior

Center is partnering with Collette Travel to offer some exciting travel destinations in 2022. More details to follow.

National Parks of America: May 14-25, 2022.

Twelve days including Scottsdale and Sedona Arizona, The Grand Canyon, Brice Canyon in Utah, Zion National Park, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, and Rapid City, South Dakota. Includes 10 breakfasts and six dinners. Cost $4,699 per person, double occupancy. Includes round trip transportation to the airport from Granby.

Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights: Oct. 22-28, 2022. Seven days. See all the magical wonders of Iceland: the Northern Lights, massive glaciers, Geyser thermal areas, double cascading waterfalls, the crest of the Mid-Atlantic ridge, natural rock formations, volcanic sand beaches, floating icebergs, glaciers, lava fields, geothermal pools and so much more.

Includes five breakfasts and five dinners. Cost $2,999 per person, double occupancy. Includes round trip transportation to the airport from Granby.

Exercise Classes via Zoom & at Sr. Center

Must pre-register for all classes. No drop-ins allowed.

Yoga Flow via Zoom: Mondays at 10–10:45 a.m. July 12-Aug. 23 for seven classes in the session. Instructor, Mary Fuller. Emphasis is given to finding a balance between flexibility and strength and exploring how, with practice, we can find increased fluidity of movement. Yoga experience is somewhat helpful but not required.

Cost: $35 Granby residents; $42 non-residents.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m. July 6-Aug. 31 for nine classes in the session.

Instructor, Paula Pirog. Enhanced breathing, seated and standing classic yoga poses, plus balance training and core strengthening. Guided meditation finishes the class in a calm and relaxing manner. Cost: $54 Granby residents; $63 non-residents.

Yoga: Tuesdays at 4 p.m. July 6-Aug. 31 for nine classes in the session. Instructor, Paula Pirog. Strength building sequences, standing and on the mat. Includes balance and Pilate’s floor work. Cost: $54 Granby residents; $63 non-residents.

Chi Gong via Zoom: Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m.

July 7-Aug. 25 for eight classes in the session.

Instructor, Mary Ellen Mullins. The practice of Chi Gong helps us to feel grounded, nurtured and relaxed so that the body’s energy can be naturally directed to help our organs function optimally, create flexibility in the muscles, suppleness in the joints and bring balance to our emotions.

Accessible and beneficial to all levels. Cost: $48 Granby residents; $56 non-residents.

Cardio and Strength via Zoom: Fridays at 10–10:45 a.m. July 2-Aug. 20 for eight classes.

Instructor, Mary Fuller. This is a quick-paced class with cardio and a concentration on strength building. Cost: $40 Granby residents; $48 nonresidents.

Line Dancing: Fridays, 1:30–3 p.m. (90-minute class) July 16-Aug. 27 (no Aug. 13) for six classes in the session. Instructor, Jim Gregory.

This class is a great workout while having a lot of fun. Appropriate for beginner to advanced dancers. A minimum of 12 students needed to hold the class. Cost: $30 Granby residents; $36 non-residents.

—we hope to see you again very soon!

Page 10 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

Donation collection for Library Book Sale ends July 17

By Brian Tomasino

A Granby Road Race from a prior year. Submitted photo

50th annual Granby Road Race

By Brian Liss The 50th annual Granby Road Race will be held on Saturday, Sept. 18, marking the Golden Anniversary of this Granby tradition.

Fifty years ago, a group of dedicated and driven individuals decided that Granby should have a local race. Dennis Lobo, Dave Bale, and Dave Hildreth spent time planning and discussing what would make the race a success. One thing they knew for sure—all would be welcome to run.

At that time, many races, including some big-name races in Connecticut would not allow women to participate. The founders of the Granby Road Race (originally named the Ecofest), knew the right thing to do and happily welcomed all who wanted to participate. They also knew that our local gem, the McLean Game Refuge, must be incorporated. With a few more meetings, a new Granby tradition was born.

Eventually the group looked for someone to carry on the tradition and the YMCA seemed like a natural fit. The groups worked together and transitioned the race to the Y which added the 5K to the event.

Over the years, the race has hosted local legends and even a few national-level runners. There have been races with beautiful weather, some when it was wet and cold, but the race has persevered through it all.

Even last year during the pandemic, the committee hosted a virtual race before eventually working through the state’s

protocols and running an in-person race later in the year.

Race sponsors have been very lucky over these many years with runner participation and the support the race has received from sponsors and the community. The race gives runners the ability to take part in a great local event and it gives the Y the ability to support its annual campaign that gives friends and neighbors access to the Y’s services and programs regardless of their ability to pay. It reinforces the Y’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

If you are not familiar with this historic event, it is a unique race that is a mix of road and trails and offers beautiful views of our community. It and the Y are fortunate to have support from the Granby C.E.R.T., Granby Ambulance, Granby Police, and countless volunteers to make this event as safe as possible.

You may see people wearing the Granby Road Race shirts from previous years, or maybe even the famous painter’s cap around town. If you have run the race, you have a story to tell. Did you meet your husband or wife at the race? Was this the first race of your running career? Have you run 25 consecutive races? Were you on Coach Lobo’s track team? Are you a family member of one of our founders? We would love to hear your story and why this race is special to you. Please share your story at granbyroadrace@ghymca.org so we can share it on our social media outlets.

The volunteers for The Friends of Granby Public Library (FOGPL) have been busy collecting, sorting, and packing books at Holcomb Farm to get ready for the big annual book sale in September.

The last day to donate items for the book sale is July 17. Drop off locations are at the following convenient places: Granby Public Library, Farmington Valley YMCA and Geissler’s supermarket in Granby during normal business hours. Please do not leave books outside the library or businesses. We can also accept donations at Holcomb Farm on Mondays only from 6-7 p.m. until July 12.

This year, for its 38th annual Used Book Sale, we will gladly accept gently used items in good condition, including books, CDs, DVDs, puzzles, games, toys, LP records, newer (2005-2020) This year, we are excited to share the 50th celebration t-shirt with all participants. To ensure you receive one of these collectible shirts, please be sure to register now at ghymca.org/granbyroadrace Thank you to some early sponsors for the 2021 race including HM Life Insurance, Liberty Bank, Ensign Bickford Aerospace and Defense, Antonucci Electric and Maple View Brewery.

We would be honored to have all Granby

textbooks, and other book related items. Please try to use boxes that are not too heavy with the books. Items not accepted: VCR or cassette tapes, old computer software, “condensed” books, magazines, encyclopedias, sets of common books such as Time-Life series and items with any kind of odor (smoke, mold, or musty smell).

We are also happy to accept sturdy boxes with lids, especially the paper copy boxes, which will be put to good use when sorting and storing all the items to prepare for the sale.

Go ahead and mark your calendars now for the book sale that will be held Sept. 24 to 26 at Holcomb Farm.

If you need assistance for someone to come to your home and pick up items for the sale, email us at Friends.GPL@ gmail.com and for more information, visit granby-ct.gov and go to the FOGPL page.

businesses sponsor the 50th annual Granby Road race. Be on the lookout for more information. Individuals can also sponsor this year’s race to pay tribute to 50 years of history.

Whether you are running, volunteering, or supporting the runners, we look forward to seeing you on Sept. 18 at 8:30 a.m.

For more information about sponsorships and how you can support this race, please contact brian.liss@ghymca.org

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July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 11

GRANBY PLANNING & ZONING MINUTES MAY 4, 2021 SPECIAL MEETING Present: Mark Lockwood, Margaret Chapple, Jonathan Boardman, Christine Chinni, Eric Myers, Brennan Sheahan. Also present: alternates, Paula Johnson and Matthew Peters; Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon, Lockwood called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.

Seating of Alternates Peters was seated for Lukingbeal.

Review Agritourism and Farm Store Regulation with commission representatives Johnson and Peters, commission representatives on the Agritourism and Farm Store Committee, provided an overview of the draft agritourism regulation. Under the proposed regulation, a limited farm store, farm-based recreational activities, farm tours and agricultural events would be permitted by right. Farm stores and non-agricultural events would require Special Permit approval. Definitions will be added to Section 1.4 for relevant terms. It was explained how the committee discussed at great length events and music, as those items were the most challenging.

Commission discussion

The commission discussed the regulation. Several changes were suggested for the definitions, specifically noting hospitality services be removed from the agritourism definition and the farm store and limited farm store be better defined, specifically clarify that product should primarily be grown or produced on the farm where the store is located.

The commission discussed agricultural events. It was the consensus that such events may better be handled through a zoning permit or a separate special-event permit. Kenyon will research this in more detail.

The commission reviewed the farm store section of the regulation and the provision of music. It was decided language should be added to clarify what type of music would be allowed. The definition of light music used in other Special Permits that have recently been approved can be used as a model.

It was noted the commission may also want to consider limiting the duration music can be played, anywhere from three to four hours on a single day. It was noted as the farm store is a Special Permit and that could be a condition of approval. For non-agricultural events, the commission thought it should be clarified that an applicant is not entitled to the number of events outlined in the regulation. Instead, the number of nonagricultural events is an absolute maximum and it should be demonstrated why the commission should allow any non-agricultural events. Staff will prepare changes for consideration.

The commission will continue the regulation discussion at its regular meeting on May 11.

Respectfully submitted, Abby Kenyon, Acting Recording Secretary

MAY 11, 2021 Present: Mark Lockwood, Margaret Chapple, Jonathan Boardman, Christine Chinni, Eric Lukingbeal, Eric Myers. Also present, alternates, Paula Johnson and Matthew Peters; Director of Community Development Abigail Kenyon, Seating of Alternates Johnson was seated for Sheahan.

Public Session

Kenyon stated an email was received from a resident asking the commission to consider a moratorium on any applications that are submitted under the current Farm Store Zoning Regulation while the commission works on drafting a revised regulation. The email was distributed to the commission.

Public Hearings

Application seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations Sections 8.29 and 1.4 to add Alternative Energy System regulation and applicable definitions.

File Z-8-21. (Continued from April 27) The public hearing opened at 7:05 p.m. There were no comments. Lockwood asked Kenyon if any other public comment or communication had been received. Kenyon replied no. The public hearing closed at 7:06 p.m.

The commission considered feedback from the Granby Conservation Committee (GCC) regarding Section 8.29.1.3 residential ground-mounted solar energy systems. The GCC recommends allowing arrays by right rather than through the Special Permit process.

All commission members were in favor of encouraging these systems however, there were concerns allowing them by right. While the draft regulation outlines the location where the array could be located and requires the same setback required for accessory structures, if they are allowed by right, there would be no opportunity to suggest an alternative location to better screen the system from adjacent homes.

It was also noted a neighbor would be unable to object to a system location. It was suggested the regulation remain as it is currently drafted, with residential groundmount arrays requiring Special Permit approval. The commission will re-evaluate the regulation in one year and make changes if needed. Staff was asked to track the number of residents who decide not to apply for a Special Permit for a ground mount system so the commission can determine if a change is needed.

to apply for a temporary event permit un der Section 2.9 to have entertainment. There is no cost for this permit, Application seeking to modify a Special Permit and it is reviewed and approved by staff. for an existing farm store and for the sale and The commission reviewed Section 2.9 Temporary and serving of alcoholic beverages in conjunction with Conditional Permits and suggested some changes to a farm brewery under Zoning Regulations Section include the zones where such permits may be granted.

8.15.17, changes include hours, events, music, sale Changes to Section 10.1 Enforcement and Penalties of alcoholic beverages, and illuminated signs, for were also suggested and an outline of the process for property located at 192 and 198R Salmon Brook revoking a Special Permit if there is noncompliance with Street, Brewery at Maple View Farm. File Z-9-21. conditions of approval. Language was to be added to Kenyon announced an additional application for clarify the commission may rescind, revoke, or modify a Special Permit of outdoor dining located at 357 a Special Permit if needed. Kenyon will incorporate Salmon Brook Street, Cambridge House. She asked feedback and present for commission review at the the commission to receive this application and set a next meeting. It will then be submitted to CRCOG and public hearing date. scheduled for a public hearing. Answering a question, The above applications are scheduled for Public she stated the current regulations remain in effect until Hearing on June 8. this new regulation is adopted.

Consideration of above applications, where the Staff Report and Correspondence commission has concluded the public hearing Kenyon reported a meeting is scheduled with the On A Motion by Chinni, and seconded by Boardman, Department of Transportation regarding the planned the commission voted (7-0-0) to approve an application improvements to Granby Center. Updates will be seeking an amendment to Zoning Regulations Sections provided to the commission as they become available.

8.29 and 1.4 to add Alternative Energy System regulation and applicable definitions as presented to CRCOG. Commissioner Reports and File Z-8-21.

Correspondence Commission discussion of Agritourism and Farm The commission discussed the meeting format for Store Regulations the May 25 meeting. They would like the meeting to be Kenyon presented changes to the agritourism and in person. Kenyon will coordinate and it will most likely farm store regulation to the commission. Changes be a hybrid meeting, allowing for both in person and include music and live entertainment may be permitted remote participation. in conjunction with an agricultural event subject to certain Granby And Simsbury 5x10.5 ad.qxp_Layout 1 4/12/21Respectfully 8:26 PM submitted, Page 1 conditions. It was clarified that an applicant would have Patricia Tappenden, Recording Secretary

Receive applications, set public hearing

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Page 12 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

Granby Artists Pop-Up Arts and Crafts Show at Lost Acres Vineyard

Thank you to everyone who came to our first Pop-Up Arts and Crafts show at Lost Acres Vineyard in June. It was wonderful to have an in-person show to connect with our customers again. Granby Artists Association is very grateful to the Vineyard for hosting this outdoor arts and craft show series.

The next Pop-Up Arts and Crafts shows at Lost Acres Vineyard are on Sunday, July 18 (rain date July 25) and Saturday, Aug. 21 (rain date Aug. 28). The show is held on the lawn across the driveway from the Vineyard seating area. Show hours are the same as the Vineyard’s: Saturdays 12–6 p.m., Sundays 12–5 p.m. We hope this will become an annual show series.

Many of the exhibiting members of the Granby Artists Association are participating. There will be a unique mix of artists each month, so be sure to come each time and not miss out.

Doug Williams brings paintings. He is a contemporary Impressionist painter who primarily paints landscapes. He is inspired to go outdoors throughout the year to paint

local scenes with changing seasons and light conditions.

Among other items, Linda Yurasevecz will have mugs with covers, flower bowls and flower pillows.

Avis Cherichetti will be selling pots that she fired in a soda kiln in South Kent.

Laura Eden will bring small paintings, prints, and notecards for sale.

Stuart Browning’s works are in many media including pencil, pen and ink, pastels, watercolors, acrylic and oils. His work is influenced by his engineering training which is evident in the detail.

He will also be sharing his woodworking, including hand carved items such as wooden spoons.

Alyssa Coburn will be selling art prints, vinyl stickers, and greeting cards featuring her original illustrations. She will also be taking orders for custom watercolor house portraits.

Sally Sargent-Markey will bring greeting cards, fimo jewelry, painted wooden items and small books, little paintings and prints.

Granby Artists set up their booths for the Pop-Up Arts and Crafts Show at Lost Acres Vineyard.

Photo by Sue Canavan Below, soda-fired bowl and honey pot by Avis Cherichetti. Photo by Avis Cherichetti

Mark Gottlieb will bring glass flowers and selection of other blown glass items such as paperweights, vases and drinking cups.

Annukka Ritalahti will have stained glass, jewelry and glass beads.

Aimee Gilbert will bring her knitted creations such as scarves, shawls, cowls, hats, and miscellaneous fun items.

Lori Garcia’s art and jewelry will be available during the July event.

In August, Bill Bentley will bring his watercolors featuring landscapes, old farm buildings, and flowers.

These free summer shows also include

live music and food and wine are available. Join us at Lost Acres Vineyard, 80 Lost Acres Road, North Granby.

Granby women build Habitat homes Enthusiastically swinging their hammers, 18 Granby area women teamed up in May to help build affordable housing as part of Hartford Area Habitat for Humanity’s annual month-long Women Build celebration.

Granby’s First Congregational and South Congregational churches combined forces to field two Granby United Church of Christ (UCC) work crews to help build Habitat homes.

Ten women worked in Bloomfield constructing the framing for a new house, and eight women worked in Hartford rehabilitating a derelict home in support of Hartford’s blighted properties remediation initiative.

In addition to the hours of volunteer

labor contributed, team Granby UCC raised over $5,000 for Hartford Habitat with financial support from families, friends, community members, and First Congregational Church.

Since 1991, Habitat for Humanity has held Women Build events in May where women across the U.S. and around the globe volunteer their talents to raise money and spotlight the need for safe and affordable housing. Women Build highlights the homeownership challenges faced by women, and provides women an opportunity to support other women with a hand-up, not a hand out. Safe and affordable homes create transformational opportunities in which families flourish, and communities thrive.

l-r Ann Wilhelm, Laura Murach, Deb Dupont, Connie Murray, Cathy Watso, Linda Betsch, Diane Smith, Laura Fetzer. Photo by Rose Vigdal

Front row, l-r Sally Crapser, Laura Eden, Jill Ford, Laura Fetridge.

Back row, l-r Marilyn Tracy, Carol Williams, Beth Lindsay, Coreen Thompson, Kerri Crough, Ashley Thompson.

Photo by Rose Vigdal

Clean Smelling Helps Selling Scent is the first thing people notice about your home. Have you ever come back from vacation and noticed a strange smell? That may be what your house smells like to visitors (or buyers). When living in our homes, we can become “nose blind”. If you think about it, CLEAN doesn’t have a smell. Some of our recommendations: NO candles! Buyers may not share your taste in scent and might find the odor objectionable.

On a safety note, burning candles are not a good idea in an empty house .

If you must use air fresheners, stick to light citrus scents. Or, better yet, diffuse lemon, lime or orange essential oils for a light fresh smell.

Open windows and let the fresh air in.

Add plants as they are natural air purifiers.

Wait, there’s more! Some of our recommendations for stopping smells at the source: Wash or remove curtains.

For that musty basement smell, Replace shower curtains and liners. add a dehumidifier.

Empty out and clean the refrigerator Clean A/C and heating vents and duct work. and add an open box of baking soda.

Replace carpets.

Clean garbage disposal and all drains; Treat yourself to a deep cleaning by a 1 C baking soda followed by 1 C warm professional! (Use their tools and training.) vinegar then rinse.

For any smoke related smells, call in a professional.

If you’d like some help, give us a call. We have some great professional support behind us.

Robin, Melanie, Cyndie and Roland Curious about our different approach to real estate? Roland has written a series of books called Doing Work That Matters and we’ll send you a free copy of Part 1 - Stone Soup - Relationships when you notify us that you donated to your favorite charity (like Granby Community Fund).

3 57 N M a i n S t S u f f i e l d , C T | 8 6 0 . 6 6 8 . 6 5 4 9 | i n f o @ D o w d Re a l t y G r o u p . c o m | w w w. D o w d Re a l t y G r o u p . c o m

July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 13

Waypoints

By Mark Fiorentino

The Spooner Lake Expedition I call it an expedition because it’s better than “a fishing trip where I didn’t catch anything.” “Expedition” makes it sound like I accomplished something, which I guess, in the end, I did.

It was the seventy-seventh day of the eighty-first session of the Nevada Legislature, a Sunday. Weekdays during the session are hectic and stressful, especially this year with the lingering impacts of COVID-19. But, so far, weekends had been easier. I hadn’t been able to travel home much, so I was looking for things to get me out of my hotel room.

Spooner Lake caught my eye. According to the Nevada Department of Wildlife, the lake contained a number of species of trout, including rainbows, browns and bowcutts—a rainbow and cutthroat hybrid. Catching a bowcutt would entitle me to major bragging rights. I began to imagine the dead silence and awe I would experience as I stood, surrounded by my fishing buddies and, with a puffed out chest and a slight sneer, asked: “Any of you ever catch a bowcutt?”

So, following the advice posted on the NDWL website, I packed my backpack with spinner baits, Powerbait and

worms. I also had my four-piece Ugly Stick rod and, of course, a Zebco Pro reel. My plan was to start with the spinner baits and then try other things until I found what worked.

Spooner Lake is in the foothills above Carson City, nestled in the high desert forest at an elevation of about seven thousand feet. Access is via a trail that starts near the highway and encircles the lake. One guidebook described the trail as “zz”.

“Amateur naturalists will appreciate the biodiversity found along the loop, including Jeffrey pine forest, quaking green aspen groves, wildflower-filled meadows, and patches of sagebrush scrub. A wide range of wildlife may be seen as well, particularly a number of bird species, including hawks, warblers, thrushes, chickadees, and nuthatches.”

Most fishermen try to sell themselves on the idea that fishing isn’t just about catching fish. It’s also about actually paying attention to, and being grateful for, your surroundings. So I told myself: “Who cares if I catch any fish?

Worst case scenario, I’ll get to enjoy a few peaceful, legislature-free hours in an environment I don’t get to see very often.”

We try to sell ourselves on this idea, but it isn’t always easy to buy. Not when you compare it to the idea of commanding silence and awe with stories of how you landed a bowcutt trout. So, in truth, I set out to focus on fishing and on, hopefully, ignoring my surroundings.

But nature A view of Spooner Lake from Susan Woodin’s bench. nagged at me as

soon as I got out of the car.

As I headed towards the lake, I could not help but notice the Jeffrey pines. These trees are tall and they drop giant pinecones. Cones so big that I was inspired to take a selfie with one and text the picture to my daughter with the caption: “Spooner Lake Trail. PINE CONES AS BIG AS YOUR HEAD.” The trees also drop a carpet of long needles that in the warmth of the late spring sun produced a strong, but not overpowering fragrance. To me, the smell is uniquely Western United States, and it reminded me of the cabin we used to own in Southern Utah.

Pine Cones As Big As Your Head As I was deep in thought Photos by Mark Fiorentino about exploring the Utah woods spots and a large reddish-pink blotch on with my kids when they were his gill plate, below and behind his eye. much younger, I rounded a bend in the A bowcutt!? Just as I was envisioning trail, and got, for the first time, a full the silence and awe I was about to proview of the lake. It was rimmed with duce, he thrashed again and was gone. a shoreline that was sometimes rocky Naturally, I focused on fishing for a beach, sometimes overgrown with bit: casting, moving down the shore, sagebrush and other vegetation, and casting again. But I got no more hits, and sometimes open meadow. The water I was again distracted by nature. A black was a deep turquoise color that was escrowned night heron floated by, and pecially brilliant wherever it met up with later, a muskrat took great pleasure in a patch of lingering snow on the shore. swimming back and forth in front of me.

As I got closer to the lake, I noticed a I slowly, subconsciously, got absorbed pair of mallard ducks swimming slowly by the surroundings.

Ten casts per minpast, headed to a shady spot under ute became five, then two, until I finally some branches that overhung the water. broke down my rod and stopped fishing Watching the ducks was so peaceful that altogether.

I succumbed and spent the I almost forgot about fishing. rest of the expedition leisurely completI may never have snapped out of it if I ing the loop around the lake. hadn’t heard the splash off to my right.

About two-thirds of the way around, I looked over just in time to see a fish I stopped to sit at a bench that offered reentering the water. That got me going. a perfect view of the lake, framed by I assembled my rod, tied on a rooster tail two of those Jeffrey pines. There was a spinner and began casting. plaque on the bench that read: On my third cast, a fish hit hard. I think I made a decent attempt to set the In Remembrance Of hook, but honestly, I can’t say for sure.

SUSAN WOODIN When the fish struck, I was busy watchShe Loved The ing two white birds floating on the lake, Beauty Of The Mountains, too far off for me to positively identify The Smell Of The Trees, them. They were generally rectangular And The Feel of The Wind on Her in shape, with big heads. I was thinking: Face.

“I wonder if they’re pelicans,” when I should have been thinking: “sweep the As I headed back to the car, I thought rod tip up, to the left.” about Susan. She sounded like my kind Good hook set or not, I got the fish of person, someone who might have her turned around and headed toward me. priorities straight.

But I still couldn’t As he got into the shallow water, he help wondering if she had ever caught thrashed and I got a good look at his a bowcutt. side. He was olive brown, with dark

Page 14 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

All three Granby 4-H Robotics Teams crowned champions

Granby 4-H Robotics Teams secured three World Awards at Live Remote VEX Robotics World Championship 2021 that has been recognized as the Largest Online Robot Championships record holder by Guinness World Records®. During the live remote event, over 1,600 teams from 30 countries and 49 U.S. states competed in timed, heart-pounding robotics competition matches with their custom-built robots.

Granby 4-H VEX Robotics is the only 4-H VEX Robotics program in New England. These teams consist of 4-Hers that range in age levels from 11-18 who love designing building, and programming robotics. These teams meet several times a week, all year long. The team is supported by mentors from around the community who volunteer hundreds of hours.

Rachael Manzer, the team’s coach said, “Out of 13,000 teams that competed around the world this year, for all three teams to qualify for the World Championship is an incredible accomplishment.

But for each team to earn a prestigious award that was announced worldwide is extraordinary! I am so proud of these young innovators for their ability to take what they’ve learned through the year and apply it to building and programming a robot, and then going through the rigors

of competing with their creation. The team persevered during a challenging year to successfully compete against teams around the globe.”

To ensure the safety of its robotics community due to the pandemic, this unique event adapted to a virtual format. Typically, the annual VEX Robotics World Championship attracts more than 30,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 70 nations. The newly created Live Remote Tournament (LRT) and Live Remote Skills (LRS) interfaces leveraged interactive and real-time video streaming to unite teams from around the globe with their competition fields and robots to crown champions like never before.

“Taking home these awards is a major milestone that demonstrates perseverance, creativity and sportsmanship which are cornerstones of the competition,” said Dan Mantz, CEO of the REC Foundation.

“We’re extremely proud of these winners along with all the dedicated competitors from around the world. The team’s commitment to achieving this award with the unwavering support of mentors and parents make this moment very special.”

Team 18891A received Create Award The Create Award is presented to the team whose robot design incorporates a creative engineering solution to the de-

Connecticut Trails Day Hike

Granby Land Trust (GLT) board member and middle school science teacher Jen Plourde led a group of hikers on an educational tour of the GLT’s Seth and Lucy Holcombe Preserve in North Granby on June 5, as part of Connecticut Trails Day. Connecticut Trails Day is organized by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association as part of a two-day national Trails Day event that takes place annually. It is a great time to pay tribute to all the wonderful trails our country has to offer. The GLT’s event was one of 180 events that took place in Connecticut alone this year. Photo by Brenon Plourde

sign challenges of the season's game.

Key criteria: Robot has a well-crafted, unique design solution, which demonstrates creative thinking.

Team 18891C received Energy Award The Energy Award is presented to a team that displays a high level of enthusiasm and passion at the event.

Team 18891B received Excellence Award The Excellence Award is the highest award presented in the VEX Robotics competition. This award is presented to a team that exemplifies overall excellence in building a high-quality robotics program. This team is a strong contender in numerous award categories. This team has automatically qualified to compete in the 2022 VEX World Championship.

The Granby 4-H VEX Robotic Teams give a special thank you to the Granby Community and for all its support. This

4-H program doesn’t have any outside funders. The 4-Hers raise all the funding needed for the program to run, which covers things like competition registration fees and pieces to build the robot. Due to the pandemic, all its traditional ways of fundraising were not possible. It was uncertain if the program would even be able to continue. Due to your support through the bottle/can drives you made this program possible! The Granby 4-H Robotics Program also thanks the Granby’s South Congregational Church for all its support by allowing this community-based program to use its space. Please look for future bottle/can drives as the teams are fundraising to attend the 2022 World Championship in Dallas.

The Granby 4-H Robotics program is grateful to the Granby Community for your support and proud to bring home three World Championship Awards.

Rachael Manzer, NE 4-H Volunteer of the Year

Rachael Manzer was named as Connecticut’s 4-H Volunteer of the Year and most recently awarded the National 2021 Northeast Region 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award. Manzer is a volunteer with UConn’s Granby 4-H Club of Granby, and a UConn 4-H Alumni.

Hartford County 4-H Extension Educator Jen Cushman notes, “Rachael’s dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of 4-H youth has greatly expanded the STEM opportunities for 4-H Members and promoted UConn 4-H to new audiences. Manzer exemplifies science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in 4-H. She understands the importance and need for STEM and Agricultural Literacy, and she has increased opportunities for STEM learning by establishing the only 4-H VEX Robotics Program in New England. Rachael’s efforts have not only expanded 4-H programming throughout New England (Connecticut and Massachusetts), but also increased the visibility of UConn 4-H on the national level as the team participated at the World Competition and the NASA Cubes in Space Competition.”

Manzer’s enthusiasm for STEM is infectious. She dedicates a large amount of time to 4-H throughout the

year teaching 4-Hers how to think, not what to think. She focuses on workforce readiness skills in communication, listening, time management, critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork. She guides youth in planning and implementing the building of the robot, public speaking presentations, fundraising and various community service demonstrations.

She is growing future leaders in 4-H and STEM. Manzer’s innovation shined as she was able to keep the 4-H robotics program going during COVID-19 following safety protocols. Not only that, the 4-H robotics teams qualified for the 2021 VEX World Championship and earned three World Awards.

Manzer, a 4-H alumna of the Litchfield County 4-H Club, grew up showing cattle. 4-H gave so much to her, her goal was to give back to the organization.

Manzer stated, “I am truly humbled by this honor. I am part of a larger community. Without the 4-H leaders, parents, and the greater community these incredible programs for youth could not happen. I am thankful to all of you.”

To learn more about becoming a volunteer or enrolling your child in the UConn 4-H program visit 4-H.uconn. edu/

Drumrolls Lucille Papile, of Granby, graduated magna cum laude from Dickinson College in May with a BS in neuroscience.

Northeastern University has named the following students to the dean’s list for the spring semester: from East Granby, Hayley Morris, an industrial engineering major and Chloe Gosselin, a mathematics/business administration major; from North Granby, Abigail Cotsonas, a biochemistry major; from West Granby, Hanna Cormier, a business administration/design major.

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July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 15

In Town Focus Art Exhibit

Granby Artist Association member Alexander Anisimov invites the public to a free exhibit entitled Vibration of Universe Diaphragm at 2 Park Place Gallery, July 5 to July 25.

Men’s Breakfast e-Group

The Granby Men’s Breakfast e-Group will meet by Zoom on Fridays, July 9, and Aug. 13.

On July 9, Granby Conservation Commissioner David Desiderato will discuss the importance of recognizing invasive plants.

On Aug. 13, Abby Kenyon revisits major projects in town: the Center, Kearns School, Simsbury Road bridge, Housing and Apartment developments, including Route 20, and the Evonsian Farm (107 East Street).

Due to the need to meet remotely there is no breakfast. The GMB e-Group meetings start at 9 a.m. with time for members to virtually chat and catch up on local news. The speaker begins promptly at 9:30 a.m. Men (of any age) interested in joining the Granby Men’s Breakfast e-Group should send their contact information to gmensbkfst@gmail.com and you will be added to the invite list for the next e-Group Zoom meeting.

SBHS News

The Research Library at Salmon Brook Historical Society is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon or by appointment by calling 860-653-9713.

Museum Store is open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. You can view items for sale at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com Merchandise available include books, maps, mugs, notecards, jigsaw puzzle and many more Granby items.

Tag Sale was a huge success. A loud shout of thanks to the many volunteers who worked to set up during a brief morning shower, man the tables and parking lot attendants. Also, thanks to the patrons who came to find their treasures.

Fall Flea Market is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the society’s grounds. Please contact Dave at 860-653-3965 for vendor information. Flea Market donations to the society will be accepted beginning Sept.

2 instead of July 1. During the summer months, the volunteers will concentrate on working on the gardens, cleaning and making repairs to the many buildings, repairing quilts and other textiles, and accessioning the many donations we receive.

Membership to Salmon Brook Historical Society offers many benefits including free tours, newsletters, annual dinner in April, the Christmas

Emerald Springs Equine Services hosts Open House Emerald Springs Equine Services is hosting a Community Appreciation Open House on Saturday, July 3, starting at 2 p.m. at Manion Family Farm, 31 Wells Road, to thank everyone in the community who has assisted in our journey and invite members who want to be involved.

Emerald Springs Equine Services is a not-for-profit dedicated to providing trauma informed care to veterans, first responders, and medical front line workers. Partnered with the licensed mental health therapists at North Shore Counseling

it offers trauma resolution and healing using Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.

It is opening its facilities for tours and demonstrations throughout the afternoon, including live entertainment. All are welcome, but limited spots are available. Visit emeraldspringsequine.org for more details and to register for a time slot. Limited parking will be available on site, so please plan to carpool if possible.

For more information, and to reserve a time slot, please visit emeraldspringsequine.org

house tour and wassail party in December and the opportunity to learn and help preserve Granby history. The society welcomes everyone.

You do not need to be a Granby native, own an old house or be old. However, you do need to care about the history of Granby. Visit the website or stop by the museum on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon for an application.

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 860428-2463.

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The Holcomb Farm CSA Farm Store is now open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Browse the selection of locallysourced products and fresh-off-the-farm produce. Submitted photo

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

Announcements may not exceed 120 words.

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July/August 2021

Parks & Recreation Director of Recreation and Leisure Services: Kristine Vincent, CPRP Recreation Supervisor: Daphne Shinder Program Supervisor: Terri Ziemnicki Telephone: 860-653-8947 Website: GranbyRec.com, open 24/7 for program registration

Youth Enrichment Camps

Band Camp: For grades 5-12. 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Monday–Friday, July 12-16 or July 19-23, at Granby Middle School.

Synchronized Swimming: Ages 7-12 (4:305:30 p.m.), ages 13-18 (5:30-6:30 p.m.) Monday– Friday, Aug. 9-13, at Salmon Brook Park Waterfront.

Circuit Labs Camp: Grades 3-6. Monday– Friday, July 26-30, at Holcomb Farm Workshop.

Hands-On Electronics: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. App Inventors: 1-4 p.m.

Art Camp: For ages 5-12. 9 a.m.—12 p.m.

Monday–Friday, Aug. 2-6, at Holcomb Farm Workshop.

Week of Baking Camp: Grades 3-6. 2– 5 p.m., Monday–Thursday, July 12-16, at Holcomb Farm Kitchen.

Food Explorers Camp: Grades 2-5, 2-5 p.m.

Monday–Friday, Aug. 2-6, at Holcomb Farm Kitchen.

Summer Day Camps

Salmon Brook Park Day Camp and Mission Adventure: Ages 6-14, all day program. June 21-Aug. 13, many weeks to choose from.

A summer day camp program committed to serving your child’s needs. This traditional day camp fills each day with active games, special events, sports, arts and crafts, teamwork, group interaction and the wonders of nature. Salmon Brook Park has a playground, soccer fields, baseball fields, outdoor basketball hoops and picnic pavilions, and tennis courts. Your child will have the opportunity to swim in Salmon Brook Park Pond, plus exciting special events, and see spectacular entertainers. All children are grouped by age/grade and all activities are age-appropriate.

Adult Programs

Toddler and Preschool Programs

Soccer Program: For ages 2-5. 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. for age 2; -11:30 a.m. for ages 3-5.

Monday-Thursday, July 12-15 and Aug. 9-12.

At Salmon Brook Park Band Shell.

Tiny Tots Drawing: For ages 3-6. 10 to 10:45 a.m., Tuesdays, July 6-Aug. 10, at Holcomb Farm Main Barn.

Youth Sports Camps

Kara Wolters “Dream Big” Girls Basketball Camp: Entering grades 4–10. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Monday through Friday, July 26–30.

Soccer Camp: Ages 4-14. 9-10:30 a.m. for ages 4-6. For ages 7-14, choose half day 9 a.m.12 p.m. or the full day 9 a.m.-3 p.m., July 26-30.

At Salmon Brook Park Soccer Fields.

Soccer Goalkeeper Camp presented by Keeperstop: Ages 11-18. 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Monday–Thursday, July 12-15, at Salmon Brook Park Soccer Fields.

Chris Corkum’s Baseball Camp: For ages 7-12. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Monday–Thursday, July 26-29, at Salmon Brook Park Baseball Field.

Tennis Camp: For ages 9-16. 9 a.m.–12 p.m., Monday–Thursday, July 19-22 or Aug. 9-12, at Salmon Brook Park Tennis Courts.

Tennis Lessons: Morning lessons are available for beginners, intermediate and advanced tennis players and are held on a weekly basis. Visit GranbyRec.com for a

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complete listing of times and dates. Lessons are held all summer long.

Flag Football Camp: For ages 7-12. 9 a.m.– 3 p.m. Monday–Thursday, July 12-15, at East Granby Farms.

Softball Camp: For ages 7-13. 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Monday–Thursday, Aug. 16-19, at Granby High School Field.

Volleyball Camp: Entering grades 4–9, (*Entering grades 9-12 held Aug. 2-5). 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Monday–Thursday, June 21-Aug. 5 (5 weeks to choose from). At Salmon Brook Park TNT Field Hockey Camp: For entering grades 4-9. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday–Thursday, Aug. 2-5, at Granby High School Field.

Pickleball: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, June 30-Aug. 4, at Salmon Brook Park Tennis Courts.

Gentle Restorative Yoga: 6-7 P.M., Wednesdays, At Holcomb Farm North Barn Pavilion.

Gentle Flow Yoga: Mondays, 5:306:30 p.m., at Holcomb Farm North Barn Pavilion; or Saturdays, 10-11 a.m., at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

Yoga For Strength: 8-9 a.m., Mondays and Fridays, at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

Yin Yoga Aromatherapy: 6-7:30 p.m., Fridays, at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

“Pawsitive Steps” Beginner Dog Training Classes: 6:30-7:30 p.m., Monday, Wednesday or Thursday, at Salmon Brook Park Gathering Room.

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Food safety course provided for community volunteers

By Ann Wilhelm Food Safety comes first in Granby’s community kitchens. On June 12, nineteen community members participated in a food safety training class and certification exam. The First Congregational Church of Granby hosted the ServSafe Manager course, which was arranged

through the Connecticut Restaurant Association. The course is intended to enhance food safety practices and to help food service establishments maintain compliance with the Connecticut Food Code.

The class in Granby was unique because it targeted members of organizations typically staffed by volunteers

A Backwards Glance In the 1971 June/July issue, Carol Laun interviewed Tudor Holcomb in one of her early contributions to the Drummer: The People, Yes: TUDOR F. HOLCOMB: “Tudor Holcomb is a farmer. He was born in the family home on Simsbury Road in 1886 and lives there still with his sister Laura.”

Holcomb’s gifts to Granby remain part of its life blood—the Farm, the West Granby United Methodist Church, the WG fire house, and land and money for Granby Town Hall and town library.

1991 marked the 20th running of the Granby Road Race. It was the first 10K with 130 runners at the starting line. Jim Sumler of West Hartford came in first

overall and Renee Idone of East Hartland was the first woman to break the tape.

In 2001 a Drummer article tallied unfunded costs to complete the twoyear-long GMHS construction project.

They included Title IX code compliance, auditorium seats and sound system, crucial technology, and landscaping. A total of $240,000 after state reimbursement if state deadlines were met immediately or $400,000 if deadlines were missed. A separate article announced that bids had opened for the addition of three classrooms and rooms for staff and pre-school services at the Frank M. Kearns School.

—By Chris Levandowski

Kyle Desjardins, from North Granby, a junior at Wentworth Institute of Technology majoring in applied mathematics, was honored as a member of the spring dean’s list. He attained a summer coop program at PROMETRIKA, LLC as a Statistical Programmer.”

Jack Antkowiak, from Granby, recently graduated from the University of Connecticut after earning a BA in communications. Jack finished his last semester on the dean’s list.

Ryan Antkowiak, a sophomore from

Granby majoring in biochemistry at Ohio State University, was named to the dean’s list for the spring semester.

Taylorann Parker Vibert, of Granby, graduated cum laude from the University of Maryland-College Park with a BA in government and history with Phi Beta Kappa honor. She will be attending law school this fall.

Lindsay Gilton, of Granby, has been named to the dean’s list at Connecticut College for the spring semester, achieving dean’s high honors.

Drumrolls

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and not food service professionals. Participants included members from First Congregational Church, Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen, Saint Therese Parish, the Granby Senior Center, and Bethany Lutheran Brethren Church.

“We all know food safety is essential for restaurants, but it is just as important for community events. Any time you have a large group of people being served, there’s an increased risk of someone

contracting a foodborne illness.” said Natalie Chavoya, the course instructor.

Chavoya found a receptive audience and commented afterwards, “Today’s class was wonderful! All 19 students were engaged, enthusiastic, and eager to learn the best food safety practices for keeping the community safe.” Thank you to all these volunteers, who give generously of their time for the betterment of our community.

Natalia Chavoya instructs the course, at right, to an interested group of community volunteers, above.

Submitted photos

Survivors How wonderful these days to see people’s smiling faces, to not have to rush indoors to the isolation of the house, to see neighbors out walking and stopping to chat, and to be out and about more in the world.

We will remember forever those tragically lost to the COVID-19 Virus and pray for their families. We express gratitude to God for the vaccines that were developed and have given us a

more normal life. As we reflect on the past year, we’ve come away different people. We’ve learned to value the most important things in life—Love, family, friends, and acts of kindness— We are thankful for small things.

We thank all medical personnel and essential workers who aided us. May God Bless them for their dedication.

As we look forward to the future, let us know we are Survivors.

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Page 18 The Granby Drummer

SPOTLIGHT ON

GRANBY ARTISTS

Insight into the creative process

Alyssa Coburn

Medium: watercolors Instagram: @Fringe_Aesthetic Website: fringeaesthetic.com Email: fringeaesthetic@gmail.com Member of Granby Artists since: 2021 What made you choose your primary medium?

I love working with watercolor for so many reasons: the “inner brilliance” of a transparent medium…the infinite number of shades that can be created from one tube of paint... But mostly because it forces me to embrace the unpredictability of it all. When I lay down a large wash of paint, I’m not entirely sure how it’s going to dry. It’s exciting and a little

bit terrifying! But in the end, it makes for a painting with lots of character. Of course, I still have much to learn in the watercolor space, and I look forward to tapping into the wildly talented brains of my fellow members!

Do you work in other mediums?

I’m grateful to be able to say that I work in all types of creative mediums. For my day job, I’m a digital designer and motion graphics artist at a large insurance company. I love it! I’ve also been dabbling in digital illustration lately using my iPad and an Apple Pencil. It has been a very fun and interesting departure from some of my traditional fine art mediums.

Plus, the clean-up is easier!

Does Granby have an influence on your art?

Having lived on both coasts, I can say the from my perspective, Granby is one of the most incredible towns. The people are so friendly, the restaurants are great,

Alyssa working on a custom home portrait.

Photo by Taylor Kemp of Taylor Kemp Photography

A watercolor portrait of a couple’s first home. Photo by Alyssa Coburn

July/August 2021

and the hiking is wonderful. My husband, son, two dogs, and I spend so much of our time exploring the trails at Holcomb Farm and Salmon Brook Park, and I’ve painted several scenes from photos I’ve taken on our adventures. Plus, the opportunity to live in a town with an organized community of artists is just amazing!

Even though I’m a very new member, I can already tell how kind, talented and supportive everyone is. Being around such creative people inspires me to grow as an artist.

Tell us about a satisfying art accomplishment have you had?

Last year, I started an Etsy shop for my illustrations and have made about 400 sales to date. It’s very exciting to know that there are people across the country who have connected with my work in some way! But to be honest, I’d say that being accepted as a member of the Granby Artists Association is one of my greatest art accomplishments thus far. To me, it’s the first step in approaching my art as more of a profession, rather than just a hobby.

What is your most exciting aspect of being an artist?

There’s something very exciting and fulfilling about creating work that has an emotional connection. When I’m asked to paint a house portrait, for example, I know I’m creating something very personal to someone. It’s not so much about the structure itself — it’s about the memories and the sentimental attachment to it. Being trusted with a painting like that means so much to me, and I love the challenge of bringing it to life.

Do you have any specific goals for your art in the next few years?

Over the past year or so, I’ve been working on an “I Love You More” painting series. It’s a long-term goal of mine to write and illustrate a children’s book based off of this concept.

Sally Sargent Markey

Media: watercolors, Fimo jewelry Contact: 860-653-3224 Member of Granby Artists since: 2002 Membership in other artist organizations: Canton Gallery on the Green, Kent Art Association, Connecticut Watercolor Association Sally received a BA from the University of Connecticut and worked as a designer at Hallmark in Kansas City, Mo. before becoming a freelance artist in Connecticut. She has done book illustrations and had her work represented in shops and galleries in New England. She has had many solo shows including shows at the Slater Museum in Norwich, Homer Babbidge Library at the University of Connecticut, Hartford Town and Country Club, Elizabeth Park Pond House, and Duncaster Gallery space. Sally paints plein-air in watercolor weekly with friends in Granby.

What inspired you to become an artist?

What inspires your art?

The foundation of all my paintings has its origin years ago during long walks home from grammar school on dirt roads and through meadows and woods in all seasons, which marked my psyche and made me love the natural world. I knew quite early I wanted to paint things. The same challenges hold me today as then: seeing and rendering as truly as I can and feeling the joy of painting beautiful color, rhythms, and patterns.

I paint realistically, mostly from nature, but I enjoy the challenge of painting an

Spotlight cont’d. on p. 19

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Browse & Borrow GRANBY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM Website: granby-ct.gov/library Phone: 860-844-5275 Email: GranbyLibrary@granby-ct.gov

Library Summer Hours

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

It is recommended that all patrons over the age of 2 wear masks and sanitize their hands as they enter the building. To protect our children, masks are still being worn in the Children’s Department. All items being returned to the library should be put into the outdoor book drops prior to entering the building.

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

Library Programs for Adults and Teens

Plan B Book Club: Tuesday, July 6 via Zoom, 6:30-7:30 p.m. The Secret History of Wonder Woman

by Jill Lepore. Tuesday, Aug. 2 via Zoom, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dark Matter by Blake Crouch. Join us as we connect online through reading, conversation and good books! Leading the discussions are Doug Soucier and Beth Morrill, who have led our popular SciFi/Fantasy and Around the World book discussions.

Copies of each book will be available at the library, via Overdrive and hoopla, and through curbside pickup.

Register online or call the library to participate. Look for a confirmation email with a Zoom link and log-in information if you sign-up online. No computer/internet at home? Join us on the phone! Contact the library to learn how.

Time To Tie Dye! In-person, GPL lawn and patio, Saturday, July 10, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. (rain date July 17).

All ages are invited to get colorfully creative at one of our favorite annual events. We provide the tie dye supplies and instruction; you make a unique piece of wearable art. Bring pre-washed cotton items like T-shirts, socks, towels or pillow cases. As a bonus, we’re offering the first 75 people a free 22” x 22” bandana. Tie dye the bandana and keep it for yourself, gift it to a friend or let your ‘pawsome’ family friend wear it proudly all summer. Register online and be sure to select the time slot that works best for your family. Sponsored by Library Friends and Jansen Family volunteers.

Pipers On the Patio: In-person, GPL lawn and patio, Wednesday, July 28, 6:30–7:30 p.m. (rain date July 29). Join us for a stirring performance of memorable tunes on not one, but two of these iconic instruments. Classically trained pipers Christa Patton and Lawrence Cole showcase their musical talent and share information to help listeners understand and appreciate the music of the pipes. Bring your own seating. No registration needed. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

EFT Tapping and Intro to Meditation: Monday, Aug. 2 via Zoom, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Life Coach Cris Jacobs reminds us to take care of our mental and physical health by using proven techniques used by hundreds of thousands of practitioners around the world. Jacobs introduces Emotional Freedom Technique, also known as Tapping, and covers an introduction to simple meditation practices. Handouts are available. Register online to receive the Zoom program link.

Library Programs for Children and Families

Story Stroll: In-person, GPL Lawn, all month, all ages. Stop by anytime and check out the latest Story Stroll. Just follow the numbers on the signs to read an entire picture book or complete a fun family activity challenge. A new Story Stroll will appear every few weeks, all summer long, so be sure to check back often.

Good Morning Story Time with Miss Joan: Inperson, GPL lawn and patio, Tuesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 27 and Aug. 3, 10:30–11 a.m. Ages 3-5 with caregiver.

It’s summer and time to get outside! Miss Joan invites her preschool friends and their caregivers to sing, do a fingerplay and share a story together. Please bring a blanket, towel or chairs for your family to sit on as we try to stay socially distant. Everyone over the age

Spotlight cont’d. from p. 18

abstract painting, trying to be aware of the rules of good composition that were stressed to us in college at UConn in the early 1960s.

Does your art try to relay a message?

If so, what?

of two must wear a mask. No registration needed.

Program will be cancelled if it is raining. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library Bedtime Stories with Miss Heather: In-person, GPL lawn and patio, Tuesdays, July 6, 13, 20, 27 and Aug. 3, 5:30-6 p.m. Ages 4-7 with caregiver. This popular program is back. Join Miss Heather as she welcomes children ages 4-7 and their caregivers for an outdoor story time. Pajamas encouraged! We’ll read stories and sing songs together on the library patio. Each child will also receive a craft to complete at home.

Please bring a blanket or chairs for your family to sit on so that we can stay socially distant. All those over the age of two must wear a mask. Hand sanitizer and baby wipes will be available. In case of bad weather, check the library’s online calendar to see if the program has been cancelled. A decision will be made by 4 p.m. on the day of the program. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

Story Time On Your Time: All month, for babies and toddlers. Too busy to attend a scheduled Story Time program? Stop by or call the library and request a Story Time Bag for you and your baby or toddler.

Each bag contains board books, a washable toy and pages of suggested finger plays, songs and nursery rhymes to enjoy together. Keep each bag for up to one month, then return it and check out another. Each bag is unique. Place a hold in our online catalog or by calling 860-844-5275.

Crafts

Craftin’ Around with Miss Heather: Curbside at the Main Branch, for ages 4 and up. Celebrate summer with a fun and easy craft you can complete at home.

Craft kits will be available for pickup on Tuesday, July 27, 3–6 p.m. Miss Heather will post a video guide with instructions so you can make the craft along with her.

The video will be posted to our Facebook and YouTube channel for you to view at your convenience. Printed instructions will also be included with the craft kit.

Supplies are limited. All materials provided. Please register in advance to receive your kit. Please register each child separately online at GranbyLibrary@ granby-ct.gov or by calling 860-844-5275. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

Take And Make Crafts: Inside the Children’s Room at the Main Branch, Saturdays, July 10, 17, 24, 31 and Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 10 a.m. -12 p.m. For ages 3 and up.

Calling all crafty kids—stop by the Children’s Room and select a craft kit from our Craft Box to take home and complete. No registration or reservation needed.

An assortment of crafts for all levels of ability will be available. One craft kit per child, please. All materials and instruction will be provided. First come, first served. Craft kits will be available between the hours of 10-12. Supplies are limited.

Note: some crafts may contain small pieces that could be a choking hazard to children age 3 and under.

Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

New and Ongoing Library Services

Granby Library patrons are now able to access the hoopla digital catalog, more than 900,000 titles of eBooks, eAudio books, music albums, tv series, and more. Download the free app and log in with your GPL library card. Every patron can borrow up to four titles a month, in addition to the items you can borrow through Overdrive/Libby and in person! (formerly Lynda.com) The GPL now offers patrons free access to this comprehensive online learning database, where patrons can register using their library card and take classes in a variety of professional topics, including everything from Photoshop to Python, Change Management to Construction Management, Interpersonal Communication to iPads.

The library now has a collection of jigsaw puzzles for patrons to borrow. Visit the library in-person to select one, or call to pick one up curbside. Puzzles with 300 or 500 pieces are available.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten: It’s never too early to start reading to your child! Granby Public Library’s popular program is an easy and fun way to spend time reading together. We provide everything you need. We would love to help you get started! Ask for information at the Children’s Desk or give us a call: 860-844-5275 (main desk) or 860-844-5285 for Miss Joan, the Children’s Librarian.

New Nutmeg Books! All summer at GPL. Stop by to check out the new titles for grades 2-6 in the Children’s Room. The new titles for grades 7-12 are also available in the Teen area. Come and check out your favorites! Two New Nutmegs per patron, please.

Paint, symbols, the emotional world are the vehicles I use to take non-representational ideas such as loneliness, contentment, or legends to make the viewer feel an empathy with the subject matter.

Summer Celebration!

June 17 – August 7

Granby Public Library welcomes library patrons of all ages to participate in a series of fun-filled events this summer that will get you excited about reading, learning and growing together. This year’s theme, Tails and Tales, invites patrons to explore stories and events that feature animals, as well as opportunities to gather with friends and neighbors in a safe, distanced way. Register on the Library website or in person, and visit the GPL for opportunities to enter our prize drawing and to borrow materials—the library truly has Something for Everyone!

The Safety PAWtrol: On the lawn at GPL, Thursday, July 1, 1:30-2:30 p.m. (Rain date July 9) Ages 5-11 with caregiver. Join staff from the Connecticut Humane Society as they teach us the tools kids need to be safe around dogs. Learn how to understand dog body language, how to safely interact with friendly dogs, and what to do when approached by an unfamiliar dog. Make sure to bring your questions—but leave your pets at home.

Please register in advance online or by calling 860-844-5275. Sponsored by the Friends of Cossitt Library.

Police K9 Demonstration: On the lawn at GPL, Wednesday, July 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m. For ages 5 and up.

This is a special opportunity to watch Police Dog teams in action. Join Officer Joe Malone and K9 Rocko, Officer Chris Dufrense and K9 Kodi, and Officer Mike Colantuono and K9 Nova as they demonstrate some of their amazing skills, talk about their training, and answer your questions. Please leave your own dogs at home.

Register in advance online or by calling 860-844-5275.

Creative Corner Series Locations vary, inside and outside. In-person craft programs for tweens, teens and adults. Tuesday evenings, July 13, 20, and 27. Registration required.

Kite Tails: In-person, Holcomb Farm Workshop, and outdoors at Holcomb Farm. Tuesday, July 13, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Adults and kids over 10 will make and then fly their own kite. We’ll build and decorate a traditional diamond style kite, including a bow tie tail. Then we’ll head outside to find an end-of-day breeze to test our work. Register early; space is limited. Sponsored by Beman True Value Hardware and Friends of Granby Public Library.

Paint Your Pet: In-person, Holcomb Farm Workshop, Tuesday, July 20, 6–8 p.m. Transform a photograph of a favorite pet into a watercolor work of art. All materials will be provided, as well as step-by-step instruction. Simply bring a 5” x 7” photograph or image of your pet and take home a personally painted memento. Recommended for adults and youth 12 and older; no previous experience required. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Clay Critters: In-person, GPL lawn, Tuesday, July 27, 6:30–7:30 p.m. (rain date Aug. 3). All ages are invited to a special presentation with the Pied Potter Hamelin. Circle around to watch the amazing potter Rick Hamelin while he creates fantasy creatures on his magical potter’s wheel. After the demonstration participants will have an opportunity to create their own clay pinch pot. Program is suitable for school age children and adults. Families welcome. Registration required. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library.

Music Tales and Tails: In-person, GPL lawn and patio, Wednesday, July 14, 6:30–7:30 p.m. (rain date July 15). Enjoy iconic songs that formed the soundtrack of American life. We’re featuring music from as far back as the 1920s birth of radio along with tales about the music’s creators and performers, and most importantly, their beloved pets. Performers Dan and Debra will entertain and share inspiring animal rescue stories. Will you be able to name that tune? Bring your own chair or blanket, get comfortable on the patio or lawn, and enjoy the evening. No registration needed. Sponsored by Friends of Granby Public Library.

Miss Brittany and Her Chickens: In-person, GPL lawn and patio, Wednesday, July 14, 10:30-11:30 a.m. (rain date July 21). All ages. Librarian and chicken expert, Miss Brittany, has been raising poultry on her family farm since she was a little girl. She has selected some of her current favorites and will be bringing them to the library for us to meet! We’ll have handouts with lots of interesting chicken facts and Miss Brittany will be available to answer your questions. We’ll also have special food on hand for the kids to feed to the chickens, if they wish.

Everyone over the age of 2 must wear a mask, please. Hand sanitizer will be available. No registration required.

Magic Show: at the Bandshell, Salmon Brook Park, Thursday, July 15, 2-3 p.m. (rain date July 22). For ages 5 and up with caregivers. Master Magician Ed Popielarczyk returns with an all-new show! Come see all the new tricks! Kids in the audience are always invited to participate in the on-stage fun. Please register in advance online or by calling 860-844-5275. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

Tales of the Old West: In-person, GPL lawn and patio, Wednesday, July 21, 6:30–7:30 p.m. (rain date July 22). All ages will enjoy storyteller and author James J. Griffin when he shares Texas Ranger tales and other stories from the Old West. Griffin wears a replica Colt 45 and brings a Winchester rifle for added authenticity.

You’ll be treated to cowboy truths and maybe a yarn or two. Signed copies of Griffins’s published works—for adults and children— will be available for purchase after the program. Seating is on the lawn in your own chair or on your own blanket. No registration needed. Sponsored by Friends of Cossitt Library.

Yoga For Families: at Ahren’s Park, Wednesday, July 28, 10-11 a.m. Kids age 5-12 and their caregivers are invited to join instructor Aubrey Schulz in a yoga session for the whole family. Let go of some of that “pandemic stress” while enjoying time together outside. Please bring a towel or yoga mat for each participant. Register in advance for this free program online or by calling 860-844-5275. In case of rain, please check the library’s online calendar for an update. Sponsored by the Friends of Granby Public Library.

Popsicle Party at the Pond! At the waterfront, Salmon Brook Park, Saturday, Aug.7, 12–2 p.m. All ages.

Our Summer Library Celebration ends with a party! Come enjoy the cool water, warm summer sun and a yummy popsicle! Every participant in our Summer Library Celebration will receive a free pass to the waterfront at Salmon Brook Park, and every child will receive a voucher for a free popsicle at the concession stand. Bring a beach chair or a towel and relax! Advance registration required.

Don’t forget to fill out a ticket for our Prize Drawing every time you visit the library or attend one of our programs. Winners will be chosen Aug. 9. Check website or call 860-844-5275 to get program details and to register. Or stop by the library—we would love to see you.

Helping youth is KEY

to building a more conscientious, responsible and productive society.

Your donation to the Granby Community Fund helps support organizations, such as the Boy Scouts, that help build future leaders by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun.

Boy Scouts of America

Supporting a Caring Community since 1960.

Page 20 The Granby Drummer

July/August 2021

THANK YOU! 35th Annual GMHS Grad Night Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Granby Parents for a Safe Graduation was unable to throw a traditional Grad Night party this year. Instead, graduates were presented with gift bags to celebrate the momentous occasion and were also entered into a raffle with some amazing prizes (winners pictured above)! GPSG would like to thank the following businesses for their generous donations which allowed us to do both.

VALEDICTORIAN Zen Restaurant Group

Citizens for a Better Granby/Granby Drummer Meadowgate Condominiums

Arrow Concrete Products, Inc. Beman Hardware auto-bon inc.

Barry F. Walsh, DC Bosco’s Garden Center Cahills MotorCars Inc. Christensen Excavating The Christopher Bryant Co, LLC College Highway Auto Dave’s Diner East Granby Family Practice East Granby Motors, LLC Evans Automotive Fitzgerald’s Foods

SALUTATORIAN

The Notch Travel Centre, Southwick Pierce Builders, Inc.

HIGH HONORS

New England Financial Group-James Marlor Rhino Back Roofing

HONORS

Flowers ‘n Such Geissler’s Supermarket Granby Barber & Style Shop Hartland Home Improvement LLC Hayes-Huling & Carmon/Carmon Community Funeral Homes Holloways Appliance Center Lori Riiska CPA, LLC Lost Acres Orchard and Farm Store McKenna Orthodontics Meadow View Farm, LLC Murphy, Laudati, Kiel & Rattigan, LLC

Vincent Funeral Home & Farmington Valley Crematory

Saint Therese Parish

Necker’s Toyland New England Pizza Granby Old Mill Pond Village Paine’s, Inc. Powerline Electric, LLC Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital Santa Realty Small World Learning & Child Care Center State Line Propane and Oil Tim’s Automotive TJ’s Burritos Top Drawer Consignment Boutique, LLC

July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 21

Friends of Holcomb Farm turns 28 2021 marks the 28th year since the creation of the Friends of Holcomb Farm.

Formed shortly after ownership of the property transitioned from the University of Connecticut to the Town of Granby— per the will of siblings Tudor and Laura Holcomb—the volunteer, not-for-profit Friends have stewarded the property on behalf of the town, and within the Board of Selectman-adopted “Plan of Use,” which outlined agriculture, education, arts, and passive recreation purposes.

Since then, Holcomb Farm, and the Friends, have “been through several major eras and seen much change.” As documented by historian and friend of the farm Peggy Lareau’s book, Holcomb Farm Heritage: Struggles and Successes, and as is true of so many of the wonderful volunteer organizations in Granby, this community treasure owes so much to so many who have supported the Friends from the beginning.

Early Years: 1993-2003 The first decade saw much donor-funded investment—composed of time, talent, and treasure—in the property, including major repairs and renovations to the historic main barn. Built in the 1930s, this modern, gambrel-roofed Wisconsin dairy barn, was constructed without any rafters in its open loft. The Hartford Food Systems leased the agricultural land and built what was at the time one of the first and most successful CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) in the region. Granby artisans used the facilities for numerous programs. A trail system was developed, the foundation of the 10+ miles of trails enjoyed by so many, today. Along the way, the volunteer Board of Directors explored ways to make the property financially sustainable within the parameters of the Plan of Use. The Holcomb Farm Learning Center 2003-2012 During the second decade the Friends secured a large grant from the state and transitioned into the “Holcomb Farm Learning Center,” which included the Link and Learn program, bringing innercity kids out to join with Granby kids in educational pursuits. That grant allowed the Friends to engage an Executive Director, taking some of the burden off the volunteers. Recognizing the immense upkeep required for the buildings and barns, a major capital campaign was launched and successfully raised and invested some $850,000 in the buildings, before the financial crisis that began in 2008 changed the environment for contributions. Along the way, the sustainability of the State Link and Learn grant wavered.

In 2012, the grant disappeared, as did the paid executive director and the learning center era closed.

Recent Years Through a collaborative study by the Town of Granby and the Friends, a new relationship was entered to create a better foundation for financial sustainability of the Town-owned, Friends-stewarded property. The Town assumed financial and operational responsibility for the main campus of buildings. The Friends, as tenants on the agricultural acreage, assumed ownership and operations of the CSA, leasing the farmhouse for the farm manager. Through another state grant, along with the remaining funds raised in the Friends’ capital campaign,

the North Barn and Pavilion were built, now a sought-after wedding and event venue and a revenue-generator. It anchors campus-based programs now run by Granby’s Recreation and Leisure Services department.

The Friends’ Mission: “Preserve, protect and utilize an authentic New England farm” The growth of both its membership and donor base, have resulted in a healthy level of sustainability. Making the produce available to food-insecure people in Granby and the greater Hartford Region through the Fresh Access program, fulfills the philanthropic part of the original vision.

Sustainable farming practices have allowed more production from the same land. Improvements to the farm store and agricultural facilities have allowed more of the community to participate as CSA and retail customers for more of the calendar year. With the recent development of the Tree Trail, opportunities for environmental education are available. Given all the challenges of preserving land and making agriculture sustainable in today’s world, Tudor and Laura would be pleased.

Annual Meeting August 21 The Friends of Holcomb Farm will hold its Annual Meeting on Aug. 21, at 10:30 a.m. The meeting will take place on the Knoll near the Seat on the Holcomb Tree Trail overlooking the main Holcomb Farm complex—the same location where we met last year. All “members” are welcome; a member is anyone who has donated at least $25 in the past year, and/or is a CSA shareholder. We will offer guided tree trail tours before the meeting as well.

If you are a Friends of Holcomb Farm member, you will receive an invitation email in August with more event details.

Please note there is no rain date scheduled

diligence before planting a single tree, we talked to a retired official at Arnold Arboretum. Sitting across from Gordon DeWolfe at his kitchen table in North Brookfield, Mass., he told us, ‘Plant trees with pretty flowers.’

“So, we planted a red horse chestnut sourced from Whitman Nursery in Salem, Ore. It’s a hybrid of the American red buckeye (Aesculus pavia) and the European common horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastrum). Our lone tree is an old cultivar from the mid-1800s called Briotii.

It has deep red flowers occurring in inflorescences as long as 10 inches.

“Ours is now only about five feet tall and had only a single bloom this year. It is common in England, but not here. It is a rather slow grower, reaching 30 to 40 feet. There is one on Day Street that size, which was planted 35 years ago. It has hundreds of blooms, as this photo shows.

“It is a wonderful tree in bloom, according to leading authority Michael Dirr in The Tree Book, one ‘that every arboretum should include.’ The only downside is that its leaves are subject to leaf scorch in the dryness of late summer, as are most horse chestnuts.”

Farm Store is open to all Not a member of our CSA? Fear not, you can still purchase our produce—along with a wide variety of other delicious, locally sourced products, including meats, eggs, coffee, maple syrup, honey, and more—in our Farm Store. The Farm Store is located in our CSA Barn, next to the Methodist Church, at 111 Simsbury Road.

It will be open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., through mid-October.

A complete list of the products we stock can be found on our website.

A small selection of the bounty available at the Farm Store. Submitted photo

This mature red horse chestnut shows what we can look forward to on our Tree Trail in 25 years. Photo by Eric Lukingbeal

O’Brien

The footings are poured for the new Tree Trail entry kiosk likely to be in place by the time you read this. Photo by Steve Perry

Nurserymen Open Garden Days July 2, 3 & 4 – Japanese Maples, Spectacular from Spring till Fall

The small, young red horse chestnut on our Tree Trail displays one big promise of things to come. Photo by Eric Lukingbeal

for this meeting.

What you see on the Tree Trail The Tree Trail, in the east fields across from the main campus of the Holcomb Farm, is growing and changing every day.

By the time you read this, a new kiosk welcoming walkers should be in place.

Tree Trail volunteers have shared what one should look for on a walk there.

“A design principle we follow at the Holcomb Tree Trail is to plant trees with spring bloom and/or fall color. When we were doing our several years of due

July 9, 10 & 11 – We offer Hardy Hydrangeas that will bloom in your Garden!

July 16, 17 & 18 – Discover our Dazzling Daylily Displays, for 2+ months July 23, 24 & 25 – Polygonatums, Many Special Selections of Solomon Seal

Hours: Friday 10-5; Saturdays 10-5; Sundays 10-5 (On Above Dates Only) Also by Appointment – Please Call Ahead Directions: From Granby Ctr., Jct. Rte 10/202 & Rte 20; West on Rte 20 to first light; Right on Rte 189 North; 1 ½ miles, Right onto Wells Rd; #40 Wells Road, ½ mile on Right 40 Wells Road Granby, CT 06035 • (860) 653-0163 • www.obrienhosta.com

Page 22 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

Social Services

The focus of the Social Services 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, contact Director Sandy Yost at 860-844-5351. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Granby Local Assistance Program

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

Elderly (65+) or Disabled Renters Rebate

Applications for the Renters Rebate program will be accepted through Oct. 1, 2021. Maximum income guidelines are: Married Couple, $45,800; Single, $37,600.

Applicant must have turned 65 years of age by the end of 2020. Persons under 65 years of age who are receiving Social Security Disability are also eligible.

Renters Requirements (not comprehensive):

• Must have rented in Granby during 2020 and currently reside in Connecticut.

• Provide proof of rent paid in 2020. (Rent receipts from landlord or cancelled checks).

• Provide proof of actual bills paid in 2020 for electricity, gas, water and fuel.

• Bring in proof of income. For example: Form SSA 1099; pensions, etc.

Resources and Services

Childcare: Additional resources and information regarding childcare can be found at the Office of Early Childhood at 1-800-5050-1000 or visit ct.gov/ oec/site/default.asp Child Welfare Resources: Tools for supporting virtual times for families and child welfare workforce tools are available through the Child Welfare Information Gateway at cwig@communications.childwelfare.gov Domestic Violence: If you need help or just someone to talk to, please visit CTSafeConnect.org or call or text 888-774-2900. Advocates available 24/7.

Housing Resources and Utility Assistance Eversource: There are COVID re-payment programs available. Contact our office for help with this or contact Eversource directly at 800-286-2000. For more information visit the PURA webpage at portal. ct.gov/PURA/Consumer-Services/PURA-COVIDActions Legal and Financial Information Legal Help: Greater Hartford Legal Aid is available to answer your questions about benefits that may be available to you, as well as other legal issues. For more information visit

ghla.org/ or visit Statewide Legal Services at slsct.org or by calling 860-541-5070.

Mental Health and Emergencies: If you are experiencing a true medical emergency or crisis, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest emergency room. You can also access mobile crisis services by dialing 211.

Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273- 8255 When it Builds Up, Talk it Out, a campaign launched by United Way 211 and DCF, you can talk to a professional by calling 833-258-5011 or talkitoutct.com Rent Assistance: For those struggling with rent payments, Unite CT assists households in the 80 percent of area median income range. For Granby, the income limit for single renters is $54,950; two persons is $62,800. Applications require both a renter and landlord component and is completed online at portal.ct.gov/ DOH/DOH/Programs/UniteCT Unemployment: Guidance on applying for Unemployment can be found at dol.gov/ or by calling 860-263-6000.

Food Resources

Granby Food Pantry: Located at 248 Salmon Brook Street. Food Pantry hours: Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. to Noon and Thursday, 2 to 2:30 p.m. Before using the Granby Food Pantry, you must qualify with the Town of Granby Social Services Department. An appointment is necessary; call 860-844-5350 to schedule.

Waste Not Want Not Community Kitchen: Free meal available as drive up to pick up service every Wednesday 3– 5 p.m. at South Congregational Church, 242 Salmon Brook St. The meal is free, but an offering is always welcome.

Mobile FoodShare: 1:30 – 2 p.m. every other Tuesday.

Please park behind South Congregational Church and Visiting Nurses Building only. Remember to bring your own bags. For more locations or weather-permitted cancellations, visit foodshare.org Weekend Snack Packs: Located at First Church, 219 North Granby Road, 3-4 p.m. every Friday. Modeled after Hands on Hartford’s Backpack Nutrition Program, each bag will contain nutritious non-perishable weekend snack packs for the weekend. Please enter church parking lot via North entrance on Stratton Road and exit via North Church Road. Questions: Call First Church Granby at 860-653-4537.

SNAP: FoodShare will continue to facilitate SNAP applications by phone. For help with SNAP call 860286-9999 ext. 104. This process will take approximately 30 minutes and FoodShare will mail you a packet to sign and return.

CBG/Drummer awards scholarship GMHS graduate Grace Lemoine, left, was presented the Citizens for a Better Granby college scholarship from Board Chair Kathy Norris. She also received a copy of Tempest in a Small Town by local historian Mark Williams. Lemoine plans to attend Roger Williams University in Rhode Island.

Photo by Dave Tolli

Who’s Who at the Friends

It started with working in the fields; Brittany Gauthier’s experience at Holcomb Farm

By Shirley Murtha Farmington native Brittany Gauthier wanted to experience what it would be like to work on a farm, to be directly involved with the food she ate. A history of farming on her mother’s side of the family and her early career as an educator for Whole Foods Market had given rise to this curiosity, although it took her a few years to actually get her hands in the soil. In 2017, she sent letters of inquiry to several area farms and Holcomb’s Joe O’Grady responded right away.

“I fell in love with Holcomb Farm,” Gauthier says regarding her first visit.

“The people, the endless beauty and the energy were magnetic.” Her initial work was out in the fields on Saturdays, later moving indoors to help out when the farm store was open. She was so focused on her volunteer work that she had no idea the farm was more than just growing and selling the vegetables and running the CSA. It was shortly after the damaging hail storm of two years ago that she became aware of the Friends board, having received an email requesting financial help to get the damaged farm structures up and running again. Her subsequent donation acquainted her with the organization whose purpose was to support the farm and to provide fresh produce for those for whom it would normally be difficult to procure by way of the Fresh Access program. In 2020, she joined the board of the Friends of Holcomb Farm in order to help the farm grow.

Currently, she assists Mark Fiorentino with the Fresh Access program. She says, “The work is essential. I joined the board to ensure food security for our community and to assist with healthy soil production so the land can be protected and used for years to come.” Fiorentino says, “I’m excited to be working with Brittany. Her passion and energy have been invaluable as we continue to grow

our Fresh Access program. We’re extremely lucky to have her. “ Gauthier began her working career at Whole Foods. It was in her six years there that she began her love affair with healthy organic food, but moved on to other jobs. One was with a startup nonprofit where she helped new businesses access resources; another saw her as managing director of an arts-based nonprofit. Although the farming community may have been new to her, it’s clear she has had plenty of experience in the nonprofit world.

When she’s not at the farm or working in Fresh Access, Gauthier enjoys yoga—both as a student and a teacher of the discipline. She stays active hiking and bicycling, and taught modern dance at Ethel Walker for 10 years. She loves to travel and visit antique stores. She lives with her family and her sweet pup named Duck, who was rescued on a Hartford street in front of a duck pin bowling alley.

Brittany Gauthier and her dog, Duck, spend some quiet moments at Holcomb Farm. Photo by Shirley Murtha

ROBERT CARTER PAINTING QUALITY COMES FIRST • Interior • Exterior • Insured • Written Estimates

860-653-5859 RobertCarterPainting.com

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

July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 23

NOT WANTED A campaign to raise awareness of and control invasive plants sponsored by Granby’s Conservation Commission

Garden-Variety Invasive Plants Sally Sargent Markee, Melody Smith, Ellen Thomson and Debi O’Keefe dismembered and collapsed invasive shrubs and opened up a great view.

Photo by David Desiderato

Many of the state’s most serious invasive plants appear in home gardens as well as the open areas they rapidly dominate. Garlic mustard, multiflora rose, Asiatic bittersweet, Japanese barberry, Japanese knotweed and mugwort

pop up and should be pulled by the roots when young.

But invasives that don’t make the state top-10 list are also huge headaches for gardeners. Some are true invaders.

Others are planted with good intentions

Animal Talk Dr. John Violette, DVM

Pandemic created new veterinary experience A recent New York Times article reported that 70 percent of millennials own pets. This may seem high but the pandemic created the perfect conditions for a pet boom. Working remotely certainly encouraged the younger generation to find pets and give them lots of attention.

According to a quick Google search, millennials tend to be highly educated, tech-savvy and family-oriented. Veterinary medicine is changing to meet the demands of the post-pandemic millennials and their pets.

Upscale boutique veterinary clinics are popping up in the cities. The new veterinary experience includes phone apps, round-the-clock telemedicine and memberships. Young pet owners are interested in instant service to maintain their pet’s good health. In this model, technology combines with good old-

fashioned TLC to keep the pets healthy and the owners happy.

The only problem is that there is a shortage of veterinarians and technicians.

Veterinary colleges have increased their class sizes but the demand is growing every year. Education costs are also very high. Veterinary medicine is a rewarding profession but caring for clients’ beloved pets can be stressful.

At Salmon Brook Veterinary Hospital, the pandemic created an extremely busy work environment, but its staff has managed to keep the pets and their owners happy. Most pet owners have been very understanding and appreciative of the staff’s ability to perform curb-side service. We will be getting back to normal soon and look forward to seeing you all in person.

because of their fragrance, color, carefree nature or ability to cover the ground.

Wine raspberry (Rubus pheoniculasius). Often mistaken for raspberries grown intentionally, it flourishes in moist soil and is invasive in most of the eastern U.S. It can grow densely and its broad leaves choke out other plants. It spreads when canes touch the ground and root, and by seed. Use gloves to pull up by the roots and discard.

Ground ivy or creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea). Its listing as “potentially” invasive may be surprising to gardeners frustrated by this Eurasian native’s implacable incursions from lawn to garden. It puts down fresh roots every few inches, making control more difficult as it readily breaks off when pulled. Search for and disengage all the roots and discard.

Narrowleaf bittercress (Cardamine impatiens). It appears innocuous, slender and easily pulled, but small populations become dense thickets if not controlled early. This relatively recent invader prefers moist soil and some shade. Pull before it flowers and forms seeds.

Dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis).

Fragrant white and pink flowers make this a happily tolerated invader and it continues to be included in wildflower packets. Check seed mixes to avoid planting it. Pull the plants before they set seed to prevent them from dominating shade gardens.

Goutweed, Bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria). Often planted, especially variegated versions, as foothigh groundcovers in shady areas, it can be very difficult to remove. It spreads underground via rhizomes, and roots break easily when pulled. Dense cluster may need to be solarized to gain control.

Creeping yellow loosestrife, moneywort, creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia). This attractive low-growing Eurasian native has appeal as a groundcover, with shiny green leaves and occasional bright yellow flowers.

But in moist conditions it can form dense mats that choke out other plants. Keep it controlled by pulling from the roots.

Invasive Action!

A determined team of Invasive Plant Activists (IPAs) braved the initial drizzle and opened up an amazing vista through the cleared shagbark hickories along Day Street South on June 12. IPAs gather on the second Saturday of the month, 9 a.m. to noon. To learn more, send a note at GranbyInvasivePlants.weebly.com

TOOTH TALK by Michael Ungerleider D.M.D

Q. I broke my tooth right to the gum line…what can I do?

A. If your tooth is deemed hopeless, the best

solution is a dental implant. Implants have a 98% success rate and hygiene is very simple, similar to natural teeth. Implants do not require cutting down or preparing adjacent teeth and there are no metal clasps used, which can put pressure on adjacent teeth, causing them to loosen.

Natural teeth allow you to chew with about 200 pounds of force, denture wearers only chew with 50 pounds of force, and only 5 pounds after 15 years with dentures. Dental implants can help patients re-gain 90% of chewing ability.

More great news: Now you can have a hopeless tooth removed and replaced with an immediate implant and temporary crown in the same day! This is usually only done with a front tooth which is not used for heavy chewing. If a back tooth is lost an immediate implant can still be placed, but it won’t have the tooth on it for a few months. Most times there is no reason to delay placement of an implant.

Many times, even an infected tooth can have an immediate implant.

If you feel that you or a loved one can benefit from implant dentistry, call now for a free consultation or second opinion from the Granby Dental Center, a Center dedicated to State of the Art Dental Solutions to Clinical Dilemmas.

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

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

“Smile Vision” allows us to take a photograph of your current smile and then alter the photo on the computer to show you what you could look like with straighter, whiter teeth! Are you curious?

Come in and ask us about SMILE VISION! If you have a question you would like answered, or would like a tour of our modern office to view our sterilization procedures and to meet our friendly, caring staff, please contact us or visit our website: www.granbydentalcenter.com.

Granby Dental Center…remember the Center Have you missed your last dental visit? Making sure you get to your preventive cleaning visits is the best way to keep your dental health in check and lower your costs as well!

Where is Your Plan Taking You? The path to achieving your goals isn’t always straight.

As a Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, I can help you navigate. With a goals based approach, Morgan Stanley has the expert resources and experience, to help keep your plan on the right track.

Advice matters.

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Page 24 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

Pilgrim Covenant Church group walks Global 6K for Water

By Deneika Janski Water. How far do you go for water? A few steps to your kitchen for a nice cold glass to drink? Maybe to your basement laundry or upstairs for a shower or bath?

What if you had to walk six kilometers — 3.7 miles for us non-metric folks? What if after that walk there was no guarantee the water would even be clean enough to drink? That is the reality faced by millions in undeveloped countries around the world every day.

On May 23, a group from the Pilgrim Covenant Church gathered at Salmon Brook Park to help change that reality by participating in the Global 6K for Water, sponsored by World Vision. The event benefits Covenant Kids Congo, a unique partnership between World Vision and the Evangelical Covenant Church.

Participants in the 6K event ranged from toddlers to grandparents, who all enjoyed their morning walk or run around the perimeter of the park. Pilgrim Covenant’s team of 33 raised a total of $4,230, joining 62 other teams from their denomination to raise over $210,000

for clean water and sanitation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. PCC’s contribution alone provided access to clean water for more than 80 people.

Pilgrim Covenant’s small but mighty group was recognized by the World Vision’s Northeast Regional Representative as one of the top fundraisers in the region—and it is in the top 20 percent of fundraisers worldwide.

“It was great to see so many of all ages come out to support the cause. This symbolic walk/run was simple for us, but it makes a profound impact on the lives of so many.” said Pastor Rob Lowe who organized the event.

Pilgrim Covenant Church thanks the Granby Recreation Department for its generous partnership, allowing this event to run at Salmon Brook Park. Learn more about this worthwhile project at wvi.org/ global-6k and think about joining the run/ walk next year. Every step you take is one they don’t have to.

Learn more about World Vision at: worldvision.org And Covenant Kids at: covchurch.org/ covenantkidscongo

What’s for Supper? Awesome Mango Salsa

By Pamela Scherrer This month I am going to share one of my favorite recipes—it’s not exactly a typical “dinner,” but if you have ever had just chips and salsa for dinner or you just want to be a hit at the next party, then this one is for you. My only advice is if you find it hard to find a good ripe mango, Trader Joe’s organic frozen mango chunks work great and taste fantastic every time. Just let them thaw a little bit and then cut into smaller pieces. This salsa is super easy and tastes so fresh. It is even better the next day and will stay fresh in refrigerator for a good five days.

Get ready because when you make this people will ask you for the recipe.

Ingredients 1 ripe mango, diced (or, half a bag of Trader Joe’s frozen mango) 1 medium sweet onion, diced 1 lime, juiced ½ cup chopped cilantro (adjust more or less for your taste) 1 cup of frozen white or yellow corn 1-2 fresh tomatoes, chopped 1 jalapeno, diced (seeds removed) 2 cans of diced tomatoes, with juices 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper to taste 2 Tablespoons olive oil

Directions Combine all ingredients in a large container, mix well and keep in refrigerator until ready to serve. This recipe makes quite a large amount of salsa, plenty for a big party. It is also fantastic on top of grilled fish or shrimp, or even chicken.

Buon Appetito!

Public Works

5x3

The Pilgrim Covenant Church team. Photo courtesy of Jen Lowe

Let’s Plant the Seeds Together for a Secure Future!

Contact me: Matthew Tyo, RICP® Cetera Investors 111 Founders Plaza, Suite 300 East Hartford, CT 06108 860.282.4600 ext.316

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Cetera Investors is a marketing name of Cetera Investment Services. Securities and Insurance Products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC.

July 4th: Please note there will be no delay of trash service due to the Independence Day holiday. Barrels must be out on your regularly scheduled day.

Road resurfacing: 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. Weather permitting; the resurfacing will begin late July. Until that time please be aware of raised structures in the roadway. While work is in progress, you may experience delays or detours. The roads scheduled for repair are: Case Street, Edgerton Road, Bushy Hill Road, Barn Door Hills Road and Canton Road Extension.

Bridge work: Work has begun on Griffin and Hungary Road bridges. Replacement of Griffin Road Bridge is currently underway. Preliminary work has begun on the Hungary Road Bridge located near the Suffield town line. The tentative schedule calls for the road to be closed to all traffic for the removal/replacement of the bridge in September and going through until late November.

Signs: Signs and flags are not permitted on telephone poles. The poles are property of the local telephone or power company. There is no permit that allows a sign or flag to be placed on a pole.

Signs on the town green: Prior to placing a sign on any town property approval must be received from the Town Manager’s office.

Guidelines are posted on the Public Documents page of the town website.

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.

Extra Trash bags: Large Purple bags are available for purchase at Granby Public Works, 52 North Granby Road, 7:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or from the Transfer Station attendant during Transfer Station hours.

Recycling: If you have questions regarding recycling, check out the website recyclect.com Try the recycling wizard, a tool that allows you to ask about a specific item. If you still have questions, call Public Works, 860-653-8960.

Do not bag your recycling. Plastic bags and plastic film are a major source of contamination for the recycling plant. 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, granby-ct.gov or Facebook page, Granby CT Department of Public Works.

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July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 25

Duck & Cover drills remembered

By Todd Vibert

We all remember participating in fire drills in elementary school. Interrupting the lesson, the alarm would blare, and teachers lined up all the students, leading them out to the parking lot or field.

While this was an important drill in case of emergency, I always remember the relief from students and frustration from teachers as a lesson was missed.

Recently, I was talking to some former Granby Memorial High School students, who attended back when it was the town’s grammar school called Granby Memorial School. Not only did they have fire drills, but they also had “duck and cover” drills. A siren would go off indicating a nuclear attack was on its way and everyone would duck under their desks to avoid harm. In a room without desks, students would sit on the floor against the wall next to one another and cover their heads with their arms. Sitting on the floor in the hallway was an alternative safe place. These drills began in the early ‘50s during the Cold War and continued into the 1960s.

The United States’ decision during World War II to develop and drop two atomic bombs on Japan committed the

U.S. to an ever-escalating arms race with the Soviet Union. As the world fully realized the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, many governments quietly started to research and build atomic weapons, including the Soviet Union. Over the course of the Cold War, as U.S.—Soviet relations deteriorated, the two countries vied to build the most powerful nuclear weapons.

On Aug. 29, 1949, the Soviet Union detonated its first nuclear weapon, which led Americans to fear a nuclear attack at any time. In response, President Harry Truman created the Federal Civilian Defense Administration in 1951 to prepare civilians for nuclear attack. This administration created the “duck and cover” drills for students across the nation.. The Federal Civilian Defense Administration distributed a film starring “Bert the Turtle” that showed children the importance of ducking and covering. In the animated film, Bert the Turtle is attacked by a monkey with a stick of dynamite on a string. He ducks into his shell and survives. Both Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy continued with the “duck and cover” drills during their administrations.

In Granby, several families built air raid shelters on their property in case of an attack. On Wells Road, the Pullmans had a shelter and many of my neighbors can recall their parents having one as well.

How many other shelters were built in Granby is unknown.

In 1963, President Kennedy signed an agreement with the Soviet Union to limit the number of nuclear tests each country could perform. This agreement eased the tension between the two countries and

as a result the duck and cover drills as well as building air raid shelters came to an end.

Want to learn more about the Cold War era Granby? Join the Salmon Brook Historical Society by calling 860-653-9713 or go online at salmonbrookhistoricalsociety.com

School children participate in a Duck & Cover drill. Submitted photos

CTVV Update: Hartford Foundation for Public Giving The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving serves 29 Connecticut towns in which a broad diversity of low income and opportunity deficient citizens who require vital humanitarian needs and educational, fiscal, housing and safety support.

This foundation works closely with local food pantries and collaborates with other similar organizations whose objectives parallel HFPG’s mission statement to improve the quality of life for the recipients. HFPG has been in existence for over 100 years and has volunteers that act as ambassadors between HFPG to and within the various communities to identify informative feedback on the specific issues facing the residents.

Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT Valley Views and her HFPG guests, Jay Williams and Elysa Gordon, provide a

L-R: Jay Williams, president of HFPG; Elysa Gordon, VP, community impact for HFPG; Susan Patricelli. Photo courtesy of CTVV

comprehensive overview of the organization’s way of working, revenue and investment expenditures, department structure as well as the challenges faced and accomplishments status. See this program on ctvalleyviews.com or check your local PATV airing schedules.

To contact HFPG visit hfpg.org or call 860-548-1888.

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Page 26 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

STUDENT PAGE A Day at the Beach

What Summer Holds

Can you imagine a day at the beach?

The hot sun penetrates through our skin, like an outstretched hand.

The sand, warm, soft, and comforting, like a mother’s arms.

The waves roll in with their white foam crests.

The seagulls cry out, The foghorns ring, But the waves still crash a very peaceful rhyme.

Collect seashells along the seashore, Perhaps build a sandcastle, Or have fun riding the waves Oh, the things to do on a beach day.

Taste the salty air, Feel the warm breeze, Hear the peacefulness of the rhythmic waves.

Oh, a day at the beach would be nice, So much to do with family, Perhaps only a dream or could it be reality?

Aleina Nardi, GMMS, Grade 8

Original artwork by Aleina Nardi

Sylvia Davis Fine Arts Scholarship award It was a banner year for the Fine Arts Charity that was established in 2017 in memory of Sylvia Davis Patricelli.

She was an internationally recognized portrait painter who lived with her husband and daughter in Granby for four years after leaving her home country of Australia.

The Masters School in Simsbury and CREC Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts Half-Day Program have be-

come integral parts of the Foundation’s focused objectives to support diversified educational opportunities for the youth of our community. Granby Memorial High School was unable to meet the parameter requirements of the scholarship this year due to a lack of participants, but is seeking to expand to a district competition that may include East Granby and Simsbury High Schools for 2022.

The summer bonfire’s flames light up the dimming outdoors As the sun begins to set.

Summer days are freedom, Freedom from order, Freedom from school.

Whether it’s pond-side, poolside, or beachside.

A time to reconnect to the outside, Reconnect to nature, Reconnect to reality.

Power down your phones Shut off the TV Close the computer, And open the window.

Let the summer breeze carry you to another world, A world where you don’t have to be anything But a kid.

From days before filled with crowded classes and inflexible schedules, To lengthy periods spent outside under the scorching sun.

The final bell On that last day, That freed us To whatever summer holds.

Original artwork

by Katie O’Neill

Katie O’Neill, GMMS, Grade 8

Master Gave Dobby a Sock Liam Connelly GMMS, Grade 6

L-R Jean Pondugula of the Masters School, winner of the 2021 Foundation Award and Susan Patricelli Regan, president and founder of the Sylvia Davis Patricelli Fine Arts Scholarship

L-R Susan Patricelli Regan and CREC Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts Program student Dimitri Taylor Williams, winner of the 2021 Sylvia Davis Fine Arts Scholarship. Williams will be attending the School of Arts Institute of Chicago in the fall. Submitted photos

Air Museum expands hours and offerings In a sign that things are starting to get back to normal in the museum world, the New England Air Museum has announced an expansion of its hours to accommodate more visitors while enabling them to maintain a comfortable distance from others. The new hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the museum will be open every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The museum also wants to remind all veterans and military service members that their admission is free of charge

thanks to the continued support of KeyBank.

As part of the museum’s expanded summer offerings, select aircraft cockpits will be accessible on days when volunteer docents are available.

Admission to the museum is $16 for ages 15 and up, $14 for seniors 65 and up, and $10 for ages 4 to 14. NEAM members, children under 3 and all veterans and military service men and women with military identification are admitted free.

CTVV speaks with pundit Joe Markley CT Valley Views strives to bring viewers perspective on what matters to Connecticut’s citizens relevant to their health, wealth, and future quality of life.

Key at this time is the State’s budget and bills that have been summarily hustled through the legislative process managed by the Democrat majority.

Joe Markley, formerly a member of the Connecticut State Senate representing the 16th District and the Republican nominee for Lieutenant Governor in 2018, speaks with Susan Patricelli Regan, host of CT Valley Views to discuss the critical aspects of current events.

Check the airing schedule l on your

local PATV station or all of the CTVV interviews or contact the host on the website: ctvalleyviews.com

Joe Markley (l.) and Susan Patricelli Regan Photo courtesy of CTVV

Windsor Historical Society celebrates Chaffee House reopening The Windsor Historical Society is celebrating the reopening of the historic Chaffee House and museum with a new focus. Closed for the past year, the reopening exhibit concept illuminates the Black experience in Windsor and the surrounding area.

Two exhibits tell distinct but related stories of arrival, identity, relationships, and survival. A Home Away from Home: Greater Hartford’s West Indian Diaspora. Explore the experiences of the region’s West Indian community—Connecticut’s largest foreign-born immigrant population. Also explore preliminary concepts of Bound Together: Complexities of Black-White Relations in Early Windsor. This exhibit will explore the 18th- and 19th-century lives of the enslaved residents and the white Chaffee family members whose lives were linked by mutual dependence and shaped by Connecticut’s system of chattel slavery.

The society’s museum, historic houses and research library are located at 96 Palisado Avenue (Route 159) and are open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday.

Visit windsorhistoricalsociety.org for directions and more information about programs or volunteer opportunities.

July/August 2021 The Granby Drummer Page 27

2021 MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

Memorial Day photos by Shirley Murtha, Doreen McWhirter & Kelly Hennessey

2021 GMHS GRADUATION & PROM

Graduation and prom photos by Doreen McWhirter & Kelly Hennessey

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Page 28 The Granby Drummer July/August 2021

Closer to Home

Budding patriot

Support our local businesses while saving some gas and time. Tell them you saw their ad in the Drummer.

A first Memorial Day parade for this youngster was also a welcome return of Granby’s salute to the heroes that gave their all.

Photo by Shirley Murtha

September 2021 deadlines ADS: Wednesday, August 11 noon Ad Team 860-653-9222, leave message.

Email: ads@granbydrummer.org ARTICLES: Monday, August 16 noon Drummer phone: 860-653-9222.

Email: editor@granbydrummer.org WORK DATES: August 10-23 Call or email for times.

The public is encouraged to submit articles and photos about events of interest to Granby residents. The editors urge you to make submissions by email if at all possible. We acknowledge submissions by return email. If you do not hear from us please follow up with another email or leave a message at 860-653-9222.

Articles should be written in the third person. More detailed information on Drummer submission requirements is available at granbydrummer.org

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